Getting to Know the Mossberg 935 Turkey
The thrill of the hunt, the gobble echoing through the pre-dawn silence, the anticipation building with every rustle in the leaves – there’s nothing quite like turkey hunting. But success in this challenging sport relies heavily on the right equipment, and the shotgun you choose is arguably the most critical piece. For hunters looking for a potent and affordable option, the Mossberg 935 Turkey has consistently remained a popular contender. This in-depth review will dissect this shotgun, evaluating its features, performance, and suitability for the dedicated turkey hunter. Our goal is to give you a comprehensive understanding so you can make an informed decision on whether the Mossberg 935 Turkey is the right tool for your next spring hunt. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a beginner eager to bag your first tom, this guide is designed to provide the insights you need.
The legacy of the Mossberg brand is built on delivering reliable and practical firearms, and the Mossberg 935 Turkey, is a clear reflection of that philosophy. Built upon the successful foundations of the Mossberg 500 and 835 platforms, the 935 offers a more powerful experience, specifically tailored for the demands of turkey hunting.
The history of the Mossberg 935 series reflects the evolution of shotgun design. The goal was to offer a 12-gauge platform that could handle the increased performance offered by 3.5-inch shotshells. These larger shells provide significantly more payload capacity, enabling hunters to reach out further and deliver devastating patterns on their targets.
The Mossberg 935 Turkey’s purpose built design focuses on efficiency. The shotgun is designed for taking down these challenging birds at distance. This makes the model a favorite of those who favor ambush hunting. Its affordability, combined with the features it offers, makes it a tempting option for new and experienced hunters.
Key Features and Specifications
The Mossberg 935 Turkey comes equipped with several important features that make it attractive to the target hunting community. One of the first specifications that grabs hunters’ attention is its 12-gauge chambering and its ability to handle the powerful 3.5-inch shells. This is the cornerstone of its turkey-hunting prowess. This shell size packs a considerably larger payload of shot compared to the more common 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells. This translates to more pellets on target at longer ranges, increasing the odds of a clean kill.
The 935 Turkey offers a variety of barrel lengths, with the common options being 22-inch or 24-inch barrels. The barrel is a crucial component in pattern performance. The shorter barrels tend to be more maneuverable, which is advantageous in the brush and other tight conditions common in turkey hunting. The barrel’s constriction is a critical element in forming a tight pattern. The gun often ships with a turkey choke tube.
The capacity of the Mossberg 935 Turkey is typically 3+1 rounds. This configuration balances the need for enough firepower with the legal requirements regarding the number of shells allowed in a shotgun during hunting.
The overall weight of the shotgun is another important factor for hunters. It is not overly heavy, making it easier to carry for extended periods in the field. A well-balanced shotgun is easier to shoulder quickly and accurately, which is vital when a wary tom appears suddenly.
The Mossberg 935 Turkey is often available in various camouflage patterns. From basic camo coatings to more elaborate designs, the Mossberg 935 provides concealment options tailored to different environments and preferences. The gun’s synthetic stocks are commonly offered and are known for durability. They are resistant to weather and wear, making the gun suitable for use in all kinds of hunting.
The gas operating system of the 935 is one of its defining design elements. This system plays a crucial role in managing recoil. By utilizing gas bled from the fired shell to operate the action, the gas system absorbs some of the recoil energy, resulting in a smoother shooting experience compared to inertia-driven or pump-action shotguns. This reduction in recoil can be particularly welcome when shooting the hard-hitting 3.5-inch turkey loads.
Design and Construction: A Closer Look
The receiver, which is the heart of the shotgun, provides structural integrity and houses the action components. The receiver of the Mossberg 935 is constructed from high-quality materials, ensuring durability. The receiver is designed to withstand the pressures generated by the powerful 3.5-inch shells. The loading and ejection mechanisms are designed for smooth operation. This facilitates fast and reliable reloading, which is critical when a follow-up shot is needed.
