The Mossberg 590 Shockwave. Just the name itself conjures images of raw power and undeniable presence. This isn’t your grandfather’s hunting shotgun, nor is it a conventional sporting arm. The Shockwave occupies a unique niche in the firearms world, a short-barreled, non-NFA (National Firearms Act) firearm that has sparked significant discussion and debate. It’s a design that challenges traditional notions of shotguns and, as a result, has captured the attention of firearm enthusiasts, home defense advocates, and those simply curious about its unconventional design. This comprehensive review delves into the heart of the Mossberg 590 Shockwave, dissecting its features, exploring its performance, and offering a balanced perspective on its strengths and weaknesses. Our aim is to provide you with the information you need to determine if the Shockwave is the right choice for your needs.
Unpacking the Essentials: Specifications and Defining Traits
Before we delve into the practical aspects, let’s lay the groundwork with the core specifications that define the Mossberg 590 Shockwave. This firearm doesn’t adhere to the standard shotgun configuration. Its most striking characteristic is its lack of a shoulder stock and its short, comparatively compact overall length. This is what allows it to bypass NFA regulations, which typically govern weapons like short-barreled shotguns.
The Shockwave typically comes chambered in twelve-gauge, offering the versatility to handle a wide range of ammunition. The capacity is typically five plus one, meaning the magazine tube holds five rounds, and one round can be chambered. The barrel length usually hovers around fourteen and a quarter inches. This shorter barrel is a key factor in its non-NFA classification, but it also significantly influences its handling characteristics. The overall length, due to the shorter barrel, is around twenty-six inches, making it incredibly compact. This compactness is a significant advantage for certain applications, as we’ll explore later. Expect to find the typical weight to be slightly over five pounds, contributing to a feeling of heft.
A defining element of the Shockwave is its “bird’s head” grip. This grip is specifically designed for single-handed use. It’s a pistol grip that’s curved and angled in a way that facilitates control and helps mitigate recoil. The pump-action mechanism, synonymous with the Mossberg 500/590 series, is another vital element. It’s known for its reliability and ease of operation. The Shockwave’s magazine tube typically accepts standard shotgun shells, while the breacher muzzle on some models gives the weapon an aggressive look. The construction usually consists of blued steel for the barrel and other key components, with a synthetic grip. The safety mechanism is typically a top-mounted sliding bar, a design that’s common to the Mossberg line.
Form and Function: Delving into Design and Feel
The Mossberg 590 Shockwave, from an aesthetic standpoint, is a visually striking firearm. It departs from the traditional shotgun profile, which immediately captures attention. The bird’s head grip, in particular, is a unique feature, changing the way the firearm is handled.
Holding the Shockwave, the bird’s head grip provides a different feel than a conventional pistol grip. The curve and angle of the grip help distribute recoil. This doesn’t mean recoil is nonexistent, but the design helps make it more manageable. The grip is made to fit the hand comfortably. This grip design is critical to understand because it dramatically impacts the way the weapon is controlled.
The balance of the Shockwave is noticeably different than a shotgun with a stock. With the short barrel and absence of a stock, the balance is usually very forward. This forward weight distribution contributes to the gun’s maneuverability but can also make it feel less stable than a shotgun with a stock.
Overall, the design is a blend of functionality and practicality. The build quality feels sturdy, the pump action is typically smooth, and the compact size lends itself to easy handling and storage.
Putting It to the Test: Performance and Experience in the Field
The true test of any firearm lies in its performance. Let’s explore what it’s like to actually shoot the Mossberg 590 Shockwave.
Recoil is an undeniable factor. Because of the short barrel, lightweight design, and the nature of twelve-gauge ammunition, recoil is certainly present. However, the bird’s head grip, if held correctly, does a reasonable job of managing the force. Proper stance and grip are essential to mitigating recoil and maintaining control.
Regarding accuracy, the Shockwave, because of its shorter barrel, is not intended for long-range precision shooting. At close to medium ranges (up to perhaps twenty-five yards), the Shockwave is capable of achieving decent groupings, particularly with buckshot. It’s important to understand point-shooting techniques and how to account for the spread of the shot. Many users find that the gun is quite accurate at typical home defense ranges.
The maneuverability of the Shockwave is its most significant advantage. Its compact size is very noticeable, especially in confined spaces. It’s easy to swing around, move quickly through doorways, and navigate hallways. This makes it appealing for home defense situations where close-quarters maneuvering is crucial.
The pump-action is typically quite simple to use. The process of loading is straightforward. It’s easy to load a round into the chamber or to unload rounds. This ease of use is one of the reasons why the Mossberg pump-action design has endured for so long.
