Ever feel like your trusty Mossberg 500 is missing something? That classic pump-action shotgun is a legend, but sometimes you want to make it even better. Think about adding a flashlight for those dark corners, or a red dot sight to help you aim faster. But how do you attach these cool accessories? That’s where a Picatinny rail comes in, and choosing the right one can be trickier than you think.
Many Mossberg 500 owners want to customize their shotguns, but they run into a problem. There are so many different rails out there! Some fit perfectly, while others don’t. You might worry about spending money on a rail that won’t work or might even fall off. It’s easy to feel confused when you’re just trying to make your shotgun more useful.
But don’t worry! This blog post is here to help. We’ll break down what makes a good Mossberg 500 Picatinny rail. You’ll learn about different types, what to look for, and how to make sure it fits your specific shotgun. By the end, you’ll know exactly which rail will help you add those awesome accessories and make your Mossberg 500 even more amazing. Let’s dive in and get your shotgun ready for anything!
Our Top 5 Mossberg 500 Picatinny Rail Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Mossberg 500 Picatinny Rail Detailed Reviews
1. Mossberg 500/590 Series Shotgun Picatinny Rail Mount
Rating: 8.8/10
Want to add cool sights or lights to your Mossberg 500 or 590 shotgun? This Picatinny rail mount lets you do just that! It’s made from strong but light aluminum, so it won’t weigh down your shotgun. You can easily attach scopes, red dot sights, or other gear that uses Picatinny or Weaver mounts. Installation is a breeze thanks to the included screws that fit right into your shotgun’s original mounting holes.
What We Like:
- It’s super easy to install.
- It lets you add lots of different accessories like red dots or scopes.
- The aluminum construction makes it light.
- It’s a good length for most setups.
- It’s built tough for shotgun use.
What Could Be Improved:
- It only fits Mossberg 500/590 series shotguns, so it’s not universal.
- It’s a bit on the shorter side, so some longer accessories might not fit perfectly.
This rail mount is a simple and effective way to upgrade your Mossberg shotgun. You can easily customize it for your shooting needs.
2. Eastern Tactical Supply Mossberg 500 Mossberg 590 Mossberg 835 Shotgun Picatinny Rail Scope Base Top Rail Mount (Black)
Rating: 8.6/10
Looking to add a scope or other accessories to your favorite Mossberg shotgun? The Eastern Tactical Supply Mossberg 500/590/835 Shotgun Picatinny Rail Scope Base Top Rail Mount (Black) gives you a sturdy platform to do just that. This mount is designed to fit a variety of popular Mossberg models, making it a versatile option for many shotgun owners. It’s made from strong aluminum and is built to handle the recoil of your shotgun.
What We Like:
- It fits many Mossberg shotguns like the 500, 590, 835, 930, and 935 (made after 1997).
- The mount is 5.5 inches long and sits low, so it won’t get in your way.
- Installation is simple and straightforward.
- It has a standard 21mm picatinny/Weaver rail, which fits most accessories.
- The design helps absorb shock from heavy recoil.
- It’s made from tough 6061-T6 aluminum alloy, so it’s strong and lasts a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- The package only includes one rail mount, so you might need to buy more if you want to attach multiple accessories.
This rail mount is a solid upgrade for your Mossberg shotgun. It’s a durable and easy-to-install solution for mounting your optics and other gear.
3. UTG PRO Made in USA Model 500® Shotgun Picatinny Rail Mount
Rating: 8.7/10
The UTG PRO Made in USA Model 500® Shotgun Picatinny Rail Mount is a fantastic accessory for your Mossberg 500 shotgun. It lets you easily add your favorite sights to your shotgun. This mount is built tough and designed to fit your shotgun perfectly.
What We Like:
- It’s made right here in the USA, which is great!
- The mount is made from strong aircraft-grade aluminum.
- It has a special bottom that fits the Mossberg 500 shotgun perfectly.
- The rail is 5.5 inches long and has 13 slots, so you can put your scope or sights just where you want them.
- It’s low-profile and lets you see your front bead sight.
- It comes with everything you need to install it, and you don’t need a gunsmith.
What Could Be Improved:
- The hard anodizing could be a bit tougher against scratches.
- While it fits the 500, it’s important to double-check compatibility with other shotgun models.
This rail mount is a solid upgrade for any Mossberg 500 owner looking to improve their aiming options. It’s a simple way to make your shotgun more versatile.
4. Monstrum Mossberg 500/590/835/930/Shockwave Grimlock Picatinny Rail Mount
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your Mossberg shotgun with the Monstrum Grimlock Picatinny Rail Mount. This mount is built just for your Mossberg shotgun. It lets you add scopes and other sights easily. The design looks cool and fits your shotgun’s shape perfectly.
What We Like:
- It fits many popular Mossberg shotguns like the 500, 590, 835, 930, and Shockwave.
- The Grimlock design is sleek and matches your shotgun’s curves.
- You can attach scopes or sights that use either Picatinny 1913 or Weaver standards.
- Installation is simple. It screws right into the factory holes on your shotgun.
- No extra tools or parts are needed for setup.
- Monstrum backs this mount with a lifetime guarantee, so you can trust it.
What Could Be Improved:
- Always check the compatibility chart before you buy to make sure it fits your specific shotgun model.
This Monstrum Grimlock rail mount is a solid choice for anyone wanting to improve their Mossberg shotgun’s versatility. It offers a great combination of style, function, and a strong guarantee.
