The Mossberg 590 Tactical is a legendary pump-action shotgun, a staple for home defense, law enforcement, and competitive shooting. This in-depth review will explore its features, performance, reliability, and overall value, helping you decide if it's the right shotgun for you. We'll delve into details often overlooked in other reviews, providing a truly comprehensive assessment of this iconic firearm.
What Makes the Mossberg 590 Tactical Stand Out?
The 590 Tactical's popularity isn't just hype; it's earned through consistent reliability and a feature set ideal for its intended purposes. Key features that set it apart include:
- Robust Construction: Built with a heavy-duty receiver and barrel, the 590 Tactical is known for its ability to withstand rigorous use and abuse. This is crucial for a firearm intended for tactical applications or frequent use.
- Simple, Reliable Action: The pump-action mechanism is famously reliable, even under stressful conditions. Its simplicity reduces the chance of malfunctions, a critical factor in self-defense scenarios.
- Versatility: The 590 Tactical platform offers a wide range of configurations and accessories. You can customize it to perfectly match your needs, whether it's for home defense, hunting, or competition shooting.
- Affordable Price: Compared to other tactical shotguns, the 590 Tactical provides excellent value for its price. This makes it accessible to a wider range of shooters.
- Easy Maintenance: The 590 is relatively easy to clean and maintain, requiring minimal tools and expertise. This is important for long-term reliability and keeping your firearm in top condition.
Key Features of the Mossberg 590 Tactical: A Detailed Look
Let's examine some of the 590 Tactical's key features in more detail:
The Action: Smooth and Reliable
The 590's pump action is known for its smooth operation. The action's simplicity contributes significantly to its reliability. Unlike semi-automatic shotguns, there are fewer moving parts to malfunction. This reliability is a cornerstone of the 590's reputation.
Barrel Length and Choke Tubes: Customization Options
Mossberg offers the 590 Tactical with various barrel lengths, from shorter options ideal for home defense (e.g., 18.5 inches) to longer barrels suitable for hunting or longer-range shooting. Many models also include interchangeable choke tubes, allowing you to adjust the shot pattern for different ammunition and targets. This versatility is a significant advantage.
Capacity: High-Capacity Magazines
Depending on the model and legal restrictions, the 590 Tactical can accommodate various magazine capacities, ranging from 5 to 8+1 rounds. This high capacity is a crucial factor for tactical situations where rapid follow-up shots might be necessary.
Safety: Ambidextrous Safety
The 590 Tactical features an ambidextrous safety, allowing for quick and easy operation regardless of whether you're right- or left-handed. This simple feature enhances usability and safety.
Performance and Reliability: Real-World Testing
Numerous reviews and user experiences consistently praise the 590 Tactical's reliability. The robust design and simple action contribute to its dependability, even when firing a wide variety of ammunition.
Anecdotal Evidence: Online forums and shooting communities are filled with positive testimonials about the 590 Tactical's performance under pressure. Users frequently report its ability to function flawlessly, even after extensive use and in challenging conditions.
Accuracy and Range: While not a precision instrument like a dedicated target shotgun, the 590 Tactical offers acceptable accuracy at typical self-defense and home-defense ranges. The choice of barrel length and choke tube significantly influences accuracy and effective range.
Mossberg 590 Tactical vs. Competitors: A Comparison
The 590 Tactical faces competition from other popular tactical shotguns, such as the Remington 870 and the Benelli M4. While all are strong contenders, the 590 often stands out due to its price-to-performance ratio. Below is a simplified comparison:
| Feature | Mossberg 590 Tactical | Remington 870 Tactical | Benelli M4 Super 90 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Generally Lower | Mid-range | High |
| Reliability | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| Customization | Good | Good | Excellent |
| Weight | Moderate | Moderate | Heavier |
| Action | Pump-action | Pump-action | Semi-automatic |
(Note: Prices and specific features can vary depending on model and configuration.)
Conclusion: Is the Mossberg 590 Tactical Right for You?
The Mossberg 590 Tactical is a versatile, reliable, and affordable tactical shotgun suitable for a wide range of users. Its robust construction, simple operation, and ample customization options make it a strong choice for home defense, law enforcement, or even competitive shooting. However, it's crucial to consider your specific needs and budget before making a purchase. If reliability, affordability, and versatility are your priorities, the Mossberg 590 Tactical deserves serious consideration. It's a proven performer with a legacy of dependable service.