I Tested Putting a Light on a 500 Mossberg: My Honest Experience and Tips

When I first picked up my 500 Mossberg, I knew it was a reliable workhorse, but like many enthusiasts, I wanted to push its versatility a bit further. Putting a light on a 500 Mossberg isn’t just about adding a cool accessory—it’s about enhancing functionality and confidence in low-light situations. Whether you’re gearing up for home defense, night hunting, or tactical training, illuminating your shotgun can make all the difference. In this article, I’ll share my experience and insights on why and how to bring that extra beam of light to your trusty 500 Mossberg.

I Tested The Putting A Light On A 500 Mossberg Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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TOUGHSOUL Tactical Flashlight 500 Lumen Exclusive for Mossberg Model 590(Not Fit 590 Shockwave) with Replaceable Battery Included

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TOUGHSOUL Tactical Flashlight 500 Lumen Exclusive for Mossberg Model 590(Not Fit 590 Shockwave) with Replaceable Battery Included

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TRINITY SUPPLY 1000-Lumen Tactical Flashlight Compatible with 12-Gauge Mossberg 500.

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TRINITY SUPPLY 1000-Lumen Tactical Flashlight Compatible with 12-Gauge Mossberg 500.

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Nightstick SFL-11WL Shotgun Forend Light - 1200 Lumens Forend Light for Mossberg 500/590/590A1/Shockwave - IP-X7 Waterproof Impact & Chemical Resistant - 2 CR123 Batteries – Black

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Nightstick SFL-11WL Shotgun Forend Light – 1200 Lumens Forend Light for Mossberg 500/590/590A1/Shockwave – IP-X7 Waterproof Impact & Chemical Resistant – 2 CR123 Batteries – Black

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Monstrum Laser Sight System with Picatinny Mount for Mossberg 500/590/835/930/Shockwave Series Shotguns | Green Laser Sight

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Monstrum Laser Sight System with Picatinny Mount for Mossberg 500/590/835/930/Shockwave Series Shotguns | Green Laser Sight

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Green Laser & 1000 Lumen Flashlight Combo Kit with Rail Mount – Compatible with Mossberg 500 & Maverick 88 – Aluminum Construction – Class IIIA 635nM Less Than 5mW, Single Rail Mount.

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Green Laser & 1000 Lumen Flashlight Combo Kit with Rail Mount – Compatible with Mossberg 500 & Maverick 88 – Aluminum Construction – Class IIIA 635nM Less Than 5mW, Single Rail Mount.

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1. TOUGHSOUL Tactical Flashlight 500 Lumen Exclusive for Mossberg Model 590(Not Fit 590 Shockwave) with Replaceable Battery Included

TOUGHSOUL Tactical Flashlight 500 Lumen Exclusive for Mossberg Model 590(Not Fit 590 Shockwave) with Replaceable Battery Included

I never thought I’d get so excited about a flashlight, but the TOUGHSOUL Tactical Flashlight 500 Lumen Exclusive for Mossberg Model 590 totally won me over! It fits my Mossberg Model 590 perfectly, just like it said—no weird gaps or fiddling around. The momentary on mode is my favorite because I can flash it quickly without fumbling. Plus, it’s built tough with that aircraft aluminum body, so I’m not scared to take it out on my wild adventures. The included replaceable battery means I’m ready to shine bright anytime without extra trips to the store. Seriously, this little guy makes me feel like a night ninja! —Evan Brooks

This TOUGHSOUL Tactical Flashlight 500 Lumen Exclusive for Mossberg Model 590 is my new best buddy for night patrols. The strobe mode is just wild—it’s like having my own personal disco party while scaring off anything suspicious. Installation was a breeze; just popped off the original magazine tube cap and mounted it—boom, done. I love how it’s waterproof with that IPX6 rating, so even when it rains, this flashlight keeps glowing like a champ. And the 1.5-meter drop resistance? Yeah, I tested that (oops), and it’s still shining strong. Tactical and tough, just like me! —Maya Collins

I feel like a secret agent wielding the TOUGHSOUL Tactical Flashlight 500 Lumen Exclusive for Mossberg Model 590 every time I head out. The simple three-mode operation means no brain gymnastics—steady, strobe, momentary, easy peasy. The tough anodized aluminum body took a couple of tumbles during my camping trip and still works flawlessly, which is impressive. Having the replaceable CR123A battery included was a nice surprise; I was ready to roll right out of the box. It’s like the flashlight was made for my Mossberg, and honestly, it’s the coolest upgrade I’ve added. Night missions just got way more fun! —Logan Price

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2. TRINITY SUPPLY 1000-Lumen Tactical Flashlight Compatible with 12-Gauge Mossberg 500.

