Looking to buy a Mossberg 500 for home defense. However, trying to figure out the different types is pretty difficult, although somewhat fun to research. I'm looking to get a Mossberg 500 with an 18.5 inch barrel with a "conventional" stock, ie no pistol grip, and to spend as little as possible. I'd like to get it from my local gunshop, although he only sells whatever he has on hand on consignment or, he can order practically any Mossberg in his catalog. However, since I will be ordering a shotgun sight unseen, I want to make sure I do my research before getting there and know exactly what I want to order.
So that begs the question, which exact model # should I order? From my research, it looks like I should get any of the following models:
- #50411
- #52136
- #52134
- #50521
It seems like the only difference is in forends or finishes (matte versus "gloss"). And some might include an extra barrel or pistol grip, neither of which I am willing to pay extra for.
My research says any of the above should go for about $350 at a local gunshop. Is that right? Are any of those cheaper or more expensive? If so, why?
I also noticed that some Mossberg 500s have an "odd" for-end (forend?) that doesn't have the ribbing like a "conventional" Mossberg. Is that a cosmetic difference, or are they actually different forends, requiring different tools to take apart or maintain?
Thanks ahead for any help or advice.
So that begs the question, which exact model # should I order? From my research, it looks like I should get any of the following models:
- #50411
- #52136
- #52134
- #50521
It seems like the only difference is in forends or finishes (matte versus "gloss"). And some might include an extra barrel or pistol grip, neither of which I am willing to pay extra for.
My research says any of the above should go for about $350 at a local gunshop. Is that right? Are any of those cheaper or more expensive? If so, why?
I also noticed that some Mossberg 500s have an "odd" for-end (forend?) that doesn't have the ribbing like a "conventional" Mossberg. Is that a cosmetic difference, or are they actually different forends, requiring different tools to take apart or maintain?
Thanks ahead for any help or advice.