Description
You’re shopping for a first shotgun for a young shooter, or maybe a compact, lightweight option for yourself. You need something reliable, easy to handle, and frankly, you don’t want to break the bank. That’s the exact scenario where the Mossberg Model 510 Mini Super Bantam 20 Ga 3″ Chamber 18.5″ Barrel Muddy Girl Finish Synthetic Stock Muddy Girl Camo shines. It’s a purpose-built, compact shotgun designed for smaller-framed shooters, offering Mossberg’s proven reliability in a manageable, youth-friendly package at a very practical price point.
This shotgun is a 20-gauge pump-action built on a scaled-down receiver and a shortened stock. The 18.5-inch barrel keeps it maneuverable, while the 3-inch chamber gives you versatile ammunition options. Its standout feature is the vibrant Muddy Girl camo finish, which isn’t just for show—it provides a durable, weather-resistant coating. At $371.20, it sits in a sweet spot, offering more features and a stronger brand pedigree than many budget youth models, but without the premium price of adult-sized competition guns. Here’s the thing—it’s a tool that gets the job done without unnecessary frills.
Key Features & Practical Value
The “Mini Super Bantam” name isn’t just marketing. The stock features a 12-inch length of pull, which is about an inch and a half shorter than a standard adult stock. This is the critical dimension for proper fit and control, making it far easier for a young shooter or someone with a shorter wingspan to mount and shoot safely and comfortably. The synthetic stock is lightweight and tough, shrugging off the bumps and scrapes of field use.
That 18.5-inch barrel is a key part of the value proposition. It makes the overall length just 37.5 inches, perfect for navigating thick brush or a cramped blind. You sacrifice some swing for follow-through on flying targets, but for stationary shots or close-range practice, it’s highly effective. The 20-gauge chambering is the real smart choice for a starter gun—it has enough power for small game and clays, but with significantly less recoil than a 12-gauge, which builds confidence faster. The gun weighs a hair over 5.5 pounds, so it won’t fatigue a new shooter.
Mechanically, it’s classic Mossberg. The twin action bars provide smooth, reliable pumping, and the tang-mounted safety is intuitive and easy to reach. The finish is a full-coverage Muddy Girl camo pattern applied directly to the metal and synthetic parts, offering corrosion resistance and a personalized look that appeals to many young hunters. Best of all, it’s drop-in ready. No gunsmithing required; it fits out of the box for the intended user.
Specifications
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 18.5″ |
| Overall Length | 37.5″ |
| Length of Pull | 12″ |
| Weight | Approx. 5.5 lbs |
| Finish | Muddy Girl Camo |
| Action | Pump Action |
Pros & Cons: The Honest Trade-Offs
Pros: The compact size and light weight are its biggest advantages, making it uniquely suited for youth and small-statured adults. The price is competitive for a name-brand shotgun with a specialized design. The 20-gauge is a forgiving and effective caliber for learning. The vibrant camo is durable and a big hit with its target audience. Mossberg’s reliability is well-established.
Cons: That short barrel and stock will be a limitation for an average-sized adult—it will feel cramped. The 18.5-inch barrel isn’t ideal for wing shooting over long distances. As a specialized tool, it may be outgrown, though replacement stocks are available from brands like Hogue to extend its life. It’s a basic model, so don’t expect fancy checkering or a receiver drilled for optics.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the quintessential “first gun” for a new hunter. If you’re a parent in Missouri looking to introduce a child to hunting or shooting sports, this model is a top contender. It’s also a solid choice for a petite adult seeking a lightweight, easy-carrying option for small game or farm use. It’s not the gun for a seasoned waterfowler needing a 28-inch barrel, but for its intended role—building skills and confidence in a manageable platform—it delivers exceptional bang-for-your-buck. This firearm is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can an adult use this shotgun comfortably?
A: It depends on the adult’s size. For someone of smaller stature (under about 5’5″), it can work well. For an average or larger adult, the 12-inch length of pull will feel too short, causing an awkward, hunched shooting stance. An adult-specific model would be a better long-term fit.
Q: What is the magazine capacity?
A: The Mossberg 510 Mini typically features a 5+1 capacity (five in the tubular magazine, plus one in the chamber). Always confirm local hunting regulations, as some areas may have capacity restrictions for certain game.
Q: Is the stock adjustable or can it be replaced later?
A: The stock is not adjustable on this model, but it is a standard design. When the shooter outgrows it, you can replace it with an adult-sized stock from Mossberg or aftermarket companies to extend the shotgun’s usable life for many years, making the initial investment more practical.
If you’re looking for a dependable, youth-sized shotgun that prioritizes fit and function over flash, the Mossberg 510 Mini Super Bantam in Muddy Girl is a practical choice that gets the fundamentals right. See more details on our product page.
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