The Mossberg 590 is a legendary pump-action shotgun, prized for its reliability and versatility. But one common modification that significantly enhances its capabilities is extending the magazine tube. This upgrade boosts the firearm's ammunition capacity, allowing for more shots before reloading, a crucial advantage in various situations. This guide dives deep into Mossberg 590 mag tube extensions, covering their benefits, installation, considerations, and some popular options available on the market.
Why Extend Your Mossberg 590's Mag Tube?
Increasing your shotgun's capacity offers several compelling benefits:
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Enhanced Home Defense: In a home defense scenario, having more rounds readily available can be the difference between success and failure. A longer mag tube provides a crucial buffer against multiple threats.
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Improved Sporting Applications: For activities like hunting or competitive shooting (like 3-gun), a larger capacity means fewer interruptions for reloading, enabling faster target engagement and improved scores.
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Tactical Advantages: In tactical situations, a higher round count translates to increased firepower and a greater ability to suppress threats.
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Increased Confidence: Simply knowing you have a larger capacity can provide significant psychological confidence in any situation requiring a shotgun.
Choosing the Right Mossberg 590 Mag Tube Extension
Not all extensions are created equal. Several factors should influence your decision:
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Capacity: Extensions are available in various lengths, resulting in different capacities. Common options range from +1 to +8 shells. Consider your specific needs and legal limitations when choosing a capacity.
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Material: Most extensions are constructed from steel or aluminum. Steel is generally more durable but heavier, while aluminum offers a lighter weight but may be slightly less robust.
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Finish: Finishes range from matte black to various cerakote options. Choose a finish that complements your shotgun and offers the desired level of corrosion resistance.
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Compatibility: Ensure the extension is specifically designed for your Mossberg 590 model (e.g., 590A1, 590M, etc.). Some extensions are model-specific. Always double-check compatibility before purchasing.
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Ease of Installation: While generally straightforward, some extensions may require more effort or specialized tools than others. Check reviews and installation guides beforehand.
Popular Brands and Models (Note: This section does not include links to specific products or retailers.)
Numerous reputable manufacturers produce Mossberg 590 mag tube extensions. Research and compare different brands based on reviews, reputation, and price before making a purchase. Look for extensions with positive feedback regarding fit, finish, and reliability.
Installing a Mossberg 590 Mag Tube Extension
Installing a mag tube extension generally involves several steps:
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Disassemble the shotgun: Familiarize yourself with the disassembly procedure for your specific Mossberg 590 model. Consult your owner's manual if necessary. Always ensure the firearm is unloaded and cleared before beginning any work.
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Remove the factory magazine tube: This typically involves removing the magazine cap and sliding the tube out.
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Install the extension: Slide the extension onto the magazine tube, ensuring a secure and proper fit.
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Reassemble the shotgun: Follow the reverse steps of disassembly to reassemble your shotgun.
Important Note: Improper installation can compromise the firearm's functionality and safety. If you are uncomfortable performing the installation yourself, seek the assistance of a qualified gunsmith. Always prioritize safety and handle firearms responsibly.
Legal Considerations
Always check and comply with all local, state, and federal laws regarding firearm modifications and magazine capacity restrictions before modifying your shotgun. Laws vary significantly by region.
Conclusion
Extending your Mossberg 590's magazine tube is a popular and effective upgrade that enhances its versatility and capacity. By carefully considering the factors discussed above and performing the installation correctly, you can significantly improve your shotgun's performance and reliability. Remember to always prioritize safety and adhere to all applicable laws and regulations.
