Mossberg 835..older model vs newer model

[haganbd1]

Hey guys. I got a question i need some of your thoughts on. I got a buddy looking to buy a mossberg 835 for this upcoming turkey season. We were wondering if there is any big difference in the older style 835 and the newer models. Do they shoot the same? Pattern any different? If i can just get pros and cons it would help him in making his decision. Thanks guys.

[Tom Foolery]

I think the only real difference between old and new is a ported barrel on the newer models.  From what I have seen the old and new 835's have little to no difference in their patterns.  They kick like hell and throw great patterns with nearly all shot sizes, shell sizes and choke constrictions.


Mine is an old 24" nonported concrete recoil padded demon, but it shoots good: 

http://oldgobbler.com/Forum/index.php/topic,17779.msg196054.html#msg196054

[haganbd1]

Ok thanks foolery. I didn't realize the older ones weren't ported. Really appreciate your input.

[davisd9]

Ok thanks foolery. I didn't realize the older ones weren't ported. Really appreciate your input.

The barrels in the new ones are of better quality from what I hear. My buddy has an older one and when he put it side by side to a newer one he said the newer one had a better barrel.

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[Tom Foolery]

Ok thanks foolery. I didn't realize the older ones weren't ported. Really appreciate your input.

The barrels in the new ones are of better quality from what I hear. My buddy has an older one and when he put it side by side to a newer one he said the newer one had a better barrel.

Sent from my KFTT using Tapatalk 2

That could be, mine looked like it was cut with a chisel.  It took much polishing to get mine smoothed out.

[ILIKEHEVI-13]

All 835's will shoot.  All 835's have a .775 10GA bore.  In my honest opinion, that is why they shoot so damn good.  And a 835 don't kick any harder than another gun of the exact same weight shooting the exact same size load and shell.  Get rid of the hard recol pad and put a Sims on it.  Makes a world of difference.  And yes the earlier model 835's didn't have ported barrels.  They started making the 835 in 1987.   Mine is like a 1996 or 97 model.  Nothing I have or had will out shoot it. 

[haganbd1]

Ok guys appreciate the input.

[dirt road ninja]

If the bore is smooth it ought to shoot. I would also make sure the ejector springs are strong and the ejector sharp. If buying it used those are three things that are likely to be worn or damaged. It also a good idea to check out the indent on the inside top of the receiver where the bolt locks up to. Check for chips or a rounded edge if it has either on pass on it. Old or new they all rattle and have a sloppy feel to them, but they fo sho shoot.