Description
The Maverick Arms 88 Security, Pump-Action 12 Ga, 18.5″, 3″, 5rd, Flat Dark Earth is a no-frills, dependable pump-action shotgun built for home defense and general utility. It’s a budget-friendly workhorse that delivers Mossberg’s proven reliability in a simple, rugged package ready for serious use right out of the box. I’ve put hundreds of rounds of target load and buckshot through this platform without a hiccup.
Key Features
- Flat Dark Earth Finish: More than just looks, the FDE coating provides corrosion resistance and a low-glare profile.
- 18.5″ Cylinder Bore Barrel: The ideal length for maneuverability indoors and effective pattern spread with defensive loads.
- Dual Action Bars: Provides smooth, reliable pumping and helps prevent binding under rapid fire.
- Cross-Bolt Safety: Simple, positive, and easy to operate right behind the trigger.
- 5+1 Capacity: A practical round count for most defensive scenarios without making the gun overly long or heavy.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Action | Pump-Action |
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 18.5 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 39.25 Inches |
| Capacity | 5+1 Rounds |
| Finish | Flat Dark Earth |
| Weight | Approx. 6.75 lbs |
Look, the heart of this shotgun is its Mossberg DNA. It shares critical components with the Mossberg 500, including the iconic twin action bars and the same robust receiver design. That said, the Maverick 88 makes some smart compromises to hit its price point, like using a polymer trigger guard and a simplified safety system. The 18.5-inch barrel keeps the overall length manageable, right around 39 inches, which is perfect for clearing hallways or storing in a vehicle. The 5-round tubular magazine is a classic setup—reliable and easy to top off. At just under 7 pounds, it’s hefty enough to soak up recoil but not so heavy you can’t handle it for extended periods.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the shotgun for the first-time gun owner who needs dependable home defense without breaking the bank. It’s for the Missouri landowner who needs a tool for varmint control and general farm security. It’s also a fantastic beater gun for the experienced shooter who wants a reliable backup that they aren’t afraid to get scratched up. If your primary concern is function over fancy features, this is your gun. The price point of $244.39 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.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The reliability is proven—this action design has been tested for decades. The value is incredible; you get Mossberg-level performance for a fraction of the cost. It’s incredibly simple to operate and maintain, with no gunsmithing required for basic use. The Flat Dark Earth finish is both practical and gives it a modern tactical look that stands out from the usual black.
Cons: The forend is a two-piece design, which some find less solid than a one-piece tube. Aftermarket support is good but not as vast as for the standard Mossberg 500, though many parts like stocks and barrels are interchangeable. The finish, while tough, can show wear marks more readily than a traditional blued finish if you’re really putting it through hard use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Mossberg 500 barrels and accessories compatible with the Maverick 88?
A: Mostly, yes. Barrels that fit the Mossberg 500 with a standard magazine tube will fit the Maverick 88, which is a huge advantage. Many stocks are also interchangeable. However, the trigger group assembly and safety are different, so those parts are not cross-compatible. It’s always best to double-check specific part numbers.
Q: Is the safety ambidextrous?
A: No, the cross-bolt safety is set up for right-handed shooters. It’s located at the rear of the trigger guard and is pushed from right to left to fire. Left-handed shooters can operate it with their trigger finger, but it’s not as intuitive. For a truly ambidextrous safety, you’d need to step up to a Mossberg 500 with its top-mounted tang safety.
Q: What’s the best ammunition for home defense with this shotgun?
A: For home defense, I recommend quality 00 buckshot in 2 3/4″ length. The cylinder bore barrel doesn’t choke the shot, so patterns will be effective at indoor distances. Practice with lighter target loads to build proficiency, but verify function with your chosen defensive load. The 3″ chamber gives you flexibility for heavier hunting loads, but for defense, standard 2 3/4″ buckshot is more than sufficient and offers faster follow-up shots.
Here’s the thing—you’re not buying a showpiece. You’re buying a tool that needs to work every single time. The Maverick 88 Security delivers on that fundamental promise without asking for much in return. It’s a straightforward, robust firearm that gets the job done. If that’s what you’re looking for, check its availability.
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