Maintaining your Mossberg 500A shotgun is crucial for its longevity, reliability, and safe operation. Regular cleaning prevents malfunctions, extends the life of your firearm, and ensures consistent performance. This guide provides a step-by-step process for cleaning your Mossberg 500A, catering to both novice and experienced users. We'll cover everything from disassembly to reassembly, emphasizing safety throughout.
Safety First: Essential Precautions Before Cleaning
Before you begin cleaning your Mossberg 500A, always prioritize safety:
- Unloaded Weapon: Absolutely confirm your shotgun is unloaded. Visually inspect the chamber and magazine tube. Point the muzzle in a safe direction.
- Safe Environment: Clean your firearm in a well-ventilated area, away from flammable materials.
- Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
- Gloves: Consider wearing gloves to protect your hands from chemicals and residue.
Tools and Materials You'll Need:
- Mossberg 500A Shotgun Cleaning Kit: A comprehensive kit usually includes cleaning rods, brushes (bore brush, cleaning patches), a cleaning jag, and an assortment of patches in different sizes. Choose a kit appropriate for the gauge of your shotgun (12 gauge, 20 gauge, etc.).
- Gun Oil (specifically designed for firearms): Avoid using household lubricants.
- Solvent (gun cleaning solvent): This helps break down residue and fouling.
- Clean Patches: Use plenty of clean patches to remove solvent and residue.
- Cotton Swabs: Useful for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
- A soft cloth or lint-free rags: For wiping down the exterior of the shotgun.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process:
1. Disassembly:
Refer to your Mossberg 500A owner's manual for detailed instructions on field stripping your specific model. Generally, this involves:
- Removing the magazine tube cap: This allows access to the magazine spring and follower.
- Removing the magazine tube: Carefully remove the magazine tube.
- Removing the forearm: This will expose the barrel.
- Removing the barrel: This step usually involves unscrewing the barrel from the receiver.
Note: Take photos or videos as you disassemble, especially if this is your first time. This will greatly assist in reassembly.
2. Cleaning the Barrel:
- Apply solvent: Pour a small amount of solvent onto a cleaning patch and run it through the barrel using the cleaning rod.
- Scrubbing: Use the bore brush attached to the cleaning rod to scrub the inside of the barrel thoroughly. Push and pull the brush several times to remove any residue.
- Patching: Run several clean, solvent-soaked patches through the barrel until the patches come out clean.
- Oil: Apply a thin layer of gun oil to a clean patch and run it through the barrel to lubricate and protect it.
3. Cleaning the Receiver:
- Remove excess residue: Use a cleaning brush or cotton swabs to clean any remaining residue and powder from the receiver.
- Apply oil: Apply a small amount of gun oil to lubricate moving parts, such as the bolt and trigger mechanism.
4. Cleaning the Magazine Tube:
- Clean the inside: Use a suitable brush or patches to clean the inside of the magazine tube.
- Clean the outside: Wipe down the outside of the magazine tube with a clean cloth.
5. Cleaning Other Parts:
Clean all other parts using appropriate brushes, patches, and solvents. Pay close attention to the bolt, bolt carrier, and trigger group.
6. Reassembly:
Carefully reassemble your shotgun, referencing your owner's manual or photos you took during disassembly. Ensure all parts are correctly aligned and seated.
7. Function Check:
Once reassembled, dry fire your Mossberg 500A (make absolutely sure it is unloaded!) several times to check for smooth operation.
Maintaining Your Mossberg 500A Between Cleanings:
- Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect your Mossberg 500A for any signs of damage or wear.
- Light Lubrication: After each shooting session, apply a small amount of gun oil to key moving parts to prevent rust and corrosion.
- Storage: Store your shotgun in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and extreme temperature fluctuations.
Conclusion:
Cleaning your Mossberg 500A shotgun is essential for maintaining its functionality and safety. By following this guide and prioritizing safety, you can ensure your shotgun remains reliable and performs optimally for years to come. Remember to consult your owner's manual for specific instructions regarding your model. If you are unsure about any aspect of this process, seek guidance from a qualified gunsmith.
