Mossberg 500 12 Gauge ATI Scorpion Tactical Cruiser

Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and accessories. The Mossberg 500 12 Gauge ATI Scorpion Tactical Cruiser is a factory-configured tactical shotgun with an enhanced pistol grip and adjustable stock. It features a heat shield and a 6-position stock for improved ergonomics. Available now for $499.00.

What exactly is the Mossberg 500 12 Gauge ATI Scorpion Tactical Cruiser?

This is a Mossberg 500, which is a shotgun platform I’ve handled countless times over the years, but it’s factory-equipped with the ATI Scorpion Tactical Cruiser package. What that means for you is it comes out of the box with some significant upgrades over a standard field or security model. The most noticeable change is the ATI Scorpion recoil-reducing pistol grip and the 6-position adjustable buttstock. This isn’t just an aftermarket kit thrown on; it’s a specific model from Mossberg that integrates these tactical features. From my experience with these, the Scorpion grip really does help mitigate some of the felt recoil, especially with heavier loads, which makes a difference if you’re running a lot of rounds through it or if you’re using it for home defense where follow-up shots matter. It’s chambered for 2-3/4” and 3” shells, giving you flexibility for various applications, whether it’s buckshot for defense or slugs for deer season here in Kansas. The heat shield is a nice touch, protecting your hand during extended firing sessions, and it gives it that classic tactical look. Overall, it’s a robust, reliable 12 gauge shotgun, enhanced for tactical use right from the factory.

What are the key features of this shotgun?

• ATI Scorpion Recoil-Reducing Pistol Grip and Stock: This is the standout feature. The Scorpion material is designed to absorb recoil, making the shotgun more comfortable to shoot, especially during longer range sessions or with heavier loads. The 6-position adjustable stock allows for quick length-of-pull adjustments, which is crucial for different body types or when wearing heavy gear.
• Tactical Tri-Rail Forend: You’ve got three Picatinny rails on the forend, which means easy attachment of lights, lasers, or other accessories. This is practical for low-light situations or for mounting a sling attachment point.
• Heat Shield: A factory-installed heat shield not only adds to the tactical aesthetic but also protects your hand from a hot barrel during rapid firing or extended use.
• Mossberg 500 Reliability: At its core, this is a Mossberg 500. That means a proven, robust action that’s been trusted by hunters, law enforcement, and military for decades. The dual action bars prevent binding, and the tang-mounted safety is intuitive and easy to operate with either hand.
• 18.5″ Barrel: This shorter barrel length makes the shotgun maneuverable in tight spaces, which is ideal for home defense or vehicle applications.

Who is this Mossberg 500 configuration for?

Buy it if:

• ✅ You’re looking for a reliable home defense shotgun with enhanced ergonomics and recoil reduction features right out of the box.
• ✅ You want a tactical-style shotgun without having to do a bunch of aftermarket modifications yourself.
• ✅ You appreciate the proven track record of the Mossberg 500 platform but want modern tactical enhancements.
• ✅ You plan to add accessories like lights or lasers and want integrated rail space.
• ✅ You’re sensitive to recoil and want a stock and grip designed to help mitigate it.
• ✅ You need a shotgun that can be adjusted for different users or for use with body armor.

Skip it if:

• ❌ You prefer a traditional wood or synthetic hunting stock for field use. (See our hunting shotguns for alternatives.)
• ❌ You’re looking for a dedicated competition shotgun with advanced sight systems or specialized chokes.
• ❌ You need a shotgun primarily for clay shooting, as the shorter barrel and tactical stock aren’t ideal for that specific application.
• ❌ You’re on a very tight budget and just need a basic, no-frills pump shotgun.

What are the pros and cons of the Mossberg 500 ATI Scorpion?

Pros:

• ✅ Recoil Reduction: The ATI Scorpion furniture genuinely helps reduce felt recoil, making it more comfortable to shoot.
• ✅ Adjustable Length of Pull: The 6-position stock allows for quick customization to fit different shooters or situations.
• ✅ Accessory Ready: The tri-rail forend provides ample space for lights, lasers, or other tactical gear.
• ✅ Proven Reliability: It’s a Mossberg 500, meaning it’s built to run and is known for its durability.
• ✅ Tactical Appearance: If you’re going for a tactical look and feel, this shotgun delivers it straight from the factory.
• ✅ Ambidextrous Safety: The tang-mounted safety is easy to access for both right and left-handed shooters.

Cons:

• ❌ Weight Distribution: The pistol grip and adjustable stock can shift the balance point compared to a traditional stock, which some shooters might find different initially.
• ❌ Length: While adjustable, even at its shortest, it might still be longer than a dedicated pistol-grip-only configuration, if extreme compactness is your only goal.
• ❌ Fixed Choke: The 18.5″ barrel typically comes with a fixed cylinder bore, limiting versatility for different shot patterns compared to interchangeable choke systems.

How does it stack up against other tactical shotguns?

Frequently Asked Questions

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