The Legendary Mossberg 500 Field Shotgun: A Comprehensive Guide for Hunters and Sport Shooters

Are you searching for a supremely reliable, endlessly versatile, and aesthetically pleasing shotgun that stands the test of time? For generations, the Mossberg 500 series has been the answer for countless hunters, sport shooters, and firearm enthusiasts seeking a dependable pump-action shotgun. This isn't just another firearm; it's a cornerstone of the shooting world, renowned for its rugged construction, intuitive design, and ability to perform flawlessly in diverse conditions. If you're wondering, "What is the best all-around shotgun for hunting?" or "Which pump-action shotgun offers exceptional value and performance?", the Mossberg 500 Field model, with its classic high-gloss walnut stock and 28-inch vent rib barrel, consistently emerges as a top recommendation. This detailed exploration will help you understand why this specific configuration is so highly sought after and how it can elevate your shooting experience, whether you're chasing pheasants in the field, breaking clays at the range, or simply appreciating a finely crafted firearm.

Unpacking the Core Features: What Makes the Mossberg 500 Field Stand Out?

The specific Mossberg 500 Field model (UPC: 015813501262) embodies the perfect blend of tradition and modern functionality. Let's delve into its critical specifications and the tangible benefits each provides:

Power and Adaptability: The 12 Gauge Advantage

• Gauge: 12

  The 12 gauge is universally acknowledged as the most popular and versatile shotgun gauge. Why is this important for you? It means an unparalleled selection of ammunition types and shot sizes are available, from light target loads ideal for trap and skeet, to heavy magnum loads designed for large waterfowl or turkeys. This incredible adaptability ensures that whether you're hunting small game, upland birds, ducks, geese, or participating in clay target sports, you'll always find the right ammunition to match your objective. For new shooters, the abundance of lighter, low-recoil loads also makes the 12 gauge an excellent starting point for building proficiency and confidence.

Ample Capacity for the Field

• Capacity: 5+1

  With a standard capacity of five rounds in the magazine tube plus one in the chamber, the Mossberg 500 Field offers a practical and sufficient ammunition supply for most hunting scenarios. This capacity is perfectly suited for waterfowl hunting, upland bird pursuits, and clay target shooting, providing enough rounds for follow-up shots without being cumbersome or unnecessarily heavy. It strikes an ideal balance, ensuring you have enough firepower when you need it without violating common hunting regulations regarding magazine capacity.

Versatile Chambering for Any Load

• Chamber: 3"

  The ability to chamber both 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch shotgun shells significantly expands this shotgun's utility. A 3-inch chamber allows you to utilize heavier magnum loads, which are crucial for extending your effective range and increasing knockdown power, especially when hunting larger birds like geese or turkeys, or when shooting steel shot for waterfowl. This flexibility means your Mossberg 500 isn't limited by ammunition type; it's ready for almost any challenge you present it with.

The Classic 28-Inch Vent Rib Barrel: Precision and Control

• Barrel Type: Vent Rib
• Barrel Length: 28"

  The 28-inch vent rib barrel is the quintessential choice for a field shotgun. The "vent rib" design not only looks classic but also serves a practical purpose: it dissipates heat from the barrel, reducing heat mirage that can distort your sight picture during extended shooting sessions. More importantly, the rib provides a clear, elevated sighting plane, guiding your eye directly down the barrel to the target.

  Why 28 inches? This length offers an optimal balance between swing speed and sight radius. A longer barrel promotes a smoother, more controlled swing, which is vital for hitting moving targets like flushing birds or flying clays. It also contributes to a longer sight radius, aiding in precise aiming. This combination makes it exceptionally effective for wingshooting, allowing for fluid target acquisition and follow-through.

Enhanced Aiming with Dual Beads

• Sight/Base: Dual Bead

  The dual bead sight system, featuring a front bead and a smaller mid-bead, provides an excellent reference point for consistent and accurate aiming. When viewed correctly, the two beads align to give you a clear sight picture, ensuring your eye is perfectly positioned along the rib. This intuitive system is quick to acquire and highly effective for the fast-paced nature of wingshooting, helping you establish a precise lead on your target.

Tailor Your Shot with Accu-Set Chokes

• Choke: Accu-Set

  One of the most valuable features for any versatile shotgun is an interchangeable choke system, and the Mossberg Accu-Set chokes deliver precisely that. This system allows you to quickly and easily change the constriction at the muzzle of your barrel, thereby controlling the spread and density of your shot pattern.

  • Need a tight pattern for distant geese or turkeys? Use a Full or Extra Full choke.
  • Hunting pheasant or sporting clays at moderate ranges? Modified or Improved Cylinder chokes are your go-to.
  • Close-range targets or dense cover? An Open or Skeet choke will provide a wider spread.

