The Mossberg 940 Pro Waterfowl has become a trusted name among duck and goose hunters who demand reliability, performance, and speed in the toughest outdoor conditions. Designed specifically for waterfowl hunting, this semi-automatic shotgun offers features that make it a favorite in marshes, fields, and wet blinds. From its corrosion-resistant coating to its gas-operated system, the Mossberg 940 Pro Waterfowl stands out in a crowded field of hunting shotguns. Hunters appreciate not only its aesthetics and durability but also the enhancements that improve cycling, recoil management, and ease of maintenance. This topic explores all the aspects of the Mossberg 940 Pro Waterfowl, including design, functionality, and its place in the hunting market.
Overview of the Mossberg 940 Pro Waterfowl
The Mossberg 940 Pro Waterfowl is a semi-auto shotgun chambered in 12 gauge with a 3-inch chamber, designed for hard use in wet and cold environments. It’s part of the 940 Pro family, which was developed with significant input from world champion shooter Jerry Miculek, bringing speed and efficiency to the hunting and competitive shooting world.
Key Features
- Gas-operated system for smooth cycling
- Clean-running piston system allowing up to 1,500 rounds before cleaning is required
- Corrosion-resistant internal components
- Adjustable stock for length of pull, drop, and cast
- Recoil-reducing stock design
- Oversized charging handle and bolt release for easy manipulation with gloves
- Extended magazine tube holding up to 4+1 shells
- Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades camo finish
Performance in the Field
The 940 Pro Waterfowl performs exceptionally well in cold and wet environments, which are typical conditions for waterfowl hunting. Thanks to its gas-operated system, the shotgun cycles shells smoothly with minimal recoil, even during rapid firing. Whether you’re taking fast follow-up shots at a flock of mallards or trying to stay on target with geese flying overhead, this shotgun maintains speed and control.
Fast Cycling and Reliability
Speed and reliability are critical in waterfowl hunting, where targets are fast and erratic. The Mossberg 940 Pro Waterfowl cycles rounds faster than traditional inertia-driven systems, making it ideal for fast follow-up shots. The redesigned gas system prevents excessive carbon build-up, ensuring longer operation between cleanings. This is especially useful during extended hunting trips or in freezing conditions when cleaning the firearm might not be feasible in the field.
Design and Ergonomics
One of the standout features of the Mossberg 940 Pro Waterfowl is its attention to ergonomics and user-friendly design. The shotgun is built to be customizable and easy to handle for various body types and preferences.
Adjustable Stock and Controls
The adjustable length of pull, cast, and drop make the 940 Pro Waterfowl comfortable for a wide range of shooters. The stock comes with spacers and shims, allowing for a custom fit. The oversized controls bolt handle, bolt release, and safety are perfect for gloved hands, which is a major plus in frigid environments. The beveled loading port and redesigned lifter improve shell loading speed and ease, making it one of the most intuitive hunting shotguns available today.
Finish and Weather Resistance
The Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades camo finish is not just for concealment it also provides a protective barrier against rust and corrosion. Combined with the stainless steel gas piston and internal coatings, this shotgun resists the harsh elements often encountered in waterfowl hunting like saltwater spray, mud, and moisture.
Maintenance and Durability
Durability is a top consideration for waterfowl hunters, and the 940 Pro Waterfowl excels in this area. Its self-cleaning gas system reduces fouling, allowing for extended use without significant maintenance. Mossberg claims the shotgun can go up to 1,500 rounds before needing a full cleaning, thanks to its nickel-boron coated internal parts that reduce friction and wear.
Easy Disassembly
The shotgun is also designed for quick disassembly. The fore-end cap can be removed without tools, and the internal components are easily accessible. This is particularly useful when you need to do field maintenance during a multi-day hunt in remote areas. The shotgun’s build quality ensures that it remains functional and accurate season after season.
Ammo Compatibility and Versatility
With a 3-inch chamber, the Mossberg 940 Pro Waterfowl can handle a wide range of 12-gauge shells, from light target loads to heavy waterfowl loads. This makes it a versatile platform not only for ducks and geese but also for other types of game. The gun’s ability to manage both low- and high-brass shells reliably adds to its overall practicality.
Choke System
The shotgun includes a set of Accu-Choke tubes, allowing hunters to adjust the spread of their shot based on range and game. This flexibility is crucial for waterfowlers who may need tighter patterns for geese or wider spreads for close-range ducks.
Who Should Use the Mossberg 940 Pro Waterfowl?
This shotgun is ideal for hunters who demand performance in extreme conditions. It’s particularly well-suited for:
- Waterfowl hunters in wetland and marsh environments
- Hunters who frequently deal with cold or freezing temperatures
- Shooters who value speed, reliability, and low maintenance
- Those looking for a high-performance semi-auto shotgun at a reasonable price point
Comparison with Other Semi-Auto Shotguns
The 940 Pro Waterfowl competes directly with other popular models like the Beretta A300 Outlander, the Benelli M2, and the Winchester SX4. While each has its merits, the Mossberg stands out due to its enhanced ergonomics, corrosion-resistant build, and price-to-performance ratio. The extended maintenance interval and fast cycling gas system are also advantages not always found in similarly priced shotguns.
Affordability
While not a budget shotgun, the 940 Pro Waterfowl is competitively priced considering the features it offers. It delivers near-premium performance without the premium price tag, making it accessible for both serious waterfowl hunters and weekend enthusiasts alike.
The Mossberg 940 Pro Waterfowl is a smart choice for hunters looking for a durable, fast-cycling, and ergonomic shotgun built for wet conditions. Its combination of advanced features, including a self-cleaning gas system, weather-resistant finish, and adjustable stock, makes it a standout in the world of waterfowl hunting firearms. Whether you’re braving early morning fog in a duck blind or enduring a late-season snowstorm, this shotgun is built to keep performing shot after shot.