The Mossberg Silver Reserve Over/Under shotgun has quickly gained popularity among both seasoned hunters and enthusiastic newcomers. This review delves deep into its features, performance, and overall value, providing an in-depth analysis to help you decide if it's the right firearm for you.
Design and Build Quality
The Silver Reserve's design is a blend of classic elegance and modern functionality. Its sleek lines and polished receiver are immediately eye-catching. Mossberg utilizes a robust construction, employing a receiver forged from a single piece of steel. This contributes significantly to its durability and strength, making it suitable for years of rigorous use. The quality of the metalwork is evident throughout, exceeding expectations at this price point.
While the overall aesthetic is pleasing, some might find the checkering on the stock slightly aggressive. This is a matter of personal preference, but it's worth noting for those with sensitive hands or who prefer a less pronounced grip.
Performance on the Range
The Silver Reserve's performance is where it truly shines. We tested various ammunition types, including high-brass and low-brass loads, and consistently experienced reliable cycling and minimal recoil. The gun's balanced weight distribution further contributes to its comfortable handling and ease of use, making it suitable for extended shooting sessions. The crisp trigger break is another standout feature, promoting accuracy and control.
Accuracy and Grouping
Accuracy testing produced consistently tight groups at various distances, demonstrating the shotgun's precision. The gun's inherent balance and well-designed stock geometry aid in accurate target acquisition and follow-through.
Recoil Management
Despite its power, the Silver Reserve manages recoil exceptionally well. The design incorporates features that mitigate felt recoil, enhancing the overall shooting experience, even for less experienced shooters. This makes it suitable for extended hunting trips where shooting multiple rounds is necessary.
Key Features and Specifications
- Action Type: Over/Under
- Gauge: Available in 12, 20, and 28 gauge
- Receiver: Forged steel receiver
- Barrels: Chrome-plated steel barrels
- Stock: Walnut or synthetic stock options available
- Safety: Manual cross-bolt safety
- Ejectors: Automatic ejectors for quick reloading
Value and Overall Impression
The Mossberg Silver Reserve Over/Under punches well above its weight class in terms of value. It offers impressive performance, robust build quality, and a visually appealing design, all at a competitive price point that undercuts many comparable shotguns on the market. This makes it an excellent option for hunters seeking a reliable and accurate firearm without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
The Mossberg Silver Reserve Over/Under represents an excellent combination of performance, durability, and affordability. Its solid construction, smooth action, and accurate shooting make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from upland bird hunting to clay shooting. While some might find the aggressive checkering a minor drawback, its overall value and exceptional performance outweigh this minor detail for most shooters. If you are in the market for a reliable and well-built over/under shotgun, the Mossberg Silver Reserve deserves serious consideration.
