Description
You’re crouched in the Missouri timber at dawn, the woods coming alive. A distant gobble echoes. You need a shotgun that’s dead reliable, purpose-built for the moment, and won’t break the bank. That’s the exact scenario the Mossberg 500 Grand Slam Turkey 12 Ga 20″ VR Barrel, Full Coverage Mossy Oak Obsession Camouflage is designed for. It’s a dedicated, no-frills turkey-hunting pump-action shotgun, offering proven Mossberg 500 reliability wrapped in effective full-coverage camouflage, all for a price that keeps you in the field.
Here’s the thing—you don’t need a $1,500 semi-auto to bag a tom. The Mossberg 500 platform has been the workhorse of American shotgunners for decades because it simply works. This Grand Slam Turkey variant takes that core reliability and optimizes it for the turkey woods. The 20-inch vent-rib barrel with a fiber-optic front sight is quick to point in tight cover, and the full Mossy Oak Obsession camo pattern breaks up your outline from beak to buttstock. At a price of $414.81, it represents serious value, letting you invest more in quality ammunition and time scouting.
Key Features & Practical Trade-Offs
Let’s break down what you’re really getting. The 20-inch barrel is the standout here. It’s short enough for easy maneuvering in a blind or thick brush but still long enough to maintain a smooth swing and effective patterning with modern turkey loads. The vent rib helps with quick sight alignment, and the fiber-optic front bead is a godsend in low-light conditions. The full-coverage Mossy Oak Obsession camo isn’t just a dip; it’s applied to the metal, synthetic stock, and forend. This means no gunsmithing required to have a completely camouflaged firearm right out of the box—no shiny surfaces to spook wary birds.
The action is the classic Mossberg 500 pump. It’s dual-action bars provide smooth, reliable cycling, and the tang-mounted safety is intuitive to use with gloves on. The synthetic stock is durable and weather-resistant, a must for spring turkey seasons that can swing from frost to downpour. Weighing in at approximately 7.5 pounds, it’s hefty enough to soak up recoil from potent 3-inch magnum loads but not so heavy it’s a burden on a long hike. You’re trading the faster follow-up shots of a semi-auto for absolute simplicity and a lower price point. For turkey hunting, where the first shot is typically the only one you get, that’s a smart trade.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 20″ Vent Rib |
| Overall Length | 41″ |
| Weight | Approx. 7.5 lbs |
| Capacity | 5+1 Rounds |
| Finish/Camo | Full Coverage Mossy Oak Obsession |
Pros, Cons & Who It’s For
Pros: Exceptional value for a dedicated turkey gun. Proven Mossberg 500 reliability. Effective, full-coverage camouflage on all components. Short, handy barrel ideal for blinds and thick cover. Tang safety is easy to operate. Built to handle 3-inch magnum loads.
Cons: Pump action requires manual cycling (a non-issue for most turkey hunters). Synthetic stock may feel less premium than wood (but is more practical). The specific camo pattern may not match every environment—though Obsession is versatile for spring woods.
So who is this for? It’s for the budget-conscious Missouri hunter who wants a dedicated tool for turkey season without a dedicated second mortgage. It’s for the new hunter looking for a trustworthy first shotgun that can also pull duty for home defense with a barrel swap. It’s for the seasoned hunter who appreciates simplicity and reliability over bells and whistles. And because it’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, getting it into your hands is straightforward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does this shotgun come with choke tubes?
A: Yes, it typically includes a set of choke tubes (often Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full). You’ll want to use an extra-full turkey choke (like a Mossberg Accu-Choke or aftermarket brand like Carlson’s) for the tightest patterns with turkey loads, which is a common and affordable upgrade.
Q: Can I use this for hunting other game?
A: Absolutely. With the appropriate choke tube and ammunition, this 12-gauge is perfectly capable for hunting deer with slugs (in areas allowing it), waterfowl, or small game. The 20-inch barrel makes it a bit specialized for wingshooting over long distances, but it’s highly versatile.
Q: Is the camo finish durable?
A: The Mossy Oak Obsession finish is quite durable for field use. It’s designed to resist scratches and wear from brushing against vegetation and normal handling. It won’t hold up to being dragged over rocks, but for its intended purpose, it’s more than sufficient.
If you need a dependable, purpose-built turkey gun that delivers proven performance without draining your wallet, the Mossberg 500 Grand Slam Turkey is a standout choice. See more details on our site.
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