Mossberg’s staple pump 12-gauge shotgun, the model 500, has been riding in police cruisers and serving as a home-defense gun for more than 50 years. The ATI (American Tactical Incorporated) model provides some new furniture to increase the functionality of this tried and true classic. The six-position telescoping stock is ATI’s TactLite and it is fitted with the company’s Scorpion butt pad. Length of pull can be adjusted from 10.75 inches to 14.62 inches. ATI’s Halo side saddle is bolted to the top of the receiver and provides nine mounting points for shell holders. Nine removable shell holders are also included. The ATI Halo Heatshield provides a blade front sight, and a notch in the receiver-mounted Picatinny acts as a rear sight. At the front of the heat shield are two 2.5-inch Picatinny rails for lights or lasers.
Shooting the ATI Tactical was easy and comfortable. The Mossberg was possibly the lightest recoiling gun all day, it is easy to load and the controls are easy to use and locate. One complaint from all of the judges was the pistol grip makes it impossible to reach the ambidextrous safety mounted on the back of the receiver without taking your hand off of the grip. Another suggestion was to add a more traditional rear sight.
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