Mossberg 500 Review [ 2024 ]: Military Shotgun Work-Horse

The Mossberg 500 is a pump-action shotgun that stands out in its class, being the only one to earn the Mil-Spec designation. In this Mossberg 500 review, we’ll look into its specs as well as provide some extra resources to help you decide if it’s right for you.

I reviewed this gun in 2020, but I wanted to take another look and spend more time with it. After shooting a few hundred rounds, my opinion about this gun has shifted slightly. To find out what’s new, continue reading this review.

Mossberg 500 Specs

Operating System Pump Action
Caliber 12 or 20 Gauge
Sights Ghost ring
Barrel Length 14-30″
Overall Length 41″

Mossberg 500 Background

Having served as a former special operations sniper, I’ve had extensive experience with a wide range of firearms. One that particularly stands out in my memory is the Mossberg 500, a pump-action shotgun introduced back in 1960! The 500 has sure been around a while… but not as long as the Remington 870 pump action shotgun for which the Mossberg 500 was introduced as competition. The Remington 870 was introduced 10 years earlier in 1950.

Both the 870 and the 500 have been American staples – they are both the leaders in pump action shotgun sales. Although the Remington 870 is known to be the most popular pump action shotgun with 3 million sold by the 1980s, Mossberg caught up in sales at a later date (although in a faster time from first being available for sale).

The Mossberg 500 isn’t a “copy” of the 870, but it was surely introduced to compete with it. At first, the Mossberg 500 had reliability issues with its original single action bar design but the 500 now has twin action bars as of the expiration of Remington’s patent on the design.

The Remington 870 is more refined but the Mossberg 500 is surely the work-horse of the two shotguns: the Mossberg 500 is the only one adopted by the military as a shotgun.

Mossberg 500 Features

1 Interchangeable Buttstock

Easily swap out the buttstock to other styles.

2 Optional Pistol Grip

Allows you to operate the Mossberg 500 in a more comfortable way.

3 Changeable Barrels

Allowing for easy customization of the Mossberg 500 pump action.

Mossberg 500 – Our Take

Full disclosure: I’ve always been a fan of the Remington 870. The 870 has always been a bit more refined and smoother to me. However, with Remington’s quickly deteriorating quality control, the Mossberg 500 might just be the choice for you!

Yes, I’m talking a lot about the Remington 870 in a Mossberg 500 review… that’s because it is difficult to address one without comparing it to the other. Their differences are the pros and cons of each.

It is fairly obvious that the Mossberg 500 is a bit more “clunky” than the Remington 870 and it has fewer options for upgrades. However, it is built like a tank and it just….well…works!

If you’re looking for a reliable pump action shotgun in a standard configuration, then the Mossberg 500 is for you. If you want something a bit more refined and are looking for more upgrades (especially an extended magazine or a pistol grip), then you might want to check out the Remington 870.

When you rack the action of a Mossberg 500, you’ll notice that it is a bit “clunky.” There are clearly more moving parts in the action. Also, the Mossberg 500 is a bit sharper on the edges/less polished.

Don’t worry, though… the action of the Mossberg 500 will smoothen up a bit with use.

Differences of the Mossberg 500:

The Mossberg 500 has a unique shell lifter. This open bottom design allows the lifter to tuck up and around the bolt when the action is closed. This allows the easy loading of shells without pushing the lifter out of the way and it also allows the shooter to use new mini-shells with a small adapter. The adapter won’t fit in a Remington 870 because the lifter is solid.

The Mossberg 500 has its safety on the rear top of the receiver. This is a great place for the safety when using a standard shotgun stock. It is easy to access with your thumb and it makes it easy to see the condition of the shotgun. However, if you’re going to use a pistol grip, it is downright awkward to use.

The barrel is held in place with a barrel nut at the end of the magazine tube. This is a strong design but it prevents you from using an extended magazine tube. The capacity at which you buy your Mossberg 500 is the capacity it will stay.

The action release button is behind the trigger guard. This location makes it very easy to open the action to eject a live shell. Remington’s action release button is in front of the trigger guard and requires that you reposition your firing hand grip to access it.

Mossberg 500 Reliability:

Although slightly less refined, this shotgun works! It is beefy but that is part of why it is so reliable. Remington 870s have had numerous problems with simple operations like shell extraction or ejection… the Mossberg 500? It runs and runs and runs.

Also, the mini-shells we mention? They are super fun to use and are really only an option with the Mossberg 500 due to reliability issues with other pump action shotguns.

Mossberg 500 Pros and Cons

Good safety location with standard stock
Super reliable
Affordable
Convenient action release button
Can use mini-shells

A bit clunky (at first)
Less refined than other options
Can not extend magazine
Safety awkward with pistol grip stocks

RELIABILITY	Runs and runs and runs.	A+
ACCURACY	As good as a shotgun can be	A
CUSTOMIZATION	Aftermarket parts available, but a bit limited.	C+
ERGONOMICS	Great in standard configuration, awkward with pistol grips.	A-
VALUE	Incredible value and a GREAT choice for your first pump action shotgun	A+

Our Grade

Reviewed by Ryan Cleckner

Reader’s Grade

Based on 32 Reviews

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Mossberg 500 – FAQs

Can the Mossberg 500 shotgun be used for hunting?

Yes, you can definitely use the Mossberg Model 500 shotgun for hunting. It’s highly regarded as one of the best pump guns available for hunting, making it a versatile choice for both duck hunting and deer hunting. Its reliability, durability, and affordability make it a popular option among hunters seeking a dependable firearm for various hunting scenarios.

Does the Mossberg 500 come with a recoil pad?

Yes, many variations of the Mossberg 500 come equipped with a recoil pad to help mitigate felt recoil and improve your comfort during extended shooting sessions.

Can you customize the Mossberg 500 with aftermarket parts?

Yes, you can customize the Mossberg 500 with aftermarket parts. Many accessories such as stocks, grips, rails, and barrels are available for the Mossberg 500, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences and needs. However, if you’re not comfortable installing these parts yourself, you can always consult with a local gunsmith for assistance.

Does the Mossberg 500 feature a tang safety?

Yes, the Mossberg 500 does feature a tang safety. This safety mechanism is located on the top rear of the receiver, making it easily accessible with your thumb when using a standard shotgun stock

Does the Mossberg 500 offer options for double guns?

While the Mossberg 500 primarily functions as a pump-action shotgun, it does not inherently provide options for double-barreled configurations. However, Mossberg does manufacture other models and series that include double-barreled shotguns within their lineup.

Mossberg 500 Starter Pack

The Mossberg 500 is one of those most reliable shotguns you’ll ever put your hands on. So, it’s only right that you help take care of it as much as it does you.

Best Stock Customizations for the Mossberg 500

One of the most customizable parts of the Mossberg is its buttstock. There are so many different options available. Whether it be a full-length stock or pistol grip, you’re sure to find one perfect for you.

Our Editor’s Choice for best stock on the Mossberg 500 is the Mesa Tactical LEO Telescoping Buttstock. If you’re looking to give your Mossberg 500 an extra tactical edge, this is the way to do it. It allows you to quickly and easily adjust the buttstock to any situation–with or without body armor. Not to mention, the ergonomically designed rubber grips help you hold with stability and comfort. CHECK PRICE

If you’re looking to have a Mossberg Shockwave experience without actually purchasing the gun, opt for this grip instead. It’s a super easy install and allows you to have that tactical edge the Shockwave has–albeit a bigger barrel.

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