Description
The Mossberg 590 Shockwave, 12Ga, 18.5″ Barrel, 3″ Chamber, 6rd, Synthetic Black Raptor Grip, Blued is a compact, non-NFA firearm built on Mossberg’s legendary 590 pump-action shotgun platform. It features a 14-inch length of pull with a birdshead-style Raptor grip and an 18.5-inch barrel, offering potent 12-gauge firepower in a highly maneuverable package for home defense or recreational use. This configuration is drop-in ready and ships to Missouri and compliant US states.
Key Features
- Non-NFA Firearm: With its 18.5″ barrel and overall length over 26″, it’s federally classified as a “firearm,” not a short-barreled shotgun (SBS), avoiding the tax stamp and paperwork.
- Proven 590 Action: Built on the same heavy-walled, dual-action-bar slide, and steel-to-steel lockup as the military-spec 590A1 for rugged reliability.
- Raptor Grip Design: The synthetic black birdshead grip provides a secure, compact hold that helps manage the substantial recoil of 12-gauge shells better than a traditional pistol grip.
- High-Visibility Ghost Ring Sights: Equipped with a precise, quick-acquisition ghost ring rear sight and a brass bead front sight for fast target engagement.
- Ambidextrous Safety: The familiar, easy-to-reach tang-mounted safety is accessible for both right and left-handed shooters.
- Value-Priced Power: At $454.95, it delivers Mossberg’s renowned pump-action toughness at a price point that undercuts many conventional shotguns and all SBS options.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge: | 12 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length: | 18.5 Inches |
| Overall Length: | 26.37 Inches |
| Capacity: | 5+1 Rounds (6 Total) |
| Weight: | Approx. 5.25 lbs |
| Finish: | Blued Steel, Synthetic Stock |
Look, the core appeal here is simple: you get a lot of shotgun for the money. The 590 series is known for its overbuilt durability, and this Shockwave variant inherits that directly. Its 6-round tube capacity is standard for the platform, and the 3-inch chamber handles everything from light target loads to powerful buckshot and slugs. The blued finish is a classic, cost-effective corrosion resistance that keeps the price down. Weighing just over five pounds, it’s light enough to handle easily but has enough heft to soak up some recoil. Here’s the thing—while it’s compact, its 26.37-inch overall length makes it legal without NFA paperwork, a huge practical and financial advantage.
Who Is The Mossberg 590 Shockwave For?
This firearm is ideal for the budget-conscious shooter who wants a serious defensive tool without the serious price tag of an NFA item. It’s a natural fit for a truck or ranch gun where its compact size is a major asset, or for a home defender who prioritizes maneuverability in tight spaces. Recreational shooters who enjoy a unique, hands-on shooting experience will also appreciate its distinctive handling. It’s not a beginner’s first shotgun, but it’s a compelling option for someone familiar with firearms who understands its specific use case and technique. The value proposition is clear when you compare it to the process and cost of acquiring a true short-barreled shotgun.
Pros & Cons: The Practical Tradeoffs
Pros: The most obvious pro is the price-to-performance ratio. You’re getting a Mossberg 590 for well under five hundred dollars. The non-NFA status saves you $200 and months of waiting. Its compact form is incredibly easy to store, transport, and wield in close quarters. The build quality is proven and accessorizing is straightforward—it’s compatible with a wide range of Mossberg 500 and 590 parts and accessories, like sling mounts from brands like Magpul or GG&G.
Cons: The shooting technique is different. You don’t shoulder the Raptor grip; you hold it at waist level, which requires practice for accuracy and recoil management. That recoil, especially with heavy loads, is stout and can be punishing without proper form. Its effective range is limited compared to a full-stock shotgun. While it holds 6 shells, some may find the capacity less than ideal compared to extended tube options, though accessories can address this. Is it the most versatile shotgun? No, but for its intended role, it excels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Mossberg 590 Shockwave considered a Short-Barreled Shotgun (SBS)?
A: No. Because it is not designed to be fired from the shoulder and has an overall length exceeding 26 inches with its 18.5-inch barrel, it is federally classified as a “firearm,” not an SBS. No ATF tax stamp is required. Always verify your state and local laws, as some jurisdictions may have restrictions.
Q: Can I add a stock to the Shockwave?
A: Installing a traditional shoulder stock would change the firearm’s classification to a Short-Barreled Shotgun (SBS), requiring ATF paperwork and a $200 tax stamp before modification. It is designed to be used with the included Raptor grip or similar pistol-grip style braces that are compliant with current regulations.
Q: What kind of ammunition should I use?
A: The 3-inch chamber handles all standard 2 3/4″ and 3″ 12-gauge shells. For practice, lighter target loads (low brass #7.5 or #8 shot) are recommended to learn the unique handling. For defense, standard 00 buckshot or reduced-recoil buckshot loads are effective and more manageable. Always pattern your chosen defensive load to understand its spread.
If you’re seeking a compact, potent, and legally straightforward defensive firearm that delivers proven Mossberg reliability without breaking the bank, the 590 Shockwave represents a significant value. Its $454.95 price tag makes serious firepower accessible. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. Contact your local FFL to discuss the transfer process.
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