Mossberg 500, 18.5" or 20"

[Sportcat]

Okay, I've narrowed my search down to a Mossberg 500. Initially I thought I wanted the 18.5", but I can't seem to find one anywhere.

Local shop has a 500, 20", parkerized with a heat sheid for $249.

Any reason I should stick with a 18.5" over a 20"?

BTW, this will be used 99.99% for HD.

Any recommendations on a pistol grip/ stock combination?

 

[dojpros1998]

The 18.5 is easier to handle. This is especially true if you shoot it in a match or if you ever take a training class. Those few ounces up front with the barrel and longer mag tube/capacity(if applicable) make a difference if you are shouldering the weapon, over and over again.

 

[MK11]

Agreed. I've got a 590A with the 20 inch barrel and I kind of wish I got the 18-incher. However, I've gotten used to the length on mine and don't seem to notice it so much anymore.

I used to think heat shields were a real poser accessory until I cranked off a whole lot of shells in a short amount of time. Holy cow! Probably wouldn't make much difference in your standard defensive situation but if you take a class or get involved in any gun games, you'll appreciate the shield.

 

[Sportcat]

I seriously doubt I'll ever shoot clays or get involved with matches. Like I said, 99.99% for HD.

The guy at the store I spoke with said the 18.5" is going to run more than the 20". I'll have to see how much more.

A buddy of mine said Wally World can order stuff for you - I'll check their catalog on the way home.

 

[MK11]

Huh, the 18-inchers I looked at were all less. Better have him explain why it would be more.

 

[Poodleshooter]

IIRC, all Mossberg 500's with 18.5" barrels use the normal sporting 5+1 shot magazine tube,which is about 4" shorter than the end of the barrel. All 20" riot models use the full length 7+1 ftube or the 8+1 tube if they're Model 590's. If you want a riot gun only,get the 20" model. If you want a shotgun convertible for a variety of hunting uses+ home defense, get the 18.5" model.

 

[lbmii]

Also you should also consider that some Moss 590s are with the heavy barrel. I have a 590 Double action and it has a modified choke heavy barrel.

 

[Badger Arms]

Gotta lean towards Capacity if you get the full-magazine 20" Model. Yep, two extra shots for two extra inches is WORTH IT. The heat-shield is NOT worth it unless you plan on shooting more than a magazine full. Make sure you get the full stock, not just the worthless pistol grip for Home Defense.

 

[Sportcat]

Ended up getting an Remington 870 Express 18" with a +2 mag.

 

[Badger Arms]

So, you're saying it was a trick question to begin with? Man, I knew there was a reason I hated math.