Flexible Response

Mossberg's modular FLEX shotgun lends itself to infinite adaptability

By David Draper

 

Whether it's a nod to our fathers and their hot rods or the product of a stickers-and-stars educational system, we're a generation that loves to brand our gear as unique. Design something that combines that drive to be different with ultimate versatility and infinite adaptability, and you've created what could be called the perfect product. In the gun world, there's no greater example of the combination of utility and individuality than the modern sporting rifle (MSR). Now shotgunners can get on the AR-style bandwagon, too, with the easy adaptability and quick customization of the new Mossberg FLEX line of shotguns and accessories.

The author testing the new Mossberg FLEX in South Carolina. The modular shotgun features an innovative locking system that allows the near-instant swapping of stocks, forends, and recoil pads.

Similar to the MSR, the FLEX system is based on a single FLEX-fitted receiver that features an innovative Tool-less Locking System (TLS), allowing for the near-instant swapping of stocks, forends, and recoil pads. This patented system offers FLEX owners one-gun versatility that goes from home-defense weapon to hunt-ready shotgun in under a minute.

"We think the consumer will understand and appreciate the ability to use one shotgun system for multiple applications," says Tom Taylor, vice president of sales and marketing for O.F. Mossberg and Sons. "The system can be used for multiple shooters and situations, such as family members of different stature, differing layers of clothing, or varying needs when wearing tactical protection and body armor."

Lift and Twist

The backbone of this unique modular system is a proprietary mated receiver/stock connection that tightly and securely locks in place with a tool-less release latch. With just a lift and twist, users can instantly change stocks among a current selection of six models, including three different-length full stocks (12, 13, and 14 inches) and a four-position adjustable hunting stock. For the military- and law-enforcement-minded, the full stocks can be swapped for a six-position adjustable tactical stock or a cruiser-style pistol grip.

To help minimize felt recoil and further adjust length of pull, three different recoil pads can be switched out with a simple push of a button at the rear of each full stock, creating a gun that grows with the shooter or changes for specific shooting and hunting applications. Push the forend release latch and change the standard slide to a tri-rail tactical grip--complete with pressure-pad cutouts for adding light or laser switches--and the Mossberg FLEX is ready for anything from breaching doors to crowd control.

Sealing the Deal The beauty of the Mossberg FLEX is the ability to hit a number of different sales niches, from the one-gun-for-everything guy to the customer who loves to customize. If your shop skews to a certain type of customer, it makes sense to display the Mossberg FLEX that fits that profile. To that end, Mossberg is initially offering 11 different base SKUs, from basic all-purpose shotguns to tactical and hunting-specific models. Set up a freestanding display or end-cap that features the blue-and-yellow FLEX logo, and have some accessories out of the package on the gun counter. By grabbing the customer's attention, you can start the conversation to show how easy the conversion is. Giving customers a hands-on demo really sells the entire system, which quickly translates into add-on sales, from FLEX-specific parts to additional barrels, sights, and other accessories.

Plug and Play

Set aside any misgivings you might have about a shotgun that disassembles so easily. Mossberg's engineers have come up with a solid yet simple connection system that offers fail-safe performance. I shot the FLEX on the range with the tactical stock and slug barrel in place, then easily swapped to a traditional stock and smoothbore for an afternoon quail hunt. At no time did I feel the integrity of the gun was compromised by its plug-and-play-type design.

Customizing a shotgun to fit the consumer's needs doesn't end with just the FLEX concept. The system is based on an original Mossberg receiver design, allowing the company's extensive line of replacement and special-purpose barrels to add a near-infinite variety of versatility to a multi-use gun.

To help support the anticipated consumer interest in the project, Mossberg is launching the FLEX with a forward-thinking marketing campaign.

(203-230-5300; flexyourmossberg.com)