The Pros and Cons of the Mossberg 590 Shockwave

Published on August 31, 2025
Duration: 12:42

This review of the Mossberg 590 Shockwave highlights its compact size and versatility with various ammunition types, including mini shells. However, it also addresses significant drawbacks such as substantial recoil due to the lack of a stock and limited accuracy beyond 25 yards. The reviewer emphasizes its classification as an 'Any Other Weapon' (AOW) by the ATF, exempting it from NFA tax stamps, but cautions about state-specific legal restrictions.

Quick Summary

The Mossberg 590 Shockwave is classified as an 'Any Other Weapon' (AOW) by the ATF, exempting it from the NFA tax stamp. Its pros include a compact size, versatility with various ammunition like mini shells, and pump-action reliability. Cons are significant recoil due to the bird's head grip and lack of stock, limited accuracy beyond 25 yards, and variable state legality.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction
  2. 00:42Pros of the Mossberg 590 Shockwave
  3. 01:04Mini Shell Compatibility
  4. 01:28Compact Size and Maneuverability
  5. 01:57Home and Self-Defense Utility
  6. 02:29Reliability of Pump-Action
  7. 02:56AOW Classification and Tax Stamp Exemption
  8. 03:21Ammunition Versatility
  9. 03:55Cons of the Mossberg 590 Shockwave
  10. 04:02Significant Recoil
  11. 04:33Lack of a Stock and Shouldering Issues
  12. 05:04Limited Accuracy Beyond 25 Yards
  13. 06:01State-Specific Legality Concerns
  14. 06:25Seeking Recommendations for Next Shotgun
  15. 07:00Desired Features for New Shotgun
  16. 09:07Shooting Mini Shells Experience
  17. 09:41Grip and Comfort Considerations
  18. 10:19Stopping Power of Shotguns
  19. 10:37Final Thoughts and Call for Input
  20. 11:37Social Media and Merch Plug
  21. 12:27Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Mossberg 590 Shockwave an 'Any Other Weapon' (AOW)?

The Mossberg 590 Shockwave is classified as an AOW by the ATF because it is a firearm with a smooth bore, designed to be fired from the shoulder or hip, and has an overall length of less than 26 inches, but it is not a pistol or a shotgun. This classification exempts it from the NFA tax stamp.

What are the main pros of the Mossberg 590 Shockwave?

Key advantages include its compact size, making it easy to handle and store, its versatility with various ammunition types (especially with a mini shell adapter), its inherent reliability as a pump-action firearm, and its classification as an AOW, avoiding the NFA tax stamp.

What are the significant cons of the Mossberg 590 Shockwave?

The primary drawbacks are substantial recoil due to the lack of a stock and the bird's head grip, limited accuracy beyond 25 yards, and the fact that its legality varies by state, requiring careful research before purchase.

Can the Mossberg 590 Shockwave be shouldered?

No, the Mossberg 590 Shockwave is not designed to be shouldered. It features a bird's head pistol grip and lacks a stock. Attempting to shoulder it is strongly discouraged due to the high risk of injury.

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