  This adaptability means your single shotgun can be optimized for virtually any type of hunting or shooting sport, maximizing your success in varied conditions.

Comfortable and Consistent Fit

• LOP Type: Fixed
• LOP: 13.875"

  The fixed length of pull (LOP) of 13.875 inches is a standard measurement designed to provide a comfortable and natural fit for the vast majority of shooters. This consistent dimension ensures that the shotgun mounts smoothly to your shoulder, allowing for rapid and repeatable target acquisition. A proper LOP is critical for effective recoil management and overall shooting comfort, directly impacting your ability to shoot accurately and consistently throughout a long day in the field or at the range.

Durable Beauty: High Polish, Blue Finish

• Barrel Finish: High Polish, Blue

  The high polish, blued finish on the barrel is not merely for aesthetics; it provides a robust layer of protection against corrosion and wear. This traditional finish is renowned for its deep, lustrous appearance, giving the shotgun a classic, timeless look that pairs perfectly with the walnut stock. It speaks to the quality and attention to detail in its manufacturing, ensuring your firearm maintains its beauty and integrity through years of use.

Timeless Elegance: High-Gloss Walnut Stock

• Stock Finish: High-Gloss Walnut

  The high-gloss walnut stock is perhaps the most striking visual feature of this Mossberg 500 Field model. Walnut is a premium hardwood, cherished for its strength, durability, and rich grain patterns. The high-gloss finish enhances these natural characteristics, creating a stunning appearance that exudes classic elegance. Beyond its beauty, the natural warmth and texture of the wood provide a comfortable and secure grip, even in varying weather conditions. This stock not only looks magnificent but also contributes to the overall balance and feel of the shotgun, making it a joy to handle and shoot.

Balanced for Performance

• Weight: 7.5 lbs
• Length: 47.5"

  Weighing 7.5 pounds and measuring 47.5 inches overall, this shotgun achieves an excellent balance. This weight is substantial enough to effectively absorb recoil from 12-gauge loads, making for a more comfortable shooting experience, particularly during extended sessions. Yet, it remains light enough to carry comfortably through fields and marshes for extended periods without fatigue. The overall length is ideal for smooth swinging on fast-moving targets, contributing to instinctive pointing and improved accuracy in dynamic shooting scenarios.

Who is the Mossberg 500 Field (015813501262) For?

This specific Mossberg 500 Field configuration is an exceptional choice for a wide range of individuals:

• The Aspiring Hunter: If you're new to hunting and asking, "What is the best beginner shotgun for bird hunting?", the Mossberg 500 Field's reliability, ease of use, and versatility make it an outstanding first firearm. It's forgiving, easy to maintain, and its robust construction ensures it will endure the rigors of learning in the field.
• The Experienced Waterfowler or Upland Bird Hunter: For seasoned hunters, this shotgun is a trusted companion. Its ability to handle 3-inch magnum loads, combined with the adaptable Accu-Set choke system and the optimal 28-inch barrel, makes it highly effective for ducks, geese, pheasants, and other game birds across varied terrains.
• The Recreational Clay Target Shooter: Whether you enjoy trap, skeet, or sporting clays, the smooth swing of the 28-inch barrel and the precision offered by the dual bead sights and interchangeable chokes will enhance your performance and enjoyment on the range.
• The Value-Conscious Firearm Enthusiast: The Mossberg 500 series is renowned for delivering exceptional performance and legendary reliability without breaking the bank. It represents an investment in a firearm that will serve you faithfully for decades, often outperforming shotguns costing significantly more.
• Anyone Seeking a Reliable All-Purpose Shotgun: Beyond specific disciplines, if you simply need a pump-action shotgun that you can trust implicitly for any general field application, the Mossberg 500 Field is the gold standard. Its simplicity, durability, and user-friendly design make it an indispensable tool.

Maximizing Your Mossberg 500 Field Experience

To truly leverage the capabilities of your Mossberg 500 Field, consider these aspects:

Understanding Choke Tubes for Optimal Performance

The Accu-Set choke system is your key to unlocking the full potential of this shotgun. Different chokes create different shot patterns:

• Cylinder (C): Widest pattern, best for very close range (e.g., skeet, quail in dense cover).
• Improved Cylinder (IC): Slightly tighter than Cylinder, good for closer birds (e.g., dove, pheasant, close-range clays).
• Modified (M): A versatile middle-ground, excellent for general hunting of most upland birds and ducks at moderate ranges.
• Full (F): Tightest pattern for maximum range and dense patterns, ideal for turkeys and long-range waterfowl.
• Improved Modified (IM) / Light Full (LF): Offer intermediate constriction between Modified and Full for fine-tuning patterns.

