GG&G Mossberg 500/590 12ga Scope Mount Review

Is the Hype Real? GG&G Mossberg 500/590 12ga Scope Mount Reviewed

For years, my go-to scattergun for a variety of tasks has been the venerable Mossberg 500 platform. Whether it’s for a controlled environment or when the situation calls for a bit more versatility, the ability to mount optics has always been a desirable upgrade. This is precisely why I found myself looking into the GG&G Mossberg 500/590 12ga Scope Mount. The promise of an easy-to-install, low-profile mount designed specifically for these ubiquitous shotguns felt like a direct solution to a persistent need.

My journey to this particular optic mount began after a particularly frustrating range day. I was attempting to shoot slugs with a bead sight and realized that for anything beyond conversational distances, the precision was severely lacking. While iron sights are fine for basic use, for any serious accuracy with slugs or specialized loads, an optic is practically a necessity. I considered a few alternatives, like drilling and tapping the receiver myself or opting for a clamp-on style mount, but the inherent risks and potential for instability steered me away from those paths.

First impressions of the GG&G mount were positive. The unit felt surprisingly solid for its weight, with a smooth, non-reflective finish. It conveyed a sense of precision machining, which is exactly what you want when trusting an optic to stay zeroed under the recoil of a 12-gauge shotgun. My initial reaction was one of quiet satisfaction, a feeling that I might have finally found a robust and reliable solution.

Real-World Testing: Putting GG&G Mossberg 500/590 12ga Scope Mount to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing grounds for this mount were primarily the shooting range and my well-equipped workshop. The installation process itself was straightforward, taking place on my Mossberg 590A1. The receiver was already drilled and tapped, which is a prerequisite for this mount’s secure attachment. I followed the included instructions, using the provided Torx wrench to snug down the four steel screws.

The conditions varied from a warm, dry afternoon on the range to a cooler, slightly damp evening in my workshop. Throughout the process, the mount remained stable and didn’t shift. Its low profile design meant it didn’t interfere with the natural handling of the shotgun, even when I was shouldering it without an optic attached initially.

The only minor surprise was the very slight learning curve in ensuring all four Torx screws were tightened to a consistent torque. While the wrench was included, a torque wrench would have provided that extra peace of mind for a critical component like this. However, with careful tightening by feel, the mount felt incredibly secure.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months, this optic mount has seen consistent use, both at the range and during my personal testing regimen. I’ve put approximately 200 rounds of various 12-gauge loads through the shotgun with the mount installed, including slugs, buckshot, and birdshot. The mount has held its zero perfectly, without any discernible shift or loosening.

Durability has been impressive. Despite the significant recoil inherent to a 12-gauge, there are no visible cracks, stress marks, or degradation of the finish. Even after a few accidental bumps against my workbench during other projects, the hard coat anodizing has resisted scratches remarkably well.

Maintenance is practically non-existent, which is ideal. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean and free of dust. I haven’t noticed any performance drop or signs of wear that would suggest premature failure. Compared to some other, more budget-friendly rail solutions I’ve encountered in the past, which often developed play or lost their finish quickly, this GG&G unit feels like it’s built to last.

Breaking Down the Features of GG&G Mossberg 500/590 12ga Scope Mount

Specifications

The GG&G Mossberg 500/590 12ga Scope Mount is precision machined from 6061-T6 billet aluminum, a robust material known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio. Its low profile design is crucial for keeping your optic as close to the bore axis as possible, aiding in a natural cheek weld and consistent shooting. The mount features a MIL-STD-1913 configuration, ensuring compatibility with a vast array of tactical optics and accessories.

It measures 5.9″ long, providing ample space for most common scope sizes. Despite its solid construction, the mount weighs in at a mere 1.4 oz, adding negligible mass to the shotgun. The finish is a Type III hard coat anodized, non-reflective matte black, which not only enhances durability but also prevents distracting glints of light. Installation is secured by four steel Torx head screws, with a Torx wrench included for convenience.

These specifications translate directly into user benefits. The 6061-T6 aluminum ensures it can withstand the stresses of repeated firing without deforming. The low profile and MIL-STD-1913 compatibility mean you can mount a wide range of modern optics securely and ergonomically. The lightweight nature is a significant advantage, as adding unnecessary weight to a shotgun can hinder its maneuverability.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this scope mount is to provide a stable platform for optics on a Mossberg 500 or 590 series shotgun. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The MIL-STD-1913 configuration ensured my chosen red dot sight mounted with absolute rigidity. I experienced no vertical or horizontal play, even after sustained fire.

Its greatest strength is its unwavering stability. Once torqued down, it stays put. I haven’t had to re-zero since the initial setup, which is a testament to its design and construction. The only minor area for potential improvement, though not a fault of the mount itself, is that the 5.9″ length might be limiting for those who wish to mount very long scopes with extensive eye relief adjustment options, but for typical red dots and shorter variable scopes, it’s perfect.

