An Overview of the Mossberg 590 Series
Introduction to the Platform
The world of shotguns is vast and varied, offering a range of options for home defense, hunting, tactical applications, and recreational shooting. Among the most respected and widely-used shotguns are those belonging to the Mossberg 590 family. Known for their reliability, ruggedness, and ease of use, these pump-action shotguns have earned a reputation as workhorses. This article delves into a comparative analysis of two prominent members of this family: the Mossberg 590s and the Mossberg 590A1. We’ll explore the nuances of each, highlighting their similarities and, more importantly, their distinct characteristics to help you determine which shotgun best suits your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or new to firearms, this comprehensive comparison will provide you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision.
Core Design and Functionality
Before we delve into the specifics of the 590s and the 590A1, it’s essential to understand the broader context of the Mossberg 590 platform. The 590 series is a direct descendant of the Mossberg 500, a shotgun that has seen widespread use in both civilian and military applications. The 590 lineage, however, is distinguished by its enhanced features and design improvements geared towards tactical and military use.
The core of the Mossberg 590’s design revolves around its pump-action mechanism, a proven system characterized by its straightforward operation and inherent reliability. The user manually cycles the action by moving the forend back and forth, ejecting spent shells and chambering fresh rounds from the tubular magazine. This simplicity contributes to the 590’s dependability, making it less prone to malfunctions compared to more complex semi-automatic designs.
Key Features
Key elements that define the 590 series include the tubular magazine, a common feature that allows for a generous capacity. The top-mounted safety, a hallmark of Mossberg shotguns, is easily accessible and ambidextrous, making the shotgun user-friendly for both right- and left-handed shooters. The dual action bars contribute to smoother operation and minimize the risk of binding or jamming, a critical feature in a high-stress situation. The overall design emphasizes ease of maintenance, a characteristic appreciated by both civilian owners and military personnel.
Military Heritage
The 590 series also holds a special place in firearm history due to its design meeting stringent military specifications. This means the 590 platform has been rigorously tested for durability, reliability, and performance under harsh conditions. This military heritage underlines the shotgun’s robustness, making it a trusted choice for those seeking a firearm built to withstand the rigors of demanding use.
Examining the Mossberg 590s in Detail
Understanding the “s”
The Mossberg 590s, a more recent addition to the family, represents a significant innovation within the platform, particularly concerning ammunition compatibility. The “s” in its name stands for “short shells,” and this is the key characteristic setting it apart.
Ammunition Versatility
One of the most exciting features of the 590s is its capacity to chamber and reliably cycle a variety of shotshell lengths. This versatility allows shooters to utilize 1.75-inch, 2.75-inch, and the standard 3-inch shells. This wide range of ammo compatibility is a significant advantage, offering a flexibility not always found in pump-action shotguns.
Advantages of Short Shells
The capacity to use shorter shells opens up interesting possibilities. Shorter shells, particularly the 1.75-inch options, offer several advantages. Firstly, the shorter length allows for an increase in the magazine capacity. With some configurations of the 590s, you can load considerably more rounds into the magazine compared to a standard 2.75-inch shell configuration. In home defense scenarios, where the immediate availability of rounds can be critical, this offers a significant edge.
Another advantage of shorter shells lies in reduced recoil. The smaller powder charge associated with these shells generally translates to milder felt recoil. This can make the shotgun easier to handle and control, particularly for shooters who may be sensitive to recoil or are new to firearms. Easier control allows for faster follow-up shots.
Furthermore, 1.75-inch shells are often offered in various configurations, including buckshot and slugs, just like their longer counterparts. They can be used with appropriate chokes and barrel lengths, providing adequate stopping power for defense. However, it is crucial to consider that these short shells are somewhat specialized. Using them requires ensuring you buy the right type of short shells made specifically for shotguns of this type.
Design and Construction
Beyond its innovative ammunition compatibility, the 590s shares many of the core design elements of the standard 590 series. The barrel options, typically offered at 18.5 inches and 20 inches, provide users with choices to best suit their intended application. The receiver, commonly made of aluminum alloy, contributes to a reasonable overall weight while maintaining durability. Stock and forend options, often composed of durable synthetic materials, offer a secure and comfortable grip.
Performance and Handling
When it comes to performance, the 590s is designed to function reliably with a range of ammunition. The lighter recoil associated with the shorter shells makes for a more pleasant shooting experience, which can be useful during training sessions or extended range time. Accuracy is also on par with the expectations, with typical groupings suitable for close-quarters engagements.
Pros and Cons
The pros of the 590s include its impressive ammunition versatility, increased capacity with short shells, and manageable recoil. It’s a comfortable, reliable shotgun that’s easy to handle. Potential downsides include needing to source specific short-shell ammunition and ensuring they properly cycle.
Diving Deep into the Mossberg 590A1
Military Roots
The Mossberg 590A1 stands as a testament to ruggedness and enduring reliability. Rooted in military service, this model is the direct result of stringent requirements set by the U.S. military.
