Maverick 88 Pump Security 12ga 18.5″ Barrel

Description

Picture this: you need a reliable, no-fuss tool for home defense or property security. You’re not looking for a showpiece; you need a workhorse that goes bang every single time, doesn’t drain your wallet, and can handle whatever you feed it. That’s the exact scenario where the Maverick 88 Pump Security/Special Purpose 12 ga 18.5″ Barrel, 3″, Synthetic Stock Black, 5rd shines. It’s the bedrock of affordable, dependable shotguns.

The Maverick 88 Security is a pump-action, 12-gauge shotgun with an 18.5-inch cylinder-bore barrel, a 5-round capacity, and a durable synthetic stock. Built for close-quarters defense and utility, it offers Mossberg reliability at a budget price point, requiring minimal maintenance and accepting a wide range of 12-gauge ammunition. It’s a straightforward, robust firearm designed for practical use.

Let’s talk about what you’re really getting. The heart of this shotgun is its proven action, sharing critical design elements with the more expensive Mossberg 500 series. That means you get a familiar, dual-action bar system that’s known for its strength and reliability. The 18.5-inch barrel keeps the overall length manageable for indoor use or vehicle storage, coming in at a total length of just 38.5 inches. The synthetic stock is tough, weather-resistant, and won’t warp or crack like wood can in less-than-ideal storage conditions. Here’s the thing—it’s built to be used, not babied.

One of the biggest value propositions is its compatibility. This Maverick 88 uses the same barrel attachment system as the Mossberg 500, meaning a huge universe of aftermarket barrels is available if you ever want to swap for a longer hunting barrel or a different choke setup. The receiver is drilled and tapped for a scope mount (not included), and the synthetic forend is simple and functional. At a weight of 6.5 pounds, it’s light enough to handle easily but has enough heft to manage recoil with standard loads.

Gauge	12 Gauge (3″ Chamber)
Barrel Length	18.5 Inches
Overall Length	38.5 Inches
Capacity	5 Rounds (4+1)
Weight	6.5 lbs
Stock	Synthetic, Black

Pros: The price is the headline. At $262.16, it’s arguably the most cost-effective new pump-action shotgun from a major manufacturer. The Mossberg lineage means proven reliability and extensive parts/commonality. It’s simple to operate and clean, with no gunsmithing required for basic use. The synthetic stock is durable and low-maintenance.

Cons: You make tradeoffs for that price. The safety is a cross-bolt design at the rear of the trigger guard, not the more familiar tang safety found on the Mossberg 500. The forend is a simpler, two-piece design compared to its upmarket sibling. The finish is utilitarian, and the stock may feel a bit hollow to some—but that’s part of how the weight and cost are kept down.

So who is this for? It’s perfect for the first-time gun owner who needs a capable home defense tool without a huge investment. It’s for the budget-conscious landowner who needs a reliable varmint or utility gun for the truck or barn. It’s also a solid choice as a “beater” shotgun for harsh environments where you wouldn’t want to risk a more expensive firearm. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, following all applicable laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Maverick 88 the same as a Mossberg 500?

A: Not exactly. They share core components like the action and barrel interchangeability, but the Maverick 88 is assembled in the USA with some parts manufactured abroad to cut costs. Key differences include the cross-bolt safety and the two-piece forend. Think of it as the budget-friendly cousin with the same reliable heart.

Q: What ammunition can it fire?

A: It has a 3-inch chamber, so it can safely fire both 2 3/4-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells of any type (birdshot, buckshot, slugs). Always start with standard loads to familiarize yourself with the gun’s function and recoil before moving to heavier defensive or magnum loads.

Q: Can I add a magazine extension or a different stock?

A: The magazine tube is not designed for easy extension like some models, as it’s a fixed, one-piece design with the barrel ring. However, you can swap the stock for many aftermarket options made for the Mossberg 500, and as mentioned, barrels are widely interchangeable. The receiver is also ready for a scope mount if desired.

If you’ve been looking for a baseline of reliability that doesn’t require a major financial commitment, the Maverick 88 Security model presents a compelling case. It delivers core function where it counts. See the full details and availability on our product page.