mossberg 500 vs 590
In the realm of pump-action shotguns, few names resonate with as much trust and legacy as Mossberg. For decades, the Mossberg 500 has been a go-to option for sportsmen, home defenders, and law enforcement agencies alike. However, its close sibling, the Mossberg 590, has also secured its own loyal following. If you’re wondering which model best suits your needs and preferences, this guide will help you navigate the key differences and similarities between these two iconic shotguns.
1. Historical Background and Design Philosophy
The Mossberg 500 was introduced in the early 1960s as an affordable, versatile firearm for both hunting and home defense. Simplicity, reliability, and user-friendliness formed its core design philosophy. Over time, it became one of the most popular pump-action shotguns in the United States.
The Mossberg 590 arrived as a variation aimed more toward military and tactical applications. Built on the same basic design as the 500, the 590 series often features enhancements for ruggedness, capacity, and accessory compatibility. These improvements quickly made it a favorite among security professionals, law enforcement, and those seeking a more “tactical” shotgun.
2. Key Differences at a Glance
- Magazine Tube Design: The 590 typically features a one-piece extended magazine tube, whereas many 500 models come with shorter, segmented tubes.
- Barrel Attachment: The 590’s barrel attaches via a cap on the end of the magazine tube, while the 500’s barrel is usually secured by a bolt that threads into the magazine tube itself.
- Capacity and Length Options: 500s are available in countless configurations, but the 590 often comes in higher-capacity and more tactical variants.
- Intended Use: The 500 is considered a “do-it-all” shotgun suitable for hunting, sporting, and home defense. The 590 tends to appeal more to tactical and home-defense roles.
3. Performance and Reliability
Both the Mossberg 500 and the Mossberg 590 share a heritage of reliability. Their pump-action mechanisms are straightforward and tested in countless scenarios, ranging from upland bird hunting to combat situations. Here’s how they stack up in different aspects of performance:
Hunting and Sporting
The 500 offers more diversity in barrel lengths and choke options, making it great for bird or small-game hunting. Swapping out a barrel to transition from hunting to home defense is relatively quick and cost-effective. The 590, while capable, is often optimized for shorter barrels and tactical applications, making it less common to see in field-hunting scenarios.
Home Defense
Many firearm owners choose a pump-action shotgun for home defense due to its simplicity and stopping power. Both the 500 and 590 excel here. However, the 590’s extended capacity and accessory-ready design (like tri-rail fore-ends, heat shields, and ghost ring sights) often make it the first pick for those prioritizing tactical readiness. That said, a Mossberg 500 outfitted with an 18.5-inch barrel and extended magazine tube can be just as effective.
Durability and Ergonomics
From a durability standpoint, the 590 edges out the 500 slightly due to its steel safety switch (in many models) and heavy-walled barrels available in certain configurations. Ergonomically, both lines feature Mossberg’s signature top-mounted safety, which accommodates both left- and right-handed shooters quite well—an especially big plus if you share the shotgun with family members or a shooting partner.
4. Customization and Aftermarket Support
Mossberg shotguns boast substantial aftermarket support. You’ll find an abundance of stocks, fore-ends, optics rails, and sling mounts for either series. That being said, the 590 is often considered the premier platform if you’re looking to heavily accessorize. Because many 590 configurations already include extended magazines, heat shields, and rail mounts, jumping into a full tactical build may require fewer upgrades.
The 500 is no slouch in this department, though. Countless 500 variants exist, including field, combo, and special-purpose models. As a bonus, the 500’s popularity means parts and accessories are widely available. Whether you want to upgrade your stock to a pistol grip or add a red dot sight, you’ll likely find multiple compatible options for both the 500 and 590.
5. Pricing and Availability
The Mossberg 500 typically retails at a slightly lower cost than comparable 590 models, making it attractive for budget-conscious buyers. It’s also widely stocked in sporting goods stores and online firearm retailers, so finding a deal is fairly straightforward.
The Mossberg 590 series, particularly the 590A1 or Shockwave variants, often commands a higher price tag due to their enhanced features and heavy-duty components. If you value extended capacity, metal trigger guards, and more “tactical” styling, the extra investment could be worthwhile.
6. Which Mossberg Is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between a Mossberg 500 and a Mossberg 590 comes down to use case and personal preference.
- You Want a Multipurpose Firearm: The 500’s variety of configurations makes it a strong contender for hunting, clay shooting, and home defense.
- You Prioritize Tactical Features: The 590 series’ extended magazines, barrel options, and rugged construction are ideal for self-defense, law enforcement, or military-style setups.
- You’re on a Tight Budget: The 500 generally offers a lower entry price and a huge selection of used models in the secondary market.
- You Prefer Maximized Capacity: While some 500 models have extended tubes, the 590 is well-known for its higher capacity out of the box.
Both shotguns are highly reliable, easy to maintain, and backed by Mossberg’s long-standing reputation for quality. Whichever one you choose, you’ll be investing in a pump-action shotgun that can stand the test of time.
Final Thoughts
When comparing Mossberg 500 vs 590, it’s less about which is universally “better” and more about which best fits your needs. The Mossberg 500 is a classic all-rounder, offering an impressive range of configurations for a variety of shooting disciplines. The Mossberg 590, on the other hand, caters to users who desire a more tactical approach, extended capacity, and rock-solid construction for heavy or defensive use. Either way, you’ll be acquiring a reliable shotgun with decades of proven performance behind it.
If you can, handle both before buying—visit a local gun shop or range that rents shotguns. Feel the balance, check the ergonomics, and see which length and setup seems more comfortable. With the right choice, you’ll have a dependable firearm that suits your shooting style for years to come.
Reddit-Style Discussion
u/BirdDogHunter: “I have a 500 for duck hunting and it’s been flawless in muddy blinds. Barrel swap is easy if I want a home-defense config.”
u/TacticalJake: “590 with an 8+1 capacity for me—I like the extra shells without needing an extension tube. Plus, the metal trigger guard is a nice upgrade.”
u/ShotgunEnthuse: “If you’re on a budget, 500 is the way to go. Used ones can be found for cheap at gun shows. Tons of accessories too!”
u/LeftyShooter: “Both have that top safety, which is a godsend if you’re left-handed. No fumbling with cross-bolt safeties.”
u/HomeDefensePrep: “My 590 is strictly for the house—short barrel, heat shield, and a side saddle. It’s my go-to in an emergency. Feels super sturdy.”
u/FieldVersatile: “It’s really about personal needs. Do you hunt? 500. Do you want a tank of a defensive shotgun? 590. They’re siblings, can’t go wrong either way.”