The barrel is another key part of the Mossberg 935’s design. The barrel is made from steel, and it’s built to withstand the pressures of high-performance shotshells. The fiber-optic sights, mounted on a ventilated rib, offer a bright and easy-to-acquire sight picture in varying light conditions. It can be particularly helpful in low-light situations, such as dawn and dusk, when turkeys are most active. Also, the drilled and tapped receiver allows hunters to mount scope bases or other accessories, which can enhance the accuracy and range of the shotgun.
The stock and forend are designed with both comfort and functionality in mind. The synthetic stocks are crafted from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of hunting. The forend is designed for a comfortable grip and provides the shooter with good control. The recoil pad is installed to help absorb the impact of the shotshells. The design of the stock affects how the gun shoulders and points.
The trigger on the Mossberg 935 Turkey is a critical point of contact. The trigger pull weight is within an acceptable range. A clean and predictable trigger pull is essential for accurate shooting. The trigger itself feels good and provides the user with a clear and consistent pull.
Putting It to the Test: Performance in the Field
This section will assess how the Mossberg 935 Turkey performs in real-world conditions.
Accuracy is paramount in turkey hunting. To test the Mossberg 935, the shotgun should be mounted on a benchrest, and then shot at targets at ranges from 30 to 50 yards. Various turkey loads are used to assess patterning. The results are carefully measured to determine the shot pattern density.
Recoil is a factor, especially when shooting powerful 3.5-inch shells. The gas-operated system aims to mitigate recoil, which allows shooters to stay on target. It’s important to judge how the recoil affects comfort during prolonged shooting sessions.
Handling and balance also play a role in practical use. Maneuverability is especially useful in the woods. Easy shouldering and pointing is important when a bird appears.
Reliability is the most important aspect to focus on. The shotgun’s ability to cycle through a variety of loads is tested extensively. A reliable shotgun that always performs is critical to hunting success.
The Good and the Not-So-Good: Weighing the Pros and Cons
The Mossberg 935 Turkey offers a great balance of features and cost, making it an attractive option for hunters.
What We Like:
The Mossberg 935 Turkey offers an attractive entry price. The 3.5-inch chamber allows hunters to capitalize on high-performance shotshells. It is a gas-operated shotgun, and that’s a feature found on much more expensive models. It is also very reliable for many hunters, and it’s built to last. Finally, a wide range of camo patterns lets hunters select a shotgun that blends in with their hunting environments.
Areas to Consider:
Recoil can be a concern, particularly with heavier loads. Some hunters may experience a break-in period. Some users have reported issues with aftermarket choke tubes.
Comparing the Mossberg 935 Turkey
The Mossberg 935 Turkey competes in a crowded field of turkey shotguns. Its price point positions it favorably against more premium options.
Versus the Remington 870, a classic pump-action, the 935 offers a gas-operated action, resulting in milder recoil.
Comparing it to the Benelli Nova, another popular choice, the 935 often comes in at a lower price point.
The Mossberg 935 caters to hunters looking for a balance of affordability and performance.
Making the Right Choice: Buying Tips and Recommendations
The Mossberg 935 Turkey is an excellent choice for budget-conscious hunters. Consider this shotgun if you’re new to turkey hunting. Experienced hunters will also find that it is a worthy weapon.
Before buying a Mossberg 935 Turkey, assess its fit and feel. Select a camo pattern that matches your primary hunting environments. Consider the effects of recoil. Set your budget, and stick to it.
Choose the right choke tube for your hunting needs. This is vital for achieving tight, effective patterns at various ranges. Always match your ammunition to your choke and the desired result.
A good quality sling can make carrying the shotgun easier. Add a scope or red dot sight for enhanced accuracy. Keep cleaning kits on hand.
Final Thoughts: Is the Mossberg 935 Turkey Right for You?
The Mossberg 935 Turkey presents a compelling package for turkey hunters. Its gas-operated action helps to mitigate felt recoil. This makes it a comfortable and practical choice. It offers good accuracy potential. The range of camo patterns and its affordable price makes it a great bargain for a range of buyers.
Consider this shotgun if you’re looking for a reliable, effective, and reasonably priced shotgun for your turkey hunts. The Mossberg 935 Turkey offers a lot of value. It is a tool designed to improve your chances of a successful turkey hunt.
