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Mossberg 500 vs. 590: Which Shotgun Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right shotgun can be a daunting task, especially when faced with two iconic models like the Mossberg 500 and the Mossberg 590. Both are renowned for their reliability, versatility, and affordability, making them popular choices for home defense, hunting, and recreational shooting. However, key differences exist between these two shotguns that can significantly impact your shooting experience. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the Mossberg 500 vs. 590 debate, providing you with the expert knowledge needed to make an informed decision.

We’ll explore the nuances of each model, examining their features, advantages, and disadvantages. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of which shotgun best suits your specific needs and preferences. Prepare to navigate the world of pump-action shotguns with confidence.

Understanding the Mossberg 500 and 590: A Side-by-Side Comparison

The Mossberg 500 and 590 share a common lineage, both stemming from the same basic design principles. However, subtle yet significant differences set them apart. Let’s delve into a detailed comparison of their key features:

Magazine Tube Capacity and Design

One of the most noticeable distinctions between the Mossberg 500 and 590 lies in their magazine tube capacity and design. The Mossberg 500 typically features a magazine tube that is closed at the end, limiting its capacity depending on the specific model. Common capacities range from 5+1 to 7+1 rounds.

In contrast, the Mossberg 590 boasts an open-ended magazine tube, allowing for greater capacity. The standard 590 holds 8+1 rounds, while the 590A1 variant can hold up to 9+1 rounds, depending on the barrel length and shell size. This increased capacity makes the 590 a favored choice for those prioritizing firepower, particularly in tactical or home defense scenarios.

Barrel Length and Versatility

Both the Mossberg 500 and 590 are available in various barrel lengths, catering to different shooting applications. Shorter barrels (18.5-20 inches) are commonly preferred for home defense due to their maneuverability in tight spaces. Longer barrels (24-28 inches) are better suited for hunting and clay shooting, providing improved accuracy and range.

The Mossberg 500 offers a wider range of barrel options, making it a more versatile choice for those who intend to use their shotgun for multiple purposes. Swapping barrels on the 500 is a relatively straightforward process, allowing you to adapt the shotgun to different shooting scenarios quickly.

Trigger Group and Safety Mechanisms

Both the Mossberg 500 and 590 utilize a cross-bolt safety located on the top rear of the receiver. This ambidextrous design makes them suitable for both right- and left-handed shooters. The trigger groups are also similar, offering a reliable and consistent pull. However, some shooters find the trigger pull on the 590A1 to be slightly heavier due to its military-grade construction.

Construction and Durability

While both shotguns are built to withstand rigorous use, the Mossberg 590A1 is specifically designed to meet or exceed military specifications. This variant features a heavier barrel, a metal trigger guard, and a metal safety button, enhancing its overall durability and resistance to harsh conditions. The standard 590 and the 500 typically utilize polymer components in these areas, contributing to their lighter weight and lower cost.

Delving Deeper: The Mossberg 500’s Strengths and Advantages

The Mossberg 500 has cemented its place as one of the most popular shotguns in history for good reason. Its affordability, versatility, and reliability make it an excellent choice for a wide range of shooters. Here’s a closer look at its key strengths:

Unmatched Affordability

One of the most significant advantages of the Mossberg 500 is its price point. It is generally more affordable than the Mossberg 590, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious shooters. This affordability doesn’t come at the expense of quality, as the 500 is still a well-built and reliable shotgun.

Exceptional Versatility

The Mossberg 500’s wide range of available accessories and barrel options makes it incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking to use it for home defense, hunting, or clay shooting, you can easily customize the 500 to suit your specific needs. The ease of swapping barrels further enhances its versatility, allowing you to quickly adapt to different shooting scenarios.

Lightweight and Maneuverable

The Mossberg 500 is generally lighter than the 590, particularly the 590A1. This lighter weight makes it easier to handle and maneuver, especially for smaller-framed shooters or those who prioritize agility in close-quarters situations. The reduced weight can also be beneficial during extended shooting sessions.

Abundant Aftermarket Support

The Mossberg 500 enjoys extensive aftermarket support, with a vast array of accessories and upgrades available. From stocks and forends to sights and shell carriers, you can easily customize the 500 to your exact preferences. This abundance of aftermarket options allows you to personalize your shotgun and enhance its performance.

Exploring the Mossberg 590’s Tactical Prowess and Robustness

The Mossberg 590 distinguishes itself as a robust and tactically oriented shotgun, favored by law enforcement and those seeking a high-capacity, durable firearm. Here’s what sets the 590 apart:

Higher Capacity for Critical Situations

The increased magazine capacity of the Mossberg 590 is a significant advantage in high-pressure situations. Holding 8+1 or even 9+1 rounds provides a greater margin for error and reduces the need for frequent reloading, which can be crucial in self-defense scenarios.

Military-Grade Durability with the 590A1

The Mossberg 590A1 is built to withstand the rigors of military use. Its heavy barrel, metal trigger guard, and metal safety button contribute to its exceptional durability and resistance to damage. This makes it a reliable choice for those who demand the utmost in robustness and longevity.

Enhanced Reliability Under Stress

The 590’s design, particularly in the A1 variant, emphasizes reliability under adverse conditions. The heavier barrel and metal components contribute to improved heat dissipation and reduced wear, ensuring consistent performance even during prolonged use or in harsh environments. Leading firearms experts consistently praise the 590A1 for its unwavering reliability.

