Mossberg 500

The Mossberg 500 is one of the best-selling pump-action shotguns in history — over 12 million units sold since 1961, used by hunters, homeowners, and law enforcement agencies across the country. Its ambidextrous tang-mounted safety, interchangeable barrel system, and proven reliability have made it a genuine American shotgun institution. Available in 12 gauge, 20 gauge, and .410 bore with dozens of configuration options, the Mossberg 500 covers every shotgun application at an accessible price.

Read our full Mossberg 500 Buying Guide ↓

Mossberg 500 vs. Remington 870: The Great Debate

The Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 have competed for the title of America's pump-action shotgun for decades. The 500's advantages: ambidextrous tang-mounted safety (easier to operate under stress for most shooters), lighter weight in most configurations, and the interchangeable barrel system that allows one receiver to serve as both a hunting gun and home defense gun. The 870's advantages: twin action bars that provide a slightly smoother, more solid pump stroke and a larger aftermarket. Both are reliable and proven — the decision often comes down to which safety position you prefer. See our Remington 870 page for a full comparison.

Mossberg 500 Combo Packages

Mossberg sells the 500 in combo packages that include two barrels — typically a 28-inch vent rib for hunting and an 18.5-inch cylinder bore for home defense. The combo gives buyers a genuinely dual-purpose shotgun at significant savings over buying two separate firearms. Barrel swaps take under a minute and require no tools. For buyers who want one shotgun to serve hunting and home defense roles, the Mossberg 500 Combo is one of the best values in the firearm market.

500 for Home Defense

The Mossberg 500 in home defense configuration — 18.5-inch barrel, 5+1 capacity — is one of the most effective and accessible home defense firearms available. Its pump-action reliability means it functions with virtually any shell type, including reduced-recoil buckshot loads. For home defense, load with Federal Tactical 00 buckshot in 2¾-inch. The 500's tang safety allows one-handed safety manipulation during the firing grip without shifting hand position.

500 for Hunting

The Mossberg 500 is a capable hunting shotgun in both field and heavy configurations. For upland bird hunting, a 26–28-inch vent rib barrel with interchangeable chokes covers most scenarios. For waterfowl, the 500 in 12 gauge handles 3-inch magnum loads. For deer hunting with slugs, the 500 Rifled Slug barrel with rifle sights or scope mount provides the accuracy needed for ethical slug shooting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How reliable is the Mossberg 500?
The Mossberg 500 is one of the most reliable pump-action shotguns made. Its simple design has fewer parts that can fail than most alternatives, and its twin extractors provide reliable function with a wide range of shell lengths and loads.

Can the Mossberg 500 shoot 3-inch shells?
Yes — the standard Mossberg 500 chambered for 12 gauge accepts both 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells. The 3-inch magnum chamber provides flexibility for hunting and allows heavier loads when needed.

Does Impact Guns carry the Mossberg 500?
Yes. Impact Guns carries the Mossberg 500 in multiple configurations and ships nationwide. See our Mossberg brand page for the full lineup.