A firearm is a must-have for survivalists to use for self-defense or hunting for food. Two of the most popular in the market include the Mossberg 590 Shockwave and the Mossberg 590A1 Tactical Magpul.
The Mossberg 590 Shockwave is best if you want something beginner-friendly and affordable. The Mossberg 590A1 Tactical Magpul is a combat shotgun that’s better for self-defense, hence it has better grip, recoil, efficiency, features, safety, and bead sight.
The main differences to consider include grip and recoil, efficiency, features, safety, beginner friendliness, bead sight, and price.
Grip and Recoil
The name Shockwave comes from the patented Shockwave Raptor grip. This grip is reported to be one of the best grips among shotguns or scatterguns and makes it comfortable to fire standard buckshot loads. The grip prevents a recoil kick-back which might injure a shooter’s wrist.
Upon firing the gun, its muzzle moves upward, dispersing some of the energy of the shot, which lessens the recoil felt by the shooter. Despite this, remember to not shoot directly in front of your face and keep it slightly extended forward to avoid accidentally hurting yourself.
The Shockwave also comes with a forend that has a strap that serves to keep your hands stable as you operate the gun. In principle, it’s a good idea that enables the stabilization of the gun despite its stockless feature. However, the strapping mechanism makes the screws dig into your hands every time the gun recoils, which is uncomfortable and painful.
Conversely, the Magpul has a stock and a buttpad that can absorb the 12 gauge recoil. It’s still very comfortable to shoot despite firing more powerful shells.
Win: Mossberg 590A1 Magpul
Efficiency
The Shockwave’s main limitation is its lack of a gunstock which automatically makes it more unstable than the Mossberg 590A1. The Shockwave also falls short of the average range of shotguns. This model can only reach up to 50 yards. Any target beyond that distance is hard to reach and renders this gun ineffective.
The Mossberg 590A1 Magpul can hold 8 2.75-inch shells. It’s an impressive capacity that can make you shoot continuously without having to reload constantly. Many Magpul owners also report that reloading magazines is pretty easy.
This model comes with an action lock lever located at the trigger guard for easy access. A convenient feature that is used to cycle the action of the gun.
Win: Mossberg 590A1 Magpul
Gun Features
The Mossberg 590 Shockwave has a standard trigger. This model is ambidextrous which is perfect for anyone. It is lightweight and has a short pull. It also has some grit and overtravel.
Additionally, it is also equipped with twin action bars and dual extractors. These features ensure efficiency and a reliable operation while firing.
The Mossberg 590A1 Magpul likewise has dual action bars that enable a smooth and snag-free gun operation. There are no feeding issues as it smoothly ejects the spent shells from the ejection port. Loading magazines is also comfortable. However, the trigger is quite heavy that may become uncomfortable during extended use.
Win: Draw
Safety
The Mossberg 590 Shockwave has an anti-jam model design to make it operate smoothly and lessen the chances of accidents. The same anti-jam system is also present in the Magpul. Both Mossberg guns come with safety that prevents accidents. The only thing that makes the Magpul safer than the Shockwave is the presence of a buttstock.
It makes the Magpul safer, more stable, and more comfortable. The stock even comes with four spacers that you can adjust by removing the screw. It also ensures that you have two points of contact with the gun at all times which makes it feel more stable and makes reloading easier.
Win: Mossberg 590A1 Magpul
Beginner Friendliness
Many owners of Mossberg 590 Shockwave report that there’s a steep learning curve when it comes to using this gun. It takes some time to get used to its design, unique recoil, grip, shape, and more. It doesn’t have a stock or a 12-gauge recoil so it’s challenging for beginners. Using mini shells or other lightweight bullets is advised.
The Mossberg 590A1 is a heavy-duty shotgun designed for combat. It’s a fighting shotgun and not necessarily made for hunting. It’s commonly used by the military, police, and other individuals experienced in combat. It’s the best option for self-defense but can take some time to master and handle.
Win: Mossberg 590 Shockwave
Bead Sight
The Mossberg 590 Shockwave comes with a standard bead sight. It’s decent but not the most accurate bead sight on the market. It’s specifically designed for aiming while holding the gun away from the body. It is because this gun doesn’t have a stock. The lack of stock means that you can’t place it against your shoulder to help stabilize your view when looking through the bead sight.
The Magpul comes with either a bead front sight or an XS Sight Systems Ghost Ring rear and front sight. The latter is the better option for long-range shooting and fast-moving targets. There’s also a rail on which you can place other optic accessories that can help you improve your gun sight and your aim.
Win: Mossberg 590A1 Magpul
Price
The Mossberg 590 Shockwave costs $449 while the Magpul costs $1,291.
Win: Mossberg 590 Shockwave
Summary
Every household has different survival needs. The gun you choose depends on what function or option you prioritize. Novices should go for the Shockwave if they want something affordable and user-friendly. You can also use it for hunting smaller game like rabbits and squirrels.
The Magpul is more expensive but also efficient. It feels stable, has a very accurate bead sight, is relatively safe, and shoots efficiently. It’s the perfect shotgun if you’re an experienced shooter and if you value personal safety more than anything. It would also come in handy in case a war or zombie apocalypse breaks out.
