Frequently Asked Questions
Mossberg 590 Mariner for sale
What is the Mossberg 590 Mariner used for?
The Mossberg 590 Mariner is a pump-action shotgun designed for home defense and maritime use. Its nickel-plated, corrosion-resistant finish withstands saltwater, humidity, and wet coastal conditions that would damage standard shotguns, making it practical for boat owners and those in humid environments.
Can I shoot slugs out of my Mossberg 590?
Yes, you can shoot slugs from a Mossberg 590. Rifled slugs work well through the smooth bore. Sabot slugs may tumble without a rifled barrel. Remove any extra-full choke tubes before shooting slugs, as the tight constriction can be dangerous. Expect point-of-aim variation between slug types.
Is the Mossberg 590 good for home defense?
Yes, the Mossberg 590 is well-suited for home defense. Its pump-action is reliable and simple to operate under stress. Shotgun loads provide significant stopping power at close range. Priced around $680, it comes in multiple variants and is widely available.
Is a heat shield really necessary?
Heat shields aren't required for a shotgun to function, but they reduce heat transfer to your hands during rapid or extended firing. On the Mossberg 590 Mariner specifically, a shield adds comfort and helps prevent accidental contact with a hot barrel.
Can I dry fire my Mossberg 590?
Mossberg does not recommend dry firing the 590. Doing so can cause the magazine spring in the magazine tube to lose tension. If you need to practice trigger pulls, use snap caps to protect the gun and maintain proper magazine spring function.
Can I shoot a steel shot out of a full choke?
Yes, you can shoot steel shot through a full choke, but use a choke tube rated for steel rather than a fixed full choke. Steel is harder than lead and can damage older barrels. With fixed full chokes, avoid shot sizes larger than #2, as bigger shot can cause dangerous bridging.
What is the difference between 590 and 590A1?
The 590A1 features a heavier barrel, metal safety and trigger guard versus polymer on the standard 590. Both are pump-action shotguns; the A1 was developed to military specifications. Our marketplace shows 590 variants typically around $680, with most listings $569–$801.
Is it better to have a longer or shorter barrel on a shotgun?
Barrel length depends on use. Longer barrels swing more smoothly and suit distant targets; shorter barrels handle faster and carry more easily. Velocity differences are minimal. Home defense favors shorter barrels; hunting, particularly waterfowl or upland birds, often benefits from longer ones.