Mossberg 590 Shockwave: Now in 20 Gauge
The 590 Shockwave pioneered the "firearm" classification — not a pistol, not a rifle, not a shotgun under federal law, because it has a bird's head grip and was never designed to be fired from the shoulder. The 12-gauge version has been a bestseller. The 20-gauge version exists for one reason: recoil reduction.
Who It Is For
Smaller-framed shooters, those new to shotguns, or anyone who finds 12-gauge Shockwave recoil difficult to manage. The 20 gauge in the same platform produces roughly 40% less felt recoil. The NFA-exempt configuration — 14-inch barrel, bird's head grip — remains the same.
DownRange Take
The 20-gauge Shockwave makes the platform accessible to more shooters. At $499 it is priced identically to the 12-gauge variant. If recoil is a concern or you are buying this for a smaller family member, the 20 gauge is the correct call.