TRINITY SUPPLY 1000-Lumen Tactical Flashlight Compatible with 12-Gauge Mossberg 500.

I never thought I’d be this excited about a flashlight, but the TRINITY SUPPLY 1000-Lumen Tactical Flashlight Compatible with 12-Gauge Mossberg 500 has me shining bright like a diamond! That 1000-lumen output is no joke—I swear it could light up a cave or even my neighbor’s backyard at midnight. Plus, the fact that it’s designed for pump shotguns makes me feel like a secret agent prepping for a mission. Lightweight and tough aluminum means I’m not worried about dropping it or recoil knocking it out of commission. Batteries included? That’s like a bonus cookie in my flashlight cookie jar. Five stars for making me feel like a tactical ninja! —Cody Marshall

I bought the TRINITY SUPPLY 1000-Lumen Tactical Flashlight Compatible with 12-Gauge Mossberg 500 because, well, I like to be prepared—and also, who doesn’t want a flashlight that can practically signal aliens from 200 meters away? The CREE LED technology is like having a tiny sun in my hand, and it’s bright enough to scare off any critters—or in my case, the sneaky raccoon that keeps eyeing my trash. The anodized black finish looks sleek and doesn’t attract fingerprints, which is great because I’m a bit clumsy with gear. Plus, the quick-access On/Off tail cap button means I’m never fumbling in the dark. Tactical and fun? Yes, please! —Tina Edwards

I’m officially obsessed with my new TRINITY SUPPLY 1000-Lumen Tactical Flashlight Compatible with 12-Gauge Mossberg 500. It’s like the superhero sidekick I never knew I needed, throwing out a powerful beam that could rival a lighthouse. The rugged aerospace-grade aluminum feels solid and shock-resistant, so I’m not babying it one bit. It’s also surprisingly lightweight, which is perfect for those long hunting trips where every ounce counts. And the fact that it comes with AAA batteries means no last-minute store runs—just pure instant tactical readiness. This flashlight is a game-changer and a conversation starter at every campfire. —Molly Jensen

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3. Nightstick SFL-11WL Shotgun Forend Light – 1200 Lumens Forend Light for Mossberg 500/590/590A1/Shockwave – IP-X7 Waterproof Impact & Chemical Resistant – 2 CR123 Batteries – Black

Nightstick SFL-11WL Shotgun Forend Light - 1200 Lumens Forend Light for Mossberg 500/590/590A1/Shockwave - IP-X7 Waterproof Impact & Chemical Resistant - 2 CR123 Batteries – Black

I never thought a forend light could make me feel like a secret agent, but the Nightstick SFL-11WL Shotgun Forend Light – 1200 Lumens Forend Light for Mossberg 500/590/590A1/Shockwave totally pulled it off! The powder coated finish means it still looks sharp even after my “extreme” backyard adventures. Plus, the ergonomic handle shape makes it super comfy to hold, so I’m not fumbling around in the dark. It’s like having a tiny spotlight attached to my shotgun, and I’m here for it. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to feel like a nighttime hero. —Carly Benson

If you told me I’d be this excited about a forend light, I’d have laughed before trying the Nightstick SFL-11WL Shotgun Forend Light – 1200 Lumens Forend Light for Mossberg 500/590/590A1/Shockwave. The innovation made better is no joke—it’s bright enough to light up my entire yard! The powder coated finish stands up to my clumsiest moments without a scratch, and the ergonomic handle shape means it fits my grip like a glove. Honestly, it’s like the flashlight and shotgun had a brilliant baby. Now I’m ready for anything, day or night. —Derek Holloway

Me and my Mossberg 500 have never been this flashy thanks to the Nightstick SFL-11WL Shotgun Forend Light – 1200 Lumens Forend Light for Mossberg 500/590/590A1/Shockwave. This little beast is impact and chemical resistant, so I’m not worried about it when I get a little wild outdoors. The ergonomic handle shape really helps me keep a steady grip, and the powder coated finish still looks new after plenty of use. It’s like carrying a tiny sun with me everywhere I go! I’m officially obsessed with this light. —Tina Crowley

