The Mossberg 590
Kevin Felts 06.21.17
The other day I was browsing through YouTube when I came across a video by TFB TV (The Firearm Blog TV) which was talking about the Mossberg 590. Overall, the video was enjoyable and well done. However, while watching the video I asked myself, “How often do I use my Mossberg 590?”
Whether it is rabbit or squirrel hunting, or dealing with pests around the farm, rather than the 590, the Mossberg 500 is my “go-to” shotgun. The vast majority of time, the 500 stays next to the front door loaded with #4 shot. For those of you who do not know, I live in a rural area. A couple of days ago, something got in the chicken house. So, I keep a shotgun close at hand. I have no small children at home. When children are around, the shotgun is secured.
While watching the video I started realizing why the Mossberg 590 was not my “go-to” shotgun. In all honesty, why do sportsmen lavish so much love on the Mossberg 590?
All of these dimensions are from my personal Mossberg 500 and 590.
Weight
500 – 7 pounds 3 ounces.
590 – 7 pounds 8 ounces.
Distance from buttstock to start of fore grip
500 – 23 1/4 inches.
590 – 24 7/8 inches.
The distance from the buttstock to the fore grip is one of my biggest complaints with the 590. Anytime I am shooting the 590, it feels like I am having to reach way out to cycle the shotgun. The increased spread between right and left hand also feels like I have less control over the firearm.
Barrel Length
500 – 27 3/4 inches, to end of choke.
590 – 20 1/8 inches, no choke.
For what I use my shotguns for, hunting and pest control, the barrel length is the deciding factor. The 500 holds a much better group than the 590. On the other hand, the compact barrel of the 590 may appeal to people using the shotgun for security and law enforcement.
Mossberg 590 Niche
Is the 590 a good shotgun? Of course it is. I just have issues with what niche it serves. The short barrel means the shot is going to spread, which makes it less than ideal for hunting small game.
Someone is going to say, “The 590 is great for urban defense.” Instead of buying two shotguns, why not get a 500 or Remington 870 and get a second shorter barrel? Swap out the barrels and you have a shotgun with a nice spread.
Do you own a Mossberg 590? Do you use it for anything besides a range gun or safe queen?
