multi-use shotgun...Flex?

[bgoldber]

I'm looking to purchase my first shotgun sometime in the near future. I would mostly use this as a sporting shotgun (ie trap, sporting clays, skeet) but I would like to be able to use it for home (or in my case, apartment) defense.

I have been looking at the mossberg 500 because I like how simple it appears to be to change the barel. I could have a 28" barell on it for sport, then come home and drop an 18" in place for HD. I have since been reading more about the flex and really like how easy it would then be to change the stock and forend with that platform.

Despite the fact that pump may not be the most suited to quick clay shooting, does anyone have any experience with the flex? Any obvious reasons I should avoid it? What would a better option be? Where can I find flex parts?

Thanks

[osis32]

All the research I've done says you're on the right track. Get a longer magazine extension tube for added capacity and different barrel you should be good to go. Check YouTube for how to videos. You'll see swapping parts on most shotguns is relatively simple and easy.

[speeddreamz]

often times big 5 has a sale on the mossberg 500 with combination field/home defense, 18" / 28" barrels for easily under 450.

[Squid]

Rem 870 barrel just as easy, hoist both.

Rem 870 barrel just as easy, hoist both.

I REALLY didn't like the super loose feel of the Mossberg 500.

Combo deals are nice, but not a deal maker/breaker, especially since IIRC the long barrel isn't threaded choke tubes.

H&R Pardner 870 clone is getting good reviews, and I'm ASSUMING it takes Rem 870 barrels and other add-ons.

[sargenv]

Personally, if you practice enough with the pump, you should not be at a disadvantage shooting a pump over someone who shoots a double or a semi. I've shot many clays and a fair amount of flying game with both my 12 ga 500 and 20 ga 870.. in this case, it's the guy behind the gun that matters most.. The 870 tends to have a bit more flexibility as far as aftermarket parts, but the 500 is no slouch either.. They both will serve you well.

[thesav]

Pardner pump and Hawk 92 (ghost ring) are cheap, built like tanks and take 870 parts *except* barrel and mag extensions. They are heavy and soak up recoil from big loads. They are all function, not show. I like mine, but it aint a Wingmaster.

[Jimmy310]

Pardner pump and Hawk 92 (ghost ring) are cheap, built like tanks and take 870 parts *except* barrel and mag extensions. They are heavy and soak up recoil from big loads. They are all function, not show. I like mine, but it aint a Wingmaster.

The Hawk 982 extractor claw, spring, and pin are different as someone compared on here earlier.

[barbasol]

I like my 500 combo. The 28" barrel does not accept changeable chokes though. I purchased another 28" barrel with three chokes right here on Calguns that I take bird hunting.

Sleeps by my bed every night!
ImageUploadedByTapatalk1351489411.106352.jpg

[bgoldber]

Thank you all for the responses. I'll keep in mind the fact that the standard 28" does not accept chokes. Does anyone know if it is pre-fitted with a specific choke?

[SocomM4]

I just picked up my H&R pump tonight. Cleaned it up and I LOVE the feel and heft of it.

H&R is owned by The Freedom Group (?) , who also owns Remington and several other brands. 870 parts are all compatible , barrel and mag extensions take a small amount of work, but are do-able.

The list of good features the 870 lacks but the H&R has, plus the immaculate reviews are what made my choice easy. That and the 199.99 -10% . 179.99 price tag. And cleaning stuff is 20% off too. Get one!

[Thefeeder]

I'm looking to purchase my first shotgun sometime in the near future. I would mostly use this as a sporting shotgun (ie trap, sporting clays, skeet) but I would like to be able to use it for home (or in my case, apartment) defense.

I have been looking at the mossberg 500 because I like how simple it appears to be to change the barel. I could have a 28" barell on it for sport, then come home and drop an 18" in place for HD. I have since been reading more about the flex and really like how easy it would then be to change the stock and forend with that platform.

Despite the fact that pump may not be the most suited to quick clay shooting, does anyone have any experience with the flex? Any obvious reasons I should avoid it? What would a better option be? Where can I find flex parts?

Thanks

This read should help you find a good shotgun for YOU.

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=425953

Also....learn to dust clays here

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=329160

[gun toting monkeyboy]

I don't know. My combo Mossberg came with a 28" barrel that accepts chokes. And it has held up to decades of use and abuse by me. Shop around. As for follow-up shots, I have used it for sporting clays and taken out 2 targets no problem. It just takes some practice. I wouldn't bother with a pistol grip though. The standard buttstock that comes with them is pretty good.

-Mb