Mossberg 835 Rifled Barrel: A Deep Dive into Turkey Hunting Domination
The Mossberg 835 is a legendary shotgun, renowned for its reliability and hard-hitting performance. But when you equip it with a rifled barrel, you unlock a whole new level of versatility and accuracy, particularly for turkey hunting. This article will delve into the specifics of the Mossberg 835 rifled barrel, exploring its benefits, features, and considerations for making it the ultimate turkey hunting companion.
Why Choose a Rifled Barrel for Turkey Hunting?
Traditional smoothbore shotgun barrels rely on shot dispersion to achieve a lethal spread at hunting distances. However, rifled barrels offer a distinct advantage: increased accuracy and range. The rifling imparts spin to the shot, resulting in a tighter pattern and significantly flatter trajectory. This translates to more consistent kills at longer ranges, crucial when dealing with wary turkeys. With a rifled barrel, you're effectively turning your shotgun into a highly accurate slug gun, but with the added benefit of using specialized turkey loads.
Mossberg 835 Rifled Barrel Features & Benefits:
- Improved Accuracy: The key selling point. The rifling significantly reduces shot dispersion, allowing for more precise shot placement, particularly vital for head shots on turkeys.
- Extended Range: You'll experience a noticeably flatter trajectory with a rifled barrel, extending your effective hunting range without sacrificing accuracy.
- Increased Penetration: The spin imparted to the shot contributes to better penetration through feathers and bone, leading to cleaner kills.
- Reduced Recoil: While not drastically different, some users report slightly reduced recoil compared to smoothbore barrels when using appropriate ammunition.
- Versatility: While optimized for turkey hunting, a rifled barrel can also be used with slugs for other hunting applications, expanding the gun's capabilities.
Ammunition Considerations for the Mossberg 835 Rifled Barrel:
Choosing the right ammunition is crucial for optimal performance with a rifled barrel. You'll need specialized rifled slugs or turkey loads designed for use in rifled barrels. Using standard shot shells in a rifled barrel can lead to inaccurate patterns and potentially damage the barrel. Experiment with different loads to find what provides the best accuracy and pattern for your specific firearm.
Choosing the Right Mossberg 835 Rifled Barrel:
While Mossberg itself may not explicitly offer a dedicated "rifled barrel" as a separate accessory for all 835 models, several aftermarket manufacturers provide rifled barrels compatible with the 835 platform. Before purchasing, ensure the barrel is explicitly stated as compatible with your specific model of Mossberg 835 shotgun. Always check the manufacturer's specifications to avoid compatibility issues.
Maintenance and Care:
Maintaining your Mossberg 835 rifled barrel is essential for long-term performance and accuracy. Regular cleaning after each hunting trip is vital. Pay close attention to the rifling, ensuring you remove all lead and debris. Proper storage in a gun safe or case also helps protect the barrel from damage and corrosion.
Conclusion:
The Mossberg 835 with a rifled barrel offers a compelling advantage for turkey hunters seeking improved accuracy and range. By understanding the benefits, ammunition considerations, and proper maintenance, you can maximize your hunting success with this potent combination. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow all local hunting regulations. Happy hunting!
