


Photo source: mossberg.com, tacticalcornerinc.com
590 Shockwave
590 Shockwave shotgun in 12 gauge: specs, history, ammo and Colorado legal notes from the CO Boots gun library. Want hands-on time with a firearm like the 590 Shockwave? Our certified instructors cover safe handling, operation and marksmanship in every firearms training class.
| Library ID | GT-326 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Mossberg |
| Type | Shotgun |
| Caliber | 12 gauge |
| Action | Pump-action |
| Barrel Length | 14 inches (355.6 mm) |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Year of Production | 2017 |
| Production Status | In production |
| Typical Users | Civilians, Law Enforcement |
| Rating | 4.6 |
590 Shockwave: Technical Specifications
The Mossberg 590 Shockwave is a distinctive firearm designed for personal defense and tactical use. It features a 12-gauge caliber, capable of firing a range of shells including 2.75" and 3" shotshells. The barrel length measures 14.375 inches, making it compliant with NFA regulations as it is classified as a "firearm" rather than a shotgun.
Weighing approximately 5.5 pounds, the Shockwave is lightweight and easy to maneuver. The construction includes a durable aluminum receiver and a synthetic stock, typically available in options like black or FDE (Flat Dark Earth). A key engineering aspect is the innovative Raptor grip, providing enhanced control and ergonomics during firing.
The Shockwave also features a dual extractors system for reliable shell extraction, an ambidextrous safety, and a heavy-walled barrel for durability. Its unique design offers versatility for both home defense and as a compact tactical option.
590 Shockwave: Performance Characteristics
The Mossberg 590 Shockwave is a pump-action shotgun known for its compact design and versatility.
Accuracy: The Shockwave offers decent accuracy at close ranges, typically effective within 25 to 50 yards. Its smoothbore barrel and bead sight facilitate quick target acquisition, though precision decreases with distance.
Reliability: Renowned for its reliability, the 590 Shockwave functions well with a variety of 12-gauge loads, including buckshot and slugs. Its robust construction and dual extractors enhance its dependability.
Handling: The Shockwave features a birdshead grip, allowing for agile maneuverability. Weighing around 6.5 pounds, it can be easily controlled, though recoil is noticeable with heavy loads.
Rate of Fire: The manual action allows for a rapid rate of fire, limited primarily by the shooter’s speed in cycling the pump.
Overall, the Mossberg 590 Shockwave excels in close-quarters scenarios, making it a popular choice for home defense and tactical applications.
590 Shockwave: Design Features
The Mossberg 590 Shockwave is a compact, pump-action shotgun known for its distinctive design and practicality. Its most notable feature is the 14-inch barrel, which contributes to its maneuverability, making it suitable for home defense and tactical applications. The firearm is equipped with a Raptor grip, designed for improved ergonomics, providing a secure hold while minimizing recoil impact on the shooter.
Safety mechanisms include a cross-bolt safety located at the rear of the trigger guard and a magazine tube that allows for secure shell storage. The Shockwave features a durable synthetic stock and a heat shield, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.
Innovatively, the firearm includes a non-NFA status due to its design, allowing it to be sold without the same regulations as short-barreled shotguns. The overall aesthetic is rugged, with a matte black finish that emphasizes its tactical appeal, while the lightweight construction ensures ease of handling and transport.
590 Shockwave: Historical Context
The Mossberg 590 Shockwave is a unique firearm that emerged from the evolution of shotgun design in the late 20th century. Introduced by O.F. Mossberg & Sons in 2017, it builds on the legacy of the Mossberg 590 series, which has been in production since the 1980s for military and law enforcement use.
The Shockwave features a 14-inch barrel and a "bird's head" grip, categorizing it as a firearm rather than a shotgun, thus circumventing certain regulations under the National Firearms Act. This design innovation was significant in providing a compact, easily maneuverable option for home defense.
The 590 Shockwave gained popularity due to its practicality, ease of use, and distinctive appearance, influencing the design of similar firearms. Its versatility has made it a popular choice among civilian users, while its non-traditional classification has sparked discussions on firearm regulations and definitions, impacting ongoing debates in gun rights and legislation.
590 Shockwave: User Experience
The Mossberg 590 Shockwave is praised for its compact design and maneuverability, making it particularly user-friendly for home defense and tactical applications. Users report a comfortable grip, thanks to the bird's head pistol grip, which allows for easy handling despite the shotgun's power. The firearm's lightweight construction enhances ease of use, especially in tight spaces.
Durability is a common highlight, with many users noting the high-quality materials and robust build that withstand rigorous use. The 590 Shockwave’s reliability in various conditions is frequently commended.
However, some users express concerns about recoil, as the short length and lightweight design can lead to a harsher shooting experience. Additionally, the lack of a traditional stock may be uncomfortable for some, particularly during extended shooting sessions. Overall, the 590 Shockwave is celebrated for its effectiveness and versatility, though it may require some acclimatization for optimal comfort.
