Description
Picture this: you need a no-fuss, no-frills defensive tool that won’t break the bank. Something you can stash in a vehicle, secure in a tight space, or handle with ease. You’re not looking for a range toy or a competition gun—you want pure, simple utility. That’s the exact scenario where the Mossberg 500 Cruiser Pump 20ga 18.5″ Barrel, CB 3″, Black Synthetic Pistol Grip Stock Blued, 5rd makes its case. Here’s the thing—it strips the shotgun down to its most basic, functional form, delivering serious capability at a price that’s hard to argue with.
What is the Mossberg 500 Cruiser Pump 20ga? It’s a compact, pistol-grip-only pump-action shotgun chambered in 20-gauge. Built on Mossberg’s legendary 500 series action, it features an 18.5-inch cylinder-bore barrel, a black synthetic pistol grip, and a blued finish. With a 5-round capacity and 3-inch chamber, it’s designed for close-quarters defense and maneuverability, offering a potent yet manageable package at a budget-conscious price point.
Let’s talk about the core of this firearm: the Mossberg 500 action. It’s a system trusted by militaries, law enforcement, and shooters for decades. The dual action bars provide smooth, reliable cycling, and the steel-to-steel lockup is built to last. The 20-gauge chambering is a smart choice for this configuration. It delivers substantial stopping power with significantly less recoil than a 12-gauge, especially important when you’re managing it with just a pistol grip. That makes follow-up shots faster and more controlled. Weighing in at around 6.75 pounds, it’s light enough to handle easily but has enough heft to soak up some of that energy.
The 18.5-inch cylinder-bore barrel is the legal minimum for a non-NFA firearm and perfect for its intended role. The cylinder choke (no constriction) patterns buckshot widely at close range, increasing your hit probability in a high-stress situation. The 5-round tubular magazine is standard for this barrel length, and the simple cross-bolt safety is easy to operate. The black synthetic furniture is tough, weather-resistant, and keeps the cost down. This model is drop-in ready and ships with everything you need—no assembly or gunsmithing required to get started. It’s also compatible with a huge array of Mossberg 500 aftermarket parts, from stocks and forends to sights and magazine extensions from brands like ATI and Hogue, allowing for customization later if you choose.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Action | Pump Action |
| Barrel Length | 18.5 Inches |
| Choke | Cylinder Bore |
| Capacity | 5 Rounds (4+1) |
| Stock | Black Synthetic Pistol Grip |
| Finish | Blued |
| Overall Length | Approx. 28.5 Inches |
Pros & Cons: The Practical Trade-Offs
Pros: The price is the biggest win. At $409.92, it undercuts many competitors while offering Mossberg’s proven reliability. Its compact size makes it incredibly easy to store and maneuver in tight spaces like hallways or vehicles. The 20-gauge is effective yet more shootable for a wider range of people. And the aftermarket support is massive—you can always add a traditional stock later if you want.
Cons: A pistol-grip-only shotgun has a steep learning curve. It requires dedicated practice to master pumping and aiming effectively. It’s not ideal for hunting or clay sports. Recoil is more pronounced to the wrist than a shouldered shotgun. Long-range accuracy with slugs is limited by the cylinder bore and sight system.
Who is this for? This is a tool for a specific job. It’s for the budget-minded homeowner who wants a capable, simple defensive firearm for secure storage in a small safe or closet. It’s for a vehicle as a dedicated truck gun (where legal). It’s also a solid choice for someone with smaller stature or recoil sensitivity who still wants the authority of a shotgun. It is not a beginner’s first shotgun for general use—that would be a model with a full stock.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I add a shoulder stock to this later?
A: Absolutely. The receiver is drilled and tapped to accept a standard Mossberg 500 stock. Swapping the pistol grip for a traditional stock or a pistol-grip stock is a straightforward process with widely available kits, instantly changing the gun’s handling characteristics.
Q: Is 20-gauge enough for home defense?
A: Yes, with the right ammunition. Modern 20-gauge defensive loads, like buckshot or segmented slugs, offer plenty of stopping power for personal defense scenarios. The reduced recoil also often means faster, more accurate follow-up shots compared to a 12-gauge in a compact format.
Q: What’s the main difference between this and a Maverick 88?
A: While both are budget-friendly pump-actions, the Mossberg 500 typically features a slightly more refined finish, a tang-mounted safety (on most models), and is entirely U.S.-made. The Cruiser model shown here uses the 500 action. The Maverick 88 is a fantastic value, but some parts, like the trigger group, differ.
If you’re looking for a bare-bones, reliable defensive shotgun that prioritizes function and value over everything else, the Mossberg 500 Cruiser in 20-gauge deserves a hard look. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. See the full details on our site.
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