Description
Picture this: you’re tucked into a ground blind before dawn, the Missouri woods are dead quiet, and you hear that first gobble echo through the timber. You need a shotgun that’s reliable, hits hard, and blends in. That’s the exact scenario where the Mossberg 835 Pump 12ga 24.0″ 3.5″ Mossy Oak Obsession Synthetic Stock earns its keep. I’ve put everything from light target loads to punishing 3.5″ magnums through this platform, and it’s built for the field.
So, what is it? The Mossberg 835 is a versatile, hard-hitting pump-action shotgun chambered for 3.5″ magnum shells. It features a 24″ vent-rib barrel with Accu-Choke system, a durable Mossy Oak Obsession camo synthetic stock, and a 5+1 capacity. At $398.93, it’s a purpose-built hunting tool that’s drop-in ready for the season—no gunsmithing required to get you from the safe to the field.
Let’s talk about that 3.5″ chamber. Here’s the thing—it gives you serious versatility. You can run standard 2.75″ field loads for doves or clays, 3″ magnums for ducks and geese, and the full-power 3.5″ shells for those extra-long turkey shots or pass-shooting waterfowl. The overbored barrel (it’s wider than a standard 12-gauge) helps reduce felt recoil and patterns shot tighter, which I’ve seen firsthand with Federal Premium TSS loads. The dual extractors and anti-jam elevator are pure Mossberg toughness, cycling everything I’ve fed it without a hiccup.
The Mossy Oak Obsession camo isn’t just for show. It’s a full coverage dip on the synthetic stock and forend, plus the barrel and receiver are finished in a matching non-reflective matte. In the early season timber or a brushed-up ground blind, it simply disappears. The 24″ barrel is a sweet spot—maneuverable in tight cover but still giving you a smooth swing for wingshooting. Weighing in at about 7.5 pounds, it’s easy to carry all day but has enough heft to soak up some of that magnum recoil.
| Gauge | 12 (3.5″ Chamber) |
|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 24″ Vent Rib |
| Choke System | Accu-Choke (Modified tube included) |
| Capacity | 5+1 |
| Stock | Mossy Oak Obsession Synthetic |
| Safety | Tang-Mounted |
Pros & Cons
The pros are clear: massive shell versatility, proven Mossberg pump reliability, and effective camo right out of the box. The overbored barrel does improve patterns. The tang safety is intuitive and easy to operate with gloves on. On the flip side, it’s a dedicated hunting gun. The long action needed for 3.5″ shells means it won’t cycle shorter 2.75″ shells as smoothly as a dedicated 2.75″ gun, and the synthetic stock is functional but not fancy. That said, for under $400, you’re getting serious capability.
Who is this for?
This is for the Missouri hunter who wants one shotgun to cover turkey, waterfowl, and upland game without breaking the bank. It’s for the guy who doesn’t want to baby his gear—this finish can take briars and rain. If you chase geese in the Bootheel or turkeys in the Ozarks, this is a workhorse. It’s also compatible with a wide range of aftermarket chokes from brands like Carlson’s and Indian Creek for those who want to fine-tune their pattern.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I shoot 2.75″ target loads through this 3.5″ chambered gun?
A: Yes, absolutely. The Mossberg 835 will safely fire 2.75″, 3″, and 3.5″ 12-gauge shells. Just know that cycling the shorter, lighter-recoiling target loads might feel a bit less smooth compared to the magnum shells it’s designed for.
Q: What chokes does it come with, and are others available?
A: It typically comes from the factory with a Modified Accu-Choke tube. That’s a great all-around start. You can easily find additional tubes (like Full, Extra Full, or specialized turkey/waterfowl chokes) from Mossberg or aftermarket manufacturers to tailor your pattern.
Q: Is the camo applied to the metal parts or just the stock?
A: The Mossy Oak Obsession is a full coverage finish. The synthetic stock and forend are camo-dipped, and the barrel and receiver have a matching, non-reflective matte finish that’s designed to blend seamlessly. It’s a complete hunting package.
If you need a dependable, versatile shotgun that’s ready for Missouri’s toughest game, the Mossberg 835 in Mossy Oak Obsession is a solid choice. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. Check current availability and see if it’s the right fit for your next season.
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