Understanding Your Mossberg 590: A Foundation for Customization
Before you start loading up on accessories, it’s crucial to understand the platform itself. The Mossberg 590 isn’t just one shotgun; it’s a family of firearms. The basic design revolves around the sturdy pump-action mechanism, renowned for its simplicity and resistance to malfunction. Many Mossberg 590 models come with features like a reliable magazine tube, a robust receiver, and a durable barrel. Familiarizing yourself with your specific model, whether it’s the standard 590, the 590A1 (known for its heavy-duty build), or another variant, will inform your accessory choices.
So, why upgrade? Simply put, the right Mossberg 590 best accessories can transform a good shotgun into a great one. Upgrading often results in improved ergonomics, making the weapon more comfortable and manageable to handle, especially under stress. Accessories can also dramatically enhance performance. Enhanced sights can lead to faster and more accurate target acquisition. Tactical lights illuminate your target in low-light scenarios. Furthermore, accessories can improve safety, providing better control and reducing the chances of accidents.
But before you rush to purchase every accessory under the sun, consider your intended use. Are you primarily focused on home defense, tactical training, or hunting? What’s your budget? Are there any local regulations or restrictions that impact your choices? Tailoring your accessory selection to your specific needs and circumstances will ensure you maximize your investment. Thoughtful planning is the key to building the perfect Mossberg 590.
Illuminating the Path: Lights and Forends
One of the most critical upgrades for a home defense or tactical-focused Mossberg 590 is a high-quality tactical light. In a home invasion scenario, or any situation where visibility is compromised, a bright light is invaluable. It not only helps you identify potential threats but also can disorient an intruder, buying you precious seconds. The key is to choose a light that is bright enough to be effective but not so overwhelming that it blinds you with backscatter. Look for lights with a high lumen output (often measured in candela as well), and consider features like strobe modes, which can further disorient an attacker.
Now, how do you mount that light? Forends are essential. Many forends have integrated rail systems (like Picatinny rails) that readily accept lights. These forends typically offer superior ergonomics to the factory forend, providing a more comfortable and secure grip. Selecting a forend that fits your hand size and shooting style is important. Consider the material used as well; durable polymers or aluminum alloys are common choices. Explore models that allow for easy activation of your light, whether through a button or a pressure pad. With the right forend, mounting your light becomes seamless, improving how you operate the Mossberg 590.
Forend Options
There are various forend styles available. Some prioritize ergonomics with enhanced grip textures, while others focus on adding rail space for additional accessories like lasers. Think about your needs. A standard replacement forend can offer improved ergonomics over the original. A forend with rails lets you mount multiple accessories.
Perfecting Your Grip: Stocks and Grips
The stock is the foundation of how you interact with your shotgun, dictating comfort, control, and how quickly you can bring your weapon to bear. The factory stock on some Mossberg 590 models, while functional, may not offer optimal ergonomics for all shooters. This is where aftermarket stocks come into play. Choosing the right stock greatly affects handling and recoil absorption.
Consider a stock with an adjustable length of pull. This is incredibly useful if the shotgun will be used by multiple people or if you have a particular body type that makes a specific length of pull more comfortable. Look for stocks made from durable materials like reinforced polymers or aircraft-grade aluminum. Some stocks offer features like a cheek rest, which provides a more consistent cheek weld for improved sighting.
In addition to stocks, pistol grips can provide improved control. Many shooters prefer a pistol grip over the traditional stock grip. A pistol grip allows for a more natural wrist position and offers increased maneuverability, especially in close-quarters situations. Whether you’re looking to replace your standard stock or incorporate a pistol grip, a well-chosen stock significantly improves the performance of your Mossberg 590.
Stock Materials and Designs
Choosing the right materials and design is essential. Look for durable materials. Adjustable stocks are adaptable to different shooters. Consider how the stock absorbs recoil and how comfortable it will be for prolonged use.
Enhancing Target Acquisition: Optics and Sights
The factory sights on the Mossberg 590 are functional, but they can be significantly upgraded for faster and more precise target acquisition. One popular option is to replace your front bead sight with a fiber optic sight, which greatly increases visibility in various lighting conditions. For more advanced performance, consider using red dot sights or ghost ring sights.
Red dot sights offer a clear, easy-to-see aiming point, allowing for rapid target acquisition. They are particularly useful in close-quarters combat scenarios. However, ensure you choose a red dot sight that is designed to withstand the recoil of a shotgun, so it will remain reliable. Consider the mounting options available for your chosen sight, ensuring a secure and stable attachment.
