Any difference in a '82 Mossberg 500 -vs- today?

[FunGramps]

Hello all,

I'm looking for a basic non-safe queen that I don't have to worry about when I'm out in the field.

I've found a new, unfired, 1982 wood Mossberg 500 with the ventilated rib, and accuchoke choke at the muzzle for $420.00, shipped and insured.

Are there advantages or disadvantages between the 80' and today's gun?
The wood looks to be of higher quality in the 80's gun. Then I wonder about the strength of the steel barrel?

Also, is the trigger guard plastic on the older gun?

Thanks for your input!

[Electrod47]

Yes the older ones had the plastic trigger guard. And yes the 80's version is a tad better than the newer ones in my opinion. Slicker action, tad better wood and fit. Worth an extra 100 bucks premium??? yeah, to me.

[FunGramps]

Originally Posted by Electrod47

Yes the older ones had the plastic trigger guard. And yes the 80's version is a tad better than the newer ones in my opinion. Slicker action, tad better wood and fit. Worth an extra 100 bucks premium??? yeah, to me.

Thanks for the input!

[The Happy kaboomer]

By an 870......Better gun all round.

[WmMunny]

Originally Posted by Electrod47

Yes the older ones had the plastic trigger guard. And yes the 80's version is a tad better than the newer ones in my opinion. Slicker action, tad better wood and fit. Worth an extra 100 bucks premium??? yeah, to me.

I think the safety slider button was also plastic with metal drop-in replacements just a couple of bucks.

[Nathan]

Then I wonder about the strength of the steel barrel?

Why? 1980’s steel is basically same as today. 1880’s might be suspect!