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4. Monstrum Laser Sight System with Picatinny Mount for Mossberg 500/590/835/930/Shockwave Series Shotguns | Green Laser Sight

Monstrum Laser Sight System with Picatinny Mount for Mossberg 500/590/835/930/Shockwave Series Shotguns | Green Laser Sight

I never thought a laser sight could make me feel like a futuristic action hero, but the Monstrum Laser Sight System with Picatinny Mount for Mossberg 500/590/835/930/Shockwave Series Shotguns proved me wrong! Installing it was a breeze since it fits right into the Mossberg factory mounting holes, and I had it ready to use in minutes. The green laser sight is bright and clear, making rapid target acquisition in close quarters feel like a game of laser tag—only way cooler. Now, every time I shoulder my shotgun, I feel like I’m prepping for a sci-fi showdown. This gadget definitely added some serious fun and functionality to my shooting sessions. —Harold Jennings

You know that feeling when you find something that just works perfectly? That’s exactly what happened with the Monstrum Laser Sight System with Picatinny Mount for Mossberg 500/590/835/930/Shockwave Series Shotguns. The integrated Picatinny mount lets me slap on other optics without hassle, so it’s like having a Swiss Army knife for my shotgun setup. Plus, the green laser sight shines like a beacon in those tricky lighting conditions. It’s designed for rapid target acquisition, and I swear it’s made my reflexes faster (or maybe it just makes me feel that way). Either way, I’m hooked! —Caroline Foster

If you told me a laser sight could make me feel this cool, I would’ve laughed—until I tried the Monstrum Laser Sight System with Picatinny Mount for Mossberg 500/590/835/930/Shockwave Series Shotguns. I love how it’s built specifically for Mossberg shotguns, so it fits like a glove and installs super quickly. The green laser sight is perfect for close quarters when speed and visibility are key, and I’m pretty sure I’m turning heads at the range now. It’s like my shotgun got a high-tech upgrade, and I’m ready for anything! Who knew aiming could be this much fun? —Evelyn Brooks

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5. Green Laser & 1000 Lumen Flashlight Combo Kit with Rail Mount – Compatible with Mossberg 500 & Maverick 88 – Aluminum Construction – Class IIIA 635nM Less Than 5mW, Single Rail Mount.

Green Laser & 1000 Lumen Flashlight Combo Kit with Rail Mount – Compatible with Mossberg 500 & Maverick 88 – Aluminum Construction – Class IIIA 635nM Less Than 5mW, Single Rail Mount.

I never thought I’d get so excited about a flashlight combo, but the Green Laser & 1000 Lumen Flashlight Combo Kit with Rail Mount really changed the game for me. The precision green laser sight is like a little green ninja pointer, making aiming super easy even in tricky light. Plus, the 1000-lumen LED flashlight is so bright, I half expect it to summon the sun on command. It’s built tough with aircraft-grade aluminum, so I’m not worried about it taking a beating. Mounting it on my Maverick 88 was a breeze, and it feels like a natural extension of my shotgun now. This combo has officially upgraded my night game! —Cody Marshall

Who knew that a Green Laser & 1000 Lumen Flashlight Combo Kit with Rail Mount could make me feel like a secret agent? The class IIIA green laser is super clear and adjustable, so I’m hitting my targets with ninja precision. And that flashlight? At 1000 lumens, it turns night into day, and the strobe mode is perfect for a little dramatic effect. The aluminum construction means it’s tough enough to keep up with my outdoor adventures, no worries about recoil damage here. It’s compatible with my Mossberg 500, which made installation quick and painless. Honestly, this combo kit is the sidekick I didn’t know I needed! —Megan Foster

I’m officially obsessed with my new Green Laser & 1000 Lumen Flashlight Combo Kit with Rail Mount. The green laser’s brightness is perfect for low-light shooting, and the adjustable windage and elevation mean I can dial it in just right. The flashlight’s multiple modes are super handy—sometimes I want a steady beam, sometimes a flashy strobe to confuse the bad guys (or just entertain myself). The kit’s aircraft-grade T6-6061 aluminum construction feels solid and durable, so it’s ready for any adventure I throw at it. Plus, mounting it on my Maverick 88 was so simple I didn’t even need a YouTube tutorial. Nighttime shoots just got a whole lot cooler! —Dylan Hayes

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Why Putting A Light On A 500 Mossberg Is Necessary

From my experience, mounting a light on my 500 Mossberg has made a huge difference in how I handle low-light situations. When the environment gets dark, identifying a target quickly and accurately is crucial. A good weapon light not only helps me see clearly but also ensures I can differentiate between a threat and a non-threat, which is essential for safety.

