A Powerhouse Unveiled
The realm of shotguns is one of raw power, versatility, and time-tested reliability. Within this arena, the Mossberg name consistently earns respect for offering effective, affordable, and dependable firearms. Among its various models, the Mossberg 835 Ulti-Mag stands out as a popular choice for both the seasoned hunter and the homeowner seeking robust self-defense capabilities. This article delves into the intricacies of the Mossberg 835 12 Gauge, exploring its features, applications, advantages, and more, providing a comprehensive guide to this workhorse of a shotgun.
Exploring Key Characteristics
Understanding the core components of the Mossberg 835 12 Gauge is crucial to appreciating its capabilities.
Barrels and Bore Design
The foundation of any shotgun’s effectiveness lies within its barrel. The Mossberg 835 offers different barrel lengths depending on the specific model, influencing its performance in various scenarios. Longer barrels are typically favored for hunting, providing a longer sight radius for increased accuracy and potentially better ballistic performance at longer ranges. Shorter barrels, on the other hand, are often preferred for home defense due to their enhanced maneuverability in confined spaces. Another important aspect of the barrel design is its overbored construction. This design features a bore diameter slightly larger than that of a standard 12-gauge barrel. The overbored design offers several advantages, including reduced felt recoil, and a more consistent shot pattern, which ultimately makes the shotgun easier to control and more effective. Complementing the barrel design is the Ulti-Full choke, a crucial component that controls the spread of the shot. This specific choke tightens the pattern, maximizing the effective range and the impact of the shot. Different choke tubes are available, offering the user the ability to fine-tune their shotgun’s performance for specific hunting or defensive situations.
Pump Action Mechanism
The action, a hallmark of the Mossberg 835 12 Gauge, is a pump-action mechanism. This is a reliable and straightforward system. Pulling the forend back and forth extracts the spent shell, ejects it, and chambers a fresh round from the magazine tube. The pump-action system is known for its mechanical simplicity, ease of operation, and relatively low cost of manufacture, which contributes to the Mossberg 835’s affordability.
Stock and Forend Components
The stock and forend also play vital roles in the overall feel and performance of the Mossberg 835. Stocks are typically made from synthetic materials or, in some models, wood. Synthetic stocks offer durability and weather resistance, making them a popular choice for all-weather hunting. Forends, the sliding portion of the gun that the shooter grasps, also contribute to the shooter’s control. The forend’s design and ergonomic shape are crucial for comfortable and efficient operation of the pump action.
Sighting and Mounting
Many Mossberg 835 models come equipped with bead sights, which provide a simple and quick aiming method. Some versions also have receiver-mounted rails, pre-drilled and tapped for scope mounts, allowing for the addition of optics, such as red dot sights or traditional scopes. This expands the gun’s utility for precision shooting and different hunting situations.
Magazine Capacity and Dimensions
The magazine capacity of the Mossberg 835 typically ranges from a standard four or five rounds in the magazine tube, plus one in the chamber. Extensions are also available as aftermarket accessories, giving the user more available shots.
Mossberg 835 12 Gauge shotguns, being a standard length, will obviously carry more weight than a typical handgun. However, this extra weight contributes to felt recoil absorption and stability while aiming. They offer solid dimensions that are easy to handle and maneuver for most users, especially when compared to some of the larger, heavier shotguns on the market.
Putting the Workhorse to Work: Performance and Applications
The Mossberg 835 12 Gauge’s adaptability shines through in its diverse range of applications.
Hunting Utility
For hunters, this shotgun is a reliable companion across a range of game. Its ability to handle different shotshell lengths, coupled with the option to change chokes, allows hunters to tailor their loadout to specific quarry. Waterfowl hunters, for example, will find it effective with steel or tungsten shot, while turkey hunters can benefit from its ability to deliver tight patterns at longer distances, and the ability to take down larger game like deer using appropriate slugs. The versatility in shell selection is a major advantage, letting hunters optimize performance in different conditions.
