Mossy 590A1 and 590 differences?

[Hammer059]

First of all, hello. This is my first post on this forum, I've been a member on other forums but, well, it seems like this one is the most informative so I've made the switch.

Anyway, all I have are two single-shot 12 gauges, which are delightful for shooting clays, but I've decided it's time for something that can be used in potential self-defense scenarios.

I've narrowed it down to a Mossberg 590A1 or 590/500, regardless of which model I get, I definitely want the type that holds 8+1 with a 20" barrel.

From what I vaguely understand, the difference is that all parts in the 590A1 are metal, whereas some parts in the other models are polymer. My question is this: which parts in the 590/500 models AREN'T metal? Depending whether or not I consider those to be important parts, I'll use that to make my decision.

Money isn't a factor here so I'm not asking which is better for the price or anything like that. If anyone is familiar with which parts in the 500/590 models are made of plastic instead of metal, I'd greatly appreciate your sharing it or providing somewhere that lists all this information in detailed comparison.

Thanks and I'm happy to be part of the forum

 

[CopperFouling]

If I recall correctly, the 590 has a metal safety and trigger guard that the 500 lacks. They're pretty similar, except for those, the magazine tube, and barrel. I am sure someone more expert than me will chime in shortly.

 

[ugaarguy]

Hammer, welcome to THR. I think JudgeHolden is right on the parts, but it's been a while since I dug into it myself. Hopefully our resident Remington and Mossberg LE Armorer, AI&P Tactical, will be along shortly to give you a definitive answer.

 

[rule303]

The safety button and trigger housing on the 590 are polymer, where they are metal on the 590A1. The A1 also has a heavy wall barrel. Otherwise, they are identical. I personally prefer the plastic trigger housing.

 

[Hammer059]

Thanks for the input so far guys. Doesn't seem like there's a difference in any of the crucial parts… but the extra weight is appealing, if not for durability, then at least for reducing recoil a tad because this gun will receive a heavy diet of slugs and buckshot. And it would be kinda cool to have the USSM serial number on it haha. But I'm gonna hold off for another week or two so I'll definitely think this over thoroughly.