How accurate is an 80 year old neglected Mossberg 44 US-D rifle? I was surprised!

Published on April 8, 2026
Duration: 19:12

This video details an accuracy test of a neglected, 80-year-old Mossberg 44 US-D rifle after restoration. The reviewer, operating from a rifle range with a stable setup, tested various .22 LR ammunition types at 25 yards. Despite some functional quirks due to its age and restoration status, the rifle demonstrated surprising accuracy, achieving 1/4-inch groups with specific ammunition, highlighting the enduring quality of older firearms.

Quick Summary

A restored 80-year-old Mossberg 44 US-D rifle can achieve impressive accuracy, delivering 1/4-inch groups at 25 yards with specific ammunition like Sellier & Bellot Club, Norma Tac-22, and Federal AutoMatch. Despite some functional quirks related to its age, the rifle's robust construction provides excellent value and precision.

Chapters

  1. 00:46Introduction: Mossberg 44 US-D
  2. 01:00Rifle Restoration and Setup
  3. 01:24Accuracy Testing at 25 Yards
  4. 02:26Testing Sellier & Bellot Club Ammo
  5. 04:04Testing Norma Tac-22 Ammo
  6. 05:10Testing MagTech Standard Velocity Ammo
  7. 06:25Testing Aguila Target Competition Ammo
  8. 08:01Testing PMC Target 22 Ammo
  9. 10:25Testing Federal AutoMatch Ammo
  10. 11:37Testing Armscor 36gr HP Ammo
  11. 13:03Testing Federal Champion Bulk Ammo
  12. 14:40Testing Federal 36gr Plated HP Bulk Ammo
  13. 15:55Testing Winchester Yellow Jacket Ammo
  14. 17:02Accuracy Summary and Group Sizes
  15. 17:45Final Thoughts on Mossberg 44 US-D

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate is an 80-year-old neglected Mossberg 44 US-D rifle after restoration?

The restored 80-year-old Mossberg 44 US-D rifle demonstrated surprising accuracy, achieving 1/4-inch groups at 25 yards with specific ammunition types like Sellier & Bellot Club, Norma Tac-22, and Federal AutoMatch. This indicates that despite its age and neglect, the rifle's core design allows for excellent precision.

What ammunition performed best in the Mossberg 44 US-D accuracy test?

The best-performing ammunition for the Mossberg 44 US-D at 25 yards was Sellier & Bellot Club, Norma Tac-22, and Federal AutoMatch, all of which produced tight 1/4-inch groups. Other ammunition types showed varying degrees of accuracy, with some bulk and hyper-velocity rounds performing less consistently.

What are the functional quirks of the Mossberg 44 US-D?

The Mossberg 44 US-D can have functional quirks due to its age and design. The reviewer noted that the magazine needs to be held up during chambering rounds because it rides on a loose metal slot, making the bolt action not as smooth as modern rifles.

Is the Mossberg 44 US-D a good value for its accuracy?

Yes, the Mossberg 44 US-D is considered a good value for its accuracy. The reviewer estimated the total cost for the rifle, scope, and mount to be around $350, highlighting that these older, well-built rifles offer exceptional accuracy for their price point compared to many new firearms.

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