590 Shockwave: Ammunition Information
The Mossberg 590 Shockwave is a unique firearm classified as a "firearm" rather than a shotgun due to its short barrel and overall design. It is chambered for the 12-gauge caliber, making it compatible with a wide variety of 12-gauge shotgun shells.
The 590 Shockwave can effectively utilize standard 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells, including birdshot, buckshot, and slugs. For optimal performance, many users recommend using high-quality buckshot like Federal FliteControl or Remington Nitro Mag, which provide consistent patterns and stopping power.
Additionally, the Shockwave can handle low-recoil ammunition, which is advantageous for shooters sensitive to recoil. Some popular brands compatible with the Shockwave include Fiocchi, Winchester, and Hornady, which offer specialized self-defense rounds, such as critical defense slugs or reduced-recoil buckshot, to enhance effectiveness in personal defense scenarios.
Always ensure that any ammunition used meets the specifications for safety and performance with the 590 Shockwave.
590 Shockwave: Usage Tips and Best Practices
The Mossberg 590 Shockwave is a unique firearm that requires careful handling. Here are some best practices:
Usage Tips:
- Always treat the Shockwave as if it’s loaded.
- Use proper stance: a stable, slightly forward lean helps control recoil.
- When firing, keep your trigger finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.
Shooting Tips:
- Use birdshot for less recoil during practice; switch to buckshot for home defense.
- Practice with a proper grip; the "bird's head" grip is designed for control, but may require adjustment for comfort.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
- Clean after each use: disassemble, scrub the barrel, and wipe down the action with a gun solvent.
- Regularly lubricate moving parts with gun oil.
- Inspect the firearm for wear or damage before use.
Common Mistakes:
- Avoid resting the firearm on your knee or unstable surfaces while shooting.
- Don’t neglect safety practices; always use hearing and eye protection.
- Be cautious about the type of ammo used—ensure it’s appropriate for your intended use.
Following these guidelines will ensure safe and effective use of the 590 Shockwave.
Legal Considerations in Colorado
The Mossberg 590 Shockwave is classified as a “firearm” under the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) regulations due to its design, which incorporates a 14-inch barrel and an overall length exceeding 26 inches, avoiding classification as a short-barreled shotgun (SBS). Consequently, it does not require a tax stamp or additional registration for civilian ownership.
State regulations vary significantly; some states, like California and New York, impose restrictions on its sale or ownership, while others permit it with minimal restrictions. Military use is generally unrestricted, as military personnel can use it under standard regulations for shotguns.
Notable legal cases include the 2019 Supreme Court denial of certiorari in Miller v. Becerra, which involved challenges to California's assault weapon restrictions but indirectly impacted the legality of firearms like the Shockwave. Always check local laws for the most current regulations.
590 Shockwave: Reviews and Ratings
User reviews for the 590 Shockwave generally highlight its reliability and effectiveness as a compact shotgun. Many users appreciate its sturdy build and the quality of materials, noting that it performs well even under heavy use. Accuracy is frequently commended, with reviewers stating that despite its short barrel, it delivers impressive shot grouping at close ranges.
Customer service experiences vary; while some users report positive interactions with the manufacturer regarding questions or issues, others express frustration with response times or warranty claims. Overall satisfaction is high, with many users recommending the Shockwave for home defense and recreational shooting. However, some mention its weight and recoil as potential drawbacks for extended use. In summary, the 590 Shockwave is well-regarded for its reliability and performance, with a few caveats related to customer service and handling comfort.
590 Shockwave: Appearances in Media
The Mossberg 590 Shockwave, a popular firearm known for its compact design and tactical features, has appeared in various media, including movies, TV shows, and video games. Here’s a brief list:
Movies:
1. "John Wick: Chapter 2" (2017) - Features a shotgun similar to the 590 Shockwave in intense action sequences.
2. "The Purge: Election Year" (2016) - The firearm is used in scenes depicting the chaos of the Purge.
TV Shows:
1. "The Walking Dead" - Various characters have been seen using shotguns that resemble the 590 Shockwave during the series.
2. "Breaking Bad" - While not explicitly a 590 Shockwave, similar models appear in tense moments.
Video Games:
1. "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare" (2019) - The 590 Shockwave is represented in some form as a shotgun option in the game.
2. "Rainbow Six Siege" - Features a variant of the shotgun that resembles the 590 Shockwave among its armory.
This list includes notable appearances but may not cover every instance as the firearm continues to be a popular choice in various forms of media.
Related Firearms in the Library
More Shotgun firearmsMore Mossberg manufacturer firearmsMore 12 Gauge caliber firearmsMore United States country firearmsBrowse all firearms






