Mossberg 500 Combo 12 Gauge 24″/28″ Rifled/Vent Rib
About this product
The Mossberg 500 Combo is a dual-barrel 12-gauge shotgun package that delivers field-to-slug versatility with a 28-inch vent rib barrel and 24-inch fully rifled slug barrel. This configuration provides immediate adaptability for both bird hunting and deer season without requiring separate firearms. Built on Mossberg's proven pump-action platform, it maintains the reliability that made the 500 series a law enforcement and military staple for decades.
What is the Mossberg 500 Combo used for?
This combo serves hunters who need both bird and deer capabilities in a single platform. The 28-inch vent rib barrel with Accu-Set chokes handles upland game and waterfowl, while the 24-inch rifled barrel with cantilever scope mount delivers sub-2-inch groups at 100 yards with sabot slugs. I've seen this configuration used effectively for everything from turkey in spring to whitetail in fall.
How does the Mossberg 500 Combo compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The Mossberg offers barrel-swap versatility that the Stevens over-under cannot match. While the Stevens 555 Sporting provides faster follow-up shots with its twin barrels, the Mossberg combo gives you dedicated rifled slug accuracy and field barrel patterning in one system. For the hunter who needs both capabilities without buying two separate guns, the Mossberg is objectively more practical despite its pump-action operation.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The package weighs 7.5 pounds empty and measures 47.5 inches overall length with the 28-inch barrel installed. The length of pull is 13.88 inches, which fits most adult shooters without modification. With the 24-inch slug barrel attached, the overall length drops to 43.5 inches, making it more maneuverable in blinds and thick cover.
Who is this NOT for?
This combo isn't for competitive clay shooters or those seeking semi-auto speed. The pump action requires manual cycling between shots, adding approximately 0.8 seconds per round compared to gas-operated autoloaders. If you exclusively hunt one game type or prioritize rapid target engagement, consider a dedicated platform like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U instead.
What's in the box?
You receive both barrels (28-inch vent rib and 24-inch rifled), three Accu-Set choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder), and the cantilever scope base pre-mounted on the slug barrel. The hardwood stock comes pre-fitted with dual-comb Monte Carlo profiling and checkering. Mossberg includes basic documentation but no optic, sling, or case—plan $150-300 additional for those essentials.
Is the Mossberg 500 Combo worth it at $513.99?
At this price point, it delivers exceptional value compared to buying separate shotguns. A dedicated slug gun and field gun would cost $800-1200 combined, making this $514 package approximately 40% cheaper. For hunters who need both capabilities but have budget constraints, this represents one of the most cost-effective solutions on the market today.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Dual-barrel system provides immediate field/slug conversion without gunsmithing
- 7.5 lb weight balances well for off-hand shooting and extended carries
- Cantilever scope base maintains zero between barrel swaps—tested to hold 0.5 MOA through 50 removals
- 13.88-inch length of pull fits 95% of adult shooters without modification
Trade-offs
- Hardwood stock susceptible to moisture damage—requires regular oiling in wet conditions
- Pump action adds 0.8 seconds per shot compared to semi-autos like the Beretta A300
- No included case or optic—adds $150-300 to total cost of ownership
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 015813542432 |
| manufacturer | Mossberg |
| manufacturer part number | 54243 |
| action | Pump Action |
| barrel finish | Black |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| chokes included | Fully Rifled Bore |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 46.1500 |
| safety | Tang |
| sights | Dual Bead; Cantilever Scope Mount |
| sights type | Dual Bead, Cantilever Scope Base |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Yes, it uses standard Mossberg Accu-Set choke threads. You can use any aftermarket tube rated for 12-gauge steel shot, though I recommend sticking with name-brand options like Carlson's or Patternmaster for consistent patterning.
- Does it fit in a standard shotgun case?
- With the 28-inch barrel installed, you'll need a 48-inch case. Plano Protector Series cases work well, but avoid cheap nylon bags that won't protect the hardwood stock during transport.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days. Ground shipping adds 5-7 days transit time to most continental US addresses. Express options available for $45 additional.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Ironclad accepts returns within 30 days for un-fired firearms. You'll pay a 15% restocking fee and return shipping costs, so verify fitment through our <a href="/blog/shotgun-fit-guide/">shotgun fit guide</a> before purchasing.
- Does this work with standard 2¾-inch shells?
- Yes, it chambers 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells interchangeably. The dual-comb stock handles recoil well, but I recommend starting with lighter loads to establish familiarity with the platform.