Description
The Maverick Model 88 Field/Security Combo 12 Ga 28″ Vent Rib Barrel Plus 18.5″ Security Barrel 6rd is a versatile, no-frills pump-action shotgun from Mossberg. It’s a two-barrel package that gives you a long 28-inch barrel for hunting or clays and a short 18.5-inch barrel for home defense, all for a price that’s tough to beat. I’ve put hundreds of shells through various Model 88s, and they just work. This is the definition of a workhorse firearm—reliable, simple, and ready for anything. No gunsmithing required; it fits out of the box and gets you shooting.
Key Features
- Two-Barrel Versatility: A 28″ vent-rib barrel for field use and an 18.5″ cylinder-bore security barrel.
- Proven Action: Uses the same dual-action bars and steel-to-steel lockup as the Mossberg 500 for reliable cycling.
- Simple Safety: Tang-mounted, ambidextrous safety is easy to operate and see.
- Dual Extractors: Provides positive extraction for a wide range of 12-gauge loads, from light target to heavy buckshot.
- 6+1 Capacity: The security barrel configuration holds six 2-3/4″ shells in the tube plus one in the chamber.
Specs & Details
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (2-3/4″ & 3″ chambers) |
|---|---|
| Barrels | 28″ Vent Rib (Field), 18.5″ Cylinder Bore (Security) | Overall Length (Security) | ~39.25 inches |
| Capacity | 5+1 (28″ barrel), 6+1 (18.5″ barrel) |
| Action | Pump Action |
| Safety | Tang-mounted, ambidextrous |
The weight comes in around 7.25 pounds with the longer barrel, which helps soak up recoil during a long day at the range or in the field. Here’s the thing—this combo is built on Mossberg’s legacy of rugged pump-actions, sharing critical parts with the more expensive Mossberg 500. That means you get proven reliability without the premium price tag. The synthetic stock is durable and handles Missouri’s humidity just fine, and the simple bead sight on the security barrel gets you on target fast. At $257.55, this package delivers serious value. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the perfect first shotgun for a new shooter or a budget-conscious hunter who needs one tool for multiple jobs. It’s for the landowner who wants a reliable varmint gun that can also stand guard duty. It’s also an ideal truck gun or a solid, no-worry backup for more experienced hands. If you need a simple, durable firearm that can switch from dove season to bedside duty in minutes, this combo is your answer. The 18.5-inch barrel makes it maneuverable in tight spaces, a key consideration for home defense.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Incredible value for a two-gun setup. Mossberg’s proven reliability in an affordable package. The tang safety is superior to a cross-bolt for most users. Simple to maintain and operate. The dual-action bars prevent binding—a real advantage over single-action-bar designs.
Cons: The forend is a two-piece design, not the one-piece tube on the Mossberg 500, which limits aftermarket stock/forend options. The trigger guard is polymer. Some finish details are utilitarian, but that’s how they hit this price point. You won’t find fancy checkering or a glossy finish here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Mossberg 500 barrels and accessories compatible with the Maverick 88?
A: Mostly, yes. Barrels for the Mossberg 500 with a 5+1 or 6+1 capacity tube will fit the Maverick 88 receiver. However, the forend and stock assembly is different due to the Maverick’s trigger group design, so those parts are not directly interchangeable. Stocks are generally compatible, but forends are not.
Q: What’s the main difference between this and a Mossberg 500?
A: The primary differences are the location of the safety (Maverick’s is on the tang, Mossberg 500’s is typically on the top rear of the receiver) and the forend assembly. The Maverick 88 is assembled in the U.S. using domestic and imported parts, while the 500 is U.S.-made. The core action and reliability are virtually identical.
Q: Is it ready for a magazine tube extension?
A: The 18.5″ security barrel version has a 6-round tube. Adding an extension typically requires replacing the entire magazine tube, which is a more involved process than on some competitors. For most home defense scenarios, the 6+1 capacity is more than sufficient. Remember, FFL transfer required for firearm purchases when ordering online.
Look, if you need a dependable, versatile shotgun that won’t break the bank, the Maverick 88 Combo is a standout choice. Check availability and see if it’s the right fit for your needs.
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