shotgun/ home defense

[C/O-RC]

i just got a mossberg 500 persuader today, is there anything i should think about adding to it for a defensive shotgun? i see that there is lots of accessories but do i really need any of them?

[ThursCo]

http://www.cheaperthandirt.com/32564-13206-991.html

I'm a huge fan of speedfeed stocks. I've never liked having a side-saddle because it makes the weight of the shotgun feel off. These stocks even out the weight and provide a few extra shells. This is the pistol grip version but they make a normal stock version too.

[WPM]

I've always liked having a light on the long gun. Makes handling it in the dark much easier, and if it has the touchpad actuated light, one less thing to be concerned about when maneuvering.

[The Rabbi]

Short answer: no. The gun works well as designed and delivered. You're not planning on using it except maybe a little practice. There has never been a situation of a homeowner firing a standard capacity shotgun to empty. Adding stuff adds cost and increases the likelihood of something going wrong. It's an individual decision but the question was "need." My own HD shotgun is a Remington Marine Magnum, box stock.

[C/O-RC]

thanks rabbi i was trained with a stock shotgun and thats what i feel like i should stick to. also its an 8 shot so i dont think i really need to carry extra rounds with me

[C/O-RC]

ok well heres the new problem i have 2 2/3 shells in the mag and 1 in the chamber. all i have for it is a chamber lock so i eject the first shell and the next one pops in. after i take that one out it leaves me with 6. is there anyway to load the shot gun with the chamber open? i dont need 8 rounds for home pertection but i just feel like im not getting my money out of it

[jdh]

I second the light.

With the mag tube loaded and the action open you have to push the slide forward, Hold the slide release, then pull it back, then push it forward again to load a shell. The action left open adds another way for "stuff" to get into the gun.

Close the action on an empty chamber, load seven in the tube, and leave it.

[eightyo]

If you are using the shotgun as home defense, a mounted light should be a priority. Target identification requirements don't change in low light and it is really hard (not impossible) to operate a shotgun and hold a light.

2nd should be a stock that fits you well and your are comfortable with, LOP, pistol grip w/fullstock, etc. Someone recommended a Speedfeed stock, they are nice but some have shell holders built in, works great unless you shoot it with your left hand, then it cuts your cheek open. :-(

3rd would be a standard sling.

4th would be TRAINING, followed by some training, then some more training.

I teach shotgun classes and and one thing I stress to students is to avoid creating a "killing machine" by putting every tactical item you can find on your shotgun. Imagine what your gun would look like in a courtroom after the fact. Keep it simple.

Stay safe

[C/O-RC]

thanks eightyo i have been trained on 12 gauge for my department already. i was just thinking maybe a sling( one that could hold a few extra shells) and a really simple light ( what would be something really cheap and no thrills) how does that sound

[djc7]

i was planning on getting a Persuader soon so this thread is perfect!
also, what are your guys' opinions on the best sights for home defense?

[Rottie299]

My Winchester is also doubles as my grouse gun during the season so I am very familiar with firing it. May mount a light though just for HD use. Slip on shell carrier holds 5 plus another 5 in the tube. All #2 Mag rounds.