5. HIGOO Scope Top Rail Mount Picatinny/Weaver Top Rail 13 Slots Scope Top Rail Mount Compatible with Mossberg 500/590 Series
Rating: 9.0/10
Looking to add a scope to your Mossberg 500 or 590 shotgun? The HIGOO Scope Top Rail Mount is a great solution. This mount gives you a sturdy platform to attach your favorite optics. It’s designed to fit your Mossberg shotgun perfectly, making it easy to upgrade your firearm.
What We Like:
- It’s made from strong, lightweight aluminum. This means it won’t add too much weight to your shotgun.
- The black matte finish looks sharp and helps prevent glare.
- Installation is super easy. It comes with all the screws and even a hex key.
- The 13 slots on the rail give you lots of choices for where to mount your scope. This helps you find the perfect eye relief.
- It’s a low-profile mount, so it stays out of the way.
- It fits both Picatinny and Weaver style accessories.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s designed for Mossberg 500/590, double-check compatibility if you have a very specific model or a clone.
This HIGOO Scope Top Rail Mount is a solid choice for any Mossberg shotgun owner. It’s built well and makes adding a scope a breeze.
Your Guide to Mossberg 500 Picatinny Rails
Why Add a Picatinny Rail to Your Mossberg 500?
The Mossberg 500 is a great shotgun. Many people want to make it even better. A Picatinny rail is a smart way to do this. It lets you add cool accessories like lights, lasers, or different sights. This guide will help you pick the best one.
Key Features to Look For
1. Material Strength
You want a rail that is strong. It needs to hold up to the shotgun’s recoil. Look for rails made from tough stuff.
2. Fit and Compatibility
Not all rails fit all Mossberg 500 models. Make sure the rail is made for your specific shotgun. Some rails fit on the receiver (where the shells go), and others might fit on the barrel or forend (the part you hold). Check the product description carefully.
3. Rail Slots
Picatinny rails have slots. These are the little crosswise grooves. More slots mean you can move your accessories around more. This helps you find the perfect spot for everything.
4. Ease of Installation
Some rails screw on. Others might clamp or use existing holes. A rail that’s easy to install means less hassle for you. Look for instructions that are clear and simple.
5. Finish and Durability
A good finish protects the rail from rust and scratches. Black or matte finishes are popular. They also help the rail blend in with your shotgun.
Important Materials
Most good Picatinny rails are made from strong metals. These metals can handle the force of the shotgun firing.
- Aluminum: This is a popular choice. It’s strong but also lightweight. Many aircraft are made from aluminum.
- Steel: Steel is very strong and durable. It can be heavier than aluminum.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Rail Better?
- Precise Machining: When a rail is made with care, the slots are perfectly spaced. This makes your accessories fit securely.
- Good Reviews: See what other people say. Happy customers usually mean a good product.
- Reputable Brand: Stick with brands known for making good gun parts.
What Can Make a Rail Worse?
- Cheap Materials: If a rail feels flimsy or bends easily, it’s probably not good quality.
- Poor Fit: A rail that doesn’t line up right or is hard to install can be frustrating.
- Sharp Edges: Rough edges can snag things or even cut your hands.
User Experience and Use Cases
Adding a Picatinny rail changes how you use your Mossberg 500. It opens up a world of possibilities.
Common Uses:
- Adding Sights: You can put red dot sights or other scopes on your shotgun. This makes aiming much easier and faster.
- Attaching Lights: For hunting or home defense, a light is very useful. It helps you see in the dark.
- Mounting Lasers: Lasers can help with quick target acquisition.
- Customization: Many people just like to make their shotgun look unique and be more functional.
A well-chosen Picatinny rail makes your Mossberg 500 more versatile. It’s a small upgrade that can make a big difference in how you use your firearm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will a Picatinny rail fit any Mossberg 500?
A: No, not all rails fit all Mossberg 500 models. You must check which model your shotgun is and if the rail is designed for it.
Q: What kind of accessories can I put on a Picatinny rail?
A: You can attach many things, like red dot sights, scopes, flashlights, lasers, and vertical grips.
Q: Is it hard to install a Picatinny rail?
A: It depends on the rail. Some are simple screw-on installations, while others might need more steps. Always read the instructions.
Q: What is the difference between Picatinny and Weaver rails?
A: They look similar, but Picatinny rails have slightly different slot spacing. Most accessories made for Picatinny will also work on Weaver, but the other way around isn’t always true.
Q: Can I put a rail on the barrel of my Mossberg 500?
A: Yes, there are rails designed for the barrel, but you need to make sure it fits your specific barrel and doesn’t interfere with the shotgun’s function.
Q: How do I know if a rail is good quality?
A: Look for strong materials like aluminum or steel, precise machining, and good reviews from other users. Avoid rails that feel flimsy or have rough edges.
Q: Will a Picatinny rail affect my shotgun’s accuracy?
A: A properly installed and sturdy rail should not negatively affect accuracy. In fact, adding a good sight to the rail can improve it.
Q: Do I need any special tools to install a Picatinny rail?
A: Usually, you’ll need basic tools like screwdrivers or Allen wrenches, which often come with the rail or are common household tools.
Q: Can I remove the Picatinny rail later if I want to?
A: Yes, most rails can be removed. Just reverse the installation process.
Q: Where is the best place to buy a Mossberg 500 Picatinny rail?
A: You can find them at gun stores, sporting goods stores, and online retailers that specialize in firearm accessories.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.