Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field 12 Gauge 5rd 28″ Vent Rib
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field 12 Gauge 5rd 28″ Vent Rib? It's a field-ready pump-action shotgun configured specifically for upland game and waterfowl hunting. Mossberg's 500 series represents over fifty years of evolution in dual-extractor action reliability, and this particular model balances a classic 28-inch vent-rib barrel with modern synthetic furniture. This configuration is built for hunters who need a workhorse capable of handling everything from damp blinds to frosty mornings without complaint.
What is the Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field used for?
The Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field is designed primarily as a hunting shotgun for upland birds and waterfowl. Its 28-inch vent-rib barrel facilitates a smooth swing for tracking clays and flying game, while the 3-inch chamber and Accu-Set interchangeable choke system allow it to pattern everything from light target loads to heavy, 1-1/4 oz. waterfowl shot. The synthetic stock and matte finish offer all-weather durability, making it ideal for a hunter who covers ground in variable conditions.
How does the Mossberg 500 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Mossberg 500 is a better choice for hunters prioritizing durability, ease of maintenance, and lower cost over the refined handling of an over-under. The Stevens 555 Sporting O/U offers a single, cleaner sight plane and immediate two-shot capacity, making it faster for follow-up shots on the skeet field, but it typically costs $150-$200 more and its more complex action is harder to field-strip for cleaning in muddy conditions. The Mossberg's pump action is simpler, more tolerant of fouling from low-brass shells, and its synthetic stock won't warp in humidity.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field balances the handling of a hunting shotgun with manageable heft, weighing 7.5 pounds unloaded. The 28-inch vent-rib barrel contributes to an overall length of 47.5 inches, providing a 14-inch length of pull on its synthetic stock that fits most average-to-taller adult shooters. This 55-inch swing radius, from muzzle to stock butt, provides the smooth, consistent follow-through required for hitting crossing shots at 40 yards with a Modified choke.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for the tactical or home-defense shooter needing compact maneuverability or high capacity. Its 28-inch barrel and 47.5-inch overall length make it cumbersome for indoor scenarios, and its 5-round capacity is standard for hunting but limited compared to defensive models. Consider the Mossberg 590 series with an 18.5-inch barrel if your use case involves corridors rather than fields. It's also not for the competition shooter who needs the ultra-fast cycling of a gas semi-auto for high-volume clay sports.
What's in the box?
The shotgun ships from the factory with the receiver, 28-inch vent-rib barrel with installed Accu-Set Modified choke tube, and the synthetic stock/forend assembly. You will also receive a spare Accu-Set Full choke tube, a chamber flag, product manual, and a basic trigger lock for compliance. Mossberg does not include a hard case; budget for a 50-inch soft case or a hard Plano All-Weather case for secure transport to the range. The complete package adds roughly 9 pounds to your kit.
Is the Mossberg 500 worth it at $446.99?
At $446.99, the Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field offers exceptional value as a durable, no-nonsense hunting tool that will last decades with basic maintenance. You're paying for Mossberg's time-tested twin-action slide bars, a machined steel-to-steel lockup, and a finish that resists corrosion, not for fancy engraving or a custom-grade walnut stock. For a shooter seeking a reliable, first shotgun or a dedicated foul-weather companion, this price is justified. If your primary interest is formal clay sports, investing in a dedicated model like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U might be a better long-term value for its competition-focused design.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7.5 lbs — balanced for a smooth swing on game birds.
- Features dual extractors and twin action bars for proven reliability over 10,000+ cycles.
- 28-inch vent-rib barrel provides a consistent 55-inch swing radius for leading shots.
- Synthetic stock and matte blue finish resist moisture and corrosion in field conditions.
Trade-offs
- No adjustable length of pull spacers — fixed 14-inch LOP may not fit smaller-statured shooters.
- Accu-Set choke system is proprietary — limits aftermarket tube options compared to more common Invector or Beretta Mobil threads.
- Synthetic forend has minimal texturing — can feel slick with wet or gloved hands compared to overmolded versions.
Key attributes
| upc | 015813564200 |
| manufacturer | Mossberg |
| manufacturer part number | 56420 |
| shipping weight | 8.6875 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Mossberg 500 barrels from other models?
- Yes, the receiver accepts any Mossberg 500 barrel with a standard 3-inch chamber, provided the magazine tube length matches. The 28-inch vent-rib barrel uses the standard 6-3/4-inch magazine tube nut system. You can swap to other Mossberg-manufactured barrels, like an 18.5-inch cylinder bore for defensive use, in under 2 minutes with a simple wrench.
- Does it fit in a standard 52-inch shotgun case?
- No, its 47.5-inch overall length is too long for a standard 52-inch case once you account for foam and end caps. You need a case rated for at least 50 inches of internal length. A SKB or Plano case with a 51-inch interior dimension provides a perfect, snug fit for secure transport.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Ironclad Armory processes and ships most in-stock firearms within 1-2 business days after FFL verification is complete. Transit time to your chosen Federal Firearms License holder is typically 3-5 business days via FedEx or UPS Ground, depending on your location from our warehouse in Texas.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- No, Ironclad Armory does not accept returns on firearms due to federal regulations, unless the firearm is defective and covered under the manufacturer's warranty. We strongly recommend handling a similar model at a local gun shop to verify the 14-inch length of pull and overall balance before purchasing this online-only item.
- Does this work with a Carlson's choke tube?
- No, it requires Mossberg's proprietary Accu-Set choke tubes. The Accu-Set system uses a unique thread pattern and a notched rim that interfaces with the barrel's extractor cut. Aftermarket choke tubes from manufacturers like Carlson's or Briley are not compatible unless specifically marked for the Mossberg 500 Accu-Set system.