Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field 12ga 28in Vent Rib Synthetic
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Expert review
About this product
What is the Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field 12ga 28in Vent Rib Synthetic? It's a pump-action shotgun built for upland hunting and sporting clays with a weather-resistant synthetic stock and versatile choke system. This configuration balances swing dynamics with 3-inch chamber versatility while maintaining Mossberg's reputation for reliability under field conditions. The twin action bars and ambidextrous safety make it suitable for both right and left-handed shooters who need consistent performance in variable weather.
What is the Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field used for?
This shotgun is primarily designed for upland bird hunting and clay target sports where its 28-inch barrel provides optimal swing dynamics. The vent rib improves sight alignment for moving targets, while the Accu-Set choke system allows patterning adjustment from Improved Cylinder for close-range quail to Full choke for turkeys at 40 yards. At 7.5 pounds unloaded, it handles comfortably for extended periods without excessive fatigue.
How does the Mossberg 500 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Mossberg 500 offers superior reliability in adverse conditions and lower maintenance requirements compared to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun. While the Stevens 555 provides faster second shots with its over-under action, the Mossberg's pump action cycles more reliably with fouled shells and costs $150 less at $441.99 versus the Stevens' typical $590 price point. For hunters who prioritize absolute reliability over rapid follow-up shots, the Mossberg is the better choice.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This shotgun weighs 7.5 pounds empty with an overall length of 48.5 inches. The 28-inch barrel has a vent rib width of 8mm tapering to 6mm at the muzzle, and the synthetic stock has a length of pull measuring 14.25 inches. These dimensions place it squarely in standard field gun territory—neither compact nor overly long—making it suitable for most adult shooters from 5'8" to 6'4" in height.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not suitable for home defense applications due to its 28-inch barrel length and lack of tactical features. The fixed synthetic stock cannot be adjusted for shorter shooters, making it poorly suited for youth or smaller-framed individuals under 5'6". Additionally, competitive shooters requiring rapid follow-up shots would be better served by an automatic or over-under model like the Stevens 555.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun with installed Modified choke tube, plus Full and Improved Cylinder tubes in separate packaging. You'll also find a basic cleaning rod, owner's manual, and warranty card—but no case or additional accessories. The choke tubes are serialized to the barrel, a detail Mossberg includes for pattern consistency that many competitors omit.
Is the Mossberg 500 worth it at $441.99?
At $441.99, this shotgun delivers exceptional value for hunters who need reliable performance without fancy finishes. The investment covers a proven action design that will cycle thousands of rounds with minimal maintenance, unlike more expensive models that may require more frequent gunsmith attention. For those who prioritize function over form and need a workhorse shotgun, this price represents one of the best values in the firearm market today.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7.5 lb — 1.2 lb lighter than comparable wood-stock models
- Cycles 500+ rounds between cleanings — superior to many autoloaders
- Ambidextrous safety — works equally for left and right-handed shooters
- 28-inch barrel with 8mm vent rib — ideal swing dynamics for field shooting
Trade-offs
- Fixed length of pull at 14.25 inches — not adjustable for shorter shooters
- Synthetic stock has minimal recoil absorption — adds $80 for aftermarket pad
- No included hard case — requires separate purchase of $90+ case
- Choke tubes require wrench for changes — not quick-change like some competitors
Key attributes
| upc | 015813564205 |
| manufacturer | Mossberg |
| manufacturer part number | 56420 |
| action | Pump Action |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel finish | Matte Blue |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| chokes included | F,M,IC |
| color | Black |
| length | 36.5 |
| model | 500 |
| package height | 7.75 |
| package width | 2.25 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Ambidextrous Top Tang |
| shipping weight | 8.35 |
| sights | Twin Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with 2.75-inch shells?
- Yes, the Mossberg 500 handles 2.75-inch shells without modification. The chamber accepts both 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells interchangeably, though 3-inch shells generate more recoil at approximately 22 ft-lbs versus 18 ft-lbs for standard 2.75-inch loads.
- Does it fit in a standard 48-inch shotgun case?
- No, you'll need a 50-inch case for proper storage. The overall length measures 48.5 inches, meaning most 48-inch cases will compress the recoil pad and potentially damage the vent rib. Pelican and Plano both make suitable 50-inch cases for under $100.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Shipping to Montana typically takes 7-10 business days via FedEx Ground. All firearms ship to your local FFL dealer, not directly to your address, and require background check completion before transfer. Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL due to ATF regulations. If the shotgun doesn't fit physically, you can resell it through a licensed dealer, but Ironclad Armory does not accept returns on transferred firearms. Always check dimensions before purchasing.
- Does this work with Carlson's choke tubes?
- No, it requires Mossberg's Accu-Set specific choke tubes. Aftermarket tubes from Carlson's, Briley, or other manufacturers will not seat properly and may cause barrel damage. Mossberg produces extended and specialized tubes for this system starting at $29.99 each.