The “A1” Designation
The “A1” designation signifies a series of enhancements designed to meet and exceed the rigorous standards of the U.S. military. This included stricter testing for durability, reliability, and resistance to wear and tear. It’s a shotgun designed to perform flawlessly in challenging conditions and to endure the demands of intense usage.
Key Features: Barrel and Construction
The most prominent feature of the 590A1 is its enhanced construction. The heavier barrel, a key characteristic, provides increased durability, capable of withstanding heavy use and abuse. The heavier barrel also contributes to improved heat dissipation during rapid firing, reducing the likelihood of overheating, an important feature for law enforcement or military use. Another significant characteristic is its thicker barrel walls.
Additional Features
The 590A1 also incorporates metal trigger guards and safeties. These upgrades replace the plastic components typically found on standard shotguns, increasing the overall durability of the firearm. The sling swivels, another notable element, are built to withstand the stress of repeated use and carry, an essential feature for tactical applications.
Design and Construction
The 590A1 also typically comes with barrel length options. It adheres to the same standards as the other 590s but with enhanced specifications. Receiver material is usually the standard aluminum alloy. Stock and forend options will be similar to the 590, with a focus on durability.
Performance and Handling
In terms of performance, the 590A1 offers excellent reliability. The thicker barrel helps with felt recoil. The all-metal construction adds to the shotgun’s overall heft, which, while slightly increasing the total weight, contributes to reduced muzzle rise and improved control during firing. The 590A1 is built to function reliably under the most demanding conditions, including exposure to extreme temperatures, moisture, and heavy use.
Pros and Cons
Pros of the 590A1 are its exceptional durability, proven reliability, and rugged construction, making it an excellent choice for those who require a firearm that can withstand harsh conditions. Its military heritage is a key selling point. The cons of the 590A1 are that it may cost more than other models and that it might be heavier.
A Direct Comparison: 590s vs 590A1
Ammunition Compatibility
Now that we’ve examined both shotguns individually, let’s perform a direct comparison, focusing on key areas. This allows us to better understand the core differences and make an informed choice.
Ammunition Compatibility: The 590s shines in this area. It is the only model to have the unique capability to accept the 1.75-inch shells, 2.75-inch shells, and 3-inch shells. The 590A1 is limited to 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells.
Durability and Reliability
Durability and Reliability: The 590A1 takes the lead here. With its heavier barrel, all-metal trigger guard and safety, and strengthened components, it is built to endure the most rigorous use. The 590s is reliable, but the 590A1 is the more rugged of the two. The 590A1 also gets a slight edge because of its military testing.
Weight and Handling
Weight and Handling: The 590s, due to its lighter components and typically thinner barrel, is usually lighter and potentially easier to maneuver. The 590A1, with its heavier barrel and metal parts, generally weighs more. This may impact its balance, especially in longer shooting sessions.
Cost
Cost: The 590s is generally more affordable than the 590A1. The higher price reflects the upgraded components and reinforced construction of the 590A1.
Intended Use
Intended Use: The 590s is excellent for home defense and can be used for tactical applications. The 590A1 is designed for tactical and military applications. It can also be suitable for home defense, hunting, and recreational shooting.
Accessories and Customization
Accessories and Customization: Both shotguns offer a wide array of aftermarket accessories and customization options. However, the 590A1, because of its popularity with the military and law enforcement, might have a slightly broader range of specialized accessories designed for heavy-duty use.
Which Shotgun is the Best Fit for You?
Home Defense Considerations
The choice between the Mossberg 590s and the 590A1 depends greatly on your specific needs and priorities.
For Home Defense: The 590s is an excellent choice. The ability to utilize short shells offers a significant advantage in terms of increased capacity and reduced recoil, providing greater control and potentially faster follow-up shots. However, the 590A1 is also a good option. It is the more robust of the two.
Tactical and Duty Use Recommendations
For Tactical or Duty Use: The 590A1 is the clear winner. Its enhanced durability, proven reliability, and robust construction make it ideally suited for the demands of professional use.
Recreational Shooting Considerations
For Recreational Shooting: Both shotguns can be used for recreational shooting. If you prioritize ammunition versatility, the 590s is worth considering. If you prefer a robust shotgun with a solid feel, the 590A1 would be an excellent choice.
Budgetary Considerations
For Budget-Conscious Shooters: The 590s offers the most affordable option without compromising on quality and performance.
Conclusion
The Mossberg 590s and the 590A1 represent outstanding choices in the world of pump-action shotguns. The 590s excels with its ammunition versatility, particularly the use of short shells, offering increased capacity and reduced recoil. The 590A1 stands out due to its exceptional durability and rugged construction, built to withstand the most demanding conditions.
Consider your specific needs and the intended use of the shotgun when making your decision. Ask yourself questions like: what kind of ammunition do I want to use? What is my budget? What kind of environment will I be using the gun in? Both shotguns are dependable and reliable choices.
Finally, regardless of your choice, investing in responsible gun ownership, proper training, and safe storage practices are paramount.
