Mossberg 500 Bantam Youth .410 24″ Pump Shotgun
Pros & cons
What works
- 13-inch length of pull — 1.5 inches shorter than standard adult shotguns
- Weighs 6 lbs — 2 lbs lighter than a typical 12-gauge pump action
- Dual action bars — proven Mossberg system with over 10 million units sold
- 3-inch chamber — accommodates heavier .410 payloads than 2.5-inch only models
Trade-offs
- Fixed full choke — cannot pattern for different game or distances like the Stevens 555 with choke tubes
- Limited magazine capacity — 2+1 rounds vs 4+1 on full-size .410 pumps
- Plastic trigger group — less durable than machined aluminum components on higher-end models
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Mossberg 500 Bantam Youth .410? The Mossberg 500 Bantam Youth is a compact pump-action shotgun chambered in .410 Bore with a 24-inch vent-rib barrel, specifically engineered for smaller-stature shooters with its 13-inch length of pull and reduced 6-pound weight. This platform leverages Mossberg's time-tested dual-action bar system and a 3-inch chamber to deliver reliable manual cycling and manageable recoil. It represents a solid entry point for youth or smaller-framed adults transitioning into shotgun sports or small-game hunting.
What is the Mossberg 500 Bantam Youth .410 used for?
The Mossberg 500 Bantam Youth is primarily used for introducing younger or smaller-framed shooters to shotguns, small-game hunting, and basic clay target practice. Its .410 bore generates significantly less recoil—approximately 70% less felt energy than a 20-gauge load—making it ideal for building confidence and technique. The fixed full choke is optimized for patterning at typical small-game distances of 20-30 yards.
How does the Mossberg 500 Bantam Youth compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun .410 Bore 28 in?
The Mossberg 500 Bantam Youth is a more affordable and mechanically simpler alternative to the over-under Stevens 555 Sporting. The Mossberg's $441.99 price point is roughly $300 less than the Stevens, offering a pump-action's rugged simplicity versus the Stevens' quicker two-shot capability. For a first shotgun where cost and durability are priorities, the Mossberg is superior; for dedicated clay sports, the Stevens' 28-inch barrels and selective triggers provide a clear advantage.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Mossberg 500 Bantam Youth weighs 6 pounds and has an overall length of 42.75 inches with a 24-inch barrel. The critical dimension for fit is the 13-inch length of pull, which is 1.5 inches shorter than a standard adult stock. The forend's E-Z reach system reduces the grip-to-trigger distance by approximately 0.75 inches, accommodating shooters with shorter arms.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for experienced hunters needing high-volume shooting capability or those requiring multiple choke options. The fixed full choke limits its versatility compared to models with interchangeable choke tubes, making it poorly suited for waterfowl or turkey hunting where pattern adjustment is critical. Adult shooters with a standard frame will find the stock uncomfortably short, and the .410's limited payload makes it a poor choice for deer hunting with slugs.
What's in the box?
The shotgun ships with the firearm, one magazine tube plug for hunting compliance, and a basic owner's manual covering disassembly and Mossberg's warranty terms. Unlike some competitors, it does not include a hard case or additional choke tubes due to the fixed choke design. The manual details the factory test-fire process, typically verifying function with three 2.5-inch target loads.
Is the Mossberg 500 Bantam Youth .410 worth it at $441.99?
At $441.99, the Mossberg 500 Bantam Youth represents fair value for its intended role as a first shotgun. The price is approximately $60-80 lower than many competing youth-model pumps from major manufacturers. You're paying for Mossberg's proven action and a platform that can be fitted with a full-size stock later, unlike many dedicated youth guns. For the right user, it's a justified expense that avoids the steep learning curve of a heavier gauge.
Key attributes
| upc | 015813501125 |
| manufacturer | Mossberg |
| manufacturer part number | 50112 |
| action | Pump Action |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | .410 Bore |
| capacity | 5 |
| chokes included | Fixed F Bore |
| color | Blue |
| length | 36.5 |
| model | 500 |
| package height | 2.2 |
| package width | 7.9 |
| product type | Compact |
| safety | Ambidextrous Top Tang |
| shipping weight | 7.1 |
| sights | Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| youth shotgun | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard Mossberg 500 stocks?
- Yes, the receiver uses the standard Mossberg 500 stock mounting pattern. Any aftermarket stock designed for the Mossberg 500 or Maverick 88 will fit, allowing you to upgrade to an adult-length stock later. The factory synthetic stock can be replaced in under 10 minutes with a standard screwdriver.
- Does it fit in a standard 42-inch gun case?
- No, the Mossberg 500 Bantam Youth's 42.75-inch overall length requires a 44-inch or larger hard case for safe transport. Most universal 42-inch cases will not fully close without putting pressure on the barrel or receiver. I recommend Plano's All-Weather 44-inch case for a secure fit.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days, with ground shipping typically taking 5-7 business days to continental US FFL holders. Firearms ship via FedEx with adult signature required upon delivery. You must provide your local FFL's contact information at checkout.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL due to federal regulations. Ironclad Armory allows returns only for manufacturer defects verified within 30 days. We strongly recommend shouldering a similar youth model at a local dealer before purchasing to confirm the 13-inch length of pull is suitable.
- Does this work with a Choate magazine extension?
- No, the Mossberg 500 Bantam Youth .410 uses a specific magazine tube length that is not compatible with standard 12 or 20-gauge extensions. The tube holds two 3-inch shells plus one in the chamber. Choate does not manufacture a .410-specific extension for this model's 24-inch barrel configuration.