Home Defense Application
The Mossberg 835 12 Gauge also offers a strong defense profile for the homeowner. The inherent stopping power of a 12-gauge shotgun is well-known. The ability to employ various ammunition types, from birdshot to buckshot to slugs, gives the user options to suit the threat level. Buckshot, in particular, is favored by many for home defense, as its multiple projectiles increase the chances of incapacitating a threat. However, the user must consider the potential for over-penetration, meaning the pellets could travel through a target and hit something else. Slugs, while providing incredible stopping power, can also over penetrate, which needs to be carefully considered for home defense use. It’s also important to be mindful of the limited magazine capacity in standard configurations, so the shooter should develop a plan that conserves rounds and ends the situation safely.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
Like any firearm, the Mossberg 835 12 Gauge has its strengths and weaknesses.
Advantages in Design
On the positive side, the Mossberg 835 offers significant stopping power. The raw energy delivered by a 12-gauge shell is undeniable. Furthermore, the versatility in ammunition options, from small birdshot to large slugs, enhances its adaptability. Its affordability makes it accessible to a broad range of users. The pump-action system is known for its reliability and is generally simple to operate and maintain. Finally, the extensive aftermarket support allows owners to customize the shotgun with various accessories, providing for the user’s preferences.
Disadvantages to Consider
However, there are downsides to consider. Recoil, particularly with 3.5-inch shells, can be substantial, making quick follow-up shots more challenging. The pump-action reload, while reliable, is not as fast as the semi-automatic action, potentially putting the shooter at a disadvantage in rapid-fire scenarios. Compared to other firearms, shotguns, and particularly those with longer barrels, can be less maneuverable in close quarters. Patterning, especially when compared to a semi-automatic shotgun with a choke system, may not be as consistent.
Variations and the Realm of Accessories
The Mossberg 835 12 Gauge is offered in several variations to suit different user needs. Different barrel lengths, stock materials, and finishes are available. This allows buyers to select a model optimized for their specific application, whether it’s hunting, home defense, or target shooting.
Furthermore, a vast array of accessories is available to enhance the Mossberg 835. Extended magazine tubes increase capacity, allowing for more shots before reloading. Optics, such as red dot sights or scopes, improve accuracy, especially at longer ranges. Slings facilitate carrying the shotgun for extended periods. Tactical lights and laser sights enhance target identification in low-light conditions.
Maintaining Your Investment: Maintenance and Care
Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure the long life and reliable performance of your Mossberg 835.
Regular cleaning is key to removing the buildup of powder residue and other debris. Disassemble the shotgun according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a cleaning rod and solvent to scrub the bore and a brush to remove fouling from the chamber. Lubricate the moving parts with a gun oil. Pay particular attention to the action bars and any other areas where metal components interact.
Always store the Mossberg 835 12 Gauge in a secure location, unloaded and with the action open. A gun safe is recommended for safety and to prevent unauthorized access.
Comparisons in the Shotgun Arena
When considering a Mossberg 835, it’s helpful to compare it with other popular shotguns in its class. The Remington 870, a well-established pump-action shotgun, is a direct competitor. The Mossberg 500, another popular model from the same manufacturer, also bears comparison. The Benelli Nova, a semi-automatic option, offers a different operating mechanism but still resides in the same arena. Comparing the differences in price, features, and performance between these shotguns helps the buyer to make an informed decision based on their needs.
Prioritizing Safety
Safe gun handling is paramount when operating any firearm, and the Mossberg 835 12 Gauge is no exception.
Always treat every gun as if it’s loaded. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times. Never put your finger on the trigger until you’re ready to fire. Be aware of your target and what’s beyond it. These fundamental principles are crucial to prevent accidents. Additionally, shotgun users should always be careful when loading and unloading the Mossberg 835, ensuring the action is open and the chamber is clear before storing. Regular firearms training is highly recommended to develop safe handling habits and proficiency with the weapon.
In Conclusion
The Mossberg 835 12 Gauge stands as a reliable, versatile, and affordable option for both hunters and those seeking a robust home defense firearm. Its powerful 12-gauge chambering, the ability to shoot a variety of shells, its rugged pump action, and the availability of aftermarket accessories combine to make it a very effective tool. While it has some limitations, its value proposition is undeniable.
If you’re in the market for a shotgun, the Mossberg 835 12 Gauge is definitely worth considering. Its proven track record and wide acceptance within both hunting and home defense circles is a testament to its effectiveness and value. Explore its features, consider your needs, and determine if it’s the right choice for you.
