The Real Deal Behind the Choate Tool Mossberg 500/600/590 Shell Follower
My decade-plus of navigating diverse environments, from sterile labs to dusty workshops and rugged field conditions, has ingrained a deep appreciation for reliable, no-nonsense equipment. The search for a better shell follower for my trusty Mossberg platform began subtly, born from a minor annoyance that, over time, became a noticeable hiccup in an otherwise smooth operation. Specifically, I’d experienced the occasional snagging of the original follower during rapid cycling, particularly under less-than-ideal conditions. It wasn’t a critical failure, but it was enough to warrant looking for an upgrade that promised enhanced reliability and visibility. After briefly considering generic replacements, my attention turned to specialized manufacturers, and the Choate Tool Mossberg 500/600/590 Shell Follower emerged as a compelling option, boasting a simple yet effective design. My initial impression was one of practical utility; it felt solid in hand, and the vibrant hunter orange color immediately struck me as a smart design choice for quick visual confirmation of the firearm’s status.
Real-World Testing: Putting Choate Tool Mossberg 500/600/590 Shell Follower to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds were straightforward: the familiar environment of my workbench and a familiar shooting range. The primary objective was to see how this shell follower integrated into the existing mechanism of my Mossberg 590. Installation was, thankfully, a non-event, simply a direct swap for the factory component. I cycled the action repeatedly, both with and without dummy rounds, focusing on the smooth travel of the follower within the magazine tube. The Choate Tool Mossberg 500/600/590 Shell Follower moved with a fluid grace that was immediately apparent compared to its predecessor. I paid close attention to how it handled dry cycling, a common point where internal components can reveal imperfections. In this regard, the Choate part excelled, showing no signs of hesitancy or catch-up.
Extended use over several range days and countless practice drills began to reveal the true character of this upgrade. I deliberately subjected it to conditions that might challenge lesser parts, including a light dusting of range sand and a few instances of less-than-perfect grip during rapid reloads. The high-visibility orange kept my focus sharp, allowing for immediate confirmation of an empty magazine tube at a glance. Even after hundreds of cycles, the follower maintained its smooth operation. There were no signs of galling, binding, or any degradation in performance. Cleaning was also a breeze; a quick wipe down with a standard firearm cleaning cloth was all that was needed to keep it pristine.
Extended Use & Reliability
Weeks bled into months, and this simple upgrade became an indispensable part of my Mossberg setup. The Choate Tool Mossberg 500/600/590 Shell Follower continued to perform flawlessly, even as the rest of the shotgun saw more rigorous use in varied outdoor settings. Durability proved to be a strong suit; despite being made of polymer, it showed no signs of cracking, significant scuffing, or deformation, even after being inadvertently nudged against hard surfaces. Its consistency over time was particularly noteworthy; there was no discernible drop in performance or smoothness as the usage hours accumulated.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory followers and even some aftermarket alternatives that relied on metal construction, the Choate part offered a superior balance of durability and smooth operation. The polymer construction, often a concern for some, proved resilient and, crucially, self-lubricating to a degree, minimizing friction within the magazine tube. Maintenance remained minimal, requiring only the standard cleaning regimen applied to the firearm itself. This reliability means one less component to worry about during critical moments, which is precisely what you want from your gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Choate Tool Mossberg 500/600/590 Shell Follower
Specifications
The Choate Tool Mossberg 500/600/590 Shell Follower is a straightforward component, designed with simplicity and functionality at its core. It is constructed from a durable, safety orange polymer, a choice that immediately addresses two key aspects: visibility and material resilience. This polymer is chosen for its ability to withstand the stresses of cycling without deforming or creating excessive friction.
The USA-made origin speaks to a commitment to domestic manufacturing standards. The bright hunter orange hue serves a crucial dual purpose: it acts as a visual indicator of the firearm’s status – whether loaded or empty – and it enhances the follower’s visibility during operation. This specification is more than just cosmetic; it directly contributes to safer handling and quicker operational checks.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of a shell follower is to guide shells from the magazine tube into the receiver and to act as the final point of contact for the magazine spring. The Choate Tool Mossberg 500/600/590 Shell Follower excels at this fundamental task. Its smooth polymer surface ensures that shells feed reliably without the hitching or snagging that can plague less well-designed parts.
