Mossberg 500 vs 590: Choosing the Right Shotgun for Your Needs

The Mossberg 500 and 590 series shotguns are legendary for their reliability, versatility, and affordability. They’re a staple in homes, law enforcement agencies, and hunting camps across the nation. But with subtle yet significant differences between the two, choosing the right model for your specific needs can be a challenge. This comprehensive guide delves into the nuances of the Mossberg 500 vs 590, providing a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision. We’ll explore their features, advantages, and disadvantages, ensuring you select the shotgun that best suits your intended use, whether it’s home defense, hunting, sport shooting, or tactical applications.

Understanding the Mossberg Legacy: A Brief History

O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc. has a long and storied history in firearms manufacturing, dating back to 1919. Their commitment to producing dependable and affordable firearms has made them a household name. The Mossberg 500, introduced in 1960, quickly became a best-seller, renowned for its robust design and user-friendly operation. Its popularity stems from its adaptability, easily transitioning between various roles with simple barrel and choke tube changes. The Mossberg 590, a later iteration, built upon the 500’s success with enhancements specifically geared towards law enforcement and tactical use. Understanding this heritage helps appreciate the subtle design choices that differentiate these two iconic shotguns.

Mossberg 500: The Versatile All-Arounder

The Mossberg 500 is the quintessential multi-purpose shotgun. Its design emphasizes adaptability, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. From hunting small game to protecting your home, the 500’s modularity allows it to excel in various scenarios. Its widespread availability and relatively lower price point compared to the 590 make it an attractive option for first-time shotgun owners or those seeking a versatile firearm without breaking the bank.

Mossberg 590: Built for Tactical Performance

The Mossberg 590 distinguishes itself with features designed for demanding tactical environments. Its heavier-duty construction, larger magazine capacity, and often included heat shield reflect its intended use by law enforcement and military personnel. While still capable of handling sporting applications, the 590’s focus on durability and enhanced features make it a preferred choice for those prioritizing tactical preparedness and home defense in high-stress situations.

Key Differences: Mossberg 500 vs 590

While both shotguns share the core Mossberg 500 action, several key differences set them apart:

• Magazine Tube Design: The 500 typically features a closed magazine tube, requiring disassembly for cleaning and maintenance. The 590 boasts an open-ended magazine tube, allowing for easier cleaning and the addition of magazine extensions. This is arguably the most significant functional difference.
• Magazine Capacity: Standard Mossberg 500 models usually hold 5+1 rounds (5 in the magazine tube, 1 in the chamber). The 590, particularly the 590A1 variant, often features an extended magazine tube, increasing capacity to 8+1 or even 9+1 rounds, a crucial advantage in tactical scenarios.
• Barrel Attachment: The Mossberg 500’s barrel is typically attached via a screw into the end of the magazine tube. The 590, particularly the 590A1, often uses a heavier-duty barrel attachment system for increased durability under heavy use.
• Construction Materials: While both use durable materials, the 590A1 is known for its heavier barrel profile and metal trigger guard and safety button, enhancing its robustness and longevity, especially under harsh conditions. The 500 often uses polymer components in these areas to reduce weight and cost.
• Heat Shield: Many 590 models come standard with a heat shield over the barrel, protecting the shooter’s hand during rapid firing. This is less common on the 500, though aftermarket heat shields are readily available.

Detailed Feature Analysis: Dissecting the Differences

Magazine Tube & Capacity: A Critical Distinction

The magazine tube design is a defining characteristic. The closed magazine tube of the standard 500 requires removing the barrel for thorough cleaning. This can be a minor inconvenience, but for some, it’s a significant drawback. The 590’s open-ended tube, on the other hand, simplifies cleaning and allows for easy installation of magazine extensions, significantly increasing firepower. This increased capacity is a major selling point for home defense and tactical applications, providing a distinct advantage in situations where every round counts.

Barrel & Attachment: Strength Under Pressure

Both shotguns feature interchangeable barrels, allowing users to adapt them for different purposes. However, the 590A1 often employs a thicker barrel profile and a more robust attachment system. This is crucial for withstanding the heat and stress generated during rapid firing or extended use with heavy loads. While the standard 500 barrel attachment is perfectly adequate for most sporting purposes, the 590A1’s enhanced design provides an extra layer of durability and reliability for demanding applications.

Trigger Group & Safety: Material Matters

The trigger group and safety mechanism are essential for safe and reliable operation. The 590A1 typically features a metal trigger guard and safety button, offering superior durability and resistance to damage compared to the polymer components often found on the 500. While polymer components are generally reliable, metal parts provide a greater sense of robustness and are less susceptible to wear and tear over time, especially under heavy use. This is a subtle but important factor for those prioritizing long-term durability.

Heat Shield: Protecting Your Hands

The heat shield, commonly found on 590 models, is a practical addition that protects the shooter’s hand from the hot barrel during rapid firing. While not essential for occasional use, it’s a valuable feature for those who anticipate engaging in extended shooting sessions or tactical scenarios where rapid follow-up shots are necessary. Aftermarket heat shields are available for the 500, but having it included as a standard feature on the 590 is a definite advantage.

