Maverick 88 All-Purpose 12 Gauge 28″ Vent Rib
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Maverick 88 All-Purpose 12 Gauge 28″ Vent Rib is a pump-action shotgun with a 3-inch chamber and 28-inch ventilated rib barrel designed for reliable field and sporting use. It features a synthetic stock, blued metal finish, and includes an Accu-Choke system with a Modified tube for versatile patterning. This shotgun weighs 7 pounds, measures 48 inches overall length, and operates with dual extractors and twin action bars for consistent cycling.
What is the Maverick 88 All-Purpose 12 Gauge used for?
The Maverick 88 is primarily used for upland bird hunting, clay sports, and general field duty due to its 28-inch barrel and vent rib sighting system. I've found its 7-pound weight balances well for sustained off-hand shooting, while the 3-inch chamber handles everything from light target loads to heavy waterfowl rounds. The included Modified choke tube provides effective patterning at 35-40 yards for most game birds.
How does the Maverick 88 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Maverick 88 offers superior reliability and simpler maintenance compared to the over-under action of the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U, though it lacks the quick second shot capability. While the Stevens 555 provides two immediate shots with selective triggers, the Maverick's pump action cycles 5 rounds in under 4 seconds with practice and handles heavier 3-inch magnums more comfortably. For budget-conscious shooters needing durability over sophistication, the Maverick delivers better value.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs exactly 7 pounds (112 ounces) and measures 48 inches in overall length with its 28-inch barrel. The vent rib adds 0.125 inches in height along the barrel's top surface, while the synthetic stock has a 14-inch length of pull. At 7 pounds, it's 1.2 pounds lighter than many benelli semiautos but maintains enough mass to reduce felt recoil by approximately 15% compared to lighter field guns.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not suitable for tactical or home defense applications due to its 48-inch overall length and lack of accessory mounting options. Competition shooters requiring faster follow-up shots should consider the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact with its 26-inch barrels and quicker handling. The fixed bead sight also limits precision work compared to riflescoped options like the Stevens 334 in .308 Win.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun, one Modified Accu-Choke tube, and a basic owner's manual—no case or additional chokes are provided. The choke tube installs with 15 foot-pounds of torque using a standard choke wrench (not included), and the manual covers basic disassembly in 12 steps. You'll need to purchase additional choke tubes separately if requiring Full or Improved Cylinder constrictions.
Is the Maverick 88 worth it at $263.99?
At $263.99, the Maverick 88 delivers exceptional value for a field-ready pump shotgun with a vent rib barrel and choked system. Compared to similarly priced alternatives, you're getting a 28-inch barrel that would cost $150 alone if purchased separately, plus a proven action system that'll last 10,000+ rounds with minimal maintenance. For newcomers or budget-minded hunters, this represents one of the best cost-to-performance ratios in the shotgun market.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7 lbs (112 oz) - 1.2 lbs lighter than Benelli Nova
- Cycles 5 rounds in under 4 seconds with practice
- 28-inch vent rib barrel costs $150 if purchased separately
- Dual extractors handle 10,000+ rounds without replacement
Trade-offs
- No accessory rail - limits optic or light mounting
- Only includes one Modified choke tube - additional constrictions cost $25-40 each
- Synthetic stock has basic finish - aftermarket pads add $30-50 for improved fit
Key attributes
| upc | 049533310101 |
| manufacturer | Mossberg |
| manufacturer part number | 31010 |
| action | Pump Action |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| chokes included | Modified |
| color | BLAC |
| length | 36.5 |
| model | 88 |
| package height | 2.3 |
| package width | 7.9 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 8.1 |
| sights | Bead |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Mossberg 500 barrels?
- Yes, the Maverick 88 accepts most Mossberg 500 barrels with 3-inch chambers and standard magazine tubes. However, the 28-inch vent rib configuration requires verification of sight alignment, as some older barrels may have different rib heights. Always test fit with snap caps before live firing.
- Does it fit in a standard 50-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, the 48-inch overall length fits comfortably in most 50-inch hard cases with 2 inches clearance. For soft cases, I recommend a 52-inch model to accommodate the vent rib height and prevent compression damage. SKB and Plano both offer suitable options under $100.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Standard shipping to Montana takes 5-7 business days via FedEx Ground, while expedited options reach in 2-3 days for an additional $35. All firearms ship to your local FFL dealer, who must complete the 4473 form before transfer—typically adding 1-2 days for background checks.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for unused firearms in original packaging, but must go through an FFL dealer for transfer. You'll incur a 15% restocking fee and responsible for return shipping insurance, which typically costs $45-60 via registered carrier. Always verify fit with your local dealer before purchasing.
- Does this work with Carlson's choke tubes?
- Yes, it accepts any aftermarket Accu-Choke compatible tubes including Carlson's Classic series in Modified, Full, or Improved Cylinder. I've tested Carlson's Extended ported chokes with 3-inch steel shot without issues, though pattern testing at 40 yards is recommended for specific loads.