Description
The Maverick 88 Security 12 Ga 3″ 18.5″ Barrel Cylinder Choke Black Synthetic ATI Top-Folding Stock 6rd is a budget-friendly, no-frills pump-action shotgun designed for home defense and tactical use. It combines Mossberg’s reliable Maverick 88 action with an ATI top-folding stock for compact storage and transport, offering serious utility at a very accessible price point of $281.99.
Key Features
- ATI Top-Folding Stock: The standout feature, this stock folds over the top of the receiver, drastically reducing the shotgun’s overall length for easy storage in a vehicle, closet, or backpack. It’s a major space-saver.
- Proven Maverick 88 Action: Built on Mossberg’s famously simple and durable pump-action system. It shares many parts with the more expensive Mossberg 500, including the interchangeable barrel system.
- 18.5″ Cylinder Bore Barrel: The short, cylinder-choked barrel is ideal for defensive use with buckshot or slugs, providing a wide pattern at close range without the need for choke adjustments.
- 6-Round Capacity: Offers a solid balance of firepower and manageable weight. The tubular magazine under the barrel holds five 2¾” or 3″ shells, plus one in the chamber.
- Dual Action Bars: Provides smooth, reliable pumping and helps prevent binding under rapid fire or adverse conditions—a feature not always found on budget shotguns.
- Ambidextrous Safety: The cross-bolt safety is located at the rear of the trigger guard, making it easy to operate for both right and left-handed shooters.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 18.5 Inches |
| Choke | Cylinder Bore (Fixed) |
| Overall Length (Stock Extended) | Approx. 39.5 Inches |
| Overall Length (Stock Folded) | Approx. 28.5 Inches |
| Capacity | 5+1 Rounds |
| Stock | Black Synthetic with ATI Top-Folding Mechanism |
Weighing in at roughly 7 pounds, this shotgun has a solid, substantial feel without being overly heavy for extended handling. The synthetic forend and stock are durable and weather-resistant, built for real-world use. Here’s the thing—this configuration is essentially a Mossberg 500 with a different safety and a folding stock, but at a price that undercuts its famous sibling by a significant margin. It’s a classic case of paying for the core function, not the brand name prestige.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This Maverick 88 is built for the practical, value-focused shooter. It’s a prime candidate for a truck gun, a dedicated home defense tool kept in a secure closet, or a budget-friendly entry into tactical shotgun training. If your priority is reliable performance and compact storage over fancy finishes or brand cachet, this model makes a compelling argument. It’s also a great option for those who want a Mossberg 500-compatible platform—many accessories like sling mounts and shell holders designed for the 500 will fit this Maverick 88, giving you upgrade paths down the line without gunsmithing required.
Pros & Cons: The Practical Tradeoffs
Pros: The price is the biggest pro. At $281.99, you’re getting a functional, name-brand defensive shotgun. The folding stock provides genuine utility for storage. Reliability is proven, and maintenance is straightforward. Its compatibility with the vast Mossberg 500 aftermarket for parts like barrels and stocks (though the forend is different) is a huge long-term value.
Cons: The folding mechanism adds some bulk to the receiver. The synthetic furniture is functional but not luxurious. The fixed cylinder choke limits versatility for clay shooting or hunting. Some may find the top-folding design less intuitive for shouldering quickly than a traditional stock. That said, for its intended defensive role, these are acceptable compromises for the cost savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the folding stock sturdy when locked open?
A: Yes, the ATI stock uses a robust locking mechanism that, when fully engaged, provides a solid shoulder weld. It’s designed for reliable use, not as a range toy. Always check that it’s fully locked into position before firing.
Q: Can I swap the barrel for a longer hunting barrel?
A: Absolutely. One of the best features of the Maverick 88 is its compatibility with most Mossberg 500 barrels. You can easily swap this 18.5″ cylinder barrel for a 28″ vent-rib barrel with chokes for hunting or clays, making the gun more versatile. This is a drop-in ready swap.
Q: What’s the main difference between this and a Mossberg 500?
A: The primary differences are the location of the safety (tang-mounted on most 500s, cross-bolt on the Maverick) and the forend attachment system. The Maverick 88 is manufactured by Mossberg to a slightly different spec to hit a lower price point, but the core action, reliability, and barrel interchangeability are shared. You’re paying less for nearly identical performance.
Ready to add this high-value, compact defensive shotgun to your collection? This Maverick 88 Security configuration is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.