Advantages and Benefits: Real-World Value

Mossberg 500: The Affordable Workhorse

The primary advantage of the Mossberg 500 is its affordability and versatility. It’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers who need a reliable shotgun for various purposes. Its modular design allows it to be easily adapted for hunting, sport shooting, and home defense with simple barrel and choke tube changes. Users consistently report high levels of satisfaction with the 500’s reliability and ease of use, making it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced shooters.

Mossberg 590: Tactical Superiority

The Mossberg 590 excels in tactical applications due to its increased magazine capacity, durable construction, and often included heat shield. Law enforcement agencies and home defense enthusiasts often prefer the 590 for its ability to deliver more firepower and withstand harsh conditions. Our analysis reveals that the 590’s enhanced features provide a distinct advantage in high-stress situations where reliability and firepower are paramount.

Real-World Value: Choosing the Right Tool

The real-world value of each shotgun depends on the intended use. For general-purpose shooting and hunting, the Mossberg 500 offers excellent value and versatility. For home defense, tactical applications, or situations where increased firepower and durability are critical, the Mossberg 590 is the clear choice. Understanding your specific needs and priorities is essential for selecting the shotgun that provides the best real-world value.

In-Depth Review: Performance and Usability

Both the Mossberg 500 and 590 are known for their reliable pump-action mechanisms and user-friendly design. The controls are intuitive and easy to operate, even under pressure. However, there are subtle differences in their overall performance and usability.

Mossberg 500: User Experience

The Mossberg 500 is generally considered to be more lightweight and easier to handle than the 590, making it a good choice for smaller shooters or those who prefer a lighter shotgun. The recoil is manageable, even with heavier loads, and the pump action is smooth and reliable. Its modular design allows for easy customization with aftermarket accessories, further enhancing its usability.

Mossberg 590: Performance and Effectiveness

The Mossberg 590, with its heavier barrel and larger magazine capacity, offers enhanced performance in tactical scenarios. The increased weight helps to reduce recoil, especially with heavy loads, and the larger magazine capacity provides a significant firepower advantage. The metal trigger guard and safety button offer increased durability, ensuring reliable operation in demanding conditions. The 590’s robust design and enhanced features make it a highly effective tool for home defense and tactical applications.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced Perspective

Mossberg 500 Pros:

• Affordability: Lower price point makes it accessible to a wider range of buyers.
• Versatility: Adaptable for various applications with interchangeable barrels and choke tubes.
• Lightweight: Easier to handle and carry for extended periods.
• Modularity: Wide range of aftermarket accessories available for customization.
• Proven Reliability: Long-standing reputation for dependable performance.

Mossberg 500 Cons:

• Closed Magazine Tube: Requires disassembly for thorough cleaning.
• Polymer Components: Less durable than metal components in some areas.
• Lower Magazine Capacity: Standard models hold fewer rounds than the 590.

Mossberg 590 Pros:

• Increased Magazine Capacity: Provides a significant firepower advantage.
• Durable Construction: Heavier barrel and metal components enhance robustness.
• Open-Ended Magazine Tube: Simplifies cleaning and allows for magazine extensions.
• Heat Shield: Protects the shooter’s hand during rapid firing.
• Tactical Focused Design: Optimized for home defense and law enforcement applications.

Mossberg 590 Cons:

• Higher Price Point: More expensive than the Mossberg 500.
• Heavier Weight: Can be more difficult to handle for some shooters.
• Less Versatile: Less adaptable for hunting and sporting purposes compared to the 500.

Ideal User Profile: Who are these shotguns for?

The Mossberg 500 is ideal for budget-conscious shooters, beginners, and those who need a versatile shotgun for various purposes, including hunting, sport shooting, and home defense. The Mossberg 590 is best suited for home defense enthusiasts, law enforcement personnel, and anyone who prioritizes increased firepower, durability, and tactical performance.

Key Alternatives: Other Options to Consider

Alternatives to the Mossberg 500 and 590 include the Remington 870 and the Benelli Nova. The Remington 870 is another popular pump-action shotgun known for its reliability and affordability. The Benelli Nova offers a more modern design and a unique rotating bolt system.

Expert Overall Verdict: Choosing the Right Shotgun

Both the Mossberg 500 and 590 are excellent shotguns that offer reliable performance and exceptional value. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you’re looking for an affordable and versatile shotgun for general-purpose shooting, the Mossberg 500 is an excellent choice. If you need a more durable and tactically focused shotgun for home defense or law enforcement applications, the Mossberg 590 is the clear winner. Based on our detailed analysis, we recommend the 590 for those prioritizing tactical performance and the 500 for those seeking maximum versatility and affordability.

Making the Right Choice: Consider Your Needs

Ultimately, the best shotgun for you depends on your individual needs and circumstances. Consider your budget, intended use, and personal preferences when making your decision. Both the Mossberg 500 and 590 are reliable and effective firearms that will serve you well for years to come. By carefully weighing the pros and cons of each model, you can choose the shotgun that best meets your specific requirements and provides you with the peace of mind that comes from owning a quality firearm.

Share your experiences with the Mossberg 500 or 590 in the comments below. Your insights can help others make informed decisions and find the perfect shotgun for their needs.