I did not make it very clear, but it does not take a genius to realize that anniversaries are typically reserved for commemorating something that is relatively special. When Mossberg decided to commemorate the introduction of the Mossberg 500 series of shotguns, you better believe they did not just roll out a run-of-the-mill shotgun. Only a quality piece like the Mossberg 500 50th anniversary shotgun was worthy of upholding the legacy of the 500 series.
The Mossberg 500 is a series of shotguns that were designed in 1960 and began production in 1961. The series represented a range of varying hammerless, pump-action shotguns, all of which featured the same receiver. Variations were generally found in the barrel length, bore size, choke options, capacity, sights and stock/forend materials. They have always been marketed as multi-purpose shotguns designed for use in less-than-favorable conditions. As such, all Mossberg 500s feature interchangeable barrels, which provides for a number of different configurations that can quickly turn a 500 into a field gun, a slug gun, a defensive gun or a sport gun. Additionally, they are all easily disassembled to allow for simple maintenance. The line’s versatility has even earned it a spot with military forces from a number of nations, including Brazil, Iceland, Malaysia, the Netherlands and the United States.
The Mossberg 500 50th anniversary shotgun has a barrel length of 28 inches and an overall length of 47.5 inches. In other words, it is quite a hefty shotgun and weighs in at about 7.5 pounds. Like all 500-series shotguns, it is a 12-gauge, pump-action shotgun with a 3-inch chamber. The magazine tube has a “5+1” capacity. As noted, the barrel is interchangeable to provide for a range of configurations and different operations. You would have to be blind to miss the beautiful full-length stock. It is constructed entirely from walnut and features a high-gloss, finely-checkered pattern. It also includes the standard 500-series receiver with an ambidextrous tang safety, multi choke system and bead sights to provide for a quick pickup of targets.
Now we get into the extra bells and whistles found on this anniversary edition. The first thing you are likely to notice is the 50th anniversary logo on the receiver, which proudly displays the first production year. Upon closer inspection, you will find not only a gold trigger, but also a jeweled bolt. The idea behind the jeweled bolt is that it will retain a thin coat of oil that will provide for a much smoother operation. I guess the jury is out on whether or not it actually works, but it sure makes the bolt look nice.
The truth is that the Mossberg 500 50th anniversary shotgun has been slightly hard to come by in recent months. Being that it is a special edition, it will not be as widely available as your typical shotgun even though it provides all the versatility and quality you would expect. Consider this shotgun for any of the following:
- Home and personal protection
- Hunting
- Trap shooting
- Skeet shooting
- Much more…
Those with any interest in purchasing the Mossberg 500 50th anniversary shotgun should act quickly before the market dries up and prices skyrocket. You can pick one up today for only $366.75.
