Frequently Asked Questions
Mossberg 590 Retrograde for sale
What bayonet fits the Mossberg 590 retrograde?
The Mossberg 590 Retrograde accepts the M7 bayonet. Ontario Knife Company produces a commonly recommended version. The M9 bayonet also fits due to its M7-compatible socket. Individual fit may vary slightly, so verifying compatibility before purchase is advisable.
What is the difference between 590 retrograde and 590A1 retrograde?
The 590A1 Retrograde has a heavier barrel, metal trigger group, metal safety, and ghost ring sights. The standard 590 Retrograde uses a lighter barrel and polymer controls. Both are pump-action 12-gauge shotguns, but the 590A1 is built to more demanding military specifications.
Can Mossberg 590 retrograde shoot slugs?
Yes, the Mossberg 590 Retrograde shoots slugs. As a 12-gauge pump-action with a smoothbore barrel, it handles rifled slugs well. Sabots perform better through rifled barrels, so stick to Foster-style slugs for best results. The front bead sight works at close range; a ghost ring sight improves longer-range accuracy.
How reliable is a Mossberg 590?
The Mossberg 590 is highly reliable. Users regularly report thousands of rounds without failures. Its straightforward pump-action design, dual extractors, and metal trigger group contribute to durability. It meets U.S. military specifications and has a long track record in law enforcement, defense, and competition use.
Is it safe to dry fire a Mossberg 590?
Mossberg doesn't recommend dry firing the 590. Repeated dry firing can damage the firing pin retention pin through premature wear. Use snap caps or dummy rounds if you need to practice trigger control.
What is the difference between the Mossberg 500 retrograde and the 590 retrograde?
The 590 Retrograde has a heavier, chrome-lined barrel and holds more rounds—typically 8+1 versus the 500's 5+1. The 590 is built to military specifications, making it more durable. Both feature classic wood stocks and metal trigger guards, but the 500 is the standard hunting/home defense model.
Can you slam fire a Mossberg 590 retrograde?
No. Like most modern shotguns, the 590 Retrograde has a disconnector that prevents slam firing. The gun will not fire when the pump cycles with the trigger held back. Modifying this feature could create legal and safety issues.
How many rounds does a Mossberg 590 retrograde hold?
The Mossberg 590 Retrograde comes in two configurations: a 7-shot model (6+1 rounds) with heat shield, or a 9-shot model (8+1 rounds) with heat shield and bayonet lug. Check our marketplace listings to confirm the specific configuration available.