Why these three
For decades, the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 have been the most common pump shotguns in American homes, patrol cars and gun shops. The Mossberg 590 grew out of the 500 to meet military requirements. Parts, accessories, holsters, sidesaddles and instruction are easy to find for all three.
Controls: the real difference
| Remington 870 | Mossberg 500 | Mossberg 590 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Crossbolt, behind trigger | Tang, top of receiver | Tang, top of receiver |
| Action release | In front of trigger guard | Behind trigger guard | Behind trigger guard |
| Receiver | Steel | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Magazine tube | Under barrel | Under barrel, closed end | Removable cap for cleaning |
| Catalog listing | Express Tactical, 4+1 | Special Purpose, 5+1 | Tactical, 6+1 |
The Mossberg tang safety sits on top of the receiver where your thumb rests, and it works the same for left- and right-handed shooters. The 870's crossbolt safety is behind the trigger and is naturally set up for right-handers, though left-hand versions exist. Neither is objectively better. Pick the one that feels natural, then practice it.
Remington 870 Express Tactical
The 870 has a steel receiver and a smooth action that many shooters love. Remington's 2020 bankruptcy led to the brand's sale, and the 870 is now made by RemArms. Owners reported variable quality on some Express models over the years, so inspect a new gun and function-check it with your chosen load. Confirm the capacity on the listing, since configurations vary.
Remington 870 Express Tactical
12 gauge · 4+1 listing
Mossberg 500 Special Purpose
The 500 is lighter than the 870 thanks to its aluminum receiver. The ambidextrous tang safety and rearward action release make it easy for many shooters to run. The Special Purpose listing includes a pistol-grip kit. For home defense, a full stock is usually easier to shoot well.
Mossberg 500 Special Purpose
12 gauge · 5+1 · pistol-grip kit included
Mossberg 590 Tactical
The 590 shares the 500's controls but was built to tougher specifications, with a heavier barrel on many models and a magazine tube you can open for cleaning. It is the most defense-focused of the three. We compare the 6+1 and 9-shot versions in our 590 Tactical guide.
Mossberg 590 Tactical
12 gauge · 6+1 · heavy-walled barrel
The value alternative
Mossberg's Maverick 88 is made on similar lines to the 500 but moves the safety to a crossbolt behind the trigger. It is one of the most affordable reliable pumps you can buy. See our budget shotgun guide.
Maverick 88 Security 18.5"
12 gauge · 5+1 · budget pump
Set any of them up the same way
- Choose one proven buckshot load and test it for pattern at indoor distances. See our buckshot guide.
- Add a weapon light. Our weapon light comparison covers options.
- Consider a sidesaddle for spare shells.
- Practice loading, unloading and running the action until it is automatic.
Bottom line
There is no wrong answer among these three. The 590 is the most purpose-built for defense, the 500 is the lighter all-rounder, and the 870 is the steel-receiver classic. Handle each if you can, and buy the one whose safety and action release you operate without thinking.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Mossberg 590 better than the 500?
The 590 is built to tougher specifications and is more defense-oriented, while the 500 is lighter and more versatile. Both share the same controls.
Is the Remington 870 still a good shotgun?
Yes. It is now made by RemArms after Remington's 2020 bankruptcy. Inspect and function-check any new gun with your chosen load.
Which safety is better, tang or crossbolt?
Neither is objectively better. Tang safeties are ambidextrous; crossbolt safeties are behind the trigger. Choose the one you operate naturally.
What is the cheapest reliable pump shotgun?
The Maverick 88, made by Mossberg, is one of the most affordable reliable pumps available.
Keep reading
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