Compatibility between shotgun components is a significant concern for owners. The ability to swap barrels allows for adapting a firearm to different purposes, such as hunting various game or participating in different shooting sports. This involves considerations of barrel length, choke, and chambering. For example, a shorter barrel with a cylinder bore might be preferred for home defense, while a longer barrel with a tighter choke might be better suited for hunting waterfowl.
Historically, manufacturers sometimes maintain some degree of parts commonality across different models. This can offer advantages in terms of cost savings for both the manufacturer and the consumer, as well as simplified logistics and maintenance. However, variations in design and manufacturing tolerances can lead to incompatibilities, even between seemingly similar models. Understanding these potential variations is crucial for safe and effective firearm operation. The ability to modify a shotgun to suit specific needs contributes to its versatility and longevity as a valuable tool.
This article will explore the specifics of barrel interchangeability between the Mossberg 500 and 590 shotgun platforms, examining the key similarities and differences relevant to this topic. Further sections will delve into specific aspects of barrel compatibility, including an analysis of potential safety concerns and best practices for ensuring proper fit and function.
1. Gauge
Gauge represents the bore diameter of a shotgun and is a fundamental factor influencing barrel interchangeability. Matching gauges between the barrel and the receiver is paramount for safe operation. Mismatched gauges can result in dangerous pressure variations, potentially leading to catastrophic firearm failure.
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Gauge Compatibility
Both the Mossberg 500 and 590 are commonly available in 12 gauge and 20 gauge. A 12-gauge barrel cannot be used on a 20-gauge receiver, and vice-versa. Attempting to fire a shell of the incorrect gauge can cause severe damage to the firearm and pose a significant risk to the shooter and bystanders.
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Gauge and Barrel Wall Thickness
While both models may be available in the same gauge, the barrel wall thickness can vary. This impacts chamber pressure tolerances and overall performance. Using a barrel with insufficient wall thickness for a given load can result in dangerous pressure spikes.
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Gauge and Choke Selection
Different gauges often utilize different choke systems. Chokes constrict the barrel’s end, controlling the shot pattern. While not directly related to interchangeability between the 500 and 590, understanding the correct choke for a given gauge and application is crucial for safe and effective use.
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Gauge and Ammunition Selection
Using the proper ammunition for the specified gauge is critical. A mismatch can lead to firearm malfunction or worse. Never attempt to fire a different gauge shell than what the barrel is designed for. This can result in dangerous pressure variations and potentially lead to severe injury or death.
Confirming identical gauge between the barrel and receiver is the first and most critical step in assessing interchangeability between Mossberg 500 and 590 components. Ignoring this fundamental requirement can have severe consequences. Even with matching gauges, other compatibility factors still need careful evaluation.
2. Magazine Tube
The magazine tube, housing the shotgun shells before they are fed into the chamber, plays a crucial role in barrel interchangeability between Mossberg 500 and 590 shotguns. Variations in magazine tube length and design can significantly impact compatibility. Understanding these differences is vital for ensuring proper function and preventing potentially dangerous malfunctions.
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Magazine Tube Length
Mossberg 500 and 590 shotguns are available with different magazine tube lengths. This affects the overall length of the firearm and can influence barrel compatibility. A barrel designed for a shorter magazine tube might not function correctly with a longer one, and vice-versa. The barrel’s attachment point and the magazine tube’s configuration must align precisely for reliable feeding and cycling.
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Magazine Tube Design
While generally similar, subtle design differences exist between 500 and 590 magazine tubes. The 590 often features a slightly different configuration at the receiver end, influencing how the barrel mates with the magazine assembly. These design nuances can lead to compatibility issues if not carefully considered. For example, some 590 models have a bayonet lug attachment point that requires specific barrel configurations.
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Magazine Tube Capacity and Barrel Length
The magazine tube capacity influences the maximum number of shells a shotgun can hold. This capacity often relates to barrel length. A longer barrel might be paired with a longer magazine tube, and using a shorter barrel might necessitate reducing the magazine capacity for proper function. This interconnectedness between barrel length and magazine tube capacity requires attention when assessing interchangeability.
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Magazine Tube Extensions and Barrel Compatibility
Aftermarket magazine tube extensions can further complicate barrel interchangeability. These extensions increase capacity but can affect the balance and handling of the firearm. Some barrel configurations may not be compatible with extended magazine tubes due to length and weight considerations.
The magazine tube represents a critical point of consideration when assessing barrel interchangeability between Mossberg 500 and 590 shotguns. Careful attention to tube length, design, and capacity is essential. Selecting components that work harmoniously ensures safe and reliable operation, while overlooking these details can lead to malfunctions and potentially hazardous situations. Understanding the interplay between barrel and magazine tube characteristics is therefore paramount for responsible shotgun ownership and usage.
