The Mossberg 590 is a legendary pump-action shotgun, renowned for its reliability, durability, and versatility. This deep dive focuses specifically on the 20-gauge, 9-shot version, exploring its features, strengths, weaknesses, and overall suitability for various applications.
Understanding the Mossberg 590's Appeal
The Mossberg 590's enduring popularity stems from its robust construction, simple operation, and adaptability. It's a workhorse shotgun, favored by law enforcement, home defenders, and hunters alike. The 20-gauge version offers a compelling combination of manageable recoil, lighter weight, and respectable stopping power, making it a versatile choice for many users. The 9-shot capacity, achieved through an extended magazine tube, significantly increases its firepower compared to standard models.
Key Features of the 20 Gauge 9-Shot 590
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Capacity: The extended magazine tube is the defining characteristic of this variant, offering a significant advantage in situations requiring rapid follow-up shots. Nine rounds of 20-gauge ammunition provide substantial firepower.
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Action: The reliable pump-action mechanism is simple to operate, even under stress. Its straightforward design contributes to the shotgun's ruggedness and ease of maintenance.
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Gauge: The 20-gauge is a popular choice for its manageable recoil. While less powerful than 12-gauge, it provides ample stopping power for most self-defense and hunting scenarios, particularly with appropriate ammunition selection.
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Construction: The Mossberg 590 is known for its robust build quality. It's typically constructed from durable materials designed to withstand harsh conditions and heavy use.
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Versatility: The 590's adaptability is another strong point. Its ability to accept various barrel lengths and accessories allows customization for different applications, from home defense to hunting.
Strengths of the Mossberg 590 20 Gauge 9-Shot
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High Capacity: The 9-shot capacity offers a substantial advantage in self-defense scenarios where rapid, accurate fire may be crucial.
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Manageable Recoil: The 20-gauge provides less recoil than the 12-gauge, making it more comfortable for extended shooting sessions and easier to handle for smaller-statured individuals.
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Reliability: Mossberg shotguns are legendary for their reliability, and the 590 is no exception. Its simple design minimizes the chance of malfunctions.
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Affordability: Compared to some other high-capacity shotguns, the Mossberg 590 offers excellent value for its price.
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Customization: The extensive range of available accessories allows for significant customization to tailor the shotgun to specific needs.
Weaknesses of the Mossberg 590 20 Gauge 9-Shot
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Weight: While lighter than a 12-gauge, the extended magazine tube adds weight, which might be a factor for some users.
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Length: The extended magazine tube increases the overall length of the firearm, which can impact maneuverability in tight quarters.
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Ammunition Cost: While 20-gauge ammunition is generally less expensive than 12-gauge, it can still be a cost factor, particularly with extended shooting sessions.
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Potential for Jams: While rare with proper maintenance and use, extended magazine tubes can potentially increase the risk of feeding issues, though this is not universally experienced.
Conclusion: Is the Mossberg 590 20 Gauge 9-Shot Right for You?
The Mossberg 590 20-gauge 9-shot is a capable and versatile shotgun. Its high capacity, manageable recoil, and robust construction make it an excellent choice for home defense, where a high round count is crucial. It's also suitable for hunting smaller game, though larger game hunting might necessitate a heavier gauge. However, the increased weight and length compared to standard models should be considered. Ultimately, the decision of whether this specific model is right for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Carefully weigh the strengths and weaknesses outlined above to make an informed choice. Remember to always practice safe gun handling and follow all applicable laws and regulations.
