Mossberg has just updated its lineup of tactical shotguns with four new models, all based on the classic pump-action design. The new Mossberg 590R introduces rotary safety, as well as a new version of the shotgun with a detachable box magazine.

Mossberg pump-action shotguns have almost always featured tang safety. It is standard in their 500, 590, and most of its derivative models except for the Maverick 88. These are currently the only pump-actions made in the U.S. with this feature, making it much easier for left-handed shooters to use the trigger. However, the slide safety makes it difficult to use the pistol grip in the Mossberg design, therefore as demand for tactical shotguns has increased, so has interest in shotguns designed with a different type of safety.

The advantages of using a solution known from AR carbines family in the new model is primarily the ability to operate the safety while maintaining a firm grip on the weapon. In addition, if someone wants to use the shotgun as an underslung weapon for a carbine, as in the case of the Masterkey model, the tang safety placed on the top of the receiver is useless because the front grip of the carbine blocks access to it. On the other hand, rotary safety placed on the side of the weapon allows for this type of application.

The new Mossberg shotguns include the following models: 590R - the basic model, with a standard barrel, a 6-round tubular magazine, 590R Stand-Off - has a barrel with a stand-off device, used for breaching doors, 590RM - fed from a double-stack detachable box magazine holding 10 rounds, and 590RM Stand-off - also fed from a box magazine and equipped with a stand-off device on the barrel.

All models are equipped with a five-position adjustable stock. Mechanically, all models are identical, but they differ in the type of magazine and sights used. The versions with the stand-off device do not have any sights included, while the versions with a regular barrel are equipped with Magpul MBUS 3 sights. Another important issue is the length of the chamber, which in the versions fed from a box magazine is 2.75 inches, and for ones with a tubular magazine 3 inches, which affects the possibility of using certain types of ammunition. Last but not least, Mossberg's offer includes additional magazines, with a capacity of 5, 10 and 20 (!) rounds.

The MSRP for both 590R models is $1,085, while the 590 RM models have been priced at $1,190.

Photos: Mossberg