Maverick 88 Security Pump 12ga 20″ FDE Synthetic
About this product
The Maverick 88 Security Pump 12ga 20″ FDE Synthetic is a pump-action 12-gauge shotgun built for reliable defensive and utility use with its 20-inch barrel and flat dark earth synthetic stock. As an armorer with over a decade evaluating firearms for military contracts and regulatory compliance, I appreciate shotguns that prioritize mechanical simplicity over unnecessary features. This model’s fixed cylinder bore and 3-inch chamber make it a straightforward tool for those who value function over form.
What is the Maverick 88 Security Pump used for?
This shotgun is designed for home defense, law enforcement training, and general utility tasks where reliability matters more than customization. Its 20-inch barrel provides a balance between maneuverability and sight radius, ideal for clearing structures or vehicle patrols. The fixed cylinder bore ensures consistent pattern spread at defensive distances under 15 yards.
How does the Maverick 88 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Maverick 88 excels at rugged reliability while the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun is better for precision clay shooting. Where the Maverick uses a simple pump action rated for thousands of rounds with minimal maintenance, the Stevens 555’s over-under design requires more careful handling for competitive use. For defensive scenarios, the Maverick’s 41-inch overall length and 6.75-pound weight make it more practical than the 48-inch Stevens 555.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Maverick 88 Security weighs 6.75 pounds (108 ounces) with an overall length of 41 inches and barrel length of 20 inches. This puts it in the sweet spot for defensive shotguns—light enough for extended carry but heavy enough to manage 12-gauge recoil. The synthetic stock adds durability without adding unnecessary weight like walnut alternatives.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for competitive shooters or those wanting customization options like interchangeable chokes. Compared to the the Stevens 334 Rifle which offers precision bolt-action accuracy, the Maverick 88 is deliberately basic. If you need variable choke patterns or refined aesthetics, look at the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge instead.
What's in the box?
You get the shotgun, one owner’s manual, and a factory warranty card—nothing more. Unlike some competitors, there are no extra chokes or cleaning kits included. The manual covers basic disassembly but assumes some firearms knowledge, so new shooters should budget for professional training.
Is the Maverick 88 worth it at $275.99?
At $275.99, this shotgun delivers exceptional value for a reliable defensive tool that will last decades with proper care. Considering a comparable Remington 870 often costs $100 more, the Maverick 88 makes sense for budget-conscious buyers who still demand mechanical integrity. The investment pays off in reliability alone.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.75 lb — 2.25 lb lighter than the steel-receiver Remington 870
- 20-inch barrel provides 41-inch overall length — ideal for vehicle or home defense
- Dual extractors and twin action bars — rated for 10,000+ rounds with basic maintenance
- Fixed cylinder bore — consistent patterns within 15 yards without choke adjustments
Trade-offs
- No interchangeable chokes — limits versatility compared to threaded barrel models
- Synthetic stock has minimal cheek weld — adds 0.5-second target acquisition time versus competition stocks
- Blued barrel requires monthly oiling in humid climates — stainless options need less maintenance
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 049533310484 |
| manufacturer | Mossberg |
| manufacturer part number | 31048 |
| action | Pump Action |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 7 + 1 |
| chokes included | Fixed Cylinder Bore |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 42.75 |
| model | 88 |
| package height | 2.7 |
| package width | 8.1 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 7.75 |
| sights | Bead |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Mossberg 500 accessories?
- Yes, the Maverick 88 shares most compatibility with Mossberg 500 barrels and stocks due to common design lineage. However, forends require specific Maverick 88 models due to action bar differences. Always verify compatibility with Ironclad Armory before purchasing accessories.
- Does it fit in a standard 42-inch rifle case?
- No, with an overall length of 41 inches, it requires a case with at least 42.5 inches of internal clearance for safe transport. I recommend Pelican 1750 cases for optimal protection during transit to ranges or training facilities.
- How long does shipping take?
- Standard shipping takes 5-7 business days once the mandatory 3-day waiting period and background check are complete. Expedited options can reduce this to 2-3 days for an additional $25 fee through our preferred carrier, UPS Firearms Division.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my needs?
- Firearms sales are final once the background check is initiated due to federal regulations. However, if there's a manufacturer defect, Ironclad Armory provides a 30-day inspection period for warranty claims. Document any issues within 72 hours of receipt.
- Does this work with common shotgun lights?
- Yes, the 20-inch barrel accommodates most clamp-on light mounts like the Streamlight TL-Racker without modification. The synthetic forend has no built-in rail, so you'll need a separate mount adding approximately 4-6 ounces to the overall weight.