It doesn’t matter whether you’re trying a hand at shotguns for the very first time. Or if you happen to be exploring Mossberg 500 for the first time. This 3-step guide is all you need to get started.
Here we’ll uncover a simple three-step process to help you learn how to load a Mossberg 500. Along with this, we’ll discuss some technical essentials and queries that you ought to know. So, let’s get started!
What Is Mossberg 500?
Before you learn how to load a Mossberg 500, you need to be confident about what you’re dealing with. You need to know what is Mossberg 500 is and how it differs from other shotguns.
Mossberg 500 is basically a pump-action shotgun. It shoots one shell at a time. Although its magazine tube can hold more shells at a time, it’s recommended for users to understand that it releases one shot every time you load. We’ll discuss the loading process in the later section of this article.
What’s more, Mossberg 500 lightweight and ergonomic. Although there’s an increased recoil that you’ve to deal with, the overall ergonomics and ease of handling are appreciable. Plus, the shotgun is quite very reliable. It can withstand rough handling conditions, temperature, etc. As for the costs, it promises truly value for money. You can get this for $400-$500.
Types of Mossberg 500
You’ve had a basic insight into the Mossberg 500. Now, let’s dive into some interesting details.
Ever since Mossberg 500 got introduced in the 1960s, it has sold over 10 million units. Over such massive sales, the creators of Mossberg 500 figured out the specific needs of their audience and introduced specific models.
Today, several different variants of Mossberg 500 exist. However, they’re broadly divided into three categories with sub-variants. These include:
- Mossberg 500 Hunting with 20 sub-variants
- Mossberg 500 Tactical with 13 sub-variants
- Mossberg 500 Flex with three sub-variants
Each one of these is suited for different usage and has different specifications. However, the key features mentioned above are applicable. You will need to know the exact variant of your Mossberg 500 with assembling or disassembling it.
For loading, however, the following 3-step guide will suffice for all variants. Read ahead!
Also read: Best Turkey Choke For Mossberg 500
Step by Step Guide: How to Load a Mossberg 500?
Now that you’re well aware of the gun you’re holding in your hands, it’s time to learn how to load it. As you begin with the process, keep your safety in check.
Take care of the following:
- Hold the muzzle away from your body in all three steps.
- Never entirely rely on your shotgun’s safety. Treat it with immense care at all times.
- Use correct ammunition.
Note that the right ammunition for Mossberg 500 includes ¾-inches and 3-inches 12g shells.
Some users also claim that Mossberg 500 will digest anything you feed it. However, we recommend sticking to the ammo mentioned above. Any inappropriate experimentation may damage your shotgun or may threaten your security, especially if you’re a newbie.
Step 1: Insert the Magazine Tube
The magazine tube of Mossberg 500 refers to the tube that can hold cartridges. When you’re holding the shotgun upright, this is the second tube, i.e., the tube below the topmost tube (which is the barrel).
Insert the magazine tube by sliding it down from above. Ensure that the notches on either side of the magazine tube should be in alignment when you’ve successfully inserted it. If they’re not aligned, they can cause malfunction and damage to the shotgun.
Step 2: Load Shells
Once you have the magazine tube in place, begin loading shells. Shells refer to shots or bullets that you’ll be loading in the gun. Some people also refer to it as rounds as well
Fill in the shots in the magazine tube until it’s full. There should be no space left.
Step 3: Secure the Load
Here comes the third and most interesting step of all, i.e., securing the load. When we say secure, we mean you get your Mossberg 500 ready for firing.
All you’ve to do is hold your Mossberg 500 such that your non-dominant hand supports the weight of the shotgun when your dominant hand pulls the charging handle. Once you’ve pulled back the charging handle, a shell will move up the chamber, and your shotgun will be ready to fire. At this stage, be very careful while handling your Mossberg 500.
How to put a sling on Mossberg 500
FAQs
How many shells can I load in Mossberg 500?
As mentioned earlier, Mossberg 500 possesses several variants. Each variant possesses its specific shell-holding capacity. But here’s an average of all variants:
- Mossberg 500 Hunting: 6 shells
- Mossberg 500 Tactical: 8 shells
- Mossberg 500 Shockwave: 6 shells
Where is the slide release on a Mossberg 500?
The slide release of a Mossberg 500 is on the left side of the shotgun, near the receiver of the shotgun. It’s behind the trigger.
How does the safety work on Mossberg 500?
The safety on Mossberg refers to the active state of the shotgun. If it’s ready to fire, it will not show a red dot. If it’s not ready to fire, it will show a red dot.
Final Words
We hope you’re clear about how to load a Mossberg 500. We hope this guide helps you prepare well for your shooting job.
After your shooting session, ensure that you thoroughly clean your Mossberg 500. Otherwise, the shotgun’s body may get damaged in the long run. Read this guide about how to disassemble a Mossberg 500. It’ll help you a great deal!
