How to Disassemble and Clean the Mossberg 500/590

In this article, you will learn how to disassemble and clean the Mossberg 500/590 firearms. We will provide you with step-by-step instructions and a video to guide you through the process. Additionally, we will also give you a brief historical context about these firearms. By the end of this article, you will have the knowledge and instructions to properly maintain and clean your Mossberg 500/590. How to Disassemble and Clean the Mossberg 500/590

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Introduction

The Mossberg 500/590 is a popular shotgun known for its reliability, versatility, and durability. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a beginner, it is crucial to regularly clean and maintain your firearm to ensure its optimal performance and longevity. In this article, we will guide you through the process of safely disassembling and cleaning the Mossberg 500/590 to keep it in top shape.

Brief History of Mossberg 500/590

The Mossberg 500 was introduced in the 1960s and quickly became a favorite among hunters, sport shooters, and law enforcement agencies. Its pump-action design, ease of use, and affordability made it a sought-after shotgun. Later, Mossberg introduced the Mossberg 590, an upgraded and more tactical version of the Mossberg 500, featuring additional features like a heavier barrel and a bayonet lug.

Tools Required for Disassembly and Cleaning

Before you begin disassembling and cleaning your Mossberg 500/590, ensure that you have the following tools:

• Screwdriver: To remove screws and disassemble specific parts.
• Punch: To drift out pins and separate components.
• Cleaning Rod: To clean the barrel and other areas of the firearm.
• Cleaning Brush: To scrub away dirt and residue.
• Cleaning Solvent: To dissolve and remove grime.
• Gun Oil: To lubricate and protect the firearm after cleaning.

Safety Precautions

When working with any firearm, it is essential to prioritize safety. Here are some safety precautions to follow before starting the disassembly and cleaning process for your Mossberg 500/590:

1. Unload the Firearm: Ensure that the firearm is completely unloaded by removing all rounds from the chamber and the magazine.
2. Wear Protective Gear: Put on safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from any potential accidents or chemical exposure.
3. Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Choose a well-ventilated workspace to prevent the buildup of fumes from the cleaning solvent, ensuring your safety during the process.

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Disassembling the Mossberg 500/590

Proper disassembly of your Mossberg 500/590 is important to access all the necessary components for thorough cleaning. Follow these steps for disassembling the firearm:

1. Field Strip the Firearm: Remove the magazine tube cap, slide the forend forward, and then remove the barrel and magazine tube.
2. Remove the Barrel: Unscrew the barrel nut and take off the barrel from the receiver.
3. Slide Assembly Disassembly: Push the action bar lock down and remove the slide assembly from the receiver by sliding it forward.
4. Trigger Assembly Disassembly: Begin by removing the trigger housing pin using a punch. Then separate the trigger group from the receiver.
5. Bolt Assembly Disassembly: Push the carrier latch, rotate the bolt counterclockwise, lift it out, and remove the bolt slide from the action bars. Take note of the position and orientation of each part for easy reassembly later.

Cleaning the Mossberg 500/590

Now that you have successfully disassembled your Mossberg 500/590, it’s time to clean each component thoroughly. Here’s how you can clean different parts of your firearm:

1. Cleaning the Barrel: Attach a cleaning brush to the cleaning rod and run it through the barrel several times, applying cleaning solvent. Wipe it clean, and then apply a thin layer of gun oil for protection.
2. Cleaning the Slide Assembly: Use a cleaning brush and cleaning solvent to scrub away any dirt or residue from the slide assembly. Wipe it clean, and then lubricate it with gun oil.
3. Cleaning the Trigger Assembly: Clean the trigger assembly with a cleaning brush and cleaning solvent, paying attention to any hard-to-reach areas. Wipe it clean, and then apply a small amount of gun oil to the moving parts.
4. Cleaning the Bolt Assembly: Scrub the bolt assembly with a cleaning brush and cleaning solvent to remove dirt and debris. Wipe it clean, and then lubricate it with gun oil.

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Reassembling the Mossberg 500/590

After cleaning each component thoroughly, it’s time to reassemble your Mossberg 500/590. Follow these steps in the reverse order of disassembly:

1. Reassembling the Bolt Assembly: Place the bolt slide onto the action bars, rotate the bolt clockwise, and lock it in place by pushing the carrier latch.
2. Reassembling the Trigger Assembly: Insert the trigger group into the receiver, aligning the pinholes properly. Insert the trigger housing pin and tap it in place using a punch.
3. Reassembling the Slide Assembly: Slide the assembly onto the action bars, ensuring it engages with the bolt slide properly.
4. Reattaching the Barrel: Screw the barrel nut onto the magazine tube and tighten it securely.
5. Performing Function Check: Assemble the remaining parts, such as the magazine tube, forend, and magazine tube cap. Then, carefully cycle the action to ensure smooth and reliable operation.

Final Inspection

After reassembling your Mossberg 500/590, perform a final inspection to ensure everything is in order. Check for the following:

1. Checking for Proper Functioning: Test the firearm by dry firing and cycling the action multiple times, ensuring it functions smoothly and without any issues.
2. Inspecting for Any Loose Parts: Carefully examine the firearm for any loose or missing parts. Tighten any screws or components that may have become loose during the disassembly and cleaning process.

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Conclusion

Regularly disassembling and cleaning your Mossberg 500/590 is essential to maintain its performance and reliability. By following the steps and safety precautions provided in this article, you can ensure that your firearm remains in optimal condition for years to come. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific details about your Mossberg 500/590.