First Look: Mossberg 590 Shockwave Non-NFA Firearm
By Drew Warden - February 8, 2017
Many people over the years have avoided purchasing or building a short-barreled shotgun (SBS) because of the tax stamp and NFA paperwork required to do so. Well, Mossberg’s new 590 Shockwave represents a way to get pretty darn close without any of the hassle of a typical SBS.
With a barrel length of 14 inches, the Mossberg 590 Shockwave is certainly shorter than most standard 16-inch barreled shotguns. However, this, paired with its overall length of 26.5 inches means that instead of falling into the BATFE’s (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) SBS category, it actually lands within the organization’s general “Non-NFA Firearm” classification. Because of this, the firearm requires no tax stamps for transfers, meaning less inconvenience for buyers.
At its core, the new 590 Shockwave still relies on Mossberg’s proven pump-action design, which utilizes non-binding twin action bars, positive steel-to-steel lock-up, an anti-jam elevator, dual extractors and the company’s classic ambidextrous top-mounted safety. And of course, the anodized aluminum receiver is lightweight and durable, and as an added bonus, the magazine tube features a clean-out cap.
What makes this gun especially unique, apart from its shorter, 14-inch barrel, is its pistol grip and forend, both made by Shockwave Technologies – hence, the Shockwave name for this model. The grip has an enhanced textured finish, as well as a “bird’s head” style profile. This allows for increased stability and control when firing the 590 Shockwave. Manufactured from glass-filled polymer with a non-reflective black finish, the grip is durable and has a length of 5.25 inches, helping the gun hit that 26.5-inch overall mark. The forend, on the other hand, is a cob-style, tactical design that incorporates a strap, also for improved control and smoother operation. It also helps keep your hand where it should be – on the forend, and not forward toward the muzzle.
The 12-gauge Mossberg 590 Shockwave Non-NFA firearm accepts 2 3/4- and 3-inch shells and has a 6-round capacity. The 14-inch barrel wears a matte blued finish and features a bead sight.
The MSRP on the new Mossberg 590 Shockwave Non-NFA firearm is currently listed at a very affortable $455. For this reason, it should be an attractive option for anyone looking for a compact, capable scattergun option for home defense or fun trips to the range.
In a disclaimer section of its news release on the new 590 Shockwave, Mossberg also encourages potential buyers and users to check their state and local laws to ensure that the firearm is legal in their area. While it’s classified as a “Non-NFA firearm” by the BATFE on a national level, classifications may be different at state and local levels in some locations, which is why the company recommends (and we would second this) checking with local authorities on the legality of the 590 Shockwave in your locality.
For more information on the new Mossberg 590 Shockwave Non-NFA firearm, check out the specifications below, or visit the Mossberg website.
Mossberg 590 Shockwave Non-NFA
Type: Pump-action, Non-NFA firearm
Gauge: 12
Chamber: 3 in.
Barrel: 14 in., matte blue
Overall Length: 26.5 in.
Weight: 5.75 lbs.
Grip: Shockwave Technologies Raptor pistol grip
Forend: Shockwave Technologies cob forend with strap
Sight: Bead front sight
Chokes: Cylinder
Capacity: 6 rounds
Price: $455
Manufacturer: Mossberg
