First Look: 20-Gauge Mossberg Shockwave

At the 2017 NASGW Show, Mossberg announced the launch of its 20-gauge 590 Shockwave, providing aficionados of this unique firearm with multiple caliber choices.

The Mossberg Shockwave launched in early 2017 as a unique firearm based on the company's 590 shotgun action and built with a 14-inch barrel. The gun is a traditional shotgun-based, pump-action design that features a 14-inch barrel and the unique Shockwave Raptor birdshead pistol grip.

Since the gun is constructed on the company's 590 platform, a heavy-walled barrel is offered with each gun, along with a matte-blue finish and a 5+1 total capacity with traditional 2.75-inch shotshells. The Mossberg Shockwave features a 3-inch chamber that allows for the use of larger magnum shotshells, if desired. Other features include the standard ambidextrous safety mounted on the top of the receiver, dual extractors, twin action bars and the company's anti-jam elevator.

Each Mossberg Shockwave model, whether in 12-gauge or 20-gauge, measures 26.37 inches in overall length and weighs approximately 5.3 pounds with an empty magazine tube. The 14-inch heavy-walled barrels feature a cylinder-bore choke and are topped with a traditional brass-bead sight for quick, intuitive aiming.

In addition to the Shockwave Raptor birdshead pistol grip, the firearm is equipped with Mossberg's standard black-synthetic forend, complete with deep grooves to provide a solid gripping surface to cycle the action. The forend is also equipped with a strap to ensure that users maintain control of the firearm under recoil.

Shotguns with 14-inch barrels fall under the purview of the National Firearms Act, requiring the purchase of a tax stamp and BATFE approval for ownership. However, the Mossberg Shockwave is defined legally as a "firearm," not a shotgun, allowing for non-NFA sales at the federal level. State and local laws may vary, so buyers must examine regulations in their area before purchasing.

To maintain this designation, however, the company warns that BATFE approval under NFA guidelines is required to attach a buttstock or reduce the overall length of the firearm. Additionally, the gun must never be concealed. Any unauthorized changes in design or usage exposes the user to BATFE scrutiny for possession of an unregistered NFA weapon. The suggested retail price on the 20-gauge Mossberg Shockwave is $455.