Mossberg Model 590 Pump-Action Shotgun

Specifications

Year: 1975
Manufacturer(s): O.S. Mossberg & Sons, Incorporated - USA
Roles: Close Quarters Battle (CQB)/Personal Security;

Action: Pump-Action Slide
Caliber(s): 12-Gauge
Sights: Bead Front; Optional Optics
Barrel Length: 470 mm (18.50 in)
Weight (Unloaded): 7.50 lb (3.40 kg)

Muzzle Velocity: 1,500 feet-per-second (457 meters-per-second)
Effective Range: 130 ft (40 m; 43 yd)

Operators: France; Iraq; Israel; Netherlands; South Korea; United States

The Mossberg Model 590 shotgun is an offshoot family of the popular Mossberg 500 hunting shotgun line. The Model 590 is offered is specialized forms for both military and law enforcement customers and contain reinforced internals, higher-capacity tubular magazines, accessories support via a Picatinny rail system, perforated heatshields over the barrel and optional pistol grip or full stocks.

Militarized forms feature 18.5- or 20-inch barrels for a more compact offering consistent with close-quarters combat and door-breaching sorties. These weapons are available in 6-. 8- and 9-shell magazine forms. Law enforcement versions are under the 590A1 designation and appear with heavier-duty details including safeties, trigger rings and barrels - the latter available in 14-, 18.5- and 20-inch lengths. Despite their law enforcement classification, the 590A1 is still utilized by elements of the US Army. The Mossberg 590 is also a shotgun of choice for the US Marines.

The action of the Mossberg 590 remains the proven pump-action slide which directs any spend shell casings from the chamber and introduces an available fresh shell from the tubular magazine. Loading of the magazine is through a gate under the forward portion of the receiver. Spent shell casings are directed from the large ejection port along the right side of the receiver. The action is regarded as smooth and reliable, consistent with competing brands elsewhere. Ammunition types include slug, shot and non-lethal riot rounds.

Variants / Models

• Model 500 - Civilian-style game hunting shotgun.
• Model 590 "Special Purpose" - Militarized combat shotgun with reinforced internals; 6-, 8- and 9-shell tubular magazine; Picatinny rail for accessories; perforated heatshield; pistol grip or full stock.
• Model 590A1 "Law Enforcement" - Law Enforcement model; heavy barrel; reinforced internals; 14-, 18.5- and 20-inch barrel lengths; pistol grip or full stock.
• Model 590 "Home Security" - Home defense variant; available in .410 bore; vertical foregrip; muzzle brake; spreader choke; bead sight.