Description
I remember the first time I took a Mossberg 500 out for a spin on a friend’s farm. It wasn’t this exact model, but the feel—that solid, reassuring clack of the pump action—was the same. That experience sold me on the platform. So when I got my hands on this Mossberg 500 Pump 20ga 22″ 3″ Synthetic Stock Mossy Oak Blades, it was like greeting an old, reliable friend, just dressed for a different kind of work. Here’s my take after putting a few boxes of shells through it.
What is it? The Mossberg 500 Pump 20ga 22″ 3″ Synthetic Stock Mossy Oak Blades is a versatile, 20-gauge pump-action shotgun built on Mossberg’s legendary 500 series platform. It features a 22-inch vent-rib barrel, a 3-inch chamber, and comes dressed in the subdued Mossy Oak Blades camo pattern on its synthetic stock and forend, making it a ready-to-go tool for hunting in Missouri’s varied terrain.
Let’s talk about that action. The twin action bars are the heart of the Mossberg 500’s reputation for smooth, reliable cycling. I’ve run everything from light target loads to heavier 3-inch upland loads through this one, and it hasn’t hiccupped once. The 20-gauge chambering is a sweet spot—offering plenty of power for small game and birds without the punishing recoil of a 12-gauge, which is a real benefit for newer shooters or those with a lighter frame. The synthetic stock is tough as nails and shrugs off moisture and bumps that would make a wood stock weep. At a total length of just over 42 inches and a weight right around 6.5 pounds, it’s a very manageable package to carry all day.
The Mossy Oak Blades finish isn’t just for show. It’s a practical advantage when you’re tucked into a brushy edge or waiting in a dove field. The 22-inch barrel with its vent rib gives you a quick, clean sight picture, and it’s a length that balances well for both swinging on fast-moving targets and maneuvering in tight spaces like a blind or thick cover. A key feature I always appreciate? The top-mounted safety. It’s ambidextrous and easy to click on and off with your thumb, a design that’s intuitive and fast when you need it. This model is also compatible with a huge array of Mossberg 500 aftermarket parts, from barrels to stocks, allowing you to customize it down the road if you wish.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 22″ Vent Rib |
| Overall Length | 42.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 6.5 lbs |
| Capacity | 5+1 Rounds |
| Finish | Mossy Oak Blades Camo |
Pros & Cons
The pros are clear: legendary Mossberg 500 reliability, a forgiving and effective 20-gauge platform, and a camo finish that’s ready for the field right out of the box—no gunsmithing required. The synthetic furniture is virtually maintenance-free. The price point of $455.33 is competitive for a camo-ready hunting shotgun from a major manufacturer. On the con side, purists might miss the feel of a wood stock, and the bead sight is basic (though easily upgraded). The 5+1 capacity is standard but not expansive.
Who is this for? This shotgun is an ideal first serious hunting gun for a new hunter, especially in Missouri where we chase turkey, dove, squirrel, and rabbit. It’s also a fantastic choice for a younger shooter stepping up from a .410, or for any hunter who wants a lightweight, dependable, and camouflage-ready tool that won’t beat them up. It’s a workhorse, not a showpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this shotgun shoot 2 3/4″ shells as well as 3″ shells?
A: Absolutely. The 3-inch chamber handles both 2 3/4-inch and 3-inch shells without any issue, giving you flexibility in your ammunition choice based on the game and your preference.
Q: Is the camo pattern applied to the metal or just the stock?
A: The Mossy Oak Blades pattern is on the synthetic stock and forend only. The barrel and receiver have a standard matte blue finish, which is durable and non-reflective—a practical combination that keeps the cost down.
Q: Can I add a choke tube system to this barrel?
A: This model typically comes with a fixed Modified (Mod) choke, which is a great all-around choice for hunting. If you want interchangeable chokes, you would need to source a separate barrel that is threaded for Accu-Choke or similar systems, which are widely available for the Mossberg 500 platform.
Look, if you need a no-nonsense, reliable shotgun that’s already dressed for success in the field, this Mossberg 500 in 20-gauge is a contender you should seriously consider. It’s 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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