The Mossberg 590, a venerable pump-action shotgun, has earned a reputation for reliability and versatility. Adding a red dot sight significantly enhances its capabilities, transforming it into a more precise and rapidly deployable firearm for various applications, from home defense to competitive shooting. This guide delves into the benefits, considerations, and practical aspects of mounting a red dot on your Mossberg 590.
Why Choose a Red Dot Sight for Your Mossberg 590?
The Mossberg 590's inherent strengths – ruggedness, affordability, and ample aftermarket support – make it an ideal platform for modification. A red dot sight offers several key advantages:
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Improved Accuracy: Red dots provide a clear, unobstructed sight picture, allowing for faster target acquisition and improved accuracy at close to medium ranges. This is especially crucial in high-stress situations like home defense where quick, precise shots are paramount.
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Faster Target Acquisition: Unlike traditional iron sights, red dots eliminate the need for precise alignment of front and rear sights. The simple, illuminated dot allows for near-instantaneous target acquisition, a critical advantage in dynamic shooting scenarios.
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Enhanced Low-Light Performance: Many red dot sights offer adjustable brightness settings, making them effective in low-light conditions where iron sights can be difficult to use.
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Versatility: Red dots can be used effectively for a variety of applications, from home defense and hunting to 3-gun competitions and tactical training.
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Co-witnessing Options: Some red dot mounts allow for co-witnessing with the iron sights, providing a backup sighting system if the red dot malfunctions.
Choosing the Right Red Dot Sight and Mount
Selecting the appropriate red dot sight and mount for your Mossberg 590 requires careful consideration of several factors:
Red Dot Sight Features:
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Type of Red Dot: Closed emitter red dots are generally more durable and weather-resistant than open emitter designs. Consider the environmental conditions you'll be using the sight in.
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Battery Life: Longer battery life is crucial, especially for those who use their shotguns infrequently. Look for sights with extended battery life or easily replaceable batteries.
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Brightness Settings: Adjustable brightness is a must-have feature, allowing you to adapt to varying light conditions.
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Durability: A rugged red dot sight built to withstand recoil is essential, especially for a shotgun like the Mossberg 590.
Mount Considerations:
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Mounting Platform: Mossberg 590s offer various mounting options, including picatinny rails (often requiring a receiver rail adapter) and direct mounting solutions. Choose a mount compatible with your shotgun's configuration.
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Height: The mount's height impacts cheek weld and sight picture. A lower mount keeps the sight closer to the bore, reducing parallax error, while a higher mount may be necessary for co-witnessing with iron sights.
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Material and Construction: Select a durable mount made from high-quality materials like aluminum or steel to withstand recoil and prevent damage.
Installation and Zeroing Your Red Dot Sight
Installing a red dot sight on a Mossberg 590 typically involves attaching a mounting rail (if not already present) and then securely attaching the red dot sight to the rail. Always consult the manufacturer's instructions for both the red dot sight and the mount for specific installation procedures. Zeroing the sight is a crucial step, ensuring accurate shot placement. This typically involves firing test shots at a target and adjusting the sight's windage and elevation knobs until the point of impact aligns with the point of aim.
Conclusion: Enhancing Your Mossberg 590 with a Red Dot
Adding a red dot sight to your Mossberg 590 is a worthwhile upgrade for improved accuracy, faster target acquisition, and enhanced versatility. By carefully selecting the right red dot sight and mount, and properly installing and zeroing the system, you can significantly enhance the performance of your trusted shotgun for a variety of applications. Remember to always practice safe firearm handling and follow all applicable laws and regulations.
