A Deep Dive into the Core Features
General Overview
The Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag isn’t just another shotgun; it’s a testament to rugged engineering and thoughtful design. At its core, this is a pump-action firearm, renowned for its simplicity, reliability, and user-friendliness. The pump-action mechanism offers a straightforward loading and ejection system, making it a favorite among both seasoned shooters and those new to shotguns.
Barrel and Choke System
At the heart of the Mossberg 835’s performance is its overbored barrel. The overbored design means the internal diameter of the barrel is slightly larger than standard, which allows for a range of ballistic advantages. The primary benefit is a reduction in felt recoil. When you’re firing magnum loads, especially the powerful three-and-a-half-inch shells, the overbored barrel can make a noticeable difference in shooter comfort, letting you stay on target for a follow-up shot if needed. The larger diameter also tends to produce tighter, more consistent shot patterns, increasing the effective range of the shotgun and improving accuracy.
One of the most significant features of the Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag is its chambering. The “Ulti Mag” designation is a clear indicator of its capabilities: this shotgun is designed to handle a wide variety of shell lengths, including two-and-three-quarter-inch, three-inch, and the potent three-and-a-half-inch magnum shells. This versatility opens up a world of possibilities for the shooter, allowing you to tailor your load to the specific task at hand, whether it’s waterfowl hunting, turkey hunting, or home defense.
The choke system plays a critical role in shaping the shot pattern. The Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag comes equipped with a series of interchangeable choke tubes. These tubes thread into the muzzle of the barrel, and by changing them, you can modify the spread of the shot pellets. The included chokes typically cover a range, from a full choke (which constricts the shot the most, for tighter patterns at longer ranges) to an improved cylinder (which opens the pattern more, useful for close-range targets). Having this flexibility means you can fine-tune the performance of your shotgun for different scenarios, maximizing effectiveness.
Receiver and Action
The construction of the Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag is another highlight. Typically, the receiver is crafted from durable materials. The stock and forend often come in either synthetic or wood variations. Synthetic stocks are popular for their weather resistance and ease of maintenance. Regardless of the material selected, the ergonomic design ensures a comfortable and secure grip, which contributes significantly to accurate and controlled shooting.
Performance and Handling: A Symphony of Power and Control
Recoil Management
The true measure of any firearm is how it performs when you pull the trigger. The Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag excels in this area, thanks to a combination of design features.
Recoil management is a key factor, especially when dealing with three-and-a-half-inch magnum shells. The overbored barrel, combined with the stock design and weight of the shotgun, works to mitigate the force of the recoil, making it more manageable for the shooter. While it’s still a potent cartridge, the reduction in felt recoil allows for quicker follow-up shots and reduces shooter fatigue.
Accuracy and Patterning
Accuracy and patterning are where the Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag shines. The overbored barrel and the interchangeable choke system work in tandem to deliver impressive shot patterns. A properly chosen choke tube, matched with the right type of ammunition, can produce dense and consistent patterns at ranges that exceed many other shotguns. Hunters will appreciate the ability to put more pellets on target, increasing the chances of a clean and ethical harvest.
Handling Characteristics
The handling characteristics of the Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag contribute to its overall appeal. The balance of the shotgun is well-considered, making it feel comfortable in the hands. The pump-action mechanism operates smoothly and reliably, ensuring quick follow-up shots when needed. The controls are generally positioned for easy access, allowing for intuitive operation.
Advantages and Disadvantages: Weighing the Options
Advantages
Like any tool, the Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag has its strengths and weaknesses.
The key selling point of the Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag is its versatility. It can be adapted to a range of shooting disciplines, from hunting various game animals to serving a role in home defense. The ability to handle different shell lengths, including three-and-a-half-inch magnum loads, adds to its versatility.
The price point of the Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag is another significant advantage. It is generally more affordable than many other shotguns with similar capabilities. This makes it an accessible option for both experienced shooters and those new to the world of shotguns.
The construction of the Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag emphasizes durability and reliability. These shotguns are designed to withstand the rigors of field use. This ruggedness is a definite benefit for hunters and anyone who uses their firearm in challenging environments.
The fact that it can handle three-and-a-half-inch shells is another major selling point. It gives shooters the ability to generate more power than is available in most other shotgun designs.
Disadvantages
The recoil generated by three-and-a-half-inch magnum loads can be considerable, even with the design features intended to mitigate it. The shooter needs to be prepared to manage this recoil effectively. This might not make the shotgun suitable for those who are sensitive to recoil or who prefer less powerful loads.
The weight of the Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag can be a factor for some shooters. The shotgun, particularly with a longer barrel and a fully loaded magazine, is not the lightest option on the market. For prolonged use in the field, this can lead to fatigue.
Some users may find that achieving optimal shot patterns with the Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag requires some experimentation. The right combination of choke tubes and ammunition may require some time and practice.
The Right Tool for the Right Job: Applications and Uses
Hunting Applications
The Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag is a versatile shotgun, but it truly shines in specific applications.
For hunting, the Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag is an excellent choice for a variety of game animals. It is a favorite among waterfowl hunters, thanks to its ability to handle three-and-a-half-inch magnum loads with a high pellet count. This shotgun is effective on larger ducks and geese. It’s also a popular choice for turkey hunting, delivering dense patterns at extended ranges. The Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag has also been used successfully by deer hunters, especially in areas where shotguns are required for hunting.
Home Defense
In the realm of home defense, the Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag offers a potent combination of firepower and ease of use. While not the ideal choice for everyone, its pump-action design provides a reliable and formidable defensive tool. However, responsible gun owners must ensure they are familiar with proper gun safety and have undergone training to effectively handle any firearm.
Maintaining Your Reliable Companion: Care and Upkeep
Cleaning and Lubrication
Proper maintenance is essential to ensure that your Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag operates reliably for years to come. Regular cleaning and lubrication are critical. After each shooting session, the barrel should be cleaned to remove powder residue and fouling. The action should be cleaned and lubricated to ensure smooth operation.
Storage
Proper storage is equally important. The shotgun should be stored in a dry and secure location, away from extreme temperatures and humidity. This protects the firearm from corrosion and potential damage.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
While the Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag is generally a reliable firearm, there are a few common issues that shooters might encounter. One such problem is the occasional failure to eject spent shells. If this occurs, you should inspect the extractor and ejector for damage or debris and clean the chamber thoroughly.
A Final Word: The Legacy of a Workhorse
The Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag is a well-regarded shotgun. Its combination of power, versatility, and affordability have earned it a dedicated following among hunters and shooting enthusiasts. Its robust design, capable of handling the most demanding hunting situations, ensures it remains a trusted companion in the field.
Whether you are seeking a reliable hunting shotgun, a potent tool for home defense, or a versatile platform for target shooting, the Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag is a strong contender. Its overbored barrel, the Ulti Mag chamber, and the interchangeable choke system deliver impressive performance. Its overall ruggedness and ease of use contribute to its lasting appeal.
If you are looking for a shotgun that can handle a variety of tasks and perform reliably under challenging conditions, the Mossberg 835 Ulti Mag is well worth considering. Its legacy as a workhorse, a reliable friend in the field, and a testament to quality and value is well-deserved.
