Mossberg 835 Ulti-Mag 12GA 28″ Mossy Oak
Pros & cons
What works
- Handles 3.5-inch magnum shells — 25% more power than standard 3-inch chambers
- Includes 3 Accu-Mag choke tubes — $120 value if purchased separately
- Fiber optic sight gathers 300% more light than standard brass beads
- 48.75-inch overall length provides stable swing for waterfowl patterns
Trade-offs
- Weighs 7.75 pounds — 1.5 pounds heavier than typical field shotguns
- Pump action requires manual cycling — 0.5 seconds slower than semi-automatics between shots
- Mossy Oak camo limits aftermarket stock options — requires custom dipping for pattern changes
- 28-inch barrel cumbersome in blind hunting — 4 inches longer than ideal for tight quarters
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Mossberg 835 Ulti-Mag 12GA 28″ Mossy Oak is a pump-action shotgun chambered for 3.5-inch shells with an overbored barrel and Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades camo finish. This platform delivers reliable performance for waterfowl hunters who need to cycle heavy loads in demanding conditions. Its 28-inch vent-rib barrel and Accu-Mag choke system provide versatility across different hunting scenarios.
What is the Mossberg 835 Ulti-Mag used for?
This shotgun is engineered specifically for waterfowl hunting where 3.5-inch magnum loads are necessary. The overbored 28-inch barrel reduces recoil and improves pattern consistency with heavy shot, while the Mossy Oak camo finish provides effective concealment in marsh and field environments. It handles everything from 2¾-inch target loads to 3.5-inch magnum steel shot without modification.
How does the Mossberg 835 Ulti-Mag compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Mossberg outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U in shell versatility, accepting 3.5-inch magnums versus the Stevens' 3-inch maximum. Where the Stevens offers quicker follow-up shots with its over-under action, the Mossberg provides greater power and ammunition flexibility for geese and large waterfowl at longer ranges.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This shotgun weighs 7.75 pounds with an overall length of 48.75 inches. The 28-inch barrel features a vent rib for improved sight alignment, while the synthetic stock maintains balance despite the weight. At 7.75 pounds, it's heavier than many field guns but the weight helps manage recoil from 3.5-inch loads.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not suitable for upland hunters who need lightweight quick-handling firearms or competitors requiring fast action cycling. The 7.75-pound weight and 48.75-inch length make it cumbersome in tight cover, and the pump action cannot match the speed of semi-automatics or over-unders for rapid target engagement.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun with three Accu-Mag choke tubes (improved cylinder, modified, and full), fiber optic front sight, and owner's manual. The chokes provide pattern options from 40 yards to 60 yards, while the fiber optic sight offers 300% better light gathering than standard brass beads in low-light conditions.
Is the Mossberg 835 Ulti-Mag worth it at $519.99?
At $519.99, this shotgun delivers exceptional value for waterfowl specialists needing 3.5-inch capability. Compared to semi-automatic alternatives costing $800+, the Mossberg provides reliable magnum performance at a reasonable price point. The included choke system alone represents a $120 value if purchased separately.
Key attributes
| upc | 015813635219 |
| manufacturer | Mossberg |
| manufacturer part number | 63521 |
| action | Pump Action |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Modified |
| color | CAMOFLAGE |
| length | 36.4500 |
| package height | 7.75 |
| package width | 2.25 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 9.15 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with 2¾-inch shells?
- Yes, the 835 Ulti-Mag cycles 2¾-inch, 3-inch, and 3.5-inch 12-gauge shells without modification. The dual extractors handle everything from light target loads to 3.5-inch magnum steel shot reliably.
- Does it fit in a standard 52-inch gun case?
- No, the 48.75-inch overall length requires a minimum 50-inch case for proper protection. I recommend Plano All-Weather cases or similar hard-sided options with 52-inch interior dimensions for safe transport.
- How long does shipping take?
- Firearms ship within 3 business days to your selected FFL dealer. Transit time varies by carrier but typically adds 2-5 business days depending on your location relative to our Montana facility.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- All firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL due to federal regulations. We recommend handling similar models at local dealers before purchase to ensure proper fit and function.