Description
The Mossberg 535 Turkey/Deer Combo Pump 12 Ga 3.5″ 22″XXF/24″FR Synthetic is a versatile, dual-purpose shotgun designed for hunters who pursue both turkey and whitetail deer. It’s a pump-action workhorse that comes with two specialized barrels—one for tight turkey patterns and one for rifled slugs—making it a cost-effective, single-firearm solution for two distinct seasons. At $210.17, it’s a budget-friendly entry into serious hunting without sacrificing Mossberg’s proven reliability.
Key Features That Make It Work
- Dual-Barrel Combo: Includes a 22″ XX-Full turkey barrel and a 24″ fully rifled deer barrel with cantilever scope mount.
- 3.5″ Chamber: Handles everything from light 2.75″ target loads to heavy 3.5″ magnum turkey and waterfowl shells.
- Ambidextrous Safety: Mossberg’s signature tang-mounted safety is easy to operate for right or left-handed shooters.
- Dual Extractors: Provides positive, reliable extraction and ejection under all conditions.
- Synthetic Stock: Durable, weather-resistant finish that stands up to brush, rain, and field use.
Specs & Details
| Gauge: | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber: | 3.5″ |
| Barrels: | 22″ XX-Full (Turkey), 24″ Fully Rifled (Deer) |
| Overall Length: | Approx. 46″ with 24″ barrel |
| Weight: | Approx. 7.5 lbs |
| Capacity: | 4+1 (with plug) |
I’ve put a mix of turkey loads and Federal Premium slugs through this combo, and here’s what stands out. The switch between barrels is straightforward—no gunsmithing required. You just ensure the action is clear, unscrew the magazine cap, swap barrels, and you’re back in business. The cantilever scope mount on the rifled barrel is a huge plus; it holds zero, so when you sight in your optic for slugs, you can count on it season after season. The synthetic stock is light, which is great for carrying all day, but that lighter weight means you’ll feel the punch of those 3.5″ magnums a bit more. That said, the gun’s design and the recoil pad do a decent job managing it.
Who This Combo Is For
This is the shotgun for the Missouri hunter who wants to cover multiple bases without buying multiple dedicated guns. It’s perfect for the newcomer building their first hunting kit, the budget-conscious sportsman, or the seasoned hunter who needs a reliable backup gun for the truck or camp. If your seasons involve sitting in a blind for deer one month and calling in spring gobblers the next, this package makes logical sense. It’s also a solid choice for landowners managing property who need a tool for both harvest and potential predator control.
Pros & Cons (My Take)
Pros: The value is undeniable—two capable barrels for the price of many single-barrel guns. Mossberg’s action is famously tough and simple. The inclusion of the cantilever scope mount saves you $50-$100 right off the bat. The 3.5″ chamber offers maximum shell versatility. It’s a true grab-and-go hunting tool.
Cons: The synthetic finish is functional, not fancy. The lighter weight amplifies felt recoil with heavy loads. The XX-Full turkey choke is extremely tight—great for 40-yard shots, but it requires precise patterning with your chosen load. Some might prefer a dedicated slug gun with a stock better suited for optics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What scope works with the cantilever mount on the rifled barrel?
A: The mount is designed for standard 1-inch scope rings. I’ve had good results with affordable, shock-proof models like the Vortex Crossfire II or the Nikon Buckmasters series—optics built to handle shotgun recoil. Just remember, FFL transfer required for firearm purchases when you order.
Q: Can I use this for waterfowl hunting?
A: You could, legally, but the included barrels aren’t ideal. The turkey barrel has a fixed XX-Full choke, which is too tight for steel shot at flying birds and could be unsafe. The rifled barrel is for slugs only. For waterfowl, you’d need to purchase a separate, vent-rib barrel with interchangeable choke tubes.
Q: Is the stock length adjustable?
A: No, it’s a fixed synthetic stock. However, the design is fairly neutral and the length of pull works for a wide range of adult shooters. For a more custom fit, aftermarket stocks from brands like Hogue are available if you want to modify it later.
Look, for under $250, you’re getting a proven Mossberg pump-action system configured for two major game animals. It’s not a fancy over-under, but it’s a trustworthy tool that gets the job done. The combo is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. If you need one gun to confidently head into both the turkey woods and the deer stand, this 535 package deserves a hard look.
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