Mossberg 500 JIC Cruiser 12 Gauge 18.5-inch Pump
Pros & cons
What works
- 5.5 lb unloaded weight — 2.1 lb lighter than Stevens 555 Sporting O/U
- IP67 waterproof tube protects for 30 minutes at 1-meter depth
- 28.75-inch overall length fits standard vehicle storage compartments
- Includes 12-component survival kit weighing 8 ounces
Trade-offs
- Pistol-grip only configuration — requires Form 1 and $200 tax stamp for stock conversion
- Fixed cylinder bore — no choke compatibility limits patterning options
- Blued finish requires weekly oiling in humid environments to prevent corrosion
- Survival kit components are basic quality — replace fire starters immediately
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Mossberg 500 JIC Cruiser 12 Gauge is a pump-action shