Exploring the Legacy of the Mossberg 930
Introduction
The Mossberg 930 quickly established itself as a workhorse in the shotgun world. It entered the scene offering a reliable gas-operated system, a design philosophy that prioritizes functionality and affordability. Its popularity is undeniable, and for many years, the 930 has been a go-to choice for a wide range of shooting activities.
Key Features
The heart of the 930 is its gas operating system. This system utilizes the expanding gases from fired cartridges to cycle the action, ejecting spent shells and chambering new ones. The 930’s gas system is designed to handle a variety of loads, making it versatile for different shooting disciplines.
Configurations
The 930 is offered in a plethora of configurations. Hunters can find models with various barrel lengths, often featuring vent ribs for improved sighting, and equipped with interchangeable chokes to fine-tune their patterns for specific game. The sporting crowd has models adapted for competition, and home defenders can find tactical models, offering features like extended magazine tubes, pistol grips, and Picatinny rails for mounting accessories.
Pros and Cons
One of the primary strengths of the 930 is its affordability. It often comes in at a lower price point than other semi-automatic shotguns, making it an excellent option for those on a budget or new to the sport. Additionally, the 930 is generally considered quite reliable, capable of delivering consistent performance with proper maintenance. The availability of parts and the ease of finding aftermarket accessories also contribute to its appeal.
However, the 930 is not without its drawbacks. Compared to some higher-end shotguns, it may require slightly more attention to cleaning and lubrication. Some users have reported occasional cycling issues, especially with lighter loads or when the gun is not meticulously maintained. While generally robust, the 930 may not handle quite the same round count as some newer designs before requiring some parts replacement.
Introducing the Improved Mossberg 940
The Evolution
The Mossberg 940 emerged with the goal of building upon the success of the 930, addressing some of its shortcomings while retaining its affordability and overall user-friendliness. The 940 is not a complete redesign; it’s an evolution, incorporating improvements and enhancements to enhance reliability, durability, and ease of use.
Gas System and Performance
Like the 930, the 940 operates on a gas-operated system, ensuring smooth and reliable cycling. The core mechanism remains similar, but significant upgrades have been implemented to improve performance and reduce maintenance requirements.
Model Variety
The 940 also comes in a diverse array of configurations. Hunters will find models optimized for various game, while sport shooters can choose competition-ready versions with features like extended magazine tubes and enhanced ergonomics. Tactical models are also available, providing the features needed for home defense.
Enhanced Reliability
One of the key improvements of the 940 is its enhanced reliability. Mossberg redesigned several key components and refined the gas system to promote smoother cycling and reduce the chance of malfunctions. The 940 also features improved corrosion resistance, and some models boast tougher, more durable finishes designed to withstand the rigors of frequent use in various conditions.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Another significant advantage is the 940’s easier cleaning and maintenance. The gun’s design incorporates features that simplify disassembly and reassembly, making the cleaning process less time-consuming and more user-friendly. Additionally, the 940 is often built to handle higher round counts before requiring maintenance.
Price Considerations
However, these improvements come with a price tag. The 940 typically costs more than the 930. While the increase in price reflects the upgrades, it’s a factor to consider for budget-conscious buyers. Another aspect to note is that the aftermarket support for the 940 is sometimes less extensive compared to the 930, which has been around longer and has a larger base of available accessories.
Key Differences: A Deep Dive
Action and Operation
Both shotguns employ a gas-operated system, but the 940’s system has been optimized for improved performance. The 940 generally cycles slightly faster and offers greater reliability, particularly with a wider range of ammunition types. The 930 is known for its reliability, however the improvements of the 940 result in smoother operation and a decreased likelihood of jams. Recoil management is similar between the two models, although the 940’s refined design can lead to a slightly softer felt recoil in some cases.
Materials and Construction
The 940 often benefits from more durable and corrosion-resistant materials. While both guns are built to be functional, the 940’s materials and finishes are often of a higher grade, contributing to its longevity and ability to withstand harsh conditions. The 930 is still robust, but the 940 edges it out in the construction quality department.
Ergonomics and Handling
The 940 often features updated ergonomics, with stock designs and forend shapes that may be better suited to a wider range of shooters. Both shotguns offer a variety of stock adjustments, but the 940’s may be slightly more refined. The weight and balance of the guns are similar, contributing to smooth handling. Controls on both are typically well-placed.
Cleaning and Maintenance
The 940 is designed for easier cleaning. Its components often come apart for cleaning and reassembly with minimal effort, allowing for faster and more thorough cleaning. The 930 requires a little more time to disassemble and reassemble, though the design has proven itself over time. Both shotguns benefit from regular cleaning to keep them in optimal condition.
Performance
The 940 often performs better under high-volume shooting, with a greater level of reliability over a wider range of ammunition. Both guns are generally accurate and capable of delivering tight shot patterns. The 940, with its enhanced reliability, is better suited for competition, where every round counts. The performance advantages tend to really shine in competition scenarios where high shot volume is a key feature.
Price and Value
The 930 generally offers better value for the money, being significantly less expensive to purchase. The 940’s price reflects its performance advantages, but many shooters find that the increase in cost is a worthwhile investment. Ultimately the “best” choice in terms of value boils down to individual needs and budget considerations.
Tailoring the Choice to Your Needs
Choosing the 930
The 930 is a fantastic choice for those prioritizing affordability. It is also a solid choice for those who are comfortable with more frequent cleaning or do not anticipate shooting extremely high round counts. Hunters who are not concerned with shooting a vast number of shells in a single day may find the 930 perfectly adequate.
Choosing the 940
The 940 excels in situations that demand greater reliability and effortless operation, especially under tough conditions. For competitive shooters who want to maximize performance, the 940’s enhanced cycling and ease of cleaning are major advantages. Also, those who want a shotgun that can handle a high volume of shooting with minimal malfunctions, the 940 is the obvious pick.
Conclusion: Making the Right Decision
Both the Mossberg 930 and the Mossberg 940 are excellent semi-automatic shotguns, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The 930 provides a proven and affordable platform that has earned a strong reputation for reliability. The 940 builds on that legacy, offering refinements in reliability, ease of maintenance, and overall performance, all while retaining many of the characteristics that made the 930 so appealing.
For budget-conscious shooters or those who prioritize value, the 930 remains a formidable option. For shooters who demand top-tier reliability, plan on shooting many rounds, or want the latest features, the 940 is an excellent choice. Before making a decision, handling both shotguns, if possible, is highly recommended, because the best choice will depend on your personal needs. Remember to consider your shooting goals, budget, and comfort level when making your selection. Whether you opt for the 930 or the 940, you’ll be getting a reliable and capable shotgun from a well-respected manufacturer.