Its performance is best characterized by its smooth, consistent operation. It doesn’t bind or catch, even when the action is worked briskly or under less than optimal conditions. This level of reliability is crucial for any firearm, especially those intended for defensive or tactical use. The bright orange color significantly aids in quickly assessing the magazine’s state, which is a valuable safety and operational feature.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this follower is elegantly simple, focusing on function over form. It’s a single-piece polymer component, eliminating potential failure points found in more complex assemblies. The polymer construction is not only durable but also contributes to a lighter overall weight and a smoother interaction with the magazine tube’s interior.
Ergonomically, its impact is indirect but significant. By ensuring smooth shell feeding, it contributes to a more positive and predictable shooting experience. The high-visibility orange color is a key ergonomic feature, making it easy to spot and identify, reducing cognitive load during operation. The finish is uniform and without obvious molding seams that could cause hang-ups.
Durability & Maintenance
In terms of durability, the Choate Tool Mossberg 500/600/590 Shell Follower is built for longevity under typical use conditions. Polymer, when properly formulated, offers excellent resistance to impact and wear. For a part that experiences constant sliding friction, this material choice is quite effective.
Maintenance is essentially non-existent, beyond routine cleaning of the magazine tube itself. The polymer follower does not rust or corrode and is generally impervious to most common firearm cleaning solvents. Its simple design means there are no intricate parts to disassemble or maintain. Any wear would likely manifest as gradual smoothing of the surface rather than outright failure.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular component is a singular upgrade part, meaning it doesn’t come with a host of accessories. Its value lies in its direct replacement functionality. There are no inherent customization options for the follower itself, beyond its existence as an aftermarket improvement.
However, it’s important to note its compatibility with the Mossberg shotgun platform. It’s designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing magazine spring and follower guide, ensuring it works as intended without requiring further modifications. The hunter orange color is its primary distinguishing feature, offering a functional aesthetic improvement.
Pros and Cons of Choate Tool Mossberg 500/600/590 Shell Follower
Pros
- Enhanced Visibility: The hunter orange polymer makes it incredibly easy to see, aiding in quick status checks of the firearm.
- Smoother Operation: It provides a noticeably smoother and more reliable feed of shells into the receiver, reducing the chance of jams.
- Durable Polymer Construction: Made from tough polypropylene, it is resistant to wear and impact, ensuring long-term functionality.
- USA Made Quality: Manufactured in the USA, indicating adherence to quality control standards.
- Cost-Effective Upgrade: At its price point, it offers significant functional improvement over standard parts.
Cons
- Potential for Minor Fitting Issues: Some users may find it requires a very minor adjustment (like light sanding) to achieve perfect glide, as indicated by some user feedback.
- Single Functionality: It’s a direct replacement part; it doesn’t offer additional features beyond its intended purpose.
Who Should Buy Choate Tool Mossberg 500/600/590 Shell Follower?
This shell follower is an excellent choice for any owner of a Mossberg 500, 600, or 590 series shotgun who prioritizes reliability and visual confirmation of their firearm’s status. It’s particularly well-suited for individuals who engage in frequent training, competitive shooting, or those who rely on their shotgun for home defense where rapid, unquestionable operation is paramount. For users who have experienced minor feeding issues or simply want a more robust and visible component, this upgrade is highly recommended.
Those who might consider skipping this product are individuals who are perfectly satisfied with their firearm’s stock functionality and have never encountered any feeding issues. However, given the modest price and the tangible benefits of improved visibility and smoother cycling, the argument can be made that nearly any owner of these shotgun models could benefit from this upgrade. As for essential accessories, no additional items are strictly necessary; this is a standalone part.
Conclusion on Choate Tool Mossberg 500/600/590 Shell Follower
The Choate Tool Mossberg 500/600/590 Shell Follower is a prime example of how a small, inexpensive part can yield significant improvements in firearm functionality. Its durable polymer construction and high-visibility orange color directly address common points of concern for users, offering both enhanced reliability in shell feeding and a crucial visual cue for safety and operational status. The smooth operation I experienced during extensive testing confirms its effectiveness, making it a worthwhile replacement for any stock follower that may be showing signs of wear or is simply not providing the desired level of confidence.
Considering its modest price, the value proposition here is exceptionally strong. It delivers performance and a safety feature that genuinely elevates the user experience without demanding a large investment. I can confidently recommend the Choate Tool Mossberg 500/600/590 Shell Follower to any owner of these popular Mossberg shotguns looking for a simple, effective, and visible upgrade. It’s a buy-it-and-forget-it component that just works, letting you focus on what matters most.