This scope mount doesn’t just meet expectations; it exceeds them for its intended purpose. It delivers the reliability and precision needed for a shotgun platform that is often used in dynamic scenarios. The ease of installation is another significant functional benefit, allowing users to upgrade their firearm quickly and effectively.

Design & Ergonomics

The GG&G Mossberg 500/590 12ga Scope Mount showcases a practical and effective design philosophy. The low profile is a standout ergonomic feature, ensuring that the shooter’s face remains in a natural position on the stock when acquiring a target through the optic. This prevents the need for excessive shim stock or riser blocks, which can sometimes introduce their own stability issues.

The Type III hard coat anodized finish feels substantial and provides a good grip surface for handling. Crucially, GG&G has paid attention to user safety; all edges are smoothed and rounded, eliminating any sharp corners that could snag or cause injury during handling or a hasty mount. The inclusion of the Torx wrench and the use of standard Torx screws also contribute to the user-friendly design, as these are common tools that most firearm owners will have.

While the design is primarily functional, it’s not without aesthetic appeal. The matte black finish blends seamlessly with most shotgun finishes, giving the firearm a cohesive and tactical look. There’s no real learning curve; the mount is designed to be intuitive, fitting factory drilled and tapped receivers seamlessly.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extensive testing and GG&G’s reputation, the durability of this scope mount is a significant selling point. The 6061-T6 billet aluminum construction, coupled with the Type III hard coat anodization, suggests it will endure considerable abuse. I foresee no issues with cracking or premature wear under normal operational stress for a 12-gauge shotgun.

Maintenance is exceptionally simple. As mentioned, a routine wipe-down is sufficient to keep it clean and prevent corrosion. There are no moving parts to lubricate or complex mechanisms to service. The steel Torx head screws are robust and resist stripping, provided you use the correct size bit.

The primary potential failure point for any optic mount is loosening under recoil. However, the secure four-point attachment and the quality of the materials used by GG&G mitigate this risk considerably. I haven’t identified any specific failure points that would concern me for its intended application.

Accessories and Customization Options

The GG&G Mossberg 500/590 12ga Scope Mount comes with a thoughtfully included accessory: a Torx wrench. This is a small but significant detail, as it means you can install the mount right out of the box without needing to search for specialized tools. The mount itself is designed to be compatible with a wide range of optics that utilize the MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rail system.

While the mount doesn’t offer direct “customization” in terms of altering its core design, its strength lies in its compatibility. This means you can select from a vast array of aftermarket red dot sights, holographic sights, or even compact rifle scopes from numerous manufacturers like Aimpoint, EOTech, Vortex, and Sig Sauer. The smooth, flat top rail ensures a solid interface for scope rings if you opt for a traditional scope.

The lifetime warranty offered by GG&G also provides a layer of confidence, ensuring that you are investing in a product backed by the manufacturer’s commitment to quality. This warranty essentially covers any defects in materials or workmanship, offering peace of mind for your investment.

Pros and Cons of GG&G Mossberg 500/590 12ga Scope Mount

Who Should Buy GG&G Mossberg 500/590 12ga Scope Mount?

This scope mount is ideal for any owner of a Mossberg 500, 590, or 590A1 shotgun who has a receiver that is already drilled and tapped for scope mounting. It’s a perfect fit for sport shooters looking to mount a red dot sight or a low-power variable optic for improved accuracy with slugs or buckshot. This includes tactical shotgun enthusiasts, competition shooters in shotgun divisions, and homeowners seeking to maximize the utility of their defensive shotgun.

Individuals who should consider alternatives are those with shotguns that do not have factory-drilled and tapped receivers, or those looking for a temporary, clamp-on solution. If you intend to mount an extremely long scope that requires significant rail space for adjustment, you might need to explore different mounting solutions.

For those who do opt for this mount, I highly recommend pairing it with a quality optic. A red dot sight is arguably the most popular and practical choice for most 12-gauge applications due to its speed and ease of use. Consider a robust model from brands like Aimpoint, Vortex, or EOTech, designed to withstand the recoil of a shotgun.

Conclusion on GG&G Mossberg 500/590 12ga Scope Mount

The GG&G Mossberg 500/590 12ga Scope Mount stands out as a premium accessory for a widely-used shotgun platform. Its precision machining, robust 6061-T6 aluminum construction, and non-reflective finish all speak to its quality. The low profile design combined with the MIL-STD-1913 rail ensures excellent ergonomics and broad optic compatibility, making it highly functional for a variety of shooting disciplines.

For its price point of $39.69, the value proposition is outstanding. You’re getting a mount that is built to endure the rigors of 12-gauge recoil, offers a secure platform for your optic, and enhances the overall usability of your shotgun. It’s a solution that provides peace of mind, knowing your optic is securely mounted and ready for action.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this optic mount to any Mossberg 500/590 owner with a drilled and tapped receiver looking for a reliable, durable, and well-designed solution. It’s a smart investment that genuinely elevates the performance and versatility of one of the world’s most popular shotguns.