Mossberg Model 500 Extra Slug: A Powerful and Reliable 12-Gauge Shotgun for Outdoor Enthusiasts
As an outdoor enthusiast, I was thrilled to receive the Mossberg Model 500 Extra Slug for review. With its reputation for reliability and user-friendliness, I was eager to put this 12-gauge shotgun through its paces. In this review, I’ll share my experience with this excellent product, highlighting its key features, pros, and cons.
Box and Accessories
The shotgun arrived in a sturdy box, complete with a qualitative bipod, choke tube, and a comprehensive instruction manual. The package included:
- Mossberg Model 500 Extra Slug
- 12-gauge, 3-inch chamber
- 26-inch chromoly steel barrel
- High-velocity 3-inch shell extractor
- Overmolded grip and checkered hardwood grip
- Synthetic stock with a 13.5-inch length of pull
- 5-shot capacity
First Impressions
The moment I took the shotgun out of the box, I was impressed by its solid build quality and aesthetic appeal. The matte black finish and deep blue accents give it a rugged, battle-tested look. The synthetic stock feels rugged and comfortable in the hand, with a checkered grip providing a secure hold.
Performance
The Mossberg Model 500 Extra Slug is designed for hunting, and boy, does it deliver! Shooting it was a blast (pun intended). With a 26-inch barrel and a 3-inch chamber, this shotgun is ideal for hunting larger game, like deer and wild boar. The recoil is manageable, and the shotgun responds well to the high-velocity 3-inch shells, producing exceptional accuracy and dispersion.
Handling and Ergonomics
The Mossberg Model 500 Extra Slug handles like a dream. The overmolded grip and checkered hardwood grip provide excellent grip security, making it easy to operate, even in challenging environments. The adjustable comb and stock length allow for a customizable fit, ensuring a comfortable shooting experience for a wide range of users.
Reliability
As I put the shotgun through its paces, I was pleased to find that it performed flawlessly. The 5-shot capacity means you can quickly cycle through multiple shots without needing to reload, making it perfect for extended hunting sessions or competitive shooting matches.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a summary of the pros and cons of the Mossberg Model 500 Extra Slug:
Pros:
- Reliable and consistent performance
- Accurate and effective hunting shotgun
- Comfortable and ergonomic design
- Easy to handle and operate
- Good value for the price
Cons:
- Some users may find the weight a bit high (7.5 pounds)
- The black matte finish may show scratches and scratches easily
- The trigger can be stiff, requiring some adjustment
- The stock length may not suit smaller or larger shooters
Conclusion
The Mossberg Model 500 Extra Slug is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a reliable, accurate, and easy-to-use shotgun. Its rugged build quality, comfortable handling, and exceptional performance make it an excellent option for hunting and competitive shooting. While there are some minor drawbacks, the pros far outweigh the cons, earning this shotgun a solid 4.5/5 stars.
If you’re in the market for a 12-gauge shotgun that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the Mossberg Model 500 Extra Slug is definitely worth considering.