Experiment with different choke and ammunition combinations at a patterning board to understand how your specific shotgun performs. This empirical data will empower you to select the perfect setup for any hunting or shooting scenario.

Maintenance and Care: Ensuring Longevity

The Mossberg 500 is known for its robust and relatively simple design, making it easy to maintain. Regular cleaning after each use, especially when exposed to moisture or corrosive ammunition, is crucial. Pay attention to the bore, chamber, bolt, and action slide bars. A light coat of gun oil on metal surfaces will prevent corrosion. Proper care ensures your shotgun continues to operate flawlessly and retains its beautiful high-gloss blued finish and walnut stock for generations.

The Mossberg 500 Legacy: A Testament to Trust

The Mossberg 500 has been in continuous production for over 60 years, a testament to its enduring design and unwavering performance. It holds the unique distinction of being the only pump-action shotgun to pass all military-standard tests (MIL-SPEC 3443E), a rigorous evaluation of durability and reliability under extreme conditions. While the Field model is designed for civilian use, this military pedigree underscores the inherent toughness and dependability built into every Mossberg 500. When you acquire this shotgun, you're not just buying a tool; you're investing in a piece of firearms history, a proven performer recognized globally for its excellence.

Where to Find Your Mossberg 500 Field Shotgun

For hunters, sport shooters, and firearm enthusiasts seeking this exceptional Mossberg 500 Field model (UPC: 015813501262), look no further than DEGuns. As a leading provider of quality firearms, DEGuns offers an extensive selection, knowledgeable staff, and competitive pricing. Whether you're a first-time buyer seeking guidance or an experienced shooter looking to expand your collection, DEGuns provides a trusted and reliable source for all your firearm needs. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and comprehensive inventory makes them the ideal destination to acquire your next legendary Mossberg shotgun. Explore the full range of Mossberg firearms and accessories available at DEGuns to complement your shooting endeavors.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Mossberg 500 Field

Q: Is the Mossberg 500 Field suitable for home defense?

A: While primarily designed for hunting and sport shooting, the Mossberg 500 series as a whole is highly adaptable. With a barrel change to a shorter, non-vent rib configuration (typically 18.5" or 20" with appropriate sights), the Mossberg 500 platform can be effectively repurposed for home defense. The 28-inch barrel on this specific model is generally too long for optimal maneuverability in indoor environments.

Q: How easy is it to disassemble and clean the Mossberg 500?

A: The Mossberg 500 is renowned for its straightforward design and ease of field stripping and cleaning. Basic maintenance can be performed quickly with minimal tools, making it very user-friendly even for those new to firearm ownership.

Q: Can I change the barrel on this Mossberg 500 Field model?

A: Yes, one of the significant advantages of the Mossberg 500 platform is its modularity. Barrels can be easily interchanged (within the same gauge) without the need for gunsmithing, allowing you to adapt your shotgun for different purposes, such as a shorter barrel for slug hunting or home defense, or different lengths for various clay sports.

Q: What kind of ammunition should I use with the 3-inch chamber?

A: The 3-inch chamber allows you to use both 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch shells. For optimal performance, always match your ammunition to your intended target and hunting conditions. Heavier 3-inch magnum loads are typically reserved for larger birds (geese, turkeys) or when using steel shot for waterfowl, while 2 ¾-inch loads are common for upland birds, target shooting, and general use. Consult your shotgun's manual and local regulations for safe and appropriate ammunition selection.

Q: What accessories are compatible with the Mossberg 500?

A: The Mossberg 500 has one of the largest aftermarket accessory markets of any shotgun. You can find a vast array of compatible stocks, forends, sights, slings, and specialty barrels to customize your shotgun to your specific needs and preferences. These accessories are often readily available at reputable retailers like DEGuns.

Product Specifications: Mossberg 500 Field (UPC: 015813501262)

Feature	Specification	Benefit
Gauge	12	Ultimate versatility for all shooting needs
Capacity	5+1	Ample rounds for field and sport shooting
Chamber	3"	Accommodates standard and magnum loads
Barrel Length	28"	Optimal for swing, sight radius, and patterning
Barrel Type	Vent Rib	Reduces heat shimmer, aids aiming
Sight/Base	Dual Bead	Quick, precise target acquisition
Choke System	Accu-Set	Customizable shot patterns for any scenario
LOP (Fixed)	13.875"	Standard, comfortable fit for most shooters
Barrel Finish	High Polish, Blue	Durable, classic aesthetic, corrosion resistance
Stock Finish	High-Gloss Walnut	Premium feel, timeless beauty, secure grip
Weight	7.5 lbs	Balanced for recoil absorption and carry
Length	47.5"	Promotes smooth swinging for moving targets
UPC	015813501262	Unique Product Identifier
SKU	50126	Stock Keeping Unit