Description
The Mossberg 500 Pump 20 ga 26″ 3″ Wood Stock Blued is a classic, reliable pump-action shotgun built for hunting and home defense. It features a 26-inch vent-rib barrel, a durable blued finish, and a traditional American walnut stock and forend. This is a no-fuss, time-tested workhorse that’s ready for the field right out of the box. At $345.82, it represents a significant value in a proven platform that ships to Missouri and compliant US states.
Key Features
- Proven Pump Action: Mossberg’s twin action bars provide smooth, reliable cycling you can count on when it matters.
- 20-Gauge Versatility: Lighter recoil than a 12-gauge makes it an excellent choice for newer shooters, upland game, and turkey.
- Classic Wood & Blue: The American walnut stock and forend paired with a corrosion-resistant blued finish offer timeless good looks and durability.
- 26″ Vent-Rib Barrel: Provides a long sighting plane for accurate shot placement on moving targets, perfect for birds and clays.
- Dual Action Bars: This design prevents binding and ensures the action cycles smoothly, round after round.
- Ambidextrous Safety: The tang-mounted safety is easy to operate with your thumb, whether you’re right or left-handed.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Action | Pump Action |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Overall Length | 46.5 Inches |
| Stock | American Walnut |
| Finish | Blued |
| Capacity | 5+1 Rounds |
| Weight | Approx. 6.75 lbs |
I’ve put hundreds of rounds through various Mossberg 500s over the years, and the 20-gauge version in this configuration is one of the most pleasant to shoot. The 6.75-pound weight soaks up recoil nicely, and that 26-inch barrel swings naturally. The walnut has a decent grain for a production gun, and the bluing is even and well-applied. Here’s the thing—this isn’t a safe queen; it’s a tool meant to be used, and it shows its quality in its simple, robust construction. No gunsmithing required to get it running; just clean it, lube it, and head to the range or field.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This Mossberg 500 is an ideal first shotgun for a new hunter or a younger shooter thanks to the manageable 20-gauge recoil. It’s a top pick for upland bird hunters chasing pheasant or quail, where its lighter weight and pointability are assets. Turkey hunters will appreciate the 3-inch chamber for heavier payloads. It also serves as a capable, less-intimidating home defense option compared to a 12-gauge. If you want a single, versatile shotgun that can handle multiple roles without breaking the bank, this is a strong contender.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Legendary Mossberg 500 reliability. The 20-gauge offers significantly reduced recoil, making practice and long days in the field more enjoyable. The wood and blued steel configuration is classic and durable. The 5+1 capacity is standard and sufficient for most hunting scenarios. It’s incredibly easy to maintain and has vast aftermarket support for stocks, barrels, and accessories from brands like Hogue and Mesa Tactical.
Cons: The 26-inch barrel is optimized for hunting and clays, not for tight-quarters home defense—though shorter barrels are available separately. The walnut, while handsome, is more susceptible to dings and scratches than synthetic. At 46.5 inches overall, it requires thoughtful storage. That said, these are trade-offs for a specific purpose, not flaws.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use this for home defense, or is it only for hunting?
A: Absolutely, it can serve in a home defense role. The 20-gauge with appropriate defensive ammunition is very effective and offers easier control under stress than a 12-gauge. For that use, many owners choose to add a shorter 18.5-inch barrel, which is a simple swap and widely available.
Q: What’s the real difference between 12-gauge and 20-gauge?
A: The main differences are payload weight and recoil. A 20-gauge shell carries less shot or a lighter slug, resulting in noticeably less kick. This makes it excellent for smaller-framed shooters, beginners, or anyone who values shootability. For most game birds and even deer at reasonable ranges, the 20-gauge is plenty capable.
Q: Is the wood stock finished, or is it raw?
A: The American walnut stock and forend come with a finished, lacquered surface. It provides good protection against moisture and has a classic, glossy look that many hunters prefer. It’s not an oil finish, so it’s relatively low-maintenance for field use.
Look, if you need a dependable, straightforward shotgun that won’t let you down, the Mossberg 500 in this configuration is a hard package to beat. It’s the definition of proven performance. The value at this price point is clear, especially with the inclusion of the wood furniture. Available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, this is a shotgun you can trust for decades of service.
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