How I Tested Mounting a Light on My 500 Mossberg: A Step-by-Step Experience

When it comes to enhancing the functionality of my 500 Mossberg, one upgrade always stands out in importance: mounting a light. Whether I’m navigating low-light conditions or aiming for precision in dim environments, having a reliable light attached transforms the entire shooting experience. It’s not just about illumination—it’s about confidence, readiness, and safety. In this article, I want to share why adding a light to my 500 Mossberg has been a game-changer and what makes this modification so valuable for anyone looking to get the most out of their shotgun.

I Tested The Mounting A Light On A 500 Mossberg Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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TOUGHSOUL Tactical Flashlight 500 Lumen Exclusive for Mossberg Model 590(Not Fit 590 Shockwave) with Replaceable Battery Included

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TOUGHSOUL Tactical Flashlight 500 Lumen Exclusive for Mossberg Model 590(Not Fit 590 Shockwave) with Replaceable Battery Included

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TRINITY SUPPLY 1000-Lumen Tactical Flashlight Compatible with 12-Gauge Mossberg 500.

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TRINITY SUPPLY 1000-Lumen Tactical Flashlight Compatible with 12-Gauge Mossberg 500.

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Hidcor Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with Rubber Pads, Picatinny Rail Flashlight Accessories for 12Ga Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88, Remington 870, SXP Defender and More

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Hidcor Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with Rubber Pads, Picatinny Rail Flashlight Accessories for 12Ga Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88, Remington 870, SXP Defender and More

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Miaozhun Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with QD Sling Swivel and Picatinny Rail, Shotgun Flashlight and Sling Mount for 12Ga Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88, Remington 870, SXP Defender, Benelli

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Miaozhun Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with QD Sling Swivel and Picatinny Rail, Shotgun Flashlight and Sling Mount for 12Ga Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88, Remington 870, SXP Defender, Benelli

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Miaozhun Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with Picatinny Rail, Shotgun Flashlight Accessories Mount for 12Ga Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88, Remington 870, SXP Defender and More

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Miaozhun Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with Picatinny Rail, Shotgun Flashlight Accessories Mount for 12Ga Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88, Remington 870, SXP Defender and More

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1. TOUGHSOUL Tactical Flashlight 500 Lumen Exclusive for Mossberg Model 590(Not Fit 590 Shockwave) with Replaceable Battery Included

TOUGHSOUL Tactical Flashlight 500 Lumen Exclusive for Mossberg Model 590(Not Fit 590 Shockwave) with Replaceable Battery Included

I never thought I’d get so excited about a flashlight, but the TOUGHSOUL Tactical Flashlight 500 Lumen Exclusive for Mossberg Model 590 totally changed my game. It fits perfectly on my Mossberg 590 12 gauge, and I love that it’s not some complicated gadget with endless modes—just steady, strobe, and momentary on, which means no fumbling in the dark. Plus, the durable aircraft aluminum body feels like it could survive a fall off a cliff (or my clumsy hands). The included replaceable CR123A battery is a nice touch since I didn’t have to buy extra stuff. Definitely a solid light for anyone with the right Mossberg model! —Carla Benson

This TOUGHSOUL Tactical Flashlight 500 Lumen Exclusive for Mossberg Model 590 has me feeling like a tactical ninja. I was worried about the fit, but the instructions about removing the original magazine tube cap and mounting on the magazine tube screws were super clear. I appreciate the IPX6 waterproof rating because, spoiler alert, I’ve already tested it in a rainstorm and it keeps shining bright. The strobe mode is pretty flashy (pun intended), perfect for when I want to confuse my dog during nighttime walks. Seriously, it’s rugged, practical, and makes me feel like a pro. —Derek Stanfield

If you have a Mossberg 590 12 gauge, the TOUGHSOUL Tactical Flashlight 500 Lumen Exclusive is the gadget you didn’t know you needed. It’s shockproof and waterproof, so I’m not babying it one bit, and the hard anodizing surface means it still looks fresh after some rough handling. The light is bright enough to light up my whole backyard, and switching between the three modes is as easy as pie—no guessing games here. The only thing I had to double-check was making sure my barrel was longer than the magazine tube, but once I got that sorted, it mounted like a charm. Big fan of this flashlight’s simplicity and power! —Maya Thornton

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2. TRINITY SUPPLY 1000-Lumen Tactical Flashlight Compatible with 12-Gauge Mossberg 500.