Ideal for Tactical Applications

The Mossberg 590’s features, such as its high capacity and durable construction, make it well-suited for tactical applications. It is a popular choice for law enforcement, security personnel, and those who prioritize home defense. Its robust design and reliable performance instill confidence in critical situations.

Feature-by-Feature Breakdown: A Detailed Examination

Let’s break down the key features of the Mossberg 500 and 590 to provide a clearer comparison:

Magazine Capacity: The 500 typically holds 5+1 to 7+1 rounds, while the 590 holds 8+1 (standard) or 9+1 (590A1). The 590 offers a clear advantage in firepower.
Barrel Options: The 500 offers a wider variety of barrel lengths and configurations, making it more versatile for different shooting applications.
Durability: The 590A1 boasts superior durability due to its heavy barrel and metal components, while the 500 and standard 590 offer sufficient durability for most recreational and home defense purposes.
Weight: The 500 is generally lighter than the 590, making it easier to handle and maneuver.
Price: The 500 is typically more affordable than the 590, making it a more budget-friendly option.
Aftermarket Support: Both shotguns enjoy extensive aftermarket support, but the 500’s widespread popularity may give it a slight edge in terms of available accessories.
Sling Mounts: Many 590 models come standard with sling mounting points, which is helpful for tactical use. Sling mounts may need to be added to the 500.

Real-World Value: Which Shotgun Delivers the Most?

The real-world value of the Mossberg 500 and 590 depends heavily on your individual needs and priorities. Here’s a breakdown of which shotgun offers the most value in different scenarios:

Home Defense: Both shotguns are viable options for home defense. The 590’s higher capacity provides an advantage, while the 500’s lighter weight may be preferable for some users.
Hunting: The 500’s wider range of barrel options makes it a more versatile choice for hunting different types of game.
Recreational Shooting: The 500’s affordability and versatility make it an excellent choice for recreational shooting activities such as clay shooting and target practice.
Tactical Applications: The 590, particularly the 590A1, is better suited for tactical applications due to its higher capacity, durability, and reliability.
Budget-Conscious Shooters: The 500 offers exceptional value for budget-conscious shooters, providing reliable performance at an affordable price.

Users consistently report satisfaction with both models, highlighting the reliability of the Mossberg platform. Our analysis reveals that choosing between the two comes down to intended use-case more than inherent superiority.

In-Depth Review: Performance, Usability, and Overall Assessment

Both the Mossberg 500 and 590 offer solid performance and usability. The 500’s lighter weight makes it easier to handle, while the 590’s higher capacity provides a tactical advantage. Let’s delve into a more detailed review:

User Experience and Usability

From a practical standpoint, both shotguns are relatively easy to use. The pump-action mechanism is straightforward, and the controls are intuitive. The 500’s lighter weight may make it more comfortable for some users, especially during extended shooting sessions. The 590’s slightly heavier weight can contribute to reduced recoil, but it may also be more fatiguing for some users.

Performance and Effectiveness

Both shotguns deliver reliable performance and are effective at their intended purposes. The 500’s versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of shooting applications, while the 590’s higher capacity and durability make it a formidable choice for tactical scenarios. In simulated test scenarios, both shotguns consistently cycle rounds reliably and deliver accurate shots.

Pros of the Mossberg 500:

Affordable: Excellent value for the price.
Versatile: Wide range of barrel options and accessories.
Lightweight: Easy to handle and maneuver.
Reliable: Proven track record of dependability.
Abundant Aftermarket Support: Easy to customize and upgrade.

Cons/Limitations of the Mossberg 500:

Lower Capacity: Limited magazine capacity compared to the 590.
Less Durable (than 590A1): Not as robust as the 590A1.
Polymer Components: Some components are made of polymer, which may not be as durable as metal.

Pros of the Mossberg 590:

High Capacity: Greater firepower for critical situations.
Durable (especially 590A1): Built to withstand rigorous use.
Reliable: Consistent performance under stress.
Tactical Features: Well-suited for tactical applications.

Cons/Limitations of the Mossberg 590:

More Expensive: Higher price point than the 500.
Heavier: Can be more fatiguing to handle.
Less Versatile (than 500): Fewer barrel options available.

Ideal User Profile:

The Mossberg 500 is best suited for budget-conscious shooters, those who prioritize versatility, and those who prefer a lighter shotgun. The Mossberg 590 is ideal for those who need a high-capacity, durable shotgun for home defense or tactical applications.

Key Alternatives:

Alternatives to the Mossberg 500 and 590 include the Remington 870 and the Benelli Nova. The Remington 870 is another popular pump-action shotgun with a long history of reliability. The Benelli Nova offers a unique rotating bolt design and is known for its smooth action.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation:

Both the Mossberg 500 and 590 are excellent shotguns that offer reliable performance and solid value. The best choice for you depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you’re on a budget and need a versatile shotgun for various shooting applications, the Mossberg 500 is an excellent choice. If you prioritize high capacity, durability, and tactical features, the Mossberg 590 is the better option. For those seeking ultimate durability, the Mossberg 590A1 is the clear winner.

Making the Right Choice for Your Needs

Ultimately, the decision between the Mossberg 500 and 590 comes down to understanding your individual needs and priorities. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this guide, you can make an informed decision and choose the shotgun that best suits your specific requirements. Both shotguns offer exceptional value and reliable performance, ensuring that you’ll be well-equipped for whatever shooting scenario you encounter.

Share your experiences with the Mossberg 500 and 590 in the comments below, and help others make the right choice!