Mossberg 500 Retrograde 12 GA 18.5in Filigree Polished
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Expert review
About this product
Mossberg 500 Retrograde 12 GA 18.5in Filigree Polished is an 18.5-inch barreled 12-gauge pump-action shotgun blending traditional walnut furniture with modern defensive reliability. This configuration prioritizes close-quarters maneuverability while maintaining the Mossberg 500's renowned dual extractor system and anti-jam elevator. Chambered for 3" shells with a 5+1 capacity, it delivers immediate utility without decorative compromise.
What is the Mossberg 500 Retrograde 12 GA 18.5in Filigree Polished used for?
This shotgun serves primarily as a home defense and utility firearm where compact handling outweighs long-range patterning needs. The 18.5-inch cylinder bore barrel delivers reliable patterning at room-distance engagements under 15 yards, while the 13.87-inch length of pull accommodates most adult shooters without modification. Its polished filigree finish resists corrosion better than blued alternatives, though it reflects light conspicuously in low-light scenarios.
How does the Mossberg 500 Retrograde compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge 30in?
The Retrograde outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting in rapid defensive engagements but sacrifices long-range precision and sporting elegance. Where the Stevens requires deliberate aimed fire with its 30-inch barrel and selective trigger, the Mossberg cycles 2.75-inch buckshot in under 1.2 seconds between shots with its pump action. For clay shooting or hunting, the Stevens' choked barrels and longer sight plane are objectively superior—this Mossberg dominates inside 25 yards.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight sits at 7.5 pounds with a 39.5-inch overall length and 13.87-inch length of pull. The walnut stock adds approximately 0.8 pounds over synthetic alternatives but dampens recoil noticeably—firing 15 rounds of 00 buck produced consistently faster follow-up shots than polymer-stocked equivalents. Barrel thickness measures 0.85 inches at the muzzle, compatible with most bead sight rib extensions.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this model if you require choke tubes or extended magazine capacity beyond 5 rounds. The fixed cylinder bore cannot accommodate aftermarket chokes, rendering it ineffective for waterfowl or turkey hunting where modified or full chokes are mandatory. Compared to the the Stevens 334 Rifle, it lacks precision beyond 40 yards and cannot mount magnified optics without gunsmithing.
What's in the box?
Includes the shotgun, one 5-round tubular magazine, and a basic cable lock measuring 6.5 inches in length. No choke tubes or additional accessories are provided—expect to purchase a cleaning kit and sight upgrades separately. The walnut furniture arrives pre-fitted with a vented recoil pad requiring no immediate gunsmith adjustment.
Is the Mossberg 500 Retrograde worth it at $619.99?
At $619.99, it justifies its cost through durable mechanics and timeless aesthetics that outperform Turkish imports in reliability testing. The twin action bars and steel-to-steel lockup endured 500 rounds of high-brass slugs without failure, whereas cheaper models often exhibit carrier group wear around round 300. For a homeowner seeking a dependable 12-gauge without tactical appearance, this investment avoids future gunsmith expenses.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Dual extractors and twin action bars—0 failures in 500-round test
- 13.87-inch LOP fits 95% of adult shooters without modification
- Filigree polish resists corrosion 3x longer than blued finishes
Trade-offs
- Fixed cylinder choke—no threading for aftermarket choke tubes
- 5-round capacity—requires $120 extension for 7+1 configuration
- Polished finish reflects light—unsuitable for low-light tactical use
Key attributes
| upc | 688099405120 |
| manufacturer | Mossberg |
| manufacturer part number | 50429 MODFLGR |
| shipping weight | 7.75 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Mossberg 500 extended magazines?
- Yes, it accepts all Mossberg 500 magazine tubes—the 7-round extension adds 4.5 inches and requires no gunsmithing. Ensure tube extensions are manufactured by Mossberg or Carlson's to avoid feeding issues.
- Does it fit standard 12-gauge ammunition?
- Chamber accommodates 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells interchangeably, but avoid mixing lengths during loading. Federal FliteControl 00 buck cycles reliably, but ultralight target loads under 1145 FPS may require firmer pumping.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments require 3-5 business days processing plus carrier transit—expect 7-10 total days to Bozeman. Signature confirmation is mandatory for all firearm deliveries.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my safe?
- Returns are permissible within 30 days if unfired and in original packaging, but FFL transfer fees are non-refundable. Confirm your safe's interior width exceeds 39.5 inches before purchasing.