How to Remove Mossberg Ribs
A shotgun rib is the vented metal bar that runs along the top of the shotgun barrel. At one time, a shotgun with a vent rib was rare and only seen on more expensive models. A vent rib is common today and provides a platform for a variety of sight beads. Mossberg has been producing quality shotguns and rifles for many years, and sells a variety of shotguns with vented rib barrels. If you want to remove the rib to modify the shotgun barrel and refinish it, you'll need a couple of power tools.
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Things You'll Need
- Rotary tool with metal grinding and cutting attachments (a jewelers saw can be used)
- Fine metal file
- Padded gun or jaw vise
- Safety glasses
Instructions
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1
Unload the weapon completely. Visually inspect the shotgun to ensure no live ammunition is present.
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2
Place the shotgun in a padded gun or jaw vise and lock it down tight. Ensure that the entire vent rib is accessible.
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3
Put on your safety glasses. Attach a metal cutting bit to your rotary tool or use a jewelers saw. Cut through each rib attachment point, starting from the muzzle end and work down toward the stock. Try to make the cuts as close to the barrel as possible. Remove the rib.
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4
Grind down the rib nubs until they're gone and you have an even metal surface. Smooth out the rough areas with a fine metal file. You can now refinish, cold-blue or paint the shotgun muzzle.
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Tips & Warnings
Understand that removing the rib from the barrel can devalue the shotgun. Make sure that rib removal is what you want before cutting.
Never attempt maintenance on a loaded firearm.
Never point a shotgun at anything that you do not intend to shoot or kill.
References
- Photo Credit man with gun image by Igors Leonovs from Fotolia.com
