Mossberg Extended Tube/Barrel Gap

[WereWeasel]

Hi All,

I picked up one of those Mossberg 3 barrel combos this spring and took note of a gap between the XX FULL turkey choke tube and the barrels. Both barrels are counterbored the same length and standard chokes fit flush with the muzzles. The base to shoulder length on the extended choke measures .030 longer than the O.A.L of the standard choke tubes and thus leaves a gap. I realize that the tubes bottom out on the step inside the barrel and there is no safety concern but I was wondering if this is a common thing or did this particular choke get made long for some reason. All I know is that gap catches my eye and I want to know if it's supposed to be there or not.

 

[mwjones]

I would say, if it does in fact bottom out inside, and you can tighten it well, it will probably fine. It's not supposed to have a huge gap, but there must be some, and that would be the safest place for it to be to take up any slack in manufacturing tolerances. It's REALLY had to make a threaded part that tightens up to two faces, and you would want the gap outside, not inside.

Take a pick, toothpick, stick, cleaning rod, finger, whatever, and check inside that there is not a gap or large step between the barrel and choke tube (there will be a small step of probably couple thou either way, but it shouldn't be huge). If it is ok, tighten er up and let er pound.