Description
The Mossberg 500 Persuader 20 Ga 18.5″ Standoff Barrel Matte Finish Black Synthetic Stock 5 Round is a purpose-built, compact 20-gauge pump-action shotgun designed for home defense and close-quarters security. It features a critical standoff device on its 18.5-inch barrel and a rugged synthetic stock, offering a potent yet manageable package for indoor scenarios where over-penetration is a primary concern. This configuration is drop-in ready for a light or laser, requiring no gunsmithing to mount common accessories. When it comes to home defense, the 20-gauge provides decisive stopping power with significantly less recoil than a 12-gauge, making it an excellent choice for shooters of all statures who prioritize control and fast follow-up shots in high-stress situations.
Key Features
- Standoff Barrel: The 18.5-inch barrel includes an integral standoff device. This prevents the muzzle from being pressed against a surface, ensuring reliable discharge and protecting the barrel’s crown.
- 20-Gauge Chambering: Delivers effective defensive power with reduced recoil and muzzle rise compared to 12-gauge, enhancing controllability for a wider range of users.
- Pump-Action Reliability: Mossberg’s proven dual-action bars provide smooth, dependable cycling under pressure. The tang-mounted safety is ambidextrous and easy to manipulate.
- Synthetic Stock: A black, weather-resistant synthetic stock ensures durability and consistent performance regardless of environment or storage conditions.
- 5-Round Capacity: A practical tube magazine capacity for home defense, balancing readiness with a compact, maneuverable profile.
- Matte Finish: A non-reflective matte black finish on all metal surfaces eliminates glare and helps with corrosion resistance.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge (2 3/4″ and 3″ shells) |
| Barrel Length | 18.5 inches with Standoff Device |
| Overall Length | Approx. 39 inches |
| Stock | Black Synthetic |
| Finish | Matte Black |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 Rounds |
| Action | Pump Action |
| Safety | Tang-Mounted |
Weighing in at around 6.5 pounds, this Persuader handles quickly without feeling insubstantial. The 20-gauge chambering is a key differentiator—it fires readily available 2 3/4″ and 3″ shells, giving you flexibility in ammunition selection from #3 buck for home defense to lighter target loads for practice. The synthetic stock is built to last and provides a consistent cheek weld. Here’s the thing—the standoff device isn’t just a tactical accessory; it’s a critical safety feature if you ever need to fire from a braced position or if the firearm is pressed against an intruder. This model is priced at $347.41, representing a significant value for a dedicated defensive tool from a legacy manufacturer. It’s compatible with a wide array of Mossberg 500 aftermarket parts, including stocks from brands like Hogue and forends designed for mounting lights from Streamlight or SureFire.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This Persuader is engineered for the resident who needs a straightforward, no-nonsense defensive firearm. It’s ideal for smaller-framed shooters, those sensitive to heavy recoil, or anyone who wants the authoritative response of a shotgun with enhanced controllability. It’s also a smart choice for a vehicle or cabin gun where its compact size and environmental resistance are assets. Think of it as your first line of defense in a hallway or room—a tool where simplicity and reliability are non-negotiable.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Reduced recoil of the 20-gauge increases shooter comfort and improves shot-to-shot recovery. The standoff barrel is a genuine tactical advantage. Mossberg’s pump-action mechanism is legendary for its durability. The synthetic stock won’t warp or crack. At just under 40 inches overall, it’s highly maneuverable in tight spaces.
Cons: 20-gauge defensive ammunition, while effective, can be slightly less common than 12-gauge options on some store shelves. The 5-round capacity may feel limited to some users, though tube extensions are available. The basic synthetic stock may not fit every shooter perfectly without adjustment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 20-gauge powerful enough for home defense?
A: Absolutely. A 20-gauge load of #3 buckshot delivers multiple .25-caliber projectiles with substantial energy, making it a highly effective defensive round. The reduced recoil often means better shot placement and faster follow-ups, which are critical under stress.
Q: Can the stock be changed for a pistol grip or adjustable model?
A: Yes. The Mossberg 500 platform has extensive aftermarket support. The receiver is compatible with numerous stock and pistol grip kits from manufacturers like ATI, Magpul, and Hogue, allowing you to customize length of pull and grip angle. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases before any modifications.
Q: What is the purpose of the standoff device on the barrel?
A: It serves two main functions. First, it prevents the muzzle from being pushed out of battery against a soft target (like an intruder’s body), which could cause a malfunction. Second, it allows you to safely fire the weapon while pressing the muzzle against a hard surface (like a door frame) for stability without risking barrel obstruction or damage.
This Mossberg 500 Persuader in 20-gauge is a focused tool for a specific mission. It provides the proven reliability of the 500 series in a configuration that prioritizes control and close-quarters functionality. Available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, this shotgun is ready to serve as a dependable guardian for your home.



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