Description
Let me paint you a picture. It’s a damp Missouri morning, you’re walking a fence line, and a rustle in the brush demands a quick, reliable response. That’s the world the Maverick Model 88 Pump 12 ga 28″ 3″ Black Synthetic Blue Finish lives in. It’s a no-frills, hardworking pump-action shotgun built for the real world, not the safe queen collection. I’ve put everything from light target loads to stout 3″ magnums through this platform, and it just asks for more. So, what exactly is it?
The Maverick Model 88 is a budget-friendly, pump-action 12-gauge shotgun with a 28-inch vent-rib barrel, a 3-inch chamber, and a durable black synthetic stock paired with a classic blue steel finish. It’s a simple, robust tool designed for hunting, home defense, and recreational shooting where proven reliability matters more than fancy features. At its core, it’s about getting the job done without breaking the bank.
Here’s the thing—this shotgun gets the fundamentals right. The action is smooth for a gun in this price range, with a positive pump stroke that builds muscle memory fast. The cross-bolt safety is simple and located right behind the trigger, where your thumb can find it instinctively. The 28-inch barrel with its vent rib gives you a clean sight plane for swinging on clays or tracking a bird. Weighing in at a manageable 7.25 pounds, it carries easily in the field without feeling whippy or unbalanced. The synthetic stock shrugs off moisture and rough handling, which is perfect for our variable Midwest weather. And that classic blue finish? It’s honest. It’ll wear with use, telling the story of your seasons afield.
One of its smartest features is shared DNA with its more expensive sibling. The Maverick 88’s receiver and action bar assembly are compatible with many Mossberg 500 parts. Want to swap the forend or add a different stock later? You’ve got options without needing a gunsmith. It’s a design that’s drop-in ready for customization down the road, but it works perfectly as-is straight from the box.
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
|---|---|
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 28″ Vent Rib |
| Overall Length | 48.5″ |
| Weight | 7.25 lbs |
| Capacity | 5+1 (with included plug) |
| Finish | Blue Steel / Black Synthetic |
Pros: The price point of $189.68 is almost unbeatable for a new, name-backed pump shotgun. The reliability is legendary—it feeds, fires, and ejects without drama. The Mossberg 500 parts compatibility is a huge plus for tinkerers. It’s lightweight, points naturally, and the synthetic stock is virtually maintenance-free.
Cons: The trigger is functional but not refined. The safety is not ambidextrous. The finish, while classic, is less corrosion-resistant than modern coatings—keep it oiled. Some may find the stock a bit hollow, but that’s the trade-off for durability and low cost.
So who is this for? It’s the first shotgun for a new hunter learning the ropes. It’s the truck gun that you don’t mind getting scratched. It’s the affordable clay breaker for casual weekend fun. It’s the dependable home defender on a tight budget. If you need a simple, effective tool that puts performance over polish, this is your shotgun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Maverick 88 just a cheaper Mossberg 500?
A: It’s a streamlined version. The main differences are a trigger group pinned to the receiver (instead of removable) and a simpler forend attachment. The core reliability and many parts—like barrels—are shared, making it a fantastic value.
Q: Can I use it for duck or turkey hunting?
A: Absolutely. The 3″ chamber handles all standard steel and lead loads. The 28″ barrel is great for pass-shooting ducks or geese with the right choke. For turkey, you’d likely want a shorter, dedicated barrel, which is where that Mossberg 500 compatibility shines—you can often find aftermarket barrels easily.
Q: What’s the process to get one?
A: FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. You can purchase online and have it shipped to your local licensed dealer for the background check and pickup. We make it straightforward and available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
If you’re looking for an honest, dependable shotgun that won’t let you down and leaves room in your wallet for ammo, the Maverick Model 88 deserves a hard look.
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