Description
Picture this: you’re introducing a new shooter to the range. They need a platform that’s manageable, reliable, and builds confidence from the first round. That’s where the Mossberg 500 Bantam Youth Pump Action 20 Ga, 20″, 3″ Chamber, 7rd, Purple Stock comes in. It’s a compact, youth-oriented pump-action shotgun built on Mossberg’s legendary 500 series, featuring a shorter 13″ length of pull stock, a 20″ barrel, and a vibrant purple synthetic finish. This 20-gauge workhorse delivers reduced recoil and scaled dimensions for smaller-framed shooters, making it an ideal first gun for training, hunting small game, or home defense.
When it comes to home defense or field training, a shotgun’s reliability is non-negotiable. The Mossberg 500 platform has proven itself for decades in military, law enforcement, and civilian hands. The Bantam Youth model inherits that rugged, dual-action bar design and positive steel-to-steel lockup. The 20-gauge chambering offers a potent payload with noticeably less kick than a 12-gauge—a critical factor for building proper shooting fundamentals without developing a flinch. With its 7-round total capacity (6+1), it provides ample firepower for most scenarios. The 20-inch barrel keeps the overall length maneuverable in tight spaces, whether that’s a blind in the Missouri woods or a hallway.
The defining feature is the Bantam stock. It’s not just a color; it’s a purpose-built ergonomic solution. The 13-inch length of pull is over an inch shorter than standard adult stocks, allowing younger shooters or those with shorter arms to mount the gun correctly and reach the pump comfortably. The synthetic construction is durable and weather-resistant, and the purple finish adds a personalized touch that breaks from tradition. The gun weighs a manageable 6.25 pounds unloaded, which helps prevent fatigue during extended training sessions. This model is drop-in ready for its intended user, requiring no aftermarket modifications to fit a youth or smaller adult frame right out of the box.
| Gauge | 20 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 20 Inches |
| Overall Length | 40.5 Inches |
| Weight | 6.25 lbs |
| Capacity | 6+1 Rounds |
| Stock | Purple Synthetic Bantam (13″ LOP) |
Pros: Legendary Mossberg 500 reliability. Scaled dimensions perfect for youth and small-frame shooters. Reduced 20-gauge recoil promotes confidence. High-visibility purple stock aids in safe handling identification. Proven pump-action mechanism is simple to operate and teach. At $336.42, it represents a significant value for a dedicated youth/training platform from a top-tier manufacturer.
Cons: The specialized stock may be outgrown, requiring an adult stock purchase later. The 20-inch barrel is less ideal for wing shooting compared to longer field barrels. The 20-gauge, while effective, has less payload variety than 12-gauge for defensive use.
So who is this for? It’s the definitive first shotgun for a responsible young hunter under supervision. It’s for the smaller-statured adult seeking a low-recoil, maneuverable home defense option. It’s a dedicated training tool for instructors building foundational skills. It’s even for the experienced shooter who wants a lightweight, handy gun for upland birds or varmints. The 7-round tube gives it an edge over many single-shot youth models, teaching manual of arms with a real-world capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can an adult use this shotgun comfortably?
A: Yes, particularly smaller-framed adults. The shorter stock may feel cramped for average or larger shooters, but the Bantam stock can be easily swapped for a standard adult-length Mossberg 500 stock (like those from Hogue or the standard Mossberg synthetic line) if needed, making it a gun that can grow with the shooter.
Q: Is the purple stock the only color available for this model?
A: For this specific SKU, yes. The purple is a distinctive feature. However, the Bantam stock design is also available from Mossberg in other colors like black and camo on different model variations, but this configuration with the 20″ barrel and 7-round tube in purple is a specific package.
Q: What kind of choke does it use?
A: The barrel is typically equipped with a fixed Modified (Mod) choke, which is a versatile constriction suitable for a range of loads from buckshot to light field loads. Some production runs may include an Accu-Choke threaded system—check the specific product listing or barrel marking. The 20-inch barrel and modified choke make it a solid choice for slugs or defensive rounds, too.
Ready to put a proven, confidence-building platform in the hands of a new shooter? This Mossberg 500 Bantam Youth model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
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