What are the differences between the Mossberg 500 & 590?

[vallopez2000]

Would someone please explain the differences between the two. I am in the market for one or the other, but don't know which to choose. Thanks for any help.

[7idl]

basics:

both are good shotguns.

the 590 series is more rugged

I have three 500's (20 field, 12 field, 12 combo sythetic) and a 590A1

The 590A1 is a milspec shotgun, more rugged. The 590 is simillar, but has some plastic components (thus cheaper)

Model 500 vs. Model 590 vs. Model 590A1

Mossberg 590, with 20 inch barrel

The primary difference between the Model 500 and Model 590 is that the Model 590 uses a different magazine tube design. The Model 500 magazines are closed at the muzzle end, and the barrel is held in place by bolting into a threaded hole at the end of the magazine tube. Model 590 magazines are open at the end, and the barrels fit around the magazine tube and are held on by a nut at the end. The Model 500 magazine facilitates easy barrel changes, as the barrel bolt serves no function other than holding the barrel in place. The Model 590 magazine facilitates easy cleaning, as removing the nut allows removal of the magazine spring and follower.

The Model 590A1 is a Model 590 with an aluminum trigger guard and safety, and a heavier barrel, intended for military use under the most extreme conditions. The 590A1 is generally sold through military and law enforcement channels, though in most jurisdictions the non-short barrelled versions (see sawn-off shotgun) may be legally purchased by civilians.

The riot shotgun versions of the Model 500 (Pursuader and Mariner) are available with an 18.5" or 20" barrel depending on magazine capacity. The 590 is only available with a 20" barrel and the long magazine tube. The 590A1 is available with a 14", 18.5", or 20" barrel. One model sold as Model 590 (catalog item 51663) is technically a 590A1 model, as it uses the heavy walled barrel and military trigger group, but unlike models designated 590A1 it is sold on the civilian market.

Unlike Model 500 and 590 shotguns, Model 590A1 shotguns cannot be fitted with the factory heat shield, due to the heavy barrel. A heat sheild and bayonet lug are required for military 3443G Type I riot shotguns, and some 590A1 models are so equipped, but it is not clear if the 590A1 heat sheilds have ever been offered for sale outside of the military market.

LINK



Are you looking for a shotgun for a particular purpose?

[vallopez2000]

Yes. My shotgun will be strictly for training and home defense.

[7idl]

In that case, I don't think you'll have a problem with any of them.

[vallopez2000]

Thanks! All that info. was very helpful. I think I'll probably go with a 500 because I want the 18.5" barrel.