--- title: The Mossberg Journal | How-To's (4) description: "How-To's | Official blog from O.F. Mossberg & Sons: shotguns and rifles for hunting, sport shooting, home defense, tactical and law enforcement. Leader in firearms innovation since 1919. (4)" --- [Law Enforcement](https://lawenforcement.mossberg.com/) [Sign In](https://www.mossberg.com/customer/account/login) / [Sign Up](https://www.mossberg.com/customer/account/create/) [Firearms](https://www.mossberg.com/firearms.html) [Store](https://www.mossberg.com/store.html) [![Mossberg](https://resources.mossberg.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/mossberg-theme/images/logo.svg)](https://www.mossberg.com) [Support](https://www.mossberg.com/help/) [Journal](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal) [Dealers](https://www.mossberg.com/dealers/) [Cart](https://www.mossberg.com/checkout/cart/) [Sign In](https://www.mossberg.com/customer/account/login) / [Sign Up](https://www.mossberg.com/customer/account/create/) [Dealers](https://www.mossberg.com/dealers/) - [Firearms](https://www.mossberg.com/firearms.html) - [Store](https://www.mossberg.com/store.html) - [Support](https://www.mossberg.com/help/) - [Journal](https://resources.mossberg.com/) [Military/Law Enforcement](https://lawenforcement.mossberg.com/) - [Home](https://www.mossberg.com) - [Journal](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal) # [The Mossberg Journal](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) [Hunting](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/hunting) [Security](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/security) [Sporting](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/sporting) [News](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/news) [Product](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/product) - [Home](https://www.mossberg.com) - [Journal](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal) - How-To's (4) [![Jeremy Stafford with a Mossberg 500 / 590 series pump-action shotgun.](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/2024-08-05_08-59-56.jpg?width=796&name=2024-08-05_08-59-56.jpg)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/mossberg-500-590-series-shotguns-loading-and-unloading) [Videos](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/videos) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) [Security](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/security) ## [Mossberg 500 / 590 Series Shotguns – Loading and Unloading](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/mossberg-500-590-series-shotguns-loading-and-unloading) This one is perfect for new gun owners! In this video, Jeremy Stafford walks us through how to safely load and unload a Mossberg 500 / 590 series pump-action shotgun. 1 minute read [![](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/fall%20turkey%20hunting.png?width=796&name=fall%20turkey%20hunting.png)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/turkey-calling-mastering-the-cluck) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) ## [Turkey Calling: Mastering the Cluck](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/turkey-calling-mastering-the-cluck) The turkey hunting world is full of turkey calling tips, but few are as misunderstood as the cluck; be sure and pay attention to context! 1 minute read [![](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/xmWcGrwQTkOS3XSw3TY3tA-2%20copy.png?width=796&name=xmWcGrwQTkOS3XSw3TY3tA-2%20copy.png)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/what-to-consider-when-purchasing-your-first-shotgun) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) ## [What to Consider When Purchasing Your First Shotgun](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/what-to-consider-when-purchasing-your-first-shotgun) If you are new to the shotgun buying experience, here are a few tips to help guide you through the process and purchase shotgun that is just for you. 3 minute read [![](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Mule-Deer-Hunting-Family.png?width=796&name=Mule-Deer-Hunting-Family.png)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/quick-tips-to-field-judge-your-mule-deer) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) ## [Quick Tips To Field Judge Your Mule Deer](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/quick-tips-to-field-judge-your-mule-deer) Some quick tips on how to determine if the mule deer you're watching is the animal you wish to harvest this year 3 minute read [![](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/04-muledeer.png?width=796&name=04-muledeer.png)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/deer-hunters-pre-hunt-checklist) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) ## [Deer Hunter's Pre-Hunt Checklist](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/deer-hunters-pre-hunt-checklist) In hopes of helping you be better prepared for the upcoming deer season, we offer the following Deer Hunter’s Pre-hunt Checklist. 