Mossberg Bantam

Schlemer · Sep 30, 2006

Hi all, first post. Love the site.

Today I picked up my first shotgun. A 20 gauge 22" Mossberg Bantam model #54132. When I got it home, I noticed that the box read Bantam, which is a youth sized gun. At first I was a little disappointed but here is the thing. My neighbor has this SG and while in my research mode. I quickly fell in love with the Bantam's size and weight. I also enjoyed shooting out on the range. Now at 5'8 and 230lbs I wasn't to sure if I was too big for this SG. My hands are on the medium side so the reach of the Bantam is perfect for me.

So here are my questions.

Is the 500 Bantam for youths only, or can a full sized adult get full satisfaction out of this weapon (I know that my wife at 5'4" and 120lbs loves it)?

Second, what is the real size difference between youth and non-youth stocks?

Either way, I still love the gun. I just wanted some info.

emaki · Sep 30, 2006

My son shoots a Mossberg Bantam, and I have shot it several times. The LOP (length of pull) is way to short for me at 13". My nose touches my trigger hand, so if I ever tried to shoot a heavy load I might get whacked in the nose. My son's gun came with a coupon for half off of a full size stock from Mossberg. They also have them for $32.45 at www.e-gunparts.com and are very easy to change out.

http://www.e-gunparts.com/DisplayAd.asp?chrProductSKU=64520&chrSuperSKU=&MC=

If your nose doesn't touch your hand when you shoot then it should be ok.The standard stock was listed at 14 1/2" and 13 7/8", but the Bantam is 13".

toivo · Oct 1, 2006

Lot of variables there, but the bottom line is that if you can shoot it comfortably, it fits you. The length of your arms is the important factor in LOP.

For some purposes you might want a longer barrel. All the standard 20-gauge barrels for a Model 500 will fit your gun.

As an aside, some tactical shotguns have shorter stocks because it's assumed that the user will be wearing body armor. A heavy coat would have the same effect.

Schlemer · Oct 1, 2006

Thanks for the input guys. I am just beginning to find out how versatile this little shot gun really is (didn't know I could shoot deer with it). I love being out of school (20 years already), I've learn a whole lot more from life (and the History channel)

Honestly though, I really love the fit and feel of the Bantam. I am however going to call Mossberg and order the upgrade stock (using my 50% off coupon, of course). I'm not sure about the forearm though. The one on the Bantam is perfect for me. Is there any significant difference with the upgrade?

toivo · Oct 2, 2006

Schlemer said:
I am however going to call Mossberg and order the upgrade stock (using my 50% off coupon, of course). I'm not sure about the forearm though. The one on the Bantam is perfect for me. Is there any significant difference with the upgrade?

I believe the "adult" forearm rides a little bit more forward on the mag tube--more toward the muzzle. If you're comfortable with the operation of the Bantam forearm, why change? Same goes for the stock, come to think of it. The upgrade stock isn't any better, just longer.

Mossberg Bantam

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