Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and accessories. The Maverick 88 Security 12 Gauge Pump Shotgun is a reliable, no-frills option for home defense and general security. Its straightforward design and proven Mossberg lineage offer consistent performance. Available now for $499.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What are the specifications of the Maverick 88 Security 12 Gauge?
| Product Type | Pump-Action Shotgun |
|---|---|
| Material | Steel Receiver, Synthetic Stock and Forend |
| Manufacturing | USA (Mossberg subsidiary) |
| Finish | Matte Blued (metal), Black (synthetic) |
| Hardness/Quality | Standard production firearm, suitable for regular use |
| Compatibility | Mossberg 500 barrels and stocks (some modifications may be required for certain accessories) |
| Installation/Usage | Ready to use out of the box; FFL transfer required |
| Weight | Approximately 6.5 lbs (unloaded) |
| Dimensions | Overall Length: ~39.5 inches (with 18.5″ barrel) |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Condition | New |
| SKU | 31023 |
What are the key features of the Maverick 88 Security 12 Gauge Pump Shotgun?
The Maverick 88 Security 12 Gauge Pump Shotgun is built for utility. It’s a workhorse, not a show pony, designed to deliver when it counts. The dual action bars provide smooth, reliable cycling, a feature often found on higher-priced shotguns. The cross-bolt safety is intuitive and easy to operate under stress. This particular model, often seen as a mossberg maverick 88 security 12 gauge pump shotgun, is known for its robust construction. The synthetic stock and forend are practical, standing up to various conditions without fuss. For those considering a mossberg maverick 88 security 12 gauge pump-action, the Maverick 88 offers a cost-effective entry point into a proven design. If you’re looking for a mossberg maverick 88 security 3 12 gauge pump shotgun, this model aligns with that expectation for a reliable home defense tool. The simplicity of design also means fewer parts to potentially fail, making it a favorite for those prioritizing function over frills. It handles various 12 gauge pump action shotgun ammo types with consistency.
Who is the Maverick 88 Security 12 Gauge for?
Buy it if:
- You need a straightforward, reliable home defense shotgun without a high price tag.
- You appreciate the proven design and reliability associated with Mossberg platforms.
- You are a new shotgun owner looking for an easy-to-operate firearm.
- You want a durable shotgun for general security or truck gun applications.
- You are looking for a base model to customize later with aftermarket parts compatible with the Mossberg 500 series.
Skip it if:
- You require a shotgun with advanced features like adjustable stocks, pistol grips, or picatinny rails out of the box (see our Tactical Shotguns for more options).
- You primarily intend to use it for competitive shooting or extensive hunting (see our Hunting Shotguns for specialized models).
- You prefer a semi-automatic action (see our Semi-Automatic Shotguns).
What are the pros and cons of the Maverick 88 Security 12 Gauge?
Pros:
- ✅ Reliable Action: Dual action bars provide smooth and consistent cycling, minimizing jams.
- ✅ Affordable Price Point: Offers significant value for a robust, American-made shotgun.
- ✅ Mossberg 500 Compatibility: Many Mossberg 500 accessories, including barrels and stocks, can be used, allowing for customization.
- ✅ Simple Operation: Cross-bolt safety and pump action are intuitive for new and experienced shooters.
- ✅ Durable Construction: Synthetic stock and forend hold up well to hard use and adverse conditions.
Cons:
- ❌ Basic Finish: The matte blued finish and synthetic furniture are purely functional, lacking aesthetic refinement.
- ❌ No Drilled & Tapped Receiver: Unlike some Mossberg 500 models, the Maverick 88 receiver is not typically drilled and tapped for optics mounts out of the box.
- ❌ Forend Design: The forend is pinned, making it slightly more involved to change compared to some Mossberg 500 models with a screw-on forend nut.
How does the Maverick 88 compare to other shotguns?
| Feature | Maverick 88 Security 12 Gauge | “Budget Import” (e.g., specific Turkish brands) | Remington 870 Express Tactical |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Steel receiver, Synthetic stock | Aluminum receiver, Synthetic stock | Steel receiver, Synthetic stock |
| Quality | Good, robust utility-grade | Variable, can be inconsistent | Good, industry standard |
| Compatibility | High (Mossberg 500 parts) | Low (proprietary parts) | Moderate (Remington 870 parts) |
| Shipping | Ships from Wichita, KS (FFL required) | Varies by vendor (FFL required) | Varies by vendor (FFL required) |
| Lifespan/Durability | Long, proven design | Potentially shorter, depends on brand | Long, proven design |
| Price | ~$499.00 | ~$180 – $250 | ~$600 – $750 |
Frequently Asked Questions about the Maverick 88 Security 12 Gauge Pump Shotgun
Is the Maverick 88 Security 12 Gauge Pump Shotgun reliable for home defense?
Yes, the Maverick 88 is widely regarded as a reliable option for home defense. Its simple pump-action mechanism and robust construction contribute to consistent performance, which is critical in a self-defense situation. Many users, including myself, have found it to be a dependable firearm.
What kind of ammunition can I use with the Maverick 88 Security 12 Gauge?
The Maverick 88 Security 12 Gauge is designed to handle a wide range of 12 gauge ammunition, including 2 3/4″ and 3″ shells. This includes birdshot, buckshot, and slugs. Always refer to the shotgun’s manual for specific ammunition recommendations and limitations. For home defense, 00 buckshot is a common choice.
Can I upgrade or customize my Maverick 88 Security 12 Gauge?
Yes, one of the advantages of the Maverick 88 is its compatibility with many Mossberg 500 accessories. You can often swap out barrels, stocks, and forends, though some forend changes may require an action slide tube conversion. This allows for a good degree of customization to fit your specific needs or preferences.
What is the capacity of the Maverick 88 Security 12 Gauge Pump Shotgun?
The standard capacity for most Maverick 88 Security models with an 18.5-inch barrel is 5+1 rounds (five in the magazine tube, one in the chamber) with 2 3/4″ shells. Capacity may vary slightly with 3″ shells. Always verify the specific model’s capacity.
Is the Maverick 88 Security 12 Gauge suitable for beginners?
The Maverick 88 is often recommended for beginners due to its straightforward operation and relatively low cost. The pump action is simple to learn, and the cross-bolt safety is easy to manipulate. However, like any firearm, proper training and safety instruction are essential.
What is the difference between a Mossberg Maverick 88 and a Mossberg 500?
The Maverick 88 is essentially a budget-friendly version of the Mossberg 500. Key differences include the location of the safety (cross-bolt on the trigger guard for the 88, tang-mounted on the receiver for the 500) and the forend attachment method (pinned on the 88, often screw-on nut on the 500). Internally, they share many components, leading to similar reliability.
Where can I buy shotguns online?
You can purchase shotguns online through licensed FFL dealers like Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). Firearms must be shipped to your local FFL dealer for transfer, where you will complete the necessary background checks.
✅ Same-day shipping from Wichita, KS
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
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