Description
You’re clearing brush on your Missouri property when a sudden movement in the thicket catches your eye. It’s not a threat that needs a .308, but it’s a situation that demands a reliable, fast-handling tool you can shoulder instantly. That’s where a purpose-built, compact shotgun like the Mossberg Model 500 Super Bantam 20 Ga, 22″ Blue Barrel & Accu Chokes comes into its own. It’s a scaled-down, lightweight pump-action shotgun designed for smaller-framed shooters, youth hunters, or anyone who needs a highly maneuverable firearm for close-quarters work, pest control, or upland hunting in dense cover.
This isn’t a cut-down adult gun; it’s engineered from the ground up for a shorter length of pull. The 12.5-inch stock, combined with the 22-inch vent-rib barrel, creates an overall package that’s easy to carry all day and quick to point. Weighing in at just 6.25 pounds unloaded, it won’t fatigue a younger shooter or become a burden during long walks. The dual extractors, twin action bars, and steel-to-steel lockup provide the same proven reliability that has made the Mossberg 500 a staple for decades. It’s a system that fits out of the box for a wide range of users, requiring no gunsmithing to get started.
Here’s the thing—the 20-gauge chambering is a sweet spot. It delivers decisive power for small game and home defense with significantly less recoil than a 12-gauge, making practice and proficiency more accessible. The included Accu-Choke tube system (Modified choke installed) is the real key to versatility. You can swap in a Cylinder bore for defensive loads or a Full choke for tighter patterns at longer ranges, adapting the gun to the task at hand in seconds. This choke system is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket tubes from brands like Carlson’s and TruLock, giving you precise control over your pattern.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 22″ Vent Rib |
| Overall Length | 41.5″ |
| Weight | 6.25 lbs |
| Length of Pull | 12.5″ |
| Choke System | Accu-Choke (Modified Tube Included) |
| Capacity | 5+1 Rounds |
Pros: The reduced size and weight are the main advantages, offering exceptional maneuverability in tight spaces like a blind or a home’s hallway. The 20-gauge offers a manageable recoil impulse, encouraging proper technique. The Accu-Choke system provides genuine multi-role capability from a single, affordable platform.
Cons: The shorter stock may feel cramped for larger-framed adult shooters. The 20-gauge, while effective, has fewer specialized defensive load options compared to the 12-gauge market. The 22-inch barrel is ideal for hunting and maneuverability but isn’t optimized for long-range wing shooting.
This shotgun is for the Missouri parent introducing a teenager to hunting, ensuring a positive first experience with a gun that fits. It’s for the homesteader who needs a versatile tool for varmints and occasional security—a gun that can be stored discreetly yet accessed quickly. It’s also an intelligent choice for a smaller-statured individual seeking a serious home-defense firearm that they can control confidently under stress. At $391.97, it represents a significant value for a dedicated, scaled platform from a trusted manufacturer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the stock adjustable or can it be changed for an adult?
A: The 12.5″ stock is fixed, but it uses a standard Mossberg 500 stock mounting system. You can easily swap it for any aftermarket Mossberg 500 stock to increase the length of pull for an adult shooter, making it a gun that can grow with a youth.
Q: What chokes are included and what are they for?
A: It comes with a Modified choke tube installed. This is a great all-purpose choke for small game and upland birds at moderate ranges. For home defense, you’d want to purchase a Cylinder or Improved Cylinder tube to ensure the pattern opens quickly.
Q: Can this handle 3-inch magnum shells?
A: Yes, the chamber is designed for 3″ shells. You can cycle 2 3/4″ target loads, 3″ magnum hunting loads, and everything in between. Remember, FFL transfer required for firearm purchases when ordering online.
This Mossberg Model 500 Super Bantam is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. See if this scaled, versatile workhorse is the right fit for your needs.
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