Description
I was at the range last week, breaking clays with a buddy who brought out his grandfather’s old pump. It got us talking about what makes a shotgun a true heirloom—something that works hard but looks like it belongs in a display case. That’s the exact niche this Mossberg 500 Cenntenial Edition 12 Ga, 28″ VR Barrel, Walnut Stock, 1 of 750 TALO Edition fills. It’s a limited-run, collector-grade version of the iconic Mossberg 500 pump-action shotgun, built to commemorate the model’s legacy. It combines a classic 28-inch vent-rib barrel with genuine American walnut furniture, all wrapped up in a special TALO distributor edition limited to just 750 guns. This isn’t your average field gun; it’s a functional piece of firearms history you can actually shoot.
So, what do you get for your $844.95? You’re getting Mossberg’s legendary reliability—I’ve put hundreds of rounds through various 500s without a hiccup—dressed in its Sunday best. The heart is the same twin action bars, steel-to-steel lockup, and ambidextrous top-mounted safety that made the 500 a military and law enforcement staple. But here, it’s the details that sing. The walnut stock and forend have a rich, hand-filling finish you just don’t see on production line guns. The 28-inch vent-rib barrel with a bead sight is pure classic upland or trap style, and it’s topped off with special Centennial branding. The whole package has a heft and solidity that feels premium the moment you pick it up. At 7.5 pounds unloaded, it balances beautifully for swing-through shots on crossing targets.
The key here is that it’s a shooter first. Look, a safe queen is fine for some, but this gun begs to be used. The action is slick right out of the box—no gunsmithing required to get it running smoothly. That long barrel and full choke (it’s a fixed Full choke tube) make it a natural for trap shooting or pass-shooting waterfowl where steel shot is required. I’ve found it pairs perfectly with standard 2 3/4″ or 3″ shells from brands like Federal or Winchester, and the 5+1 capacity is plenty for most field or clay scenarios. The real magic is how the classic lines and wood just feel right. It points intuitively, and the weight soaks up recoil, making long sessions at the clay range a pleasure, not a punishment.
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
|---|---|
| Barrel | 28″ Vent Rib, Fixed Full Choke |
| Capacity | 5+1 Rounds |
| Stock | American Walnut |
| Overall Length | Approx. 48.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 7.5 lbs |
Let’s break down the pros and cons. On the plus side, you have undeniable collector appeal with that 1-of-750 serialization, backed by Mossberg’s bombproof mechanics. The walnut is superb, and the classic configuration is timeless. The vent rib is a nice touch for target acquisition. On the downside, the fixed full choke limits versatility compared to a modern gun with choke tubes—you’re not patterning buckshot well with this. It’s also a long gun, so maneuvering in tight blinds or thick brush isn’t its forte. That said, for its intended roles, it’s nearly perfect.
Who is this for? It’s for the shooter who appreciates tradition and wants a single, beautiful, do-everything shotgun for clays and certain field uses. It’s for the collector who actually uses their collection. It’s for someone wanting an heirloom-quality firearm that won’t just sit idle. If you need a dedicated home-defense tool or a ultra-versatile hunting rig for all game, a more tactical or multi-choke model might be better. But if you want a classic American workhorse presented as a limited edition piece, this is it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the barrel threaded for choke tubes?
A: No, it is not. This Centennial Edition features a classic fixed Full choke. This is ideal for trap shooting and certain waterfowl hunting with steel shot, but limits your pattern options compared to a modern interchangeable choke system.
Q: What makes this a “TALO Edition”?
A: TALO is a distributors’ cooperative that works with manufacturers to produce limited-run, special configuration firearms for independent retailers. This Mossberg 500 Centennial is one such exclusive, hence the limited production of only 750 units and its specific feature set.
Q: Can I use it for home defense?
A: While mechanically capable, its 28-inch barrel makes it very long and cumbersome for indoor use. The fixed Full choke will also produce a very tight pattern at close range. It’s better suited for sport and field use. For home defense, a shorter-barreled 500 model would be a more practical choice.
This is a special gun with a specific appeal. If a classic, limited-edition scattergun that you can proudly own and regularly shoot speaks to you, it’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. Remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
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