First Thoughts on the Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag
The Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag, manufactured for older Mossberg shotguns, specifically the 500AS (pre-1997) and 600 models, promises a simple and affordable solution for mounting optics. It’s a one-piece aluminum base finished in black, designed to provide a Weaver-style rail for attaching scopes, red dots, or other accessories. At a price point of $6.99, it’s hard to ignore the potential utility this seemingly basic component offers.
My journey to finding this product stemmed from a desire to modernize my trusty old Mossberg 500AS, a shotgun I inherited from my grandfather. It’s a sentimental piece, but its lack of optic mounting options limited its versatility. Modernizing this firearm without major gunsmithing was the objective, driving my search for a simple, effective mounting solution, leading me to the Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag.
Upon unboxing – or rather, extracting it from its Poly Bag – my initial impression was simple functionality. The aluminum felt lightweight yet reasonably sturdy, with a matte black finish. Build quality appeared decent for the price, though I noticed some slight imperfections in the finish.
Compared to universal saddle mounts that clamp onto the receiver (which I’ve used on other shotguns), this Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag promised a more streamlined and potentially secure fit, provided the installation went smoothly. While other options exist, like drilling and tapping the receiver, I wanted to avoid permanent alterations to my grandfather’s shotgun. This drove my decision.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The price was right, the concept was sound, and if it delivered on its promise of a secure optic mount, it would breathe new life into an old favorite. However, given the budget price, I tempered my expectations, anticipating potential challenges with fit and finish.
Real-World Testing: Putting Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag at my local shooting range. Installation on my Mossberg 500AS (manufactured in 1988) was straightforward.
It involved removing the existing trigger group pins and using them (along with provided screws) to secure the base to the receiver. The instructions were minimal, but the process was intuitive for anyone familiar with shotgun disassembly.
The initial range session involved firing approximately 50 rounds of birdshot and 25 rounds of buckshot. Under recoil, the base remained firmly attached. My mounted red dot sight held zero consistently throughout the session, which was a promising start.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use and approximately 200 rounds fired (a mix of birdshot, buckshot, and slugs), the Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag has proven surprisingly durable. There are no signs of loosening or shifting. The black finish has held up well, with only minor scratches appearing where the optic mount screws contact the base.
Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session keeps it clean. Compared to some other aftermarket accessories I’ve used, this base has exceeded my expectations in terms of reliability. It has provided a stable and consistent platform for mounting optics on my older Mossberg.
Breaking Down the Features of Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag
Specifications
The Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag features the following specifications:
- Type: 1-Piece Base. This indicates a single, solid piece construction for enhanced stability.
- Compatibility: Mossberg 500AS (pre-1997) & 600 shotguns. This is the critical specification – ensure your shotgun model matches.
- Style: Weaver. The Weaver rail system is a common and versatile standard for mounting various optics and accessories.
- Finish: Black. A matte black finish helps reduce glare and blends aesthetically with most shotguns.
- Material: Aluminum. This provides a lightweight yet reasonably durable mounting platform.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the base’s functionality and usability. The one-piece design minimizes potential points of failure. Weaver compatibility ensures a wide range of optic options, and the aluminum construction balances weight and strength.
Performance & Functionality
The Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag performs its primary function of providing a stable optic mounting platform adequately. It allows for the attachment of red dot sights, scopes, or other Weaver-compatible accessories to older Mossberg shotguns that lack factory-installed rails.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and affordability. Installation is relatively easy, and it holds zero reasonably well under moderate recoil. However, its limitations include a basic design and potential compatibility issues if your shotgun deviates from the specified models.
It meets expectations for a budget-friendly optic mounting solution but doesn’t offer advanced features or exceptional recoil resistance.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is straightforward, prioritizing function over aesthetics. The build quality is acceptable for the price, with the aluminum construction feeling reasonably solid. The Black finish is practical, though it could be more durable.
The base adds minimal weight to the shotgun. The user-friendliness is high. No specialized tools are required for installation beyond basic shotgun disassembly knowledge.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction should provide reasonable longevity under normal use. Expect some wear and tear on the finish over time, particularly with frequent mounting and dismounting of accessories.
Maintenance is simple; cleaning with a solvent and light lubrication of the mounting screws will help prevent corrosion and ensure secure attachment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag itself doesn’t come with any accessories beyond the necessary mounting screws. Customization options are limited to the choice of optics and accessories that can be attached to the Weaver rail.
It is compatible with a wide range of Weaver-style rings and mounts from various brands, allowing users to customize their optic setup to their preferences.
Pros and Cons of Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag
Pros
- Affordable price point: At around $7, it’s a very budget-friendly option.
- Easy installation: Requires minimal tools and gunsmithing skill.
- Weaver rail compatibility: Supports a wide range of optics and accessories.
- Lightweight aluminum construction: Doesn’t add significant weight to the shotgun.
- Provides a functional optic mounting solution for older Mossberg shotguns.
Cons
- Basic design and finish: Lacks the refinement of higher-end options.
- Limited recoil resistance: May not be ideal for heavy-recoiling loads or high-magnification optics.
- Potential compatibility issues: Only fits specific pre-1997 Mossberg 500AS and 600 models.
Who Should Buy Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag?
Perfect for: Budget-conscious shooters looking to add an optic to their older Mossberg 500AS (pre-1997) or 600 shotgun for recreational shooting, home defense, or hunting applications where extreme accuracy is not paramount.
Who should skip this product? Those seeking a high-end, precision optic mounting solution for heavy-recoiling loads, or those with newer Mossberg models. Anyone needing Picatinny rail compatibility should also look elsewhere.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality set of Weaver-style scope rings or a red dot mount is essential. Thread locker for the mounting screws is also recommended to prevent loosening under recoil.
Conclusion on Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag
The Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag is a no-frills, budget-friendly solution for adding an optic to specific older Mossberg shotguns. Its simplicity and affordability are its greatest strengths, offering a functional mounting platform for recreational shooters or those on a tight budget.
The value proposition is strong, given its low price. It delivers on its basic promise of providing a Weaver rail for optic attachment.
I would recommend it to anyone with a compatible Mossberg shotgun who wants to experiment with optics without breaking the bank. However, it’s important to understand its limitations and potential compatibility issues.
For those seeking a simple and affordable way to modernize their older Mossberg, the Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag is a worthwhile consideration. Give your old shotgun new life!