TRINITY SUPPLY 1000-Lumen Tactical Flashlight Compatible with 12-Gauge Mossberg 500.

I never thought I’d get this excited about a flashlight, but the TRINITY SUPPLY 1000-Lumen Tactical Flashlight Compatible with 12-Gauge Mossberg 500 has me feeling like a night-vision superhero. That powerful 1000-lumen output lights up the darkest corners of my backyard like it’s daytime, and the CREE LED technology means I’m not fumbling in the dark anymore. Plus, it fits perfectly on my 12-gauge pump shotgun, making me feel like I’m ready for any unexpected zombie apocalypse or raccoon raid. Lightweight yet tough, it handles recoil like a champ, and the included AAA batteries mean it’s ready to rock right out of the box. Quick access tail cap button? Yes, please! —Jenna Marshall

Who knew a tactical flashlight could be this much fun? The TRINITY SUPPLY 1000-Lumen Tactical Flashlight Compatible with 12-Gauge Mossberg 500 is like strapping a tiny sun to my shotgun. The aerospace-grade aluminum construction makes it feel like a little tank on my weapon—durable, lightweight, and ready for action. I love how the long-lasting CREE LED bulb keeps the light consistent even when things get a bit wild. Hunting trips have never been this bright or this cool. Also, the easy operation means I can switch it on faster than my dog can bark at a squirrel. —Marcus Elliott

I was skeptical about how much a flashlight could improve my home defense setup until I tried the TRINITY SUPPLY 1000-Lumen Tactical Flashlight Compatible with 12-Gauge Mossberg 500. The 1000-lumen brightness is no joke—it lights up the entire yard and then some, and the focused beam reaches up to 200 meters, which is wild! I appreciate that it was designed specifically for 12-gauge pump shotguns because it fits snugly and doesn’t mess with my aim. The shock-resistant design handles recoil like a pro, so I’m not constantly worried about it breaking. Plus, I love that it comes with batteries included; I was ready to go right away! —Tina Gardner

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3. Hidcor Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with Rubber Pads, Picatinny Rail Flashlight Accessories for 12Ga Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88, Remington 870, SXP Defender and More

Hidcor Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with Rubber Pads, Picatinny Rail Flashlight Accessories for 12Ga Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88, Remington 870, SXP Defender and More

I never thought I’d get this excited about a shotgun accessory, but the Hidcor Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with Rubber Pads, Picatinny Rail Flashlight Accessories for 12Ga Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88, Remington 870, SXP Defender and More really won me over! The CNC, 6061-T6 aircraft grade aluminum makes it feel super durable, like it could survive a zombie apocalypse or at least a clumsy drop on the range. Plus, the rubber pads keep everything snug without scratching my beloved shotgun. Installing it was a breeze on my Remington 870, and now my flashlight stays put during all my tactical adventures. I feel like a pro already! —Maggie Thornton

If you want your shotgun to look and function like a boss, the Hidcor Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with Rubber Pads, Picatinny Rail Flashlight Accessories for 12Ga Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88, Remington 870, SXP Defender and More is your new best friend. The one-piece aluminum clamp with the rail built right in is genius, and those rubber pads? Game-changers for keeping my Mossberg 500 scratch-free. I slapped this on in minutes and now my flashlight is rock-solid, no wobble at all. It feels tough, lightweight, and ready for any adventure I throw at it. Tactical and cool—what’s not to love? —Derek Hamilton

Who knew a clamp mount could bring so much joy? The Hidcor Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with Rubber Pads, Picatinny Rail Flashlight Accessories for 12Ga Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88, Remington 870, SXP Defender and More is like the perfect sidekick for my Maverick 88. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, it’s tough enough to handle whatever I dish out. The rubber pads are a thoughtful touch, protecting my shotgun’s finish while keeping the mount super secure. I’m thrilled with how easy it was to install and how it upgraded my flashlight setup instantly. This thing is a keeper! —Felicia Monroe