5 minute read [![](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/turkey-and-tire-tracks-2.png?width=796&name=turkey-and-tire-tracks-2.png)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/quick-steps-for-field-dressing-a-turkey) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) ## [Quick Steps for Field Dressing a Turkey](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/quick-steps-for-field-dressing-a-turkey) When it comes to field dressing a turkey, many folks have differing thoughts on what they prefer from the bird. Here's how we like to get it done. 4 minute read [![](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/moss-elk%20hunt%20mistakes.png?width=796&name=moss-elk%20hunt%20mistakes.png)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/6-mistakes-that-will-ruin-your-opening-day-elk-hunt) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) ## [6 Mistakes That Will Ruin Your Opening Day Elk Hunt](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/6-mistakes-that-will-ruin-your-opening-day-elk-hunt) Elk hunters across the country are preparing gear and equipment for their moment. Here’s a look at the 6 mistakes that’ll ruin your opening day elk hunt. 3 minute read [![](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Untitled-1-2.png?width=796&name=Untitled-1-2.png)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/ways-to-reduce-shotgun-recoil) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) ## [Quick Ways to Reduce Shotgun Recoil](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/ways-to-reduce-shotgun-recoil) Correcting shotgun recoil a bit can help improve your shooting success as well as help avoid injury. Here are some tips and tricks to learn. 2 minute read [![](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/trigger-call-e1557175536585-3.png?width=796&name=trigger-call-e1557175536585-3.png)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/turkey-calls-pros-and-cons) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) ## [Turkey Calls: Pros & Cons](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/turkey-calls-pros-and-cons) There are great options out there that, with practice, can all help call in that Tom. Here are the pros and cons of five of our favorite turkey calls. 3 minute read [![](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/women-rifle-shooting-aids-1%20copy.jpeg?width=796&name=women-rifle-shooting-aids-1%20copy.jpeg)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tips-for-mentoring-female-hunters) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) ## [Tips for Mentoring Female Hunters](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tips-for-mentoring-female-hunters) Female hunters are the fastest growing demographic in the industry; and it's important to consider the best ways to talk to and mentor female hunters. 5 minute read [![](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/GunShyHuntingDog-2.jpeg?width=796&name=GunShyHuntingDog-2.jpeg)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/upland-hunting-tips) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) ## [Upland Hunting Tips: Taking Cues from Your Dog](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/upland-hunting-tips) I was missing birds that I should have had if I was paying attention- and if I had taken cues from my dog, it would have enhanced my hunting success! 4 minute read [![](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Goose-Pit-4-2.png?width=796&name=Goose-Pit-4-2.png)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tips-from-the-goose-pit) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) ## [Tips from the Goose Pit](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tips-from-the-goose-pit) Hunting Canadian Geese from the pit is one of my favorite hunts. Following a few basic tips can keep everyone safe and ensure a great hunting experience. 3 minute read [![](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Ears-e1543502732392-1.png?width=796&name=Ears-e1543502732392-1.png)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/care-for-your-dog-in-the-field) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) ## [Care for Your Dog in The Field](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/care-for-your-dog-in-the-field) A working dog is one of the greatest hunting pleasures. While most hunting excursions are uneventful, it is extremely important to ensure your dog’s safety and comfort. 3 minute read [![](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/backcountry-2.png?width=796&name=backcountry-2.png)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/how-to-survive-when-lost) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) ## [How to Survive When You Become Lost](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/how-to-survive-when-lost) Getting lost in the wilderness is a real thing that can ultimately be life-threatening. If you do become lost, think sensibly and be prepared. 3 minute read [![](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/50104_500_410_FIELD_WOOD_HunterPuppy.png?width=796&name=50104_500_410_FIELD_WOOD_HunterPuppy.png)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/how-to-train-a-puppy-to-hunt) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) ## [From Pup to Companion: How to Train a Puppy to Hunt](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/how-to-train-a-puppy-to-hunt) Creating a balance between those worlds takes time and patience, but you can indeed achieve both. So, how do you train a hunting dog? 3 minute read [![](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/2.png?width=796&name=2.png)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/pre-season-prep-for-waterfowlers) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) ## [Pre Season Prep for Waterfowlers](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/pre-season-prep-for-waterfowlers) The list of chores and work for the waterfowler seems to never end, but the tasks that seem to haunt us the most are the last minute jobs that sneak up on us in the final days before the opener. Here’s a quick list of the pre season prep for waterfowlers that tends to find us scrambling before... 