People Either Swear by Mossberg or Swear at It – I Found Out Why

For years, I heard people either sing Mossberg’s praises or slam them into the dirt, and rarely anything in between. It got to the point where I had to find out for myself: was Mossberg a reliable workhorse or just a cheap knockoff brand that loyalists defended out of habit? After owning, borrowing, and shooting my fair share of Mossberg firearms, I can confidently say… it’s complicated. But here’s what I discovered along the way.

Mossberg’s Blue-Collar Origins

What surprised me the most at first was how long Mossberg has been around. The company was founded back in 1919 by Oscar Frederick Mossberg, a Swedish immigrant with a sharp eye for firearm mechanics. His goal wasn’t to make luxury weapons for aristocrats – he wanted to build practical, affordable guns that the average American could depend on. And that spirit has never really changed.

Their first firearm wasn’t even a shotgun or a rifle – it was a little four-barreled .22 called the Brownie, aimed at trappers and outdoorsmen. It wasn’t a game-changer, but it set the tone: simple, rugged, and within reach of most folks. That mission has stayed with Mossberg, for better or worse.

Why Some People Love Mossberg (Myself Included)

After handling a few Mossberg shotguns, I started to understand why so many people swear by them. The Mossberg 500, for instance, is one of the most utilitarian and reliable shotguns I’ve ever used. You can drop it, drag it through the woods, leave it in the back of a pickup for a week, and it’ll still cycle shells like nothing happened.

I’ve seen farmers, cops, and budget-conscious home defenders reach for a Mossberg not because it’s flashy, but because it works. The price point is a big part of the appeal. Not everyone can (or wants to) spend $1,200 on a shotgun. Mossberg delivers solid function without the sticker shock. And for left-handed shooters? That tang-mounted safety is a dream.

But Not Everyone’s a Fan – And They Have Their Reasons

Here’s the flip side: I’ve also handled Mossbergs that made me scratch my head. Some of their budget models, like the Maverick 88 or the 702 Plinkster, can feel a little plasticky. If you’re used to high-end brands like Benelli or Beretta, a Mossberg can feel like a downgrade in terms of finish and feel.

There’s also some inconsistency with quality control. While one model might be bulletproof, another might have rough machining or sloppy tolerances. I’ve heard of folks getting lemons – guns that rattle out of the box or come with minor defects that shouldn’t have made it past inspection. It doesn’t happen all the time, but enough that it’s part of the brand’s reputation.

Mossberg’s Shotgun Empire

Despite the criticisms, Mossberg’s dominance in the shotgun world is undeniable. The Mossberg 500 and 590A1 are absolute workhorses. The 590A1, in particular, is a beast – it was built to military specifications and can endure conditions that would leave other shotguns jammed and useless.

I own a 590A1, and it’s not a featherweight. But I’ll tell you what – it’s the one I’d grab if I ever needed to defend my home in a worst-case scenario. Its extended mag tube, heavy-walled barrel, and all-metal trigger group scream durability. It’s a serious tool for serious situations.

The Shockwave Debate

Then there’s the Mossberg Shockwave. I’ll be honest: I thought it was a gimmick at first. A 14-inch barreled “not-a-shotgun” that doesn’t require an NFA stamp? Sounds like a loophole novelty. But after shooting one, I saw the appeal. It’s compact, powerful, and makes for a surprisingly effective close-quarters option.

Still, it’s not for everyone. The lack of a stock takes some getting used to, and control can be a challenge if you don’t practice. I wouldn’t recommend it as someone’s only firearm—but for a seasoned shooter with a clear purpose, it’s a cool tool.

Mossberg’s Foray Into Rifles

I also have some experience with Mossberg’s bolt-action rifles, like the MVP and Patriot series. The MVP’s ability to take AR mags is a clever touch – especially for someone like me who already owns a few ARs. It’s a good rifle, but again, not perfect. The bolt can be a little gritty, and the stock isn’t exactly heirloom quality.

Still, for the money, it’s hard to complain. You get a functional, accurate rifle that covers a lot of ground, whether for target shooting, hunting, or even as a light tactical setup.

Where Things Went Off the Rails

Now let’s talk about the duds. Mossberg doesn’t have a spotless record, and a few models stand out for the wrong reasons. The 702 Plinkster was meant to be a budget alternative to the Ruger 10/22. In theory, it’s a fine idea. In practice? Mine jammed constantly, and the magazine felt like it came out of a cereal box.

Then there was the MC1sc – Mossberg’s first handgun in a century. I give them credit for trying, but it just didn’t stand out. With so many solid options in the carry gun market already, this one felt like a latecomer with no standout features. I fired one at the range and couldn’t think of a single reason to buy it over a Glock 43 or SIG P365.

Lever Actions That Missed the Mark

I wanted to like the Mossberg 464. I really did. I love lever guns, and I was excited to see a new entry in the field. But it lacked the smooth action and classic feel that makes a good lever-action great. The styling was forgettable, and the trigger was rough. If you’re looking for a true cowboy rifle, you’re better off with a Marlin or Henry.

Sometimes Rugged Means Rough

Let’s talk fit and finish. Mossberg’s best models are tough and no-nonsense, but some of their cheaper options cross the line into “rough.” I’ve seen sharp edges on receivers, loose tolerances in bolts, and plenty of plastic where metal would’ve inspired more confidence.

For some, it’s a fair tradeoff for a lower price tag. For others, it’s a dealbreaker. Personally, I think it depends on the purpose. I don’t need my truck gun to be a museum piece – but I do need it to work every time I pull the trigger.

Mossberg’s Role in the Gun World

At the end of the day, Mossberg occupies a unique space in the firearms market. They’re not trying to compete with boutique brands. They make guns for hunters, first-time buyers, cops, and everyday folks who need a tool, not a trophy.

Yes, they’ve had some flops. And no, they’re not the gold standard of craftsmanship. But they’ve also built some of the most dependable shotguns on the planet. For that alone, they’ve earned my respect.

Worth the Love – and the Criticism

So here’s where I landed: Mossberg is neither a genius nor garbage brand. They’re both, depending on what you’re holding. If you stick to their core lineup, especially the 500, 590A1, and MVP series, you’re probably going to be happy. If you roll the dice on their more experimental or budget rimfire stuff, be prepared for mixed results.

People swear by Mossberg because they’ve had real-world success with their guns. Others swear at them because they’ve been burned by cost-cutting designs. After all my hands-on experience, I get both sides.

Would I recommend Mossberg? Absolutely – but with some caveats. Know what you’re buying. Understand what you’re paying for. And if you stick to their tried-and-true models, odds are good you’ll walk away a believer.