The Mossberg Maverick 88 is a popular pump-action shotgun known for its affordability and reliability. However, its standard stock and forend can leave something to be desired in terms of ergonomics and aesthetics. Upgrading to a Magpul stock and forend offers a significant improvement, enhancing the shotgun's handling, comfort, and overall appearance. This guide will delve into the specifics of this upgrade, exploring the benefits, installation process, and considerations for choosing the right Magpul components for your Maverick 88.
Why Upgrade to a Magpul Stock and Forend?
The Magpul furniture system for the Maverick 88 offers several compelling advantages over the factory components:
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Improved Ergonomics: Magpul stocks and forends are designed with ergonomics in mind. They often feature a more comfortable pistol grip, adjustable cheek rests (depending on the specific model), and a more substantial forend for improved control during firing. This translates to better handling, especially during rapid firing or in dynamic shooting situations.
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Enhanced Aesthetics: Let's be honest, the standard Maverick 88 stock is rather basic. The Magpul upgrade instantly elevates the shotgun's visual appeal, giving it a more modern and tactical look. This is a significant benefit for those who value aesthetics alongside functionality.
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Increased Durability: Magpul products are renowned for their robust construction and resistance to wear and tear. Their polymer construction is lightweight yet incredibly strong, offering superior durability compared to the standard plastic components found on many factory shotguns. This is especially beneficial for users who subject their shotguns to rigorous use.
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Customization Options: Magpul offers various stock and forend options, allowing for customization based on individual preferences and shooting styles. You can choose between different lengths of pull, cheek weld heights, and forend designs, ensuring a perfect fit. This level of customization contributes to a more personalized and comfortable shooting experience.
Choosing the Right Magpul Components
Magpul offers several different stock and forend options, so choosing the right ones requires careful consideration:
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Magpul MOE Shotgun Stock: This is a popular choice, known for its comfortable pistol grip and robust construction. It often features an adjustable length of pull, allowing you to customize the fit to your body type. Consider the different available buttpad options for additional comfort and recoil reduction.
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Magpul SGA Stock: This stock offers a more streamlined design with a shorter length of pull. It's a good option for shooters with smaller builds or who prefer a more compact setup.
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Magpul MOE Forend: This forend offers a more substantial grip surface area compared to the factory forend, providing enhanced control and stability during firing. It’s often compatible with M-LOK accessories, allowing for further customization with lights, lasers, or other tactical attachments.
Important Note: Before purchasing, always double-check compatibility with your specific Maverick 88 model. Some Magpul components are designed for specific variations of the Maverick 88.
Installation Process
Installing a Magpul stock and forend on a Maverick 88 is generally straightforward, but it's crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions precisely. The process typically involves:
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Removing the Factory Stock and Forend: This usually requires removing a few screws or pins. Refer to your shotgun's manual and the Magpul instructions for specific details.
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Installing the Magpul Stock: This typically involves attaching the new stock to the receiver using the existing hardware or the hardware provided with the Magpul stock.
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Installing the Magpul Forend: This usually involves attaching the forend to the magazine tube using the included hardware.
Safety First: Always ensure the shotgun is unloaded and the action is open before attempting any modifications or repairs.
Case Study: Improved Accuracy and Handling
A recent survey of Maverick 88 owners who upgraded to Magpul furniture reported a significant increase in both accuracy and perceived handling. Many users noted a reduction in felt recoil, improved control during rapid firing, and a more comfortable overall shooting experience. This improvement is largely attributed to the enhanced ergonomics and improved grip provided by the Magpul components.
Conclusion: A worthwhile upgrade?
Upgrading your Maverick 88 with a Magpul stock and forend is a worthwhile investment for many shooters. The improvements in ergonomics, aesthetics, and durability significantly enhance the overall shooting experience. However, remember to always choose compatible components and carefully follow the installation instructions. The enhanced comfort and control offered by Magpul components can greatly improve accuracy and shooting enjoyment for years to come.