Saw it off?

[PWF3]

Simple question: What would keep me from sawing off my own 12ga Mossberg? Is there any change in the patterning? Most (all) gunsmiths around here won't even consider it. Length is no problem, I'm only wanting to cut off 2" or so. One said that by the time he cut it off and "crowned" it, I would be better off buying a new barrel. What's "crowned" anyway?

 

[Vellcrow]

What will you be using the shotgun for after it is cut? If for home defense and buckshot, nothing notable will change, even slugs won't be that much different. I have cut many of my HD shotguns and never had them crowned...no issues after doing either.

 

[PWF3]

Thanks Vellcrow, that's what I thought. It would be for Home Defense. How did you cut it off? just in the shop with a hacksaw and lots of TLC?

 

[Vellcrow]

Thanks Vellcrow, that's what I thought. It would be for Home Defense. How did you cut it off? just in the shop with a hacksaw and lots of TLC?

My first time was with a hacksaw, file and cold blue kit. I have also used a Dremel tool to help cut or clean things up.

Just take your time and make sure you don't take off too much.

 

[Floyd_Droid]

My question is WHY would you want to saw one off??
Why not sell it and get a Mossberg 500 or a Winchester 1300 defender?

Sawed off shotguns are only good at close range....

BTW isn't there some legalities about how short the barrel can be?

 

[hoytinak]

Before you cut it....what lenght barrel you got? If it's the 20" threaded for chokes I've got a 18.5" I'll trade you.

 

[Vellcrow]

BTW isn't there some legalities about how short the barrel can be?

Yes, it must 18" or longer.

 

[TexasHK]

Actually,
If you're talking a Shotgun...your barrel must be 18.5" and it is best to be a bit conservative on that as you never know the mind on of the officer you may encounter who inspects your weapon.

Rifles can go down to 16" barrels, but just live by the 18.5" shotgun barrel length rule.

 

[nalioth]

Actually,
If you're talking a Shotgun...your barrel must be 18.5" and it is best to be a bit conservative on that as you never know the mind on of the officer you may encounter who inspects your weapon.

Rifles can go down to 16" barrels, but just live by the 18.5" shotgun barrel length rule.

Federal law states 18".

Lots of folks defer to the "It must be 18.5"." sentiment for safety reasons ( if you cut your barrel at 18", but make a crooked cut, and any part of it is under 18", you're in possession of an unregistered SBS - cutting at 18.5 keeps the 'crooked-cutters' safe ).

 

[Texas1911]

Federal law states 18".

Lots of folks defer to the "It must be 18.5"." sentiment for safety reasons ( if you cut your barrel at 18", but make a crooked cut, and any part of it is under 18", you're in possession of an unregistered SBS - cutting at 18.5 keeps the 'crooked-cutters' safe ).

LOL, crooked cut on a 12-gauge.

"I don't know why my shotgun kicks to the left so much".