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Mossberg 500

O.F. · Shotgun

Mossberg 500

Pump action · 12 Gauge · introduced 1961

Also known as Mossberg 500 Persuader, Mossberg 500 Tactical, Mossberg 500A

About the Mossberg 500

The Mossberg 500 is a pump-action shotgun chambered in 12 Gauge, produced by O.F. Mossberg & Sons since 1961. This American-manufactured firearm reflects the engineering traditions and quality standards of its country of origin, designed to meet the demands of both civilian and professional users in a competitive global marketplace. Featuring a 6-round magazine capacity, this shotgun offers compact firepower. The 18.5-inch barrel maximizes accuracy potential and ballistic performance, making this an excellent choice for target shooting, competition, or field use. At 3175g (112.0 oz), this is a substantial firearm whose weight contributes to reduced felt recoil and enhanced stability during precision shooting. The aluminum alloy frame achieves a notable weight reduction compared to all-steel construction while maintaining the structural rigidity required for safe, reliable operation. This firearm represents its manufacturer's commitment to delivering a well-engineered, reliable product that serves the needs of discerning shooters seeking quality, accuracy, and dependable performance from a proven platform.

The Mossberg 500 is the only pump-action shotgun whose military variant (590A1) has passed the U.S. military's demanding MIL-SPEC 3443 testing standard. Its distinctive top-mounted tang safety provides truly ambidextrous operation, a feature that has kept it competitive against the Remington 870 for over 60 years. The shotgun is offered in over 55 factory configurations.

Mossberg 500 specifications

General

Type
Shotgun
Action
Pump action
Firing mechanism
Hammer-fired
Trigger
Single stage
Calibres
12 Gauge, 20 Gauge
Magazine capacity
6 rounds
Magazine
Tubular magazine

Dimensions

Barrel length
470 mm (18.5 in)
Overall length
1041 mm (41.0 in)
Weight (empty)
3.17 kg (7.00 lb)

Barrel

Rifling
None
Grooves
6

Materials

Barrel
Steel
Receiver / frame
Aluminum
Stock
Polymer
Finish
blued

Performance

Muzzle velocity (typical)
457 m/s (1499 fps)
Muzzle energy (typical)
3340 J (2463 ft·lb)
Effective range
40 m

History

Introduced
1961
Production status
In production
Country of origin
US
Designer
Carl Benson

Available calibres

12 Gauge20 Gauge

Features

  • Dual extractors
  • Twin action bars
  • Anti jam elevator
  • Easy barrel swap
  • Top mounted tang safety
  • Steel to steel lockup

Safety

  • Top tang ambidextrous safety

The top-tang ambidextrous safety is a key distinctive feature versus the Remington 870 which uses a cross-bolt safety. The 590A1 MIL-SPEC variant meets MIL-SPEC 3443G with its heavy-walled barrel, metal trigger guard and safety, clean-out magazine tube, and Parkerized finish. The 590A1 was officially adopted by the U.S. Marine Corps and Navy in the mid-1980s. Mossberg shotguns are used by military and law enforcement in over 70 countries. The receiver is anodized aluminum with a steel bolt carrier. Specifications listed are for the standard 500 Tactical with 18.5-inch barrel.

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