70 Year OLD Bolt Action SHOTGUN!...Mossberg 185D

Published on December 18, 2022
Duration: 13:08

This review of a 70-year-old Mossberg 185D bolt-action 20 gauge shotgun highlights its enduring functionality and surprising accuracy. The speaker, demonstrating experienced firearm handling, tests the shotgun with various ammunition types, including slugs and birdshot, at different ranges. Key takeaways include the shotgun's reliable performance, its value as a vintage firearm, and practical insights into its maintenance and operational characteristics.

Quick Summary

The Mossberg 185D is a 70-year-old bolt-action 20 gauge shotgun produced between 1947-1950. It features a 25-inch barrel, a removable 2-round magazine (3-round capacity total), and a takedown design. It demonstrated surprising accuracy with slugs at 50 yards and is valued around $150.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Range Setup
  2. 00:18First Shots and Reloading
  3. 00:23Shotgun Identification and Origin
  4. 01:16Production Years and Serial Numbers
  5. 01:40Markings and Ammunition Compatibility
  6. 01:54Action Type and Safety
  7. 02:20Magazine Capacity
  8. 02:30Barrel, Sights, and Chokes
  9. 03:00Condition and Maintenance
  10. 03:17Takedown Feature
  11. 03:28Stock Condition and Sling Swivel
  12. 03:50Functionality Test and Ammunition
  13. 04:11Firebird Targets Introduction
  14. 04:37Patterning with #8 Shot (10-25 Yards)
  15. 05:25Patterning Results Analysis
  16. 06:17Slugs Test (25-50 Yards)
  17. 06:41Slug Accuracy at 25 Yards
  18. 07:34Slug Accuracy at 50 Yards
  19. 07:56Close Range Targets: Bottle and Firebird
  20. 08:15Firebird Target Functionality
  21. 09:13Slug Impact on Bottle
  22. 09:39Slug Impact on Firebird Target
  23. 10:21Shotgun Patterning on Firebird Targets (10-15 Yards)
  24. 11:17Conclusion and Final Thoughts
  25. 12:22Call to Action and Channel Support

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Mossberg 185D and what are its key features?

The Mossberg 185D is a 70-year-old bolt-action 20 gauge shotgun produced between 1947-1950. It features a 25-inch barrel, a removable 2-round magazine (3-round capacity total), and a takedown design for easy disassembly. It also utilizes a replaceable choke system.

How accurate is the Mossberg 185D with slugs?

In testing, the Mossberg 185D demonstrated surprising accuracy with Federal Power-Shok 2 3/4 inch, 3/4 oz slugs, achieving acceptable groups at 50 yards, with a slight tendency for shots to land low and right at that distance.

What ammunition is compatible with the Mossberg 185D?

The Mossberg 185D is chambered for 2 3/4 inch shells and can safely use 2 1/2 inch and 2 3/4 inch shells. It is not compatible with 3-inch shells. Some ammunition brands may cause feeding issues.

What is the estimated value of a Mossberg 185D?

A Mossberg 185D in good condition, like the one reviewed, is estimated to be worth around $150. This makes it an attractive option for those looking for an affordable vintage firearm.

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