The Mossberg 500 shotgun is a popular and versatile firearm, known for its reliability and ease of use. However, many new owners are unfamiliar with the magazine plug and its removal. This guide will walk you through the process of safely removing the magazine plug from your Mossberg 500, ensuring you understand the legal implications and handle the firearm responsibly.
Understanding the Magazine Plug's Purpose
Before we dive into the removal process, it's crucial to understand why your Mossberg 500 might have a magazine plug in the first place. Many states have laws restricting the capacity of shotguns, limiting the number of rounds that can be held in the magazine tube. The magazine plug is a simple device that restricts the magazine's capacity, usually to a maximum of 2 or 3 rounds (depending on the plug and local regulations). It's essential to check your local and state laws regarding shotgun magazine capacity before removing the plug. Failure to comply with these laws can result in serious legal consequences.
Tools Needed
You'll need very few tools to remove a Mossberg 500 magazine plug:
- A punch: A small punch, preferably with a rounded or blunt end, is ideal. Avoid using anything sharp that could scratch or damage the internal components of your firearm.
- A hammer: A small hammer will provide the necessary force to drive out the plug.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing the Mossberg 500 Magazine Plug
Safety First! Always ensure the firearm is unloaded and the action is open before attempting any maintenance or modification. Point the muzzle in a safe direction, away from yourself and others. Double-check that the firearm is unloaded. Treat every firearm as if it were loaded.
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Unloading the Shotgun: Completely unload the shotgun. Remove any shells from the magazine tube and the chamber. Visually and physically inspect the firearm to confirm it's empty.
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Accessing the Magazine Plug: The magazine plug is located at the end of the magazine tube, usually at the butt end of the firearm. You may need to remove the stock (buttstock) to access it more easily depending on your model. Consult your Mossberg 500 owner's manual if you are unsure.
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Using the Punch and Hammer: Carefully insert the punch into the small hole on the end of the magazine plug. Gently tap the punch with the hammer until the plug starts to move. Avoid using excessive force, as this could damage the firearm. The plug should slide out relatively easily once you break the initial resistance.
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Removing the Plug: Once the plug is loose, carefully remove it from the magazine tube.
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Reassembly (If Necessary): If you need to reinstall the plug, simply reverse the process, inserting the plug into the magazine tube and tapping it gently with the punch and hammer until it is seated firmly.
Important Considerations After Removing the Plug
- Legal Compliance: Always check and abide by all applicable local, state, and federal laws concerning firearm modifications and magazine capacity. Removing the plug may make your firearm illegal in certain jurisdictions.
- Responsibility: The removal of the magazine plug increases the firearm’s capacity. This increases the responsibility of the owner to handle the firearm safely and legally.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult your firearm's owner's manual and your local laws before attempting any modifications to your firearm. If you are unsure about any step, seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith. Improper handling of firearms can lead to serious injury or death.
