The Mossberg 590 is a legendary pump-action shotgun, prized for its reliability and versatility. Whether you're a seasoned shooter looking to customize your firearm or a new owner wanting to understand maintenance, understanding barrel and magazine tube replacement is crucial. This guide will walk you through the process, covering everything from choosing the right parts to completing the installation safely and correctly.
Choosing the Right Barrel and Magazine Tube for Your Mossberg 590
Before diving into the replacement process, careful selection of your new barrel and magazine tube is paramount. Several factors influence your choice:
Barrel Length and Type:
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Length: Barrel length significantly impacts the shotgun's handling and ballistic performance. Shorter barrels (e.g., 18.5 inches) are more maneuverable in close quarters but may have a slightly reduced effective range. Longer barrels (e.g., 20 or 28 inches) offer greater accuracy and range. Consider your intended use – home defense, hunting, sporting clays – when making your decision.
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Type: Mossberg 590 barrels are available in various configurations, including smoothbore (for shot) and rifled (for slugs). Rifled barrels provide increased accuracy with slugs, while smoothbore barrels are suitable for both shot and slugs (though accuracy with slugs will be reduced). Consider what type of ammunition you'll primarily use.
Magazine Tube Capacity:
The magazine tube determines how much ammunition your shotgun can hold. Factory Mossberg 590s typically come with a standard capacity, but extended magazine tubes are readily available, allowing you to increase your ammunition capacity. Remember to check your local and state laws regarding magazine capacity restrictions before purchasing.
Important Note: Always ensure that any replacement barrel and magazine tube are compatible with your specific Mossberg 590 model. Mossberg produces various 590 variants, and parts compatibility can vary. Consult the Mossberg website or a reputable firearms parts supplier to ensure correct fitment.
Replacing the Mossberg 590 Barrel: A Step-by-Step Guide
Disclaimer: Replacing a barrel on a firearm requires knowledge and skill. If you are not comfortable performing this task, seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith. Always practice safe gun handling procedures. Never point a firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot.
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Unloading and Safety Check: Completely unload the shotgun. Visually and physically inspect the chamber and magazine tube to ensure it is completely empty. Engage the safety.
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Removing the Old Barrel: The process typically involves removing the forend and then unscrewing the barrel nut. Consult your specific Mossberg 590 model's instructions or a detailed online guide with images for your exact model, as variations exist across models. The barrel is usually secured by a nut and may require specialized tools for removal.
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Installing the New Barrel: Carefully align the new barrel with the receiver, ensuring it is properly seated. Tighten the barrel nut securely using the appropriate tools. Again, refer to your model's specific instructions.
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Reassembly: Reattach the forend. Perform another thorough safety check to ensure the barrel is correctly installed and the firearm is unloaded.
Replacing the Mossberg 590 Magazine Tube: A Step-by-Step Guide
Similar to barrel replacement, replacing the magazine tube requires careful attention to detail and safety.
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Unloading and Safety Check: Follow the same unloading and safety procedures as mentioned in the barrel replacement section.
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Removing the Old Magazine Tube: This often involves removing the magazine cap, the follower, and then the tube itself. This process may vary depending on the specific model, so consult your instruction manual or a reliable guide with pictures specific to your Mossberg 590 model.
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Installing the New Magazine Tube: Carefully insert the new magazine tube into the receiver. Ensure it is properly seated and aligned. Reassemble the follower and magazine cap securely.
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Reassembly and Safety Check: Once the new magazine tube is installed, perform a final thorough safety check.
Conclusion: Maintaining Your Mossberg 590
Replacing the barrel and magazine tube on your Mossberg 590 requires careful attention to detail and a commitment to firearm safety. By following these steps and consulting the appropriate resources for your specific model, you can successfully upgrade your shotgun and ensure its continued reliability. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult a qualified gunsmith if you are unsure about any aspect of this process.
