The Problem with Mossberg Shotguns
Mossberg's 500, Maverick 88, and Shockwave series of pump shotguns are highly regarded for various purposes such as home defense, hunting, camping, and farming. However, many owners have encountered a common issue with these shotguns — they tend to shoot high straight from the factory.
This problem has led firearms instructors and police trainers to advise Mossberg shotgun owners to “aim for the belt” in order to hit the center mass. The reason behind this issue lies in the design of Mossberg's self-defense barrels compared to their hunting barrels.
Mossberg's hunting barrels feature a “vent rib” that raises the front bead to the proper height, allowing them to shoot accurately. On the other hand, self-defense barrels lack this vent rib, resulting in a lower front brass bead that throws off the point of aim.
The Frustration of Aiming with Mossberg Short-Barreled Shotguns
When using a Mossberg short-barreled defense shotgun, it can be incredibly frustrating to hit your intended target, especially when shooting slugs. This issue has been addressed by Remington with their 870 series defense shotguns, which have a raised front sight platform that aligns with the point of aim of their hunting barrels.
Unfortunately, Mossberg has yet to tackle this problem, leading to a demand for aftermarket solutions. One such solution is the XS Big Dot Front Night Sight, which corrects the point of aim issue but comes with a higher price tag and requires more installation effort.
Introducing the Highball Brass Bead by Defender Tactical
Recognizing the need for a lower-cost and easier-to-install solution, Texas-based company Defender Tactical has developed a product called the “Highball Brass Bead” to solve this problem once and for all.
The Highball Brass Bead is a taller and thicker brass bead that allows Mossberg shotguns to shoot accurately. It is effortless to install and is designed to be more durable than the factory bead, reducing the risk of breakage if the gun is accidentally dropped.
Enhancing Sight Alignment with the Rear Tang Safety Sight
In addition to the Highball Brass Bead, Defender Tactical also offers the Rear Tang Safety Sight, which can be used in combination with the Highball front bead. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, the Rear Tang Safety Sight features a sight line to act as a rear sight, improving sight alignment with the front bead.
Furthermore, the Rear Tang Safety Sight is designed to provide a more comfortable and ergonomic alternative to Mossberg's stock plastic safety switch. Its higher and smoother profile makes engaging and disengaging the safety easier, especially in low-light conditions or high-stress situations.
Durability and Reliability
Some concerns have been raised about the durability of the Defender Highball Brass Bead due to its taller size. However, based on personal experience, the Highball bead has proven to be highly durable. Despite bumping it into hard surfaces numerous times, there has been no bending or breaking of the bead.
The Highball Brass Bead is thicker overall compared to the factory bead, providing added strength and resilience. It would likely take a significant impact to the barrel to cause any damage to the Highball bead.
Conclusion
Despite being manufactured in China, the Defender Tactical Highball Brass Bead and Rear Tang Safety Sight kit offers a well-made and affordable solution to the Mossberg shotgun's shooting high issue. While the origin of manufacturing may be a concern for some, the kit's effectiveness and affordability make it a highly recommended accessory for Mossberg shotgun owners.
About the Author:
Jason Schwartz is the Founder and Senior Editor of Rocky Mountain Bushcraft. He is a US Army Veteran, former Red Cross certified Wilderness & Remote First Aid Instructor, and the author of Edible & Medicinal Survival Plants of the Rocky Mountains Pocket Guides. Jason has also written articles on bushcraft and survival for Backpacker Magazine and The New Pioneer.
Email: rockymountainbushcraft@hotmail.com
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By: Rocky Mountain Bushcrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07937550302603041228noreply@blogger.com
Title: Defender Tactical's Highball Brass Bead: A Solution to Mossberg Shotguns Shooting High
Sourced From: rockymountainbushcraft.blogspot.com/2023/12/review-is-your-mossberg-500-maverick-88.html
Published Date: Wed, 27 Dec 2023 09:57:00 +0000