The Mossberg 500 shotgun: a name synonymous with reliability, affordability, and widespread use. Millions have been sold and put into service for everything from hunting and sport shooting to home defense and law enforcement. But if you own one, or are thinking of buying a used one, you might be wondering: How old is this thing? Unlike some manufacturers, Mossberg doesn't offer a readily available, comprehensive database to pinpoint the exact year of manufacture based on the serial number. This makes determining the age of your Mossberg 500 a bit like detective work, but don't worry, we're here to equip you with the tools and knowledge you need to crack the case. Knowing the age of your shotgun can be important for several reasons, including determining its potential value, understanding its features and compatibility with different accessories, and even satisfying your own curiosity.
Why Can't I Just Look Up My Serial Number in a Database?
That's the million-dollar question! Unfortunately, Mossberg doesn't publicly maintain a definitive year-by-serial number database for the 500 series. This is likely due to several factors, including changes in ownership, record-keeping practices over the years, and the sheer volume of shotguns produced. Other manufacturers, such as Winchester or Colt, have more robust historical archives that allow for more precise dating. However, all is not lost. While a simple search might not give you the exact year, we can use other clues and methods to narrow it down considerably.
The Clues You Need: Decoding Your Mossberg 500
Identifying the age of your Mossberg 500 relies on examining a few key characteristics and combining them with what we know about production timelines. Think of it like piecing together a puzzle.
1. The Serial Number Itself:
- Location: The serial number is typically located on the receiver of the shotgun, usually on the left side. Older models might have it stamped on the bottom of the receiver near the loading port.
- Prefixes and Suffixes: Pay close attention to any letters or numbers that precede or follow the main serial number. These prefixes or suffixes can sometimes offer clues about the specific model variation or production period. However, there's no universally recognized code, so this often requires further research.
2. Proof Marks:
- What are they? Proof marks are small stamps applied to the barrel and sometimes the receiver, indicating that the firearm has passed certain pressure tests. These marks can sometimes be traced to specific time periods or manufacturers that Mossberg contracted with.
- Where to find them: Look for small symbols or letters stamped on the barrel, often near the chamber.
- Research: Once you find a proof mark, try searching online forums or gun collecting websites for information about that specific mark. It might provide a range of years when it was used.
3. Barrel Markings:
- Gauge and Chamber Size: The barrel will be marked with the gauge (e.g., 12 GA) and the chamber size (e.g., 2 3/4" or 3"). While this doesn't pinpoint the year, it can help rule out certain periods. For example, if your shotgun is chambered for 3 1/2" shells, it's a more recent model since that chambering wasn't introduced until later.
- Choke Information: The barrel will also indicate the choke type (e.g., "Modified," "Improved Cylinder"). If it's marked with "Accu-Choke" or a similar adjustable choke system, that indicates a later production model. Fixed chokes were more common on earlier models.
4. Receiver Features:
- Safety Location: The location of the safety switch is a key indicator.
- Crossbolt Safety (Behind the Trigger): This is the most common safety location on newer Mossberg 500s.
- Top Tang Safety (On Top of the Receiver): This style was used on some earlier models, particularly those made before the 1970s.
- Action Release: The placement and style of the action release can also offer clues.
- In front of the trigger guard: Most common.
- On the left side of the receiver, near the trigger guard: Some earlier models had this configuration.
- Receiver Finish: The finish on the receiver can also provide hints. A parkerized finish (a dull, gray-green color) is more common on military or law enforcement models, while a blued finish is more typical of sporting models.
5. Stock and Forend:
- Material: The material used for the stock and forend can help narrow down the time period. Wood stocks were more common on older models, while synthetic stocks (like polymer) became more prevalent later on.
- Style: The style of the stock and forend can also offer clues. For example, a pistol grip stock is a more recent development.
- Checkering/Texturing: The presence and style of checkering or texturing on the stock and forend can also be indicative of certain production periods.
6. Assembly and Parts:
- Originality: It's crucial to determine if the parts on your Mossberg 500 are original. Swapped-out stocks, barrels, or other components can throw off your dating efforts.
- Part Numbers: Look for any stamped part numbers on the internal components. These numbers can sometimes be cross-referenced with online resources or parts catalogs to estimate the age of the part.
- Disassembly: If you're comfortable disassembling your shotgun (and know how to do it safely!), examining the internal parts can sometimes reveal clues about its age or manufacturing process.
Putting the Pieces Together: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you know what to look for, here's a step-by-step guide to dating your Mossberg 500:
- Record the Serial Number: Write down the complete serial number, including any prefixes or suffixes.
- Inspect the Receiver: Note the location of the safety, the action release, and the receiver finish.
- Examine the Barrel: Record the gauge, chamber size, choke type, and any proof marks.
- Assess the Stock and Forend: Note the material, style, and checkering/texturing.
- Research Online: Use online forums, gun collecting websites, and Mossberg enthusiast groups to search for information based on the characteristics you've identified. Be specific in your searches (e.g., "Mossberg 500 top tang safety serial number prefix A").
- Consult a Gunsmith or Appraiser: If you're still unsure, consider consulting a qualified gunsmith or appraiser. They may have access to resources or expertise that can help you determine the age of your shotgun.
Common Mossberg 500 Variations and Their Timelines
While a precise year-by-serial number lookup is unavailable, understanding the evolution of the Mossberg 500 can provide valuable context:
- Early Models (1960s - 1970s): Often featured a top tang safety, wood stocks, and fixed chokes. The serial numbers may have different prefixes or formats compared to later models.
- Mid-Production Models (1980s - 1990s): The crossbolt safety became more common, synthetic stocks began to appear, and adjustable choke systems like Accu-Choke were introduced.
- Modern Models (2000s - Present): A wide variety of configurations are available, including tactical models with pistol grip stocks, extended magazines, and various sights.
Important Considerations:
- Modifications: Be aware that modifications can affect the value and authenticity of your shotgun. If parts have been replaced or altered, it can be more difficult to determine its original configuration and age.
- Special Editions: Mossberg has produced numerous special editions and commemorative models over the years. These models may have unique features or markings that can help identify their production period.
- Law Enforcement/Military Models: Law enforcement and military models often have specific markings or features that distinguish them from civilian versions. These models may also have different serial number ranges or production timelines.
Don't Forget to Check the Obvious!
Sometimes, the simplest answer is the correct one. Here are a few more things to consider:
- Original Packaging/Paperwork: If you have the original box, owner's manual, or sales receipt, it may contain information about the date of purchase or manufacture.
- Family History: If you inherited the shotgun from a family member, ask them about its history. They may remember when it was purchased or where it came from.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is the serial number on a Mossberg 500? It's usually on the left side of the receiver, sometimes on the bottom near the loading port on older models.
- Can I look up the age of my Mossberg online? There's no official Mossberg database, but online forums and gun collecting websites can help based on features and markings.
- How do I know if my Mossberg 500 is a newer model? Look for a crossbolt safety, synthetic stock, and adjustable choke system.
- What does the proof mark on my barrel mean? It indicates the barrel passed pressure tests; research the specific mark to find its potential time period.
- Is knowing the age of my shotgun important? It can help determine its value, compatibility with accessories, and satisfy your curiosity.
Conclusion
While pinpointing the exact year of manufacture for a Mossberg 500 based on the serial number alone can be challenging, by carefully examining the shotgun's features, markings, and configuration, you can significantly narrow down its age. Remember to combine your observations with online research and, if needed, consult with a gunsmith or appraiser for expert assistance.