Ghost ring sights provide a more precise aiming system. They use a large rear aperture and a front post, allowing for rapid target acquisition while still maintaining good accuracy. Some ghost ring sights also include tritium inserts, which will glow in low-light conditions, making them very beneficial for a defensive shotgun. Whatever option you select, enhancing your sighting system will improve your shot placement.
Red Dot Considerations
When selecting a red dot sight, consider its battery life, durability, and the size of the dot. Look for a sight with multiple brightness settings to adapt to different lighting situations. Understand the mounting options.
Securing Your Arsenal: Shell Holders
Staying prepared means having an easy way to access ammunition. Side saddles are among the most common choices. These accessories mount to the receiver of your Mossberg 590 and hold several shells. Side saddles allow for rapid reloading, giving you the ability to quickly switch to a different load (such as buckshot or slugs). Ensure your side saddle is made of a durable material and that it is securely attached to your firearm.
Another useful option is a stock-mounted shell carrier. These carriers attach to the buttstock of your shotgun and also offer quick access to extra shells. This provides a place to store extra rounds when using your Mossberg 590 in tactical or defensive situations.
Shell Holder Materials
Choose durable and reliable materials for your shell holders, such as metal or high-quality polymer. Consider the ease of access and the number of shells that it will hold.
Keeping it Close: Slings
Slings are essential for comfortably carrying your shotgun and keeping it readily available. They are particularly useful during tactical training or in situations where you need to move around frequently. There are various types of slings, and choosing the right one depends on your needs and preference.
A two-point sling attaches to the front and rear of the shotgun, providing a stable and secure carry method. They can typically be adjusted to fit a wide range of body types and shooting styles. A one-point sling attaches to a single point on the shotgun, such as the rear of the receiver. This offers maximum maneuverability, as the shotgun can be quickly moved to either side of the body. A sling ensures your Mossberg 590 is ready and easy to deploy when you need it.
Sling Attachment Options
Consider the attachment points, such as swivels or QD (quick detach) systems, and choose a sling that is compatible with your shotgun’s existing or intended mounting options.
Useful Extras for the Mossberg 590
Choke tubes allow you to adjust the spread of your shot pattern. By changing the choke tube, you can optimize the shotgun for different types of ammunition and shooting distances. Extended magazine tubes increase the capacity of your shotgun, giving you more rounds on hand before needing to reload. This can be crucial in a home defense situation or during tactical exercises. A more efficient trigger can also greatly affect shot placement.
Installation and Maintenance: Keeping Your Gear Running Smoothly
Installing Mossberg 590 best accessories is often a straightforward process, but safety should always be your first priority. Before beginning any installation, make sure your shotgun is unloaded and the chamber is clear. Read the instructions for each accessory carefully and ensure you have the necessary tools.
Proper maintenance is equally important. Regularly clean your accessories, such as red dots and lights, to ensure their continued functionality. Lubricate moving parts as needed. Periodically check for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice any issues, address them immediately or consult a professional gunsmith.
Cleaning your equipment
Cleaning and maintaining your gear will give it a longer life. Always refer to manufacturer instructions. Ensure the firearm is unloaded, and clean parts after use.
Recommendations and Excellent Choices
While the perfect set of accessories depends heavily on your specific needs, here are a few general recommendations. For home defense, consider a combination of a high-lumen tactical light (e.g., SureFire or Streamlight), a side saddle shell carrier (e.g., Mesa Tactical), and a red dot sight (e.g., Aimpoint or Trijicon). For tactical training, a two-point sling (e.g., Blue Force Gear), an adjustable stock, and a forend with rail space are key.
Remember to research and read reviews before making any purchases. Different brands and models can offer varying levels of performance, and what works for one person may not be the best fit for another. Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover what works best for you.
Concluding Thoughts
Accessorizing your Mossberg 590 is about much more than just adding gadgets. It is about optimizing your shotgun for your individual needs, enhancing its effectiveness, and improving your overall shooting experience. Whether your primary focus is home defense, tactical applications, or recreational shooting, the right Mossberg 590 best accessories can transform your reliable shotgun into a truly exceptional tool.
By thoughtfully selecting the best accessories and customizing your shotgun, you can create a platform that fits you perfectly, boosting your confidence and capabilities.