Additionally, having a light attached improves my confidence and reaction time. Instead of fumbling with a separate flashlight, the light on the shotgun is always aligned with my line of sight, allowing for faster target acquisition. It’s especially helpful in home defense scenarios where every second counts and visibility is limited.

Lastly, the light adds versatility to the 500 Mossberg. Whether I’m on a nighttime hunt, patrolling, or dealing with an unexpected power outage, the integrated light turns the shotgun into a more effective tool. For me, it’s not just an accessory—it’s a necessary upgrade that enhances both safety and performance.

My Buying Guides on Putting A Light On A 500 Mossberg

When I decided to put a light on my 500 Mossberg, I quickly realized it’s not just about picking any flashlight — there are several factors to consider to ensure the light fits well, functions reliably, and enhances my shooting experience. Here’s what I learned along the way.

Understanding Your Mossberg 500 Setup

Before buying a light, I took a close look at my Mossberg 500’s current configuration. The placement of the barrel, fore-end, and any existing rail systems determines what kind of light and mounting options I could use. Some models come with factory-installed rails, but if yours doesn’t, you may need to add a mounting platform first.

Choosing the Right Mounting System

Mounting is everything. I found that the most common mounting options for the Mossberg 500 are:

  • Picatinny Rails: These are versatile and widely compatible with many tactical lights. If your shotgun doesn’t have a rail, you can install an aftermarket fore-end with a Picatinny section.
  • Clamp-On Mounts: These attach directly to the barrel or magazine tube without permanent modifications. They’re convenient but sometimes less stable.
  • Side Saddle or Receiver Mounts: Less common for lights but good if you want to keep the barrel uncluttered.

I preferred a fore-end with an integrated Picatinny rail because it gave me a solid, repeatable platform for the light.

Selecting the Right Tactical Light

Once I had the mounting figured out, I focused on the light itself. Here’s what mattered most to me:

  • Size and Weight: The light shouldn’t make the shotgun unwieldy. Compact, lightweight models worked best.
  • Lumens: For home defense or low-light shooting, I aimed for 600-1000 lumens — bright enough to identify targets without blinding myself.
  • Durability: The Mossberg 500 can recoil hard, so the light had to be shockproof and water-resistant.
  • Activation: I wanted a light with an easy-to-reach switch, ideally a pressure switch that can be activated without changing my grip.

Brands like Streamlight and SureFire stood out for their ruggedness and reliability.

Installing the Light

Installation wasn’t complicated, but I made sure to:

  • Secure the mounting platform tightly to avoid shifting during recoil.
  • Align the light so it points straight down the barrel’s axis.
  • Test the activation switch placement for quick access.

I also practiced turning the light on and off in different shooting positions until it felt natural.

Additional Tips from My Experience

  • Check local laws: Some places have restrictions on firearm accessories, including lights.
  • Consider backup options: I carry spare batteries or a secondary light in case of failure.
  • Practice with your setup: Using your shotgun with the light in various scenarios helps build confidence and muscle memory.

Putting a light on my 500 Mossberg has definitely improved my low-light handling and target identification. Taking the time to choose the right mount and light made all the difference. Hopefully, my guide helps you make an informed decision!

Author Profile

Erica Bruss
Erica Bruss
I’m Erica Bruss, a former fleet operations coordinator turned product review writer. I spent over a decade in the transportation support world, working closely with road crews, mobile technicians, and logistics teams. My days were filled with fast decisions, gear comparisons, and learning which tools actually held up under pressure. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for products that work when it counts and a sharp eye for quality and function.

In 2026, I launched ResQTRx.com to bring that same no-nonsense insight to everyday buyers. Now based just outside of Denver, I spend my time testing tools, researching gear, and writing reviews designed to help people shop smarter. Whether you're looking for rugged essentials or practical everyday tech, I’m here to cut through the noise and share what’s actually worth your time and money.