Maverick 88 Cruiser 12 Gauge 18.5 in Pump Shotgun
About this product
What is the Maverick 88 Cruiser 12 Gauge 18.5 in Pump Shotgun? It's a compact pump-action 12 gauge configured for close-quarters and home defense applications with an 18.5-inch cylinder bore barrel and pistol-grip synthetic stock. This configuration prioritizes maneuverability in confined spaces while maintaining the reliability of Mossberg's proven dual-action bar system. At 5.75 pounds unloaded, it balances quick handling with manageable recoil for defensive scenarios.
What is the Maverick 88 Cruiser used for?
This shotgun is designed exclusively for close-quarters defensive applications where barrel length under 18.5 inches would require NFA registration. The cylinder bore choke patterns buckshot effectively at room-distance engagements of 7-15 yards, while the pistol grip configuration allows for rapid target transitions in hallways or vehicles. It is not suitable for hunting or clay sports due to the fixed cylinder choke and short sight radius.
How does the Maverick 88 Cruiser compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The Maverick 88 Cruiser delivers faster follow-up shots in defensive scenarios compared to the break-action Stevens 555 Sporting O/U, though it sacrifices the Stevens' superior patterning consistency at 40 yards. Where the Stevens requires approximately 1.2 seconds between shots for ejection and reloading, the Maverick's pump action cycles in 0.6 seconds with practice. Choose the Maverick for home defense; choose the Stevens for trap or skeet.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Maverick 88 Cruiser weighs 5.75 pounds (92 ounces) empty and measures 28.5 inches in overall length with its 18.5-inch barrel. The pistol grip has a circumference of 5.25 inches for single-handed control, while the forend travel is 4 inches for full pump stroke clearance. These dimensions make it storage-compatible with most vehicle racks or bedroom safes under 30 inches deep.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for hunters or recreational shooters needing choke versatility or longer barrels. The fixed cylinder bore spreads shot too widely beyond 25 yards for ethical bird hunting, and the pistol grip lacks the shoulder contact needed for sustained clay target practice. Additionally, users with limited hand strength may struggle with the 12-pound pump force required to cycle heavy loads.
What's in the box?
The factory package includes the assembled shotgun, one magazine tube plug for hunting compliance (removed for defensive use), and a basic safety manual. Unlike some competitors, it does not include sling swivels, choke tubes, or additional sight options. The crossbolt safety is pre-installed and tested for positive engagement at the factory.
Is the Maverick 88 Cruiser worth it at $270.99?
At $270.99, this shotgun delivers reliable defensive performance at approximately half the cost of a Remington 870 Tactical. The investment covers a mechanically simple platform that will cycle 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells without modification, though you'll need to budget another $40-60 for a proper sling and light mount. For a no-frills home defense tool that works under stress, it represents solid value.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.75 lbs — 2.1 lbs lighter than a Remington 870 Police Magnum
- Cycles in 0.6 seconds with practice — 0.4 seconds faster than break-action reloads
- 18.5-inch barrel avoids NFA registration — 1.5 inches longer than SBS minimum
Trade-offs
- No choke tube compatibility — limits patterning to cylinder bore only
- Pump force requires 12 lbs of pressure — challenging for shooters with arthritis
- Synthetic pistol grip lacks texture — adds $25-40 for stippling or tape
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 049533310088 |
| manufacturer | Mossberg |
| manufacturer part number | 31008 |
| action | Pump Action |
| atf type | Pistol Grip Firearm |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 18.5'' |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 6 |
| chokes included | Cylinder Bore |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 33 |
| model | Maverick 88 |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 7.9 |
| product type | Pump Action |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 5.75 |
| sights | Bead |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Mossberg 500 accessories?
- The Maverick 88 accepts most Mossberg 500 barrels and magazine tubes, but the trigger group assembly is different due to the crossbolt safety design. Forends require Maverick-specific models due to action bar differences. Always verify compatibility with part number 90189 for aftermarket upgrades.
- Does it fit in a standard 30-inch gun safe?
- Yes, the 28.5-inch overall length allows clearance in safes as short as 30 inches internally. For vehicle storage, the vertical orientation with pistol grip reduces footprint to 18.5x7 inches. I recommend Stronghold Safes' 30-inch model for secure home storage.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments to Montana typically take 3-5 business days via FedEx Priority Overnight. Your local FFL holder will require 24 hours for background check processing upon receipt. Always coordinate with your dealer before ordering to avoid storage fees.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my safe?
- Firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL, per ATF regulations. Ironclad Armory allows returns only for manufacturer defects within 30 days, but you must cover both shipping and a 15% restocking fee. Measure your safe twice before purchasing.