Description
I remember the first time I handed a full-size 12-gauge to a young shooter. The look of apprehension was clear. That’s why I’m such a fan of setups like the Mossberg Model 500 Super Bantam Field/Deer Combo 20 Gauge With 22 Inch Vent Rib Barrel And 24 Inch Ported Fully Rifled Barrel Synthetic Stock Full Mossy Oak Break-Up Infinity Camouflage Finish 5 Round. It solves a real problem: getting a new hunter, or a smaller-framed shooter, a single, versatile package that doesn’t intimidate or beat them up. I’ve put a mix of target loads and saboted slugs through this combo, and here’s what you need to know.
What is it? It’s a compact, dual-purpose 20-gauge pump-action shotgun. The “Super Bantam” means it has a shorter 12.5-inch length of pull stock (adjustable with included spacers) and comes with two barrels: a 22″ vent-rib for birds/clays and a 24″ fully rifled, ported barrel for deer with slugs. It’s camouflaged in Mossy Oak Break-Up Infinity and is drop-in ready right out of the box—no gunsmithing required to switch barrels. At $415.09, it’s a complete starter kit.
Why This Combo Makes Sense
Look, the genius is in the pairing. That 22-inch vent rib barrel with a modified choke tube installed is quick-handling. In a dove field or walking for grouse, the lighter 20-gauge payload and reduced overall weight—the gun comes in around 6.5 pounds—mean you can carry it all day without fatigue. The camo isn’t just for show; it breaks up your outline perfectly in the Missouri timber. Then, when deer season rolls around, you swap barrels. The 24-inch fully rifled barrel is designed for modern saboted slugs, like those from Hornady or Federal, giving you rifle-like accuracy out to 100 yards or so. The porting helps manage the modest recoil of a 20-gauge slug, making follow-up shots quicker.
The action is the proven Mossberg 500 system. The tang-mounted safety is ambidextrous and easy to operate, and the dual action bars provide a smooth, reliable pump. The 5-round capacity is plenty for any hunting scenario you’ll encounter. The synthetic stock is durable and weather-resistant, a must for our unpredictable Midwest seasons. Here’s the thing—this isn’t a niche gun. It’s a foundational tool that teaches fundamentals without the punishing recoil of a 12-gauge, making practice something to enjoy, not endure.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Barrels | 22″ Vent Rib (Modified Choke), 24″ Fully Rifled & Ported |
| Overall Length (Approx.) | ~42″ with 22″ barrel |
| Weight | ~6.5 lbs |
| Capacity | 5 Rounds (4+1) |
| Stock | Synthetic, Mossy Oak Break-Up Infinity, Adjustable LOP (12.5″ – 13.5″) |
| Action | Pump |
Pros & Cons: My Take
Pros: The value is outstanding. Two dedicated barrels for the price of most single-barrel guns. The reduced size and weight are a genuine benefit for youth, smaller adults, or anyone who values a light carry. Recoil is manageable, encouraging proper technique. Mossberg’s reliability is well-documented. The camo finish is durable and effective.
Cons: It’s a hunting tool. The shorter stock may feel cramped for larger-framed adult shooters, even with spacers. The 20-gauge, while versatile, has less shot payload than a 12 for waterfowl at longer ranges. The sights on the rifled barrel are basic, but they work.
Who This Is For
This combo is ideal for a new hunter, a younger shooter (under supervision), or a woman looking for a well-proportioned first shotgun. It’s for the Missouri landowner who wants one gun in the safe to handle squirrels in the fall and take a deer from a box blind in winter. It’s also a brilliant “loaner” gun for when you’re introducing a friend to the sport. This package ships to Missouri and compliant US states through your local FFL.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can an adult comfortably use this “Super Bantam” model?
A: Absolutely. The included spacers allow you to extend the length of pull to 13.5 inches. While it will still be compact, many adults of average stature find it handles quickly in thick cover. It’s a matter of personal fit.
Q: What kind of accuracy can I expect with the rifled slug barrel?
A: With quality, saboted slugs designed for rifled barrels (like Hornady SST or Federal Barnes Expander), 2-3 inch groups at 100 yards are a reasonable expectation from a rest. That’s more than capable for most whitetail hunting situations.
Q: Is the camo pattern specific to a certain environment?
A: Mossy Oak Break-Up Infinity is a versatile, all-purpose pattern. It excels in wooded and edge environments—think the oak-hickory forests and agricultural edges common across Missouri. It provides great breakup in dappled light and against brush.
If you’re looking for a single, do-it-all shotgun package that prioritizes fit and handling for a growing shooter or anyone who prefers a lighter frame, this Mossberg 500 Super Bantam Combo is a hard deal to beat. See the full details and availability at firearms-missouri.com.
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