Weighing the Scales: Exploring the Positives and Negatives
Every firearm has its advantages and drawbacks. Let’s consider the key pros and cons of the Mossberg 590 Shockwave.
The pros include its compact size and outstanding portability. This is the biggest draw for many people. The small size makes it easier to handle and store. The ease of maneuverability is another major advantage, particularly in tight spaces. For home defense, its maneuverability and the power of twelve-gauge shells make it an effective choice. The reliability of the pump-action mechanism is a well-established characteristic of Mossberg shotguns. The Shockwave is usually available at a relatively affordable price point compared to other shotguns.
The cons, however, cannot be ignored. Recoil is a significant factor, and can be unpleasant for some shooters, especially those who are not used to it. The bird’s head grip is not the most comfortable for all users, and some find it takes some getting used to. The shorter barrel limits the effective range of the Shockwave. Experienced shooters who are used to a full-sized shotgun may find that their accuracy and range are diminished. It’s worth keeping in mind that the Shockwave may require more training compared to shotguns with stocks, especially for those who are not familiar with point-shooting. Finally, there are variations in legality depending on where you reside, so it’s essential to check local laws and regulations before purchasing.
Voices of Experience: Insights from Users and Owners
The experiences of other users are invaluable when considering a firearm. Many users appreciate the Shockwave’s compactness and the ease with which it can be handled in confined spaces. The general consensus is that it is a capable platform for personal protection and home defense, particularly when used at close ranges. The simplicity and reliability of the pump-action mechanism are frequently praised.
However, some users have commented on the recoil. Some found the bird’s head grip comfortable and manageable, while others found it difficult to control. Some found the bird’s head grip, although functional, took getting used to. Users have also noted the importance of proper training to maximize accuracy and control.
Standing Side-by-Side: Considering the Competition
While the Mossberg 590 Shockwave stands apart due to its specific design, comparing it to other firearms in a similar category is helpful. For instance, you might want to compare it to other short-barreled shotguns, or even pistol-grip shotguns.
Other short-barreled shotguns, like the Remington 870 Tac-14, offer similar functionality. The key differences are in their specific designs and perhaps the brand preference. Both of these have their own advantages and disadvantages, including recoil, size, and handling characteristics.
If you’re looking for alternatives, traditional shotguns with stocks offer greater range and potentially more comfortable recoil management. However, the trade-off is a larger size and reduced maneuverability. Handguns provide greater portability and concealment, but they typically offer less stopping power than twelve-gauge shotguns. The choice will depend on your individual needs.
Customizing Your Weapon: Accessories and Enhancements
The Mossberg 590 Shockwave, like many firearms, can be customized to suit individual preferences. Various accessories are available to enhance its functionality and personalize its appearance.
Sling mounts allow for easy carrying of the firearm. Aftermarket grips, including those with finger grooves or more ergonomic designs, are a popular option. Adding a rail system permits the attachment of sights, such as red dot sights or laser sights, improving target acquisition. It’s a matter of personal preference on the type of customization done.
Safeguarding Your Practice: Safety Considerations
Safety should always be the foremost consideration when handling firearms, and the Mossberg 590 Shockwave is no exception. Never point the gun at anything you don’t intend to shoot. Always assume the weapon is loaded. Ensure you have a clear understanding of the firearm’s operation and proper handling techniques before loading or shooting it. Securely store your firearm out of reach of children and unauthorized individuals. Practice proper storage and handling techniques.
Be aware of the legal restrictions. Local laws and regulations can vary considerably, and it’s crucial to understand and comply with these requirements.
Making the Verdict: Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Mossberg 590 Shockwave is a unique and intriguing firearm. Its compact size and maneuverability make it well-suited for home defense applications. It has a proven track record, and its simple operation has led to it being a popular choice.
That being said, the Shockwave isn’t perfect for everyone. The significant recoil, specialized grip, and potential limitations on effective range should be carefully considered. The bird’s head grip may not be the best fit for all shooters, and it’s crucial to practice proper handling techniques.
The Shockwave is a viable choice for those looking for a compact, powerful, and relatively affordable firearm for home defense or close-quarters use. Before making a purchase, consider your experience level, intended use, and legal restrictions in your area. If you prioritize ease of handling in tight spaces and appreciate the power of twelve-gauge, the Shockwave might be an excellent fit. However, if recoil sensitivity or long-range accuracy are major concerns, alternative options may be more appropriate. Ultimately, careful consideration of all these factors will lead you to the right decision.
