Description
The Mossberg 500 Pump 12 ga 28″ 3″ Wood Stock Blued is a classic American pump-action shotgun. It’s a reliable, no-frills workhorse built for hunting and sport shooting, featuring a 28-inch vent-rib barrel, a 3-inch chamber, a durable blued finish, and a traditional wood stock and forend. This configuration is designed for versatility in the field, offering a proven platform for everything from waterfowl to trap. With a price of $371.10, it represents a significant value in a market of increasingly expensive firearms. Here’s the thing—when it comes to a shotgun that simply works, year after year, the Mossberg 500 is a benchmark.
Key Features
- Proven Pump Action: The dual-action bars provide smooth, reliable cycling that won’t bind under pressure, a critical feature when you’re working a follow-up shot on moving game.
- 28″ Vent-Rib Barrel: This barrel length offers an excellent balance for swing and pointability on flying targets, while the vent rib aids in sight alignment and dissipates heat.
- 3″ Chamber: Handles a wide range of 12-gauge loads, from light 2¾” target loads to heavier 3″ magnum shells for geese or turkey.
- Classic Wood Furniture: The wood stock and forend provide a solid, traditional grip and a timeless aesthetic that many shooters prefer over synthetic options.
- Durable Blued Finish: Offers classic corrosion resistance and a low-glare profile that’s practical in the field.
- Top Tang Safety: Ambidextrous and easy to operate with your thumb, a design many find more intuitive than a cross-bolt safety.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 28″ |
| Overall Length | Approx. 48.5″ |
| Stock | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
| Capacity | 5+1 (with included plug) |
The shotgun’s 48.5-inch overall length gives it a handling characteristic favored by wing shooters. Its weight, typically around 7.5 pounds, helps absorb recoil and promotes a steady swing. The 5+1 capacity is standard for hunting applications and includes a plug to comply with federal migratory bird regulations. This is a platform with immense aftermarket support. Want to change its role? The Mossberg 500’s barrel system is famously interchangeable. You can swap this 28-inch field barrel for an 18.5-inch security barrel—no gunsmithing required. It’s also compatible with a vast array of accessories from brands like ATI and Mesa Tactical, allowing for stock, sight, and rail upgrades.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This specific Mossberg 500 configuration is built for the hunter and the clay shooter. It’s for the Missouri hunter pursuing doves in September, ducks in the winter wetlands, or turkeys in the spring. It’s for the shooter who spends weekends at the trap or skeet range honing their skills. It’s not a tactical home defense model straight from the box, though its inherent reliability means it can serve in that role with a barrel swap. This is a foundational firearm. It’s for someone who values mechanical simplicity, proven durability, and a classic look over flashy features. It’s a tool that teaches fundamentals.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Legendary reliability and a simple, tough design. The interchangeable barrel system offers incredible long-term versatility. The wood and blued steel construction is durable and aesthetically pleasing to traditionalists. The top tang safety is a superior design for right and left-handed shooters. At this price point, it’s one of the most accessible quality shotguns on the market.
Cons: The 28-inch barrel is too long for practical indoor home defense. The wood, while beautiful, is heavier and more susceptible to moisture damage than synthetic if not properly cared for. The action can feel a bit rough initially compared to some higher-end models, though it smooths with use. The bead sight is basic, limiting precision for some specialized shooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this shotgun be used for home defense?
A: In its current configuration with the 28-inch barrel, it is not ideal for maneuvering inside a home. However, the Mossberg 500 platform is incredibly versatile. You can purchase an 18.5-inch security barrel separately and swap it in minutes, transforming it into a capable defense shotgun. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
Q: What is the difference between a 3″ chamber and a 3.5″ chamber?
A: A 3″ chamber can safely fire 2¾” and 3″ shells. A 3.5″ chamber can fire all three lengths. The 3″ chamber is sufficient for the vast majority of hunting and shooting scenarios. The 3.5″ chamber is typically for hunters specifically pursuing large geese or turkeys at extreme range who want the maximum payload.
Q: Does it come ready to hunt?
A: Yes, it is drop-in ready for the field. It includes a plug to limit the magazine to three shells (for a total capacity of four) to comply with federal waterfowl hunting regulations. Simply add your chosen ammunition, ensure you understand your local laws, and you are set to go.
This Mossberg 500 is a cornerstone firearm. It’s the shotgun you buy to learn on, to hunt with for decades, and to trust when it matters. Its value is undeniable, and its utility only grows with the available accessories. Available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. See the full details on our site to start the process.




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