3. Barrel Tenon
The barrel tenon, the portion of the barrel that interfaces with the receiver, plays a critical role in determining Mossberg 500 and 590 barrel interchangeability. This component ensures a secure lock-up between the barrel and the receiver, enabling safe and reliable firing. Variations in tenon dimensions and design can lead to incompatibility issues, even between models seemingly alike. A mismatched tenon can prevent proper lock-up, creating a dangerous situation where the barrel may not be securely attached, potentially leading to catastrophic failure upon firing. For instance, a 500 barrel with a standard tenon may not correctly mate with a 590 receiver designed for a different tenon configuration, particularly models with a bayonet lug. Careful measurement and comparison of tenon specifications are therefore crucial for assessing compatibility.
Beyond basic dimensions, the tenon’s design features, including the extractor cut and the location of the locking lugs, contribute significantly to compatibility. The extractor, responsible for removing spent shells, requires precise alignment with the receivers corresponding components. Similarly, the locking lugs must engage correctly with the receivers locking recesses for a secure and stable connection. Modifications to the tenon, such as those sometimes performed for aftermarket accessories or custom work, can further complicate interchangeability and necessitate expert evaluation. An improperly modified tenon can compromise the structural integrity of the barrel and create safety hazards.
Understanding the barrel tenons critical function is paramount when considering barrel swaps between Mossberg 500 and 590 shotguns. Verifying tenon compatibility requires careful examination and precise measurements. Overlooking this seemingly minor detail can have severe consequences, ranging from feeding and extraction problems to catastrophic firearm failure. Consulting manufacturer documentation or seeking guidance from a qualified gunsmith is advisable when in doubt. This ensures proper fit and function, safeguarding against potential hazards and maintaining the firearms reliability and longevity.
4. Action Slide Assembly
The action slide assembly, a critical component in pump-action shotguns like the Mossberg 500 and 590, plays a significant role in barrel interchangeability. This assembly facilitates the loading and ejection of shells and locks the barrel into place. Variations in the action slide assembly between the 500 and 590 can influence which barrels are compatible. Understanding the nuances of this assembly is essential for ensuring proper function and safety.
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Dual-Action Bars (590)
The Mossberg 590 often features dual action bars, providing added strength and reliability. These dual bars can influence barrel compatibility. Barrels designed for the 500s single action bar system may not interface correctly with the 590’s dual-bar setup. The presence of dual action bars necessitates careful consideration of barrel compatibility to ensure proper cycling and prevent malfunctions.
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Action Slide Tube Length
The action slide tube length can vary between the 500 and 590, impacting barrel compatibility. A barrel designed for a longer action slide tube may not function properly with a shorter one, potentially leading to feeding and ejection issues. Precise measurements and careful comparison are necessary to ensure correct alignment and operation.
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Forend Compatibility
The forend, connected to the action slide assembly, must be compatible with both the barrel and the action slide tube. Variations in forend design and length between the 500 and 590 can further complicate barrel interchangeability. A mismatched forend can hinder proper pump operation and prevent the shotgun from cycling correctly.
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Internal Components
While less directly impacting barrel fit, differences in internal components within the action slide assembly, such as the action bar lock and the shell stops, can influence overall function and should be considered. These components work in concert with the barrel and magazine tube for reliable feeding and extraction. Ensuring compatibility between these internal parts is vital for preventing malfunctions and ensuring smooth operation.
The action slide assembly represents a critical factor in determining barrel interchangeability between Mossberg 500 and 590 shotguns. Ignoring the nuances of this assembly can lead to improper function and potential safety hazards. Careful consideration of action bar configuration, action slide tube length, forend compatibility, and internal components is paramount for ensuring reliable and safe operation. Consulting manufacturer documentation or seeking expert advice is recommended when considering barrel swaps to ensure proper fit and function, maximizing the shotgun’s performance and longevity.
5. Overall Length
Overall length significantly impacts the legality and practicality of Mossberg 500 and 590 barrel interchangeability. Legal restrictions exist regarding minimum shotgun lengths, both overall and barrel length. Modifying a shotgun with a shorter barrel could inadvertently result in an illegal configuration. For example, the National Firearms Act (NFA) in the United States regulates shotguns with barrels shorter than 18 inches and overall lengths shorter than 26 inches. Exceeding these limitations, even unintentionally through barrel swaps, carries significant legal penalties. Therefore, precise measurements and adherence to applicable regulations are crucial when considering barrel changes.
Beyond legal ramifications, overall length influences a shotgun’s handling characteristics. A shorter barrel typically results in a more maneuverable firearm, potentially advantageous in close-quarters situations. However, this maneuverability comes at the cost of reduced sight radius and potentially increased muzzle rise. Conversely, a longer barrel enhances sight radius and stability but may prove cumbersome in confined spaces. The intended application dictates the optimal balance between maneuverability and stability. Practical considerations, such as ease of transport and storage, further influence barrel length choices. Selecting a barrel that aligns with both legal requirements and intended use is therefore paramount.
