The Mossberg 500 shotgun is a legendary firearm, known for its reliability and versatility. Many owners choose to upgrade their Mossberg 500 with a wood furniture set, enhancing both the aesthetics and feel of their shotgun. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about Mossberg 500 wood furniture sets, from choosing the right set to installation and maintenance.
Understanding Mossberg 500 Wood Furniture Options
The beauty of the Mossberg 500 lies in its adaptability. Numerous aftermarket manufacturers offer wood furniture sets designed to seamlessly replace the factory plastic stock and forend. These sets vary significantly in:
Wood Type:
- Walnut: A classic and highly prized wood, known for its rich, dark color and beautiful grain patterns. Walnut furniture sets often command a higher price due to their desirability.
- Birch: A lighter-colored wood that's more affordable than walnut but still offers a pleasing aesthetic. Birch is generally harder and more durable than some other wood types.
- American Hardwood: A broad category encompassing various hardwoods like oak, maple, and beech, each with unique characteristics in terms of color, grain, and hardness.
- Synthetic Wood: Some manufacturers create furniture that mimics the look of wood while offering increased durability and weather resistance.
Finish:
The finish significantly impacts the look and feel of your wood furniture. Common finishes include:
- Oil Finish: Provides a natural look, highlighting the wood grain. It requires more maintenance than other finishes.
- Varnish Finish: Offers more protection against scratches and moisture but can mask the natural wood grain somewhat.
- Stain: Used to alter the color of the wood, achieving a variety of shades from light to dark.
Style:
Mossberg 500 wood furniture sets come in various styles, reflecting different preferences and shooting styles:
- Standard: This style closely resembles the original factory stock, providing a familiar feel.
- Monte Carlo: Features a raised cheek rest for improved sight alignment, beneficial for longer shots.
- Tactical: Often features a pistol grip and a shorter length of pull, preferred by some tactical shooters.
Choosing the Right Mossberg 500 Wood Furniture Set
Selecting the ideal furniture set depends on several factors:
- Your Budget: Prices vary drastically based on wood type, finish, and manufacturer.
- Your Shooting Style: Consider whether you need a standard stock, a Monte Carlo stock, or a tactical stock.
- Your Aesthetic Preferences: Choose a wood type and finish that complement your personal style.
- Gun Fit: Ensure the furniture fits your Mossberg 500 model properly. Different models may have slightly different dimensions.
Pro Tip: Always check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure compatibility with your specific Mossberg 500 model and variant (e.g., Cruiser, Persuader).
Installing Your Mossberg 500 Wood Furniture
Installing a wood furniture set typically involves removing the original plastic furniture and attaching the new wood pieces. While generally straightforward, it’s crucial to:
- Consult the manufacturer's instructions: Each set comes with specific instructions tailored to that model.
- Use the right tools: You'll likely need screwdrivers and possibly a punch or mallet.
- Take your time: Rushing can lead to stripped screws or damaged parts.
- Ensure proper alignment: Make sure all pieces fit snugly and are aligned correctly before tightening screws.
Caution: Always handle firearms safely. Ensure the firearm is unloaded before undertaking any modifications or repairs.
Maintaining Your Mossberg 500 Wood Furniture
Proper maintenance will prolong the life and beauty of your wood furniture:
- Regular Cleaning: Wipe down the wood with a soft cloth after each use to remove dirt, oil, and moisture.
- Oil Treatment (for oil-finished wood): Periodically apply gun oil to the wood to keep it lubricated and prevent drying.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Extreme heat or cold can damage the wood and finish.
- Store Properly: Store your shotgun in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Case Study: A Comparison of Two Popular Brands
Let's compare two popular brands offering Mossberg 500 wood furniture: Brand A and Brand B.
| Feature | Brand A | Brand B |
|---|---|---|
| Wood Type | Walnut | Birch |
| Finish | Oil | Varnish |
| Style | Standard, Monte Carlo | Standard, Tactical |
| Price | $$ | $ |
| Durability | High | Medium |
| Customer Reviews | Generally positive, some minor complaints about finish | Mostly positive, some reports of minor fitting issues |
Note: The above is a hypothetical comparison. Actual brands and their product offerings will vary.
By understanding the available options, choosing the right set, installing it properly, and maintaining it diligently, you can transform your Mossberg 500 into a truly customized and aesthetically pleasing firearm. Remember always prioritize safety and consult professional gunsmiths if needed.