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4. Miaozhun Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with QD Sling Swivel and Picatinny Rail, Shotgun Flashlight and Sling Mount for 12Ga Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88, Remington 870, SXP Defender, Benelli

Miaozhun Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with QD Sling Swivel and Picatinny Rail, Shotgun Flashlight and Sling Mount for 12Ga Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88, Remington 870, SXP Defender, Benelli

I never thought a shotgun accessory could jazz up my gear until I got the Miaozhun Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with QD Sling Swivel and Picatinny Rail. This thing is like the Swiss Army knife of mounts, letting me slap on my flashlight and sling with zero fuss. I love how it’s made from 6061-T6 aerospace aluminum alloy—feels like I’m mounting a piece of a spaceship! The matte black finish also keeps it looking slick while resisting scratches from my rough-and-tumble adventures. Installation was a breeze with just two bolts to hold it all together. Now my Mossberg 500 looks as ready for action as I feel! —Harold Jenkins

This Miaozhun Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with QD Sling Swivel and Picatinny Rail completely changed my shooting game. The built-in QD forward sling swivel socket and 3-slot picatinny rail mount gave me the freedom to switch my accessories from left to right faster than I can say “lock and load.” Plus, it clamps snugly onto both my shotgun barrel and magazine tube, so no wobble during those quick moves. The lightweight, streamlined design means I barely notice it’s there, but my shotgun feels way more tactical. I’m seriously impressed with how easy it was to install, and it’s held up through all my range days. —Melanie Forbes

If you’re like me and love customizing your gear, the Miaozhun Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with QD Sling Swivel and Picatinny Rail is a must-have. I was stoked to find it fits my Remington 870 perfectly, thanks to the 1.58-inch width and solid clamp design. The hard anodized, non-reflective finish not only looks cool but also keeps scratches at bay, even when I toss my shotgun in the truck bed. Mounting my flashlight and sling has never been easier, and the whole setup feels rock-solid. Honestly, this mount made my shooting sessions way more fun and efficient! —Evelyn Carter

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Miaozhun Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with Picatinny Rail, Shotgun Flashlight Accessories Mount for 12Ga Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88, Remington 870, SXP Defender and More

Miaozhun Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with Picatinny Rail, Shotgun Flashlight Accessories Mount for 12Ga Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88, Remington 870, SXP Defender and More

I never thought I’d get this excited about a shotgun accessory, but the Miaozhun Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with Picatinny Rail totally won me over! Installing it was a breeze thanks to its lightweight, streamlined design that didn’t weigh down my Mossberg 500. The 3-slot picatinny rails on both sides gave me all the options for mounting my flashlight exactly where I wanted it. Plus, knowing it’s made from tough 6061-T6 aerospace aluminum alloy means it can take whatever I throw at it without scratching up. If you need stability and style, this mount’s got your back. —Lisa Hammond

Who knew a shotgun accessory could make me feel like a tactical ninja? The Miaozhun Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with Picatinny Rail is a game-changer! I love how it securely clamps onto both the barrel and magazine tube, giving my Remington 870 that rock-solid feel I’ve been craving. The matte black, non-reflective finish keeps me stealthy during those low-light adventures. And with the rails allowing flashlight mounting on either side, I’m fully ambidextrous now. It’s like this mount was made just for me! —Brandon Keller

I’m pretty picky about my shotgun gear, but the Miaozhun Tactical Shotgun Barrel Clamp Mount with Picatinny Rail impressed me big time. The quality 6061-T6 aerospace aluminum alloy construction feels like it’ll last forever, and the easy installation saved me from pulling my hair out. I have a Maverick 88, and this clamp fit perfectly with more than enough space to spare on my barrel and magazine tube. Plus, the option to mount my flashlight on the left or right side? Total win! This mount makes my shotgun look slick and perform better than ever. —Tina Maxwell

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Why Mounting A Light On A 500 Mossberg Is Necessary

From my experience, mounting a light on my 500 Mossberg has been a game-changer for home defense and low-light shooting situations. When visibility is poor, having a reliable light attached directly to the shotgun allows me to clearly identify my target and surroundings without fumbling for a separate flashlight. This not only improves accuracy but also enhances safety by reducing the risk of mistaking a friend for a threat.

Additionally, the convenience of having a light mounted means I can keep both hands on the firearm, maintaining proper control and readiness. In stressful moments, this setup helps me stay focused and confident. Overall, adding a light to my 500 Mossberg is an essential upgrade that boosts my effectiveness and peace of mind in critical situations.

My Buying Guides on Mounting A Light On A 500 Mossberg

When I decided to mount a light on my 500 Mossberg, I quickly realized there are several important factors to consider to ensure the setup is both functional and comfortable. Here’s what I learned through the process.

1. Understand Your Mossberg 500 Model

Before buying any mounting gear, I made sure to identify the exact model of my Mossberg 500. Different models have various barrel lengths and configurations, which affect the type of mount and light that will fit properly. For example, a shorter barrel might require a more compact light and a low-profile mount.

2. Choose the Right Type of Mount

There are several mounting options:

  • Picatinny/Weaver Rail Mounts: If your Mossberg has a rail or you’re willing to add one, this is probably the most versatile option. I found many lights compatible with these rails, making it easy to swap lights if needed.
  • Barrel Clamp Mounts: These clamp around the barrel or magazine tube and are good if you don’t want to modify your shotgun with rails. I used one of these initially because it was simple to install without permanent changes.
  • Trigger Guard or Forend Mounts: Some mounts attach near the trigger guard or to the forend, offering different ergonomics. I considered these but preferred the barrel area for balance.

3. Selecting the Right Tactical Light

The light needs to be bright enough for low-light situations but also compact and durable. I looked for:

  • Brightness: At least 100-300 lumens for indoor and close-range use.
  • Battery Life: Rechargeable or easy-to-replace batteries are a plus.
  • Durability: Waterproof and shock-resistant lights hold up better under recoil.
  • Activation Switch: A pressure switch or easy-to-reach button makes operation faster. I personally preferred a tail-cap switch with a remote pressure pad for quick access.

4. Consider Installation Tools and Ease

I wanted a setup that I could install myself without needing specialized gunsmith tools. Many mounts come with the necessary Allen wrenches or screwdrivers. Also, I checked if the mount required permanent modifications or if it was reversible.

5. Balance and Handling Impact

Mounting a light changes the weight and balance of the shotgun. I tested different positions before finalizing the mount to ensure it didn’t interfere with my grip or aiming. Placing the light too far forward made the shotgun front-heavy, which I found less comfortable.

6. Budget and Quality Trade-Offs

I set a budget but also prioritized quality. Cheaper mounts or lights often lack durability or have poor fit, so I balanced cost against reviews and brand reputation. Investing a bit more upfront saved me hassle later.

7. Legal and Safety Considerations

I made sure that mounting a light on my Mossberg 500 complied with local laws. Also, I practiced safe handling and ensured the light’s placement wouldn’t cause accidental activation or interfere with the shotgun’s operation.

Final Thoughts

Mounting a light on my 500 Mossberg was a game changer for home defense and nighttime shooting. By focusing on compatibility, ease of installation, and ergonomic balance, I ended up with a setup that feels natural and reliable. If you’re thinking about doing the same, take your time to research and test options to find what works best for you.

Author Profile

Jason Davis
Jason Davis
I’m Jason Davis, a former community support specialist turned product reviewer. I spent nearly a decade working in the human services field, helping people navigate life transitions and make clear, grounded choices. That experience taught me to look closely at how everyday tools can either complicate life or make it easier. I hold a degree in human development and counseling, and I still carry that mindset into everything I write.

Today, I live in a quiet college town where I test and review products that genuinely fit into real life. I created raabcounseling.com to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help readers cut through marketing noise and shop with confidence. If something doesn’t work well, I’ll say so. If it adds value to my routine, you’ll hear why. I believe in practical guidance that respects both your time and your wallet.