Mossberg 590s Problems And Their Solutions

If you’re a proud owner of this popular shotgun, chances are you’ve encountered a few issues along the way.

But don’t worry, you’re not alone! This powerful weapon has gained a loyal following for its durability and effectiveness in the field, but like any tool, it’s not immune to malfunctions and defects.

In this article, we’ll cover some of the most common problems with the Mossberg 590s and provide you with practical solutions to help you get back to using your firearm with confidence.

Some of the most common problems with Mossberg 90s are Failure To Eject, Shell Loading Issue, Failure To Fire, Jamming Issue, Extractor Issue, Trigger Reset Issue, Magazine Spring Issue, and Recoil Spring Issue.

Mossberg 590s Problems

Common Mossberg 590s Problems And Their Solutions

1. Failure To Eject

Weak or broken ejector spring – Over time, the spring may weaken and fail to eject shells properly. Replacing the spring should fix this.

Short stroking – Make sure to fully pull the pump back with force to ensure proper ejection.

Improper ammunition – Using incorrect size or power level ammo can cause ejection issues. Always use the recommended ammo.

Dirty chamber/action – Clean the chamber and action thoroughly to remove built-up residue causing friction and ejection problems.

Improperly assembled – Review the owner’s manual for correct assembly if the shotgun was disassembled for cleaning.

Worn/damaged ejector – A worn-down ejector can lead to malfunction. Have a gunsmith inspect and replace if necessary.

Gas system issue – For gas system models, improper gas regulation can affect cycling and ejection. Consult a gunsmith for inspection.

Magazine tube issues – Check for any binding in the magazine tube that may impede action and ejection. Inspect the tube and followers.

2. Shell Loading Issue

Dirty magazine tube – Debris inside can cause friction when feeding shells. Disassemble and clean thoroughly.

Improperly sized shells – Use correct gauge and length to avoid binding during feeding.

Magazine follower binding – Inspect and replace the plastic follower if swollen or warped.

Worn-out magazine spring – Replace if weakened to ensure proper shell lifting.

Loose magazine cap – Tighten to maintain proper alignment of the magazine tube.

Dented magazine tube – Replace if dented to prevent shell movement issues.

Short stroking – Fully cycle the action to ensure proper loading.

Gas system issue – Have a gunsmith inspect gas regulations for cycling and loading.

Damaged shell latch – Replace worn-out shell latch to secure shells during loading.

3. Failure To Fire

One common issue reported by Mossberg 590s owners is failure to fire, which can be frustrating and potentially dangerous. In this section, we will discuss potential causes and solutions for this problem.

Faulty Firing Pin:

A possible cause of failure to fire is a faulty firing pin. Over time, it can become damaged or worn out, resulting in weaker strikes on the primers. Check for visible signs of damage or wear and replace the firing pin if necessary.

Old/Faulty Ammunition:

Old or faulty ammunition can also cause failure to fire. Switching to fresh factory ammunition can help solve the problem. Properly inspect the ammunition before use and discard rounds with loose primers.

Dirty Trigger Group:

Built-up debris, grease, and contaminants in the trigger group can cause firing issues. Regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent this.

Defective Trigger Group:

If none of the above solutions work, a defective trigger group may be the cause. It may be necessary to have it replaced by a qualified gunsmith.

4. Jamming Issue

Dirty Action/Chamber

One main cause of jamming is a dirty action or chamber. Residue buildup can bind casings and hinder proper cycling. Regularly cleaning the action and chamber is crucial.

Thorough cleaning involves disassembling the shotgun, using a solvent to remove residue, and scrubbing dirt or grime. After cleaning, apply light lubricant for smooth operation.

Improperly Sized Shells

Using improperly sized shells can also cause jams. The 590s is designed for 2-3/4″ shells, so using longer shells like 3″ can lead to issues. Always consult the manual or a gun expert for the correct shell size.

Before purchasing shells, ensure they are the right size for your Mossberg 590s. Incorrect sized shells not only cause jams but also strain the shotgun.

Magazine Tube Binding

Frequent jamming could indicate damage or wear on the magazine tube. Inspect and replace the tube if necessary to prevent binding and ensure smooth operation.

Store your shotgun in a safe, dry place and handle it gently to avoid damage. Replace dented or rusted magazine tubes promptly.

Broken Action Bars

Broken action bars can cause jams as well. Regularly inspect and replace them if damaged to prevent seizing and ensure smooth operation.

Consult a gun expert or refer to the manual for guidance on replacing broken action bars. Timely replacement prevents further damage to your Mossberg 590s.

5. Extractor Issue

There have been reports from Mossberg 590s shooters that their extractors have become worn, bent, or broken over time.

This can lead to failures to extract spent shells properly, resulting in misfires or malfunctions. In some cases, the extractor may even break off completely, rendering the shotgun inoperable.

Some experts and gun enthusiasts believe that this issue is due to a design flaw in the Mossberg 590s extractor.

They claim that the extractor is not strong enough and can easily become damaged with regular use.

Others argue that proper maintenance and cleaning can prevent these issues from occurring.

Regardless of the cause, it is essential for Mossberg 590s owners to be aware of this potential problem and regularly inspect their extractors for any signs of wear or damage.

If any issues are identified, it is recommended to replace the extractor with a high-quality aftermarket part that is known for its durability.

6. Trigger Reset Issue

The cause of this issue can vary, but it is often due to a dirty or malfunctioning trigger mechanism. Over time, dirt and debris can build up in the trigger assembly, leading to misfires and failures in resetting the trigger.

