As a seasoned hunter and outdoor writer with over a decade of experience, I’ve spent countless hours in the field and at the range evaluating firearms. When it comes to turkey hunting, and even home defense, the Mossberg 835 tactical turkey review and the Mossberg 500 tactical turkey review consistently come up. Both are incredibly popular choices, and for good reason. But which one is right for you? This article dives deep into a comparison of the Mossberg 835 tactical and Mossberg 500 tactical turkey models, covering their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal applications. We’ll explore everything from action type to choke options, helping you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Mossberg Legacy
Mossberg is a name synonymous with reliable, affordable shotguns. Founded in 1919, they’ve built a reputation for producing firearms that perform well under pressure. The 500 series, in particular, is legendary, having been a mainstay for hunters, law enforcement, and military personnel for decades. (Mossberg History). The 835, while newer, builds upon that legacy with a focus on dedicated turkey hunting features. Both shotguns are manufactured in the USA, a point of pride for many American gun owners.
Mossberg 500 Tactical Turkey: The Versatile Workhorse
The Mossberg 500 tactical turkey is, at its core, a highly adaptable shotgun. It’s a pump-action firearm known for its durability and smooth operation. What sets the “tactical turkey” variant apart are the features specifically geared towards turkey hunting. These typically include:
- X-Factor™ Camo Finish: Breaking up your outline in the woods is crucial.
- Adjustable Stock: Allows for a customized fit, improving comfort and accuracy.
- Turkey Tuned Barrel: Often comes with an extra-full turkey choke for extended range and tighter patterns.
- Fiber Optic Sights: Enhance visibility in low-light conditions.
Advantages of the Mossberg 500 Tactical Turkey
The biggest advantage of the 500 is its versatility. It’s not just a turkey gun. With a change of barrels and chokes, it can be configured for waterfowl hunting, upland game, or even home defense. The pump-action is reliable and allows you to chamber any type of 12-gauge shell. The price point is also generally lower than the 835, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious hunters. (REI Shotgun Gauge Guide)
Disadvantages of the Mossberg 500 Tactical Turkey
The pump-action, while reliable, requires manual cycling. This can be a disadvantage in fast-paced situations where a semi-automatic action might be preferred. Some users also find the factory trigger pull to be a bit heavy, although aftermarket triggers are readily available. Recoil can also be more noticeable compared to the 835 due to the stock design and overall weight distribution.
Mossberg 835 Tactical Turkey: The Dedicated Specialist
The Mossberg 835 tactical turkey is a different beast altogether. It’s a gas-operated, semi-automatic shotgun designed specifically for turkey hunting. The gas system significantly reduces felt recoil and allows for faster follow-up shots. Like the 500, the 835 tactical turkey model comes equipped with turkey-specific features:
- Gas-Operated Action: Reduces recoil and allows for rapid cycling.
- Adjustable Stock: Similar to the 500, providing a customizable fit.
- Turkey Tuned Barrel & Choke: Optimized for long-range turkey shots.
- Fiber Optic Sights: For improved target acquisition.
- Fluted Barrel: Helps dissipate heat during rapid firing.
Advantages of the Mossberg 835 Tactical Turkey
The primary advantage of the 835 is its soft recoil and fast follow-up shots. The gas system absorbs a significant amount of the recoil energy, making it more comfortable to shoot, especially during extended hunts. This also translates to improved accuracy, as you’re less likely to flinch. The semi-automatic action is ideal for situations where a quick second shot is needed. Many hunters find the 835 to be more forgiving, particularly for those sensitive to recoil. (National Park Service Hunting Safety)
Disadvantages of the Mossberg 835 Tactical Turkey
The 835 is generally more expensive than the 500. The gas-operated system also requires more cleaning and maintenance to ensure reliable operation. While generally reliable, gas guns can be more prone to malfunctions if not properly maintained. The 835 is also less versatile than the 500; while you can change barrels, it’s primarily designed for turkey hunting and doesn’t transition as seamlessly to other applications.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Mossberg 835 vs. 500 Tactical Turkey
Here’s a quick comparison table to highlight the key differences:
| Feature | Mossberg 500 Tactical Turkey | Mossberg 835 Tactical Turkey |
|---|---|---|
| Action Type | Pump-Action | Gas-Operated, Semi-Automatic |
| Recoil | More Noticeable | Reduced |
| Rate of Fire | Slower (Manual Cycling) | Faster (Automatic Cycling) |
| Versatility | High – Adaptable to multiple uses | Lower – Primarily turkey hunting |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Maintenance | Lower | Higher |
Choke Selection: Maximizing Your Pattern
Regardless of whether you choose the Mossberg 835 tactical or the 500, proper choke selection is critical for turkey hunting. A tight choke, such as an extra-full turkey choke, is essential for delivering a dense pattern at longer ranges. Experiment with different loads and chokes to find the combination that performs best in your shotgun. (Leave No Trace - Responsible Firearms Use) Remember to always pattern your shotgun at various distances to understand its effective range.
Beyond Turkey Hunting: Home Defense Considerations
Both the Mossberg 835 tactical turkey review and the Mossberg 500 tactical turkey review often spark discussion about their suitability for home defense. While both can be used for this purpose, the 500 is generally considered a better option. Its simpler operation and wider range of available ammunition types make it more versatile in a home defense scenario. The 835, while effective, may be less desirable due to its gas-operated system potentially being more susceptible to malfunctions with less frequent cleaning. However, proper maintenance is key for any firearm used for home defense.
Maintenance and Care: Ensuring Longevity
Proper maintenance is crucial for both shotguns. Regular cleaning and lubrication will ensure reliable operation and prevent corrosion. The 835, with its gas system, requires more frequent and thorough cleaning than the 500. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance. (USDA Forest Service - Hunters) Investing in a quality gun cleaning kit is a worthwhile investment.
Final Thoughts: Which Mossberg is Right for You?
So, which shotgun should you choose? If you’re looking for a versatile, affordable, and reliable shotgun that can be used for a variety of purposes, the Mossberg 500 tactical turkey is an excellent choice. If you prioritize reduced recoil, fast follow-up shots, and are primarily focused on turkey hunting, the Mossberg 835 tactical turkey is the way to go. Ultimately, the best shotgun is the one that fits your needs, budget, and shooting style. I recommend visiting a local gun range and trying both models before making a final decision. Remember to always practice safe gun handling and follow all applicable laws and regulations.