Mossberg 590
The Mossberg 590 is the gold standard tactical shotgun — the only pump-action shotgun to pass the demanding U.S. military MIL-SPEC 3443E testing protocol, with a dual-extractor system, metal trigger guard and safety, and a capacity of up to 9+1 rounds. The 590 family spans the military-spec 590A1, the detachable-magazine 590M, and the ultra-compact 590 Shockwave — all built on the same proven action that has served U.S. military and law enforcement for decades. Impact Guns stocks 127 Mossberg 590 models.
Read our full Mossberg 590 Buying Guide ↓
590 vs. 590A1: What the Military-Spec Version Adds
The standard 590 is an excellent tactical shotgun with an aluminum trigger group and safety. The 590A1 upgrades to an all-metal trigger group and safety, a heavy-walled barrel that’s more resistant to damage, and Parkerized finish for corrosion resistance under field conditions — the specific changes required to meet military MIL-SPEC 3443E. For a serious home defense or duty shotgun, the 590A1’s metal components are worth the modest premium. The 590A1 also typically ships with ghost ring sights and a bayonet lug — a distinctive profile that reflects its military heritage. Both versions use the same 9-round capacity with an 18.5″ or 20″ barrel.
Mossberg 590M: The Detachable Magazine Variant
The 590M replaces the standard tube magazine with a detachable box magazine holding 5, 10, or 20 rounds of 12 gauge. This is the highest-capacity pump-action shotgun configuration available — 20+1 rounds of 12 gauge represents firepower well beyond any standard tube-fed shotgun. The 590M is popular for home defense and range use where magazine swaps are faster than loading individual shells into a tube. The trade-off is slightly more bulk from the magazine and the need to acquire and store multiple magazines. For high-volume use and maximum capacity, the 590M is unmatched in a pump-action platform.
Mossberg 590 Shockwave: The Non-NFA Compact Option
The Mossberg 590 Shockwave uses a 14″ barrel and Raptor pistol grip to achieve a 26.37″ overall length — just over the 26″ minimum that keeps it classified as a “firearm” rather than a shotgun under federal law, avoiding NFA SBS classification. The Shockwave is legal without any NFA paperwork in most states and delivers 6-round capacity in the most compact Mossberg format available. The operation requires a specific two-hand technique and practice — it is not a firearm for a new shooter. For experienced shotgun operators who want maximum compactness, the Shockwave is a legitimate choice. Since January 1, 2026, the NFA $200 tax stamp has also been eliminated for true SBR/SBS registration if a full stock is preferred.
590 vs. Remington 870: The Classic Comparison
The Mossberg 590 and Remington 870 are the two most respected tactical pump-action shotguns. The 590 has the safety advantage of ambidextrous top-tang safety (thumb-operated, same motion for right and left-handed shooters). The 870 has a crossbolt safety at the trigger guard. The 590A1 is the only shotgun with military MIL-SPEC certification. The 870 has a deeper aftermarket and longer production history. Both are exceptional choices — the decision often comes down to safety placement preference. Left-handed shooters generally prefer the Mossberg’s top-tang safety.
590 Accessories & Related Mossberg Pages
The 590 accepts a wide range of aftermarket stocks, forends, and accessories. Ghost ring sights are the most valuable accuracy upgrade. A weapon-mounted light is essential for home defense use — see our weapon lights page. For the full Mossberg brand page, see our Mossberg page. For the Mossberg 500 as a more affordable alternative, see that page. For shotgun ammunition including buckshot and slug options, see our 12 gauge shotguns page.