To solve this problem, the first step is to thoroughly clean and lubricate the trigger mechanism.

This will help remove any dirt or debris that may be causing the issue. You can use a gun cleaning kit and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper cleaning techniques.

If cleaning does not solve the problem, it is best to have a professional gunsmith inspect and repair the trigger assembly.

They have the necessary tools and expertise to diagnose and fix any issues with the trigger mechanism.

It is also important to regularly maintain and clean your shotgun to prevent this issue from occurring in the future.

Regular maintenance will not only keep your firearm in good working condition but also ensure your safety while using it.

In addition, make sure to purchase high-quality ammunition that is compatible with your shotgun. Low-quality or mismatched ammunition can also cause issues with the trigger reset.

You can watch the video online if you are unable to find the solution.

7. Magazine Spring Issue

There are a few reasons why a Mossberg 590 may experience problems with its magazine spring.

One common cause is wear and tear over time, especially if the firearm has been used frequently without regular maintenance.

Exposure to moisture or other environmental factors can also cause rust or corrosion on the magazine spring, affecting its performance.

Another factor that can contribute to magazine spring issues is improper installation or reassembly after cleaning or disassembly.

If the magazine spring is not correctly placed or tensioned, it can result in feeding issues.

The good news is that magazine spring issues can be easily resolved with proper maintenance and care.

Regular cleaning and lubrication of the magazine spring can prevent rust and corrosion, ensuring smooth functioning.

If the issue has already occurred, the first step is to disassemble the shotgun and inspect the magazine spring for any damage or wear.

If necessary, the spring can be replaced with a new one from Mossberg or a reputable aftermarket manufacturer.

8. Recoil Spring Issue

  • Weak recoil spring – Over time and high round counts, recoil springs can fatigue and lose tension. This can cause short stroking and cycling issues. Replacing the spring will typically resolve this.
  • Recoil spring installed incorrectly – If reassembled improperly after cleaning, the spring can bind or not sit properly. Refer to the owner’s manual for proper spring installation.
  • Bent or kinked spring – Damage to the recoil spring from impacts or improper maintenance can prevent it from moving smoothly. Inspect the spring and replace if damaged.
  • Stuck spring guide – The recoil spring guide rod can become stuck in the receiver due to the build-up of debris or corrosion. Thorough cleaning and lubrication should resolve this.
  • Binding action sleeve – If the action slide tube is dented or bent, it can cause the recoil spring to bind when cycling. The action sleeve may need replacement.
  • Insufficient spring tension – Using a recoil spring with a lower tension rating than factory spec can cause short stroking issues. Install the correct spring.

9. Hard Safety Button Mechanism

This issue has led to some concern among users, as a malfunctioning safety button could potentially compromise the safety of the user and those around them.

However, there are steps that can be taken to mitigate this problem.

First and foremost, regular maintenance and cleaning of the firearm can help ensure that the hard safety button mechanism remains in good working condition.

Additionally, there are aftermarket modifications and accessories available that can make the safety button easier to operate, such as extended buttons or textured grips.

3 Best Alternatives To Mossberg 590s 

1. Remington 870

The Remington 870 is a classic and well-respected pump-action shotgun that has been in production for over 60 years.

It offers a wide range of models and configurations, making it suitable for various purposes such as hunting, home defense, and sport shooting. Like the Mossberg 590, the Remington 870 is also known for its reliability and durability.

Both guns have a similar capacity of 6 rounds in the tubular magazine, but the Remington 870 has a slightly longer barrel length, which can provide better accuracy at longer ranges.

2. Benelli Nova

The Benelli Nova is a relatively newer pump-action shotgun compared to the Mossberg 590 and Remington 870.

However, it has quickly gained popularity among gun enthusiasts for its innovative design and features.

One of its most notable features is the polymer stock and receiver, which makes the gun lightweight and weather-resistant. It also has a larger capacity of 7 rounds in the tubular magazine, providing more firepower than the Mossberg 590.

3. Winchester SXP

The Winchester SXP is another excellent alternative to the Mossberg 590. It offers a smooth and reliable pump action, along with an ergonomic design for comfortable handling.

Like the other shotguns on this list, it has a capacity of 6 rounds in the tubular magazine.

However, what sets the Winchester SXP apart is its speed and ease of use. The gun has a rotary bolt design that allows for fast and smooth cycling, making it ideal for hunting or competitive shooting.

Frequently Asked Questions (Faqs)

My Mossberg 590s is not cycling properly. What should I do?

If your Mossberg 590s is not cycling properly, check the action bars for any signs of damage or wear. Additionally, ensure that the bolt slide is properly lubricated and moves freely.

Is the Mossberg 590s a reliable gun?

Overall, the Mossberg 590s is considered to be a reliable gun. However, like any firearm, it may experience occasional issues that can be addressed with proper maintenance and troubleshooting.

What is the capacity of the Mossberg 590s?

The Mossberg 590s has a standard magazine capacity of 9 rounds. However, there are aftermarket options available to increase the magazine capacity if desired.

Is the Mossberg 590s worth the money?

The Mossberg 590s is considered to be a good value for its performance and features. It offers reliable operation, a solid build quality, and a variety of options for customization.

What type of ammo should I use with the Mossberg 590s?

The Mossberg 590s is designed to handle a wide variety of ammunition types. However, for optimal performance, it is recommended to use standard, high-quality ammunition that is suitable for defensive purposes.

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