4 minute read [![](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Tajikistan-Mossberg-2.png?width=796&name=Tajikistan-Mossberg-2.png)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/high-altitude-hunting-preparation) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) ## [High Altitude Hunting Preparation](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/high-altitude-hunting-preparation) High altitude hunting can definitely be a challenge, especially if the hunter has not adequately planned and prepared for this excursion. Altitude-related issues can be somewhat remedied with careful preparation. 5 minute read [![](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/View-Target-in-Scope-Mossberg-1.png?width=796&name=View-Target-in-Scope-Mossberg-1.png)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/bore-sighting-a-bolt-action-rifle) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) ## [The How's and Why's of Bore Sighting A Bolt-Action Rifle](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/bore-sighting-a-bolt-action-rifle) What exactly is bore sighting? Simply put: it is aligning the crosshairs of your new scope with the barrel of your rifle. Yep. That’s it. Here's a how-to how to bore sight your bolt-action rifle. 2 minute read [![](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/moss-home%20defense-2.png?width=796&name=moss-home%20defense-2.png)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/home-defense-plan) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) ## [Building the Ultimate Home Defense Plan](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/home-defense-plan) While we tend to focus on the firearms themselves, the first step in home defense is developing a plan for protecting your household. 1 minute read [![](https://resources.mossberg.com/hs-fs/hubfs/sunset.jpg?width=796&name=sunset.jpg)](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tips-for-taking-hunting-photos) [How-To's](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos) ## [Tips for Taking Quality, Ethical Hunting Photos](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tips-for-taking-hunting-photos) By taking the time to shoot images that capture the moment and still afford the utmost respect to the animal, you will get those shots of a lifetime and ward off any untoward comments from fellow hunters. 3 minute read [First](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos/page/1) [Prev](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos/page/3) [2](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos/page/2) [3](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos/page/3) [4](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos/page/4) [5](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos/page/5) [6](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos/page/6) [Next](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos/page/5) [Last](https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/tag/how-tos/page/7) [Sign Up for Mossberg News and Updates](https://resources.mossberg.com/join) [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/MossbergCorp) [Twitter](https://www.x.com/mossberghunting) [Youtube](https://www.youtube.com/user/mossbergofficialsite) [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/mossberghunting) #### [Firearms](https://www.mossberg.com/firearms.html) - [Handguns](https://www.mossberg.com/firearms/handguns.html) - [Shotguns](https://www.mossberg.com/firearms/shotguns.html) - [Rifles](https://www.mossberg.com/firearms/rifles.html) - [Other](https://www.mossberg.com/firearms/others.html) #### [Store](https://www.mossberg.com/store.html) - [Parts](https://www.mossberg.com/parts.html) - [Shop By Schematic](https://www.mossberg.com/schematics/) - [Apparel](https://www.mossberg.com/apparel.html) - [Accessories](https://www.mossberg.com/gear.html) #### [Support](https://www.mossberg.com/help) - [FAQ](https://www.mossberg.com/support/faqs) - [Contact us](https://www.mossberg.com/contact-us) - [Firearms Service Request](https://www.mossberg.com/service/request/index) - [Warranty Registration](https://www.mossberg.com/support/warranty-registration) - [Vintage Models](https://www.mossberg.com/support/vintage-models.html) - [Owner's Manuals](https://www.mossberg.com/support/owners-manuals) - [Recalls](https://www.mossberg.com/support/recalls) - [Privacy Center](https://www.mossberg.com/privacy-center) #### [Military/Law Enforcement](https://lawenforcement.mossberg.com/) - [Product](https://www.mossberg.com/firearms/military-le.html) - [Agency T&E](https://www.mossberg.com/law-enforcement/firearm-testing-evaluation) - [Distributors](https://www.mossberg.com/law-enforcement/distributors/) - [Service & Support](https://www.mossberg.com/law-enforcement/le-service-support) - [Armorer Training](https://www.mossberg.com/law-enforcement/armorer-training) #### Corporate - [About](https://www.mossberg.com/corporate/about) - [Careers](https://www.mossberg.com/corporate/careers) - [Safety](https://www.mossberg.com/corporate/safety) - [Press Releases](https://www.mossberg.com/corporate/press-releases) - [Media Kit](https://mossberg.app.box.com/s/gnjcxzwo3tws3dovf7cii4xzu52tbu2i) - [International](https://www.mossberg.com/corporate/international) O.F. 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