Description
Picture this: you’re looking for a shotgun that won’t let you down, won’t empty your wallet, and will be ready when you are. You don’t need a museum piece; you need a tool that works. I’ve been there, and that’s exactly why I’ve put hundreds of rounds through the Maverick 88 Security/Special Purpose 12 Ga, 20″ Barrel, 3″, 7rd. It’s the shotgun you grab when things get real.
The Maverick 88 Security/Special Purpose 12 Ga, 20″ Barrel, 3″, 7rd is a no-frills, pump-action 12-gauge shotgun built for reliability and home defense. It features a 20-inch cylinder bore barrel, a 7-round capacity, and a rugged synthetic stock, all for a price that’s hard to beat. This is a workhorse firearm designed for serious use, not for sitting in a safe.
Let’s talk about what makes this shotgun tick. The heart of the Maverick 88 is its proven, simple action. It’s a twin to the Mossberg 500 in many ways, sharing core components like the barrel and many internal parts. That means you’re getting a platform with decades of proven service behind it. The 20-inch barrel gives you excellent maneuverability in tight spaces—think hallways or vehicle interiors—without sacrificing too much sight radius. The cylinder bore choke is perfect for defensive loads, spreading shot quickly at close range. At just over seven pounds unloaded, it’s substantial enough to manage recoil but not so heavy it’s a burden.
The synthetic stock is where you see some cost-saving, but here’s the thing—it’s tough as nails. It won’t warp with humidity and can take a knock. The 7+1 capacity (6 in the tube, 1 in the chamber) is a solid advantage over many shorter defensive shotguns, giving you those extra crucial rounds without needing an extended magazine. The safety is located on the top of the receiver, a Mossberg hallmark that’s intuitive to operate with your thumb, whether you’re right or left-handed. For under $200, you are getting serious capability. The price point of $196.36 makes it one of the most accessible serious defensive tools on the market, and it’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 20 Inches |
| Overall Length | 41.25 Inches |
| Capacity | 6+1 Rounds (7rd total) |
| Weight | 7.25 lbs (approx.) |
| Choke | Cylinder Bore |
| Stock | Synthetic |
Pros & Cons
The pros are straightforward: legendary reliability, simple manual of arms, fantastic value, and great capacity for its size. It’s also mil-spec compatible with a huge array of Mossberg 500 accessories—slings, stocks, and even barrels are often drop-in ready. The cons? The finish is utilitarian, the trigger is a bit heavy (but serviceable), and the forend is a simpler two-piece design compared to the Mossberg 500. That said, for a pure defense gun, these are compromises I can easily live with.
Who This Is For
This is the shotgun for the first-time gun owner who needs dependable home protection without a complex manual of arms. It’s for the budget-conscious prepper who wants to stack utility deep. It’s also a perfect truck or cabin gun—a tool you can rely on in harsh conditions without worrying about damaging a fine finish. If your philosophy is “function over form,” the Maverick 88 is your shotgun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Maverick 88 just a cheaper Mossberg 500?
A: Essentially, yes. It shares the core action, barrel threading, and many internal parts. The main differences are the safety/trigger group assembly (it’s a cross-bolt safety on the M88) and the forend design. For most practical purposes, they operate identically.
Q: Can I use Mossberg 500 barrels and accessories on it?
A: Yes, with a key caveat. Barrels are directly interchangeable. Many accessories like stocks and sling mounts designed for the Mossberg 500 will fit. However, the forend is different, so any accessory requiring a specific forend (like certain light mounts) may not be compatible without modification.
Q: What’s the best ammunition for home defense with this model?
A: I recommend quality 00 buckshot or #1 buckshot for primary defense. The cylinder bore is ideal for this. For less over-penetration concern, consider Federal FliteControl or similar reduced-recoil buckshot loads. Always pattern your chosen load at your expected engagement distances—typically 7-15 yards.
If you need a trustworthy, straightforward defensive shotgun that gets the job done, the Maverick 88 Security is waiting. Check availability and remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
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