Careful consideration of overall length is crucial when assessing Mossberg 500 and 590 barrel interchangeability. Legal compliance dictates minimum lengths, while practical considerations influence the optimal balance between maneuverability and stability. Understanding these factors ensures both responsible firearm ownership and effective use. Precise measurements and adherence to applicable regulations are essential for avoiding legal issues and maximizing the shotgun’s performance in its intended role.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mossberg 500 and 590 Barrel Interchangeability
This section addresses common inquiries regarding barrel compatibility between the Mossberg 500 and 590 shotgun platforms. Clear understanding of these points is crucial for safe and effective firearm operation.
Question 1: Can any Mossberg 500 barrel be used on a Mossberg 590?
No. While some barrels might appear visually similar, critical differences in dimensions and design can preclude interchangeability. Factors such as magazine tube length, barrel tenon dimensions, and the action slide assembly must be carefully considered.
Question 2: Are 12-gauge barrels interchangeable between the 500 and 590?
Not necessarily. Even with matching gauges, other compatibility factors remain crucial. Differences in barrel tenon configurations and magazine tube lengths can prevent proper fit and function.
Question 3: Does changing the barrel affect the legality of the shotgun?
Potentially. Modifying barrel length can affect overall length, which is subject to legal restrictions. Reducing barrel length below legal limits can result in severe penalties. Careful measurement and adherence to applicable regulations are essential.
Question 4: What are the risks of using an incompatible barrel?
Using an incompatible barrel can lead to malfunctions ranging from feeding and extraction issues to catastrophic firearm failure, posing significant safety risks. Improper barrel fit can cause dangerous pressure variations, potentially leading to serious injury or death.
Question 5: Where can one find reliable information about barrel compatibility?
Consulting the manufacturer’s documentation is the most reliable source of information. A qualified gunsmith can also provide expert guidance on barrel compatibility and safe firearm modification.
Question 6: Can aftermarket barrels be used on both the 500 and 590?
Aftermarket barrels may be designed for specific models. Compatibility information should be obtained directly from the barrel manufacturer. Careful verification of dimensions and compatibility with other components is crucial.
Understanding these frequently asked questions emphasizes the complexities of barrel interchangeability. Prioritizing safety and consulting reliable sources ensures responsible firearm modification and operation.
The following section provides detailed guidance on verifying Mossberg 500 and 590 barrel compatibility.
Tips for Determining Mossberg 500 and 590 Barrel Interchangeability
Careful consideration of several factors is crucial for determining safe and proper barrel interchangeability between Mossberg 500 and 590 shotguns. Overlooking these details can lead to malfunctions and potential safety hazards.
Tip 1: Consult Manufacturer Documentation: Begin by reviewing official documentation from Mossberg. This provides definitive information regarding compatible barrel specifications for each model.
Tip 2: Verify Gauge Compatibility: Ensure the barrel and receiver share the same gauge. Attempting to fire a shell of an incorrect gauge in a barrel can lead to catastrophic failure.
Tip 3: Inspect the Barrel Tenon: Carefully examine the barrel tenon for proper dimensions and design features. A mismatched tenon prevents secure barrel attachment, potentially leading to dangerous malfunctions.
Tip 4: Measure the Magazine Tube: Measure the magazine tube length to ensure compatibility with the intended barrel. Incorrect magazine tube length can lead to feeding and cycling issues.
Tip 5: Evaluate the Action Slide Assembly: Consider the action slide assembly, including the number of action bars and the action slide tube length. Differences between 500 and 590 action slide assemblies can impact barrel compatibility.
Tip 6: Check Overall Length: Measure the overall length with the intended barrel installed. Ensure the configuration complies with all applicable legal requirements regarding minimum barrel and overall lengths.
Tip 7: Seek Expert Advice: If uncertainties remain, consult a qualified gunsmith. Professional guidance can prevent potentially dangerous errors and ensure proper firearm function.
Tip 8: Test Fire with Caution: After installing a new barrel, test fire the shotgun with appropriate ammunition in a controlled environment. Observe for any malfunctions, and discontinue use if issues arise. Consulting a gunsmith is recommended if problems occur.
Following these tips promotes safe firearm handling practices. Careful attention to detail and verification of compatibility factors contribute significantly to responsible shotgun operation and maintenance.
The subsequent conclusion summarizes key takeaways regarding Mossberg 500 and 590 barrel interchangeability.
Concluding Remarks on Mossberg 500/590 Barrel Compatibility
Determining whether Mossberg 500 and 590 barrels are interchangeable requires careful evaluation of several critical factors. Gauge, magazine tube dimensions, barrel tenon specifications, and the action slide assembly all contribute significantly to compatibility. While some components might appear similar, subtle differences can lead to malfunctions and safety hazards. Overlooking these details risks not only improper function but also potential legal issues related to overall firearm length. Careful measurement, consultation of manufacturer documentation, and seeking expert advice when necessary are essential practices.
Safe and responsible firearm ownership necessitates a thorough understanding of component compatibility. The seemingly simple question of barrel interchangeability underscores the complexity of firearm mechanics and the importance of meticulous attention to detail. Prioritizing safety through careful research and informed decision-making ensures proper firearm function and mitigates potential risks. Continued education and adherence to best practices remain paramount for responsible firearm ownership and use.