Description
Picture this: you need a shotgun that won’t break the bank but can handle the tough jobs—home defense, ranch work, or just blasting clays on the weekend. You don’t need fancy bells and whistles, just pure, reliable function. That’s the exact scenario where the MAVERICK ARMS 88 12g 20″ Pump Shotgun, Pistol Grip Kit shines. It’s the no-frills workhorse that gets the job done, leaving more cash in your pocket for ammo.
What is it? The Maverick 88 is a rugged, budget-friendly pump-action shotgun built on a proven design. This specific kit comes with a 20-inch cylinder-bore barrel and includes a pistol grip, offering a compact and maneuverable package ideal for close-quarters use. At its core, it’s about delivering maximum utility for a minimal investment—true bang-for-your-buck performance.
Let’s talk about what makes this shotgun tick. The heart of the Maverick 88 is its simple, dual-action bar system that provides smooth and reliable pumping. This isn’t a delicate safe queen; it’s built to be used. The cross-bolt safety is intuitively placed at the rear of the trigger guard for quick access. The included synthetic pistol grip gives you a solid, secure hold, making the overall package incredibly compact with an overall length of just 41 inches. Here’s the thing—while it shares many parts with its more expensive cousin, the Mossberg 500, the Maverick 88’s receiver and trigger group are assembled in a cost-effective way to hit this aggressive price point. That said, the critical components like the barrel and magazine tube are fully mil-spec compatible with Mossberg 500 models, opening up a huge world of aftermarket stocks, barrels, and accessories down the line if you choose to customize.
The value proposition is crystal clear. For $273.25, you’re getting a functional 12-gauge shotgun that’s ready for serious work right out of the box. You could easily spend twice that on a comparable name-brand model without gaining any real-world reliability. The tradeoff? You get a simpler finish and a trigger group that’s not designed for end-user disassembly. But for a tool that needs to go bang every single time you pull the trigger, those are compromises most shooters can live with. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Specifications
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 20″ |
| Overall Length | 41″ |
| Capacity | 5+1 Rounds |
| Choke | Cylinder Bore (Fixed) |
| Weight | Approx. 6.75 lbs |
Pros & Cons
The Good: Exceptional value for money. Proven, rugged design. Mossberg 500 barrel compatibility for easy upgrades. Compact and easy to maneuver. The pistol grip kit offers a distinct configuration for specific needs. Simple to operate and maintain.
The Considerations: Fixed cylinder choke limits versatility for longer-range shooting. The synthetic pistol grip only may not be ideal for extended range sessions with heavy loads. Finish and fit are utilitarian—it’s a tool, not a showpiece.
Who is this for? This shotgun is perfect for the first-time buyer on a tight budget, the homeowner seeking an effective defensive tool, or the landowner who needs a reliable pest-control and utility firearm. It’s for the shooter who prioritizes function over form and understands that a higher price tag doesn’t always mean a more reliable firearm. If you want a shotgun that works without a hefty upfront cost, this is a top contender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the pistol grip removable? Can I add a traditional stock?
A: Yes. The included pistol grip is attached via a standard bolt. You can remove it and install any aftermarket stock designed for Mossberg 500/ Maverick 88 shotguns with no gunsmithing required, giving you flexibility to configure it to your liking.
Q: What is the magazine capacity?
A: This model has a 5+1 round capacity (five in the tubular magazine, plus one in the chamber). The 20-inch barrel pairs with a magazine tube that is flush with the muzzle, keeping the profile clean and compact.
Q: Can I use it for hunting or shooting slugs?
A: With its cylinder bore choke, it’s best suited for close-range use with buckshot or rifled slugs. It’s not ideal for hunting birds at distance where a tighter choke is needed, but it is perfectly capable for deer hunting in thick brush or for defensive scenarios.
Ready to add this dependable, value-packed shotgun to your collection? See current availability and pricing on our product page.
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