A Legacy of Power and Precision
The rhythmic *ch-chunk* of a pump-action shotgun is an instantly recognizable sound, synonymous with power and reliability. For decades, the name Mossberg has resonated within the firearms community, crafting shotguns known for their rugged dependability and versatility. Within the extensive lineup, the Mossberg 500 and 590 stand out as titans, each offering a unique blend of features and performance. Choosing between these two iconic pump-action shotguns can be a challenge, especially for those seeking the perfect tool for a specific task. This article dives deep into the Mossberg 590 vs. 500 debate, providing a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision and select the firearm best suited to your needs.
The story of Mossberg is a testament to American ingenuity and a commitment to producing quality firearms. Founded in the early twentieth century, the company rapidly gained a reputation for innovation and affordability, and its shotguns quickly found favor among hunters, law enforcement, and civilian shooters alike. The Mossberg name is synonymous with reliability and value, making their shotguns a popular choice for a variety of applications. Understanding their history helps illustrate their importance in the world of shotguns.
A Versatile Classic: The Mossberg 500
The Mossberg 500 is the epitome of versatility. Introduced in the mid-1960s, this shotgun quickly gained popularity, becoming a staple in hunting, sport shooting, and home defense. Its success lies in its simple yet effective design, coupled with a wide array of available configurations. The 500 series has been adapted for various purposes, from small-game hunting to protecting the home. The Mossberg 500’s popularity rests on its modularity, allowing users to customize the shotgun with different barrels, stocks, and accessories. This adaptability makes it an excellent choice for those who want a single platform that can handle a variety of situations.
Born for Battle: The Mossberg 590
While the Mossberg 500 carved its niche in the civilian market, the Mossberg 590 was purpose-built for demanding environments. Drawing upon lessons learned from the Vietnam War, the US military sought a more durable and reliable pump-action shotgun. Mossberg answered the call, and the 590 was developed to meet those rigorous requirements. This firearm quickly gained a reputation for its robustness and its ability to withstand harsh conditions, making it a favorite among law enforcement agencies and military personnel. The 590 is designed with a focus on tactical applications. It’s built to take a beating and still function flawlessly, which cemented its place in the history books.
Examining the Core Design Elements
Let’s now delve into a more detailed comparison, examining the critical features that set these two shotguns apart, helping you truly understand the Mossberg 590 vs. 500 dynamics.
The Heart of the Matter: Receiver Construction
The receiver is the core of the shotgun, housing the action and providing a platform for the barrel and stock. The Mossberg 500 typically features a receiver constructed from lightweight aluminum alloy. This design choice contributes to the 500’s overall weight, making it easier to handle and maneuver, especially over extended periods. The aluminum receiver keeps costs down, which further enhances the affordability of the shotgun.
The Mossberg 590, on the other hand, embraces a more robust approach. Its receiver is crafted from hardened steel, providing exceptional durability and resistance to the rigors of hard use. This heavier-duty construction makes the 590 capable of withstanding abuse in demanding environments. This is especially valuable for law enforcement or military applications where the firearm may experience harsher treatment.
Magazine Capacity and Design Differences
The magazine tube is a crucial component, determining the number of rounds the shotgun can hold. The Mossberg 500 generally uses a magazine tube closed by a removable magazine cap, allowing for a variety of options. Users can customize their 500s with different magazine tube extensions, increasing the capacity to suit their needs.
The Mossberg 590 frequently incorporates a magazine tube with a magazine cap in a design that includes a retaining screw, making it more robust and less prone to accidental disassembly. Some 590 models also include a bayonet lug, a feature often associated with military firearms and tactical applications. The difference in magazine tube design underscores the 590’s purpose: built for situations where reliability is non-negotiable. The 590 typically offers higher capacities than standard configurations of the 500, which can be advantageous in defensive scenarios.
Choosing the Right Barrel and Choke
The barrel and choke combination significantly affect a shotgun’s performance. The Mossberg 500 enjoys a broader range of barrel length options and choke variations. This versatility makes it ideal for hunters who need to adapt to different game and shooting distances. The availability of various chokes further enhances its adaptability, allowing shooters to fine-tune their shot patterns for optimal results.
The Mossberg 590 typically is often equipped with a cylinder bore, or a choke optimized for close-range tactical engagement. This design prioritizes a wider shot pattern at closer distances, which can be advantageous in confined spaces or defensive situations. While fewer options may be available compared to the 500, the barrel configuration reflects the 590’s primary role in tactical applications.
The Action at Your Fingertips
While both shotguns share the reliable pump-action mechanism Mossberg is known for, minor differences exist in the feel and execution of the action. Both shotguns are renowned for their user-friendly operation and effortless cycling of rounds. Both guns offer a similar trigger pull, but the specific weight and smoothness can vary slightly between individual firearms. The core function remains the same: a user-friendly, dependable system that allows rapid follow-up shots.
Assessing Endurance and Dependability
Reliability is paramount when choosing a firearm, and both the Mossberg 500 and 590 are known for their dependability. However, the 590’s robust design provides a definite edge when it comes to durability. The steel receiver and hardened components of the 590 are built to handle the wear and tear of prolonged use in demanding situations. The 500 is generally reliable, but its aluminum receiver is not quite as resistant to damage as its steel counterpart. The 590’s design makes it an excellent choice for environments where the gun may be exposed to the elements or rough handling.
Customization and Adding Accessories
Customization is essential to many gun owners. The Mossberg 500 offers a broader ecosystem of aftermarket accessories and customization options. The lightweight design and the wider array of aftermarket parts give enthusiasts the freedom to tailor their shotgun to their specific needs and preferences. This widespread availability makes it easy and affordable to modify the 500 for hunting, home defense, or sport shooting.
The Mossberg 590, on the other hand, has a more focused selection of aftermarket components. While fewer options are available than for the 500, the 590 still allows for a degree of customization. Accessories such as tactical stocks, rails for optics, and magazine tube extensions are readily available, enabling users to configure the shotgun for tactical applications.
Performance on the Firing Range
Let’s delve into how the design choices translate to real-world performance, including how these shotguns behave when you pull the trigger.
Controlling Recoil
The recoil experience can be a significant factor in shooting enjoyment and accuracy. The weight and balance of the shotgun affect how well the shooter handles recoil. Due to its heavier construction, the Mossberg 590 often exhibits slightly reduced felt recoil compared to the 500. The 590’s greater weight absorbs some of the energy, making it more comfortable to shoot, especially with heavier loads. The 500, being lighter, might produce a more noticeable recoil. Barrel length and the use of recoil pads on the stock can further impact recoil management in both shotguns.
Accuracy and Effective Range
The barrel length and choke selection play a critical role in the accuracy and effective range of the shotgun. The Mossberg 500’s availability of barrel length options and chokes allows shooters to tailor the shotgun to specific shooting scenarios. Longer barrels and tighter chokes often provide tighter shot patterns at longer distances, increasing accuracy in hunting applications. The Mossberg 590 is often configured for close-range engagements, typically using a cylinder bore choke.
Handling and Ergonomics
The ergonomics of a firearm determine how comfortable and intuitive it is to handle. The Mossberg 500 generally has a reputation for easy handling due to its relatively light weight and familiar design. The balance is generally good, making it easy to point and swing quickly. The Mossberg 590, on the other hand, is heavier, but offers its own advantages.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
Considering the Mossberg 500
The advantages of the Mossberg 500 include versatility. It offers a wide range of configurations, making it suitable for various applications. It offers affordability. This makes it a cost-effective choice for shooters on a budget. Customization is accessible. The wide range of aftermarket parts makes customizing the shotgun simple and easy. The disadvantages of the Mossberg 500 include the aluminum receiver, making the gun less durable than the 590. It’s also less tactically focused, making it less appropriate for defensive situations where extreme durability is paramount.
Considering the Mossberg 590
The benefits of the Mossberg 590 include durability. The steel receiver and robust design make it incredibly rugged and resistant to wear and tear. It’s built for tactical use. It is suitable for high-stress situations where reliability is crucial. It offers increased capacity in some models. This can be an advantage in defensive scenarios. The drawbacks include the price. It tends to be more expensive than the 500. Customization options are more limited compared to the 500.
Which Shotgun is the Right Choice for You?
Choosing between the Mossberg 500 and 590 comes down to assessing your priorities.
Who the Mossberg 500 Suits Best
The Mossberg 500 is an excellent choice for individuals who want a versatile shotgun for hunting, target shooting, and home defense. It’s an excellent option for individuals who value affordability and the wide array of customization options available.
Who the Mossberg 590 Suits Best
The Mossberg 590 is a top choice for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and anyone seeking a highly durable shotgun. It is the right choice for those who need a reliable firearm capable of withstanding the rigors of demanding environments or serious home defense scenarios where ultimate reliability is non-negotiable.
Examining Budgetary Considerations
The cost of the two models can vary depending on the specific configuration, and aftermarket additions. The 500 is generally less expensive, making it accessible to a wider range of shooters. The 590 often commands a higher price, reflecting its more robust construction and specialized features. When making your decision, factor in the cost of the shotgun itself, along with the price of any accessories you may want to add.
Concluding Thoughts on these Two Powerhouses
The Mossberg 500 and 590 are both exceptional shotguns, each catering to distinct needs. The 500 offers flexibility and affordability, making it perfect for those who want a versatile platform. The 590 is built to withstand the harshest conditions, making it a top choice for law enforcement, military, and anyone seeking a heavy-duty shotgun. Both models embody Mossberg’s commitment to quality, which guarantees decades of dependable service, no matter what you choose. When selecting a shotgun, it is crucial to consider your requirements and pick the model that aligns with your shooting goals. Research the specific models, evaluate your needs, and enjoy the power of a well-built Mossberg.
