Mossberg 590 Shockwave 20 Ga Non-NFA 14″ Barrel

Description

The Mossberg 590 Shockwave 20 Ga, NON-NFA 14″ Barrel No NFA Paperwork or Tax, 5rd is a compact, 20-gauge firearm that leverages the “firearm” classification to offer a 14-inch barrel without the NFA restrictions of a Short-Barreled Shotgun (SBS). It’s a purpose-built, no-frills tool for close-quarters handling and potent, manageable firepower, all for a price of $516.99. I’ve put a few boxes of 2¾” buckshot through one, and it’s a surprisingly controllable handful of utility.

Key Features

• Non-NFA “Firearm” Status: The 14-inch barrel is legal without a tax stamp or special paperwork because it’s designed without a traditional shoulder stock, using a birdshead-style pistol grip instead.
• 20-Gauge Chambering: Offers significant defensive power with noticeably less recoil and muzzle blast than a 12-gauge, making it more manageable in this compact platform.
• 590 Series Provenance: Built on Mossberg’s heavy-duty, law-enforcement-grade 590 action with a dual-action bar system, steel-to-steel lockup, and a thick-walled barrel.
• Compact & Maneuverable: The overall short length makes it incredibly easy to handle in tight spaces like vehicles, hallways, or for securing a property.
• Simple & Robust: It’s a pump-action shotgun. No batteries, no complex manual of arms—just reliable mechanical operation.

Specifications & Details

Gauge:	20 Gauge (2¾” & 3″ chambers)
Barrel Length:	14 inches
Overall Length:	26.37 inches
Capacity:	5+1 rounds
Weight:	Approx. 5.25 lbs
Sights:	Bead front sight

Look, the specs tell the story: at just over 26 inches long and 5.25 pounds, this is a dense, powerful package you can literally stow under a truck seat. The 5+1 capacity is standard for the Shockwave platform and keeps the tube magazine compact. Here’s the thing—while it’s a “firearm,” an FFL transfer is required for purchase, just like any other title-one gun. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states ready to go; no gunsmithing required to get it into action.

Who This Firearm Is For

This isn’t a beginner’s first shotgun, nor is it a clay-busting sporting gun. It’s for the experienced shooter who understands its specific niche. It’s a formidable tool for home and property defense where maneuverability is paramount. It’s also a fantastic truck or ranch gun, a compact powerhouse that can be secured easily and deployed quickly without dealing with NFA red tape. If you appreciate robust, simple tools with a specific job, this fits the bill.

Pros & Cons

Pros: The legal 14-inch barrel is the headline act—no tax stamp, no year-long wait. The 20-gauge chambering makes rapid, controlled follow-up shots far more feasible than with a 12-gauge in this format. It’s built on Mossberg’s incredibly tough 590 receiver, so durability is not a concern. The compact size is a massive advantage for storage and tight-quarters use.

Cons: That birdshead grip has a learning curve—you don’t shoulder it traditionally, so mastering the push-pull technique for control is essential. The short sight radius and bead sight limit precision to very close ranges. At just over five pounds, that weight is concentrated, so it can feel heavier than its specs suggest. Accessory options are more limited than for a standard 12-gauge 590, though you can find compatible forends and mounts from brands like Streamlight for lights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is this really legal without an NFA tax stamp?

A: Yes, due to its overall design (specifically the lack of a shoulder stock and an overall length over 26 inches), it is classified as a “firearm” by the ATF, not a Short-Barreled Shotgun (SBS). This means no $200 tax stamp or extensive paperwork beyond the standard 4473 form at your FFL.

Q: How do you aim it without a stock?

A: You use a technique often called “hip shooting” or point shooting, using the bead sight as a reference along the top of the receiver. The key is to extend your arms, push forward with your firing hand, and pull back with your support hand to manage recoil. It’s intuitive with practice.

Q: Can I add a stock to it later?

A: Absolutely not. Installing a shoulder stock on this firearm would immediately reclassify it as an NFA-regulated Short-Barreled Shotgun (SBS), requiring you to file a Form 1, pay the $200 tax, and wait for approval before assembly. Doing so without approval is a serious federal felony.

If the idea of a compact, no-hassle defensive tool with serious 20-gauge authority speaks to you, the Mossberg 590 Shockwave is a compelling option. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. Check its availability and talk to your local FFL about the transfer process.