Maverick 88 Bantam Youth 20 Ga Shotgun Review

Description

I remember the first time I handed a full-size shotgun to a younger shooter. The awkward heft, the long reach—it just wasn’t right. That’s the exact scenario the Maverick 88 Bantam Youth 20 Ga, 22″, 3″ Chamber, 3rd, Synthetic was built to solve. It’s a scaled-down, purpose-built shotgun designed to fit smaller-framed shooters, offering the legendary Mossberg reliability in a package that actually works for them. I’ve put a few hundred target and light field loads through one, and the difference a proper fit makes is night and day.

The Maverick 88 Bantam Youth 20 Ga, 22″, 3″ Chamber, 3rd, Synthetic is a compact, lightweight pump-action shotgun chambered in 20-gauge. It features a shortened 13-inch length of pull stock and a 22-inch barrel, making it ideal for younger shooters, smaller-statured adults, or anyone seeking a highly maneuverable home defense or field gun. It’s a no-fuss, durable workhorse built on Mossberg’s proven action.

Let’s talk about that fit. The “Bantam” and “Youth” designations aren’t just marketing. The stock is a full inch and a half shorter than a standard adult model, bringing the reach down to a manageable 13 inches. This isn’t a chopped-down toy; it’s an engineered platform. For a young hunter learning to swing on clays or track a squirrel, or a smaller adult using it for home security, that proper shoulder weld and sight alignment are everything. It fits out of the box for its intended user, which is a huge win. No gunsmithing required to get started.

Under the hood, it’s pure Mossberg 88. That means a dual-action bar system for smooth, reliable pumping, a cross-bolt safety at the rear of the trigger guard (intuitive and easy to reach), and a 3-inch chamber that lets you run everything from light target loads to heavier field ammunition. The 22-inch barrel with a fixed modified choke is a versatile middle ground—good for patterns at typical small-game and birdshot ranges. The synthetic stock and forend are practically indestructible and shrug off weather, which is perfect for Missouri’s damp springs and dusty autumns. The total weight sits right around 5.5 pounds, which is light enough for all-day carry without being so light that recoil becomes punishing.

Here’s the thing—this is an entry point, but it’s not a dead end. The Maverick 88 platform has massive aftermarket support. That synthetic stock can be swapped for a Hogue or other aftermarket option if the shooter outgrows the youth dimensions. The 20-gauge chambering is a sweet spot: far more manageable than a 12-gauge for new shooters, yet still perfectly effective for its roles. At $234.90, it represents a value that’s hard to beat for a brand-name firearm that will last for decades.

Gauge	20 Gauge (3″ Chamber)
Barrel Length	22 Inches
Overall Length	41.5 Inches (Approx.)
Length of Pull	13 Inches
Weight	~5.5 lbs
Capacity	5+1 Rounds (with included plug)
Choke	Fixed Modified
Finish	Blued, Synthetic Stock

Pros: Exceptional value for money. Proven, simple, and reliable Mossberg action. The shorter stock is a game-changer for its intended audience. Lightweight and easy to handle. Durable synthetic furniture. 20-gauge is a great low-recoil trainer and effective field gauge.

Cons: The fixed choke limits versatility for specialized shooting. The finish is utilitarian, not fancy. The safety location, while classic, isn’t as intuitive for some as a tang safety.

So who is this for? Primarily, it’s for the new, younger shooter. It’s the ideal first shotgun for a responsible teen. It’s also a fantastic option for smaller-framed adults, especially for home defense where maneuverability in hallways is key. Finally, it’s for any seasoned shooter looking for a cheap, reliable “truck gun” or loaner for the field that they won’t cry over if it gets a scratch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can an adult use this shotgun comfortably?

A: Absolutely, especially adults of smaller stature. The 13-inch length of pull might feel short for average or larger-framed adults, but it’s very manageable for home defense scenarios or casual use. Many adults simply add a slip-on recoil pad to extend the length slightly.

Q: Is the stock interchangeable with other Maverick 88 or Mossberg 500 parts?

A: Yes. The Maverick 88 Bantam uses the same receiver thread pattern as standard Mossberg 500/ Maverick 88 models. This means a vast array of aftermarket stocks and forends are compatible, allowing you to customize the fit as the shooter grows or needs change.

Q: What’s the main difference between this and a standard Maverick 88?

A: Two key differences: the shorter 13-inch “Bantam” stock and the 22-inch barrel with a fixed choke. Standard adult models typically have a 14-inch length of pull and may come with a longer barrel or different choke system. The core action and reliability are identical.

This shotgun fills a specific niche perfectly. It’s the tool that removes the barrier of an ill-fitting firearm, allowing the focus to be on safety, technique, and enjoyment. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. If you’re looking to start a new shooter off right without breaking the bank, this Maverick deserves a long, hard look.