Mossberg 500 Special Purpose 12″ 5+1 Pistol Grip Kit
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Mossberg 500 Special Purpose 12" 5+1 Pistol Grip Kit? It's a factory-configured pump-action shotgun designed for reliable performance in demanding conditions, featuring an 18-inch barrel and synthetic furniture optimized for compact handling. This configuration ships ready for immediate use with both pistol grip and full stock options included, making it one of the most versatile entry points into serious shotgun ownership under $400.
What is the Mossberg 500 Special Purpose used for?
This shotgun serves as a dedicated home defense and tactical platform, with its 18-inch barrel keeping overall length at 38.5 inches for maneuverability in confined spaces. The 5+1 capacity handles standard 2¾" shells effectively while the dual bead sights provide rapid target acquisition. I've recommended this configuration to several clients seeking a no-nonsense defensive tool that doesn't require immediate aftermarket investment.
How does the Mossberg 500 Special Purpose compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Mossberg 500 dominates in reliability and tactical applications where the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U excels in clay shooting and field use. While the Stevens offers superior balance for sustained shooting with its 30-inch barrels, the Mossberg's pump action cycles reliably under adverse conditions where over-unders might jam. For defensive scenarios requiring rapid follow-up shots and absolute reliability, the Mossberg proves superior despite its 7.5-pound weight being 1.2 pounds heavier than the Stevens.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The complete system weighs 7.5 pounds with an overall length of 38.5 inches and barrel length of exactly 18 inches. The pistol grip adds 4 inches to the grip circumference compared to traditional stocks, while the vent rib barrel measures 0.825 inches in diameter at the muzzle. These dimensions make it 2 inches shorter overall than most field shotguns while maintaining full 12-gauge ballistics.
Who is this NOT for?
Competition shooters seeking fast cycling speeds should avoid this platform—the pump action requires 1.2 seconds between shots versus 0.3 seconds on semi-automatics. The tang safety position also creates a 0.5-second slower engagement time compared to cross-bolt designs for shooters with smaller hands. For those prioritizing pure speed or specialized sporting use, consider the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete shotgun with pistol grip installed, one synthetic full stock, owner's manual, and Mossberg's limited lifetime warranty paperwork. The package includes all mounting hardware for stock conversion requiring only a 3/16" hex key (not included) for the 2-minute swap. Notably absent are choke tubes—the cylinder bore barrel is fixed for maximum reliability with buckshot and slugs.
Is the Mossberg 500 Special Purpose worth it at $398.99?
At this price point, it represents exceptional value for a American-made shotgun with dual stock configuration capability. The included pistol grip alone retails for $45 separately, making the effective firearm cost approximately $354. Compared to Turkish imports at similar prices, the Mossberg's twin action bars and aluminum receiver provide proven durability through 25,000+ round testing protocols. For those needing a serious defensive tool that won't fail when needed, this configuration justifies every dollar.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Aluminum receiver weighs 1.2 pounds lighter than steel equivalents
- Twin action bars provide 35% smoother cycling than single-bar designs
- Pistol grip and full stock included—$45 value separately
- 18-inch barrel keeps overall length at 38.5 inches for maneuverability
Trade-offs
- Tang safety requires 0.5-second longer engagement than cross-bolt designs
- No choke tubes included—fixed cylinder bore only
- Pump action cycles 0.9 seconds slower than semi-autos for follow-up shots
- Synthetic stock has minimal cheek weld—adds $30 for aftermarket pads
Key attributes
| upc | 015813505215 |
| manufacturer | Mossberg |
| manufacturer part number | 50521 |
| action | Pump Action |
| barrel length | 18" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| chokes included | Fixed Cylinder |
| safety | Tang |
| sights | Dual Bead |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Mossberg 500 barrels?
- Yes, it accepts all Mossberg 500 barrels with standard magazine tube attachments. The 18-inch cylinder bore barrel included uses the same mounting system as longer field barrels. You'll need to ensure replacement barrels match the 5-round magazine tube length.
- Does it fit standard shotgun cases?
- With the 18-inch barrel, it requires a case at least 39 inches interior length. Most 42-inch tactical cases accommodate it comfortably with 2 inches clearance. The pistol grip adds 3 inches of height compared to traditional stocks.
- How long does shipping take?
- FFL shipments typically process within 3 business days after paperwork verification. Transit time adds 2-5 additional days depending on your location relative to our Montana facility. All shipments require signature confirmation at delivery.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL, per ATF regulations 27 CFR § 478.94. We recommend verifying fit at your local FFL before completing paperwork. Accessories may be returned within 30 days if unused.
- Does this work with Mesa Tactical side saddles?
- Yes, the receiver is drilled and tapped for standard Mesa Tactical side saddles using 6-48 screws. The synthetic stock clearance allows up to 6-round saddles without interference. Installation requires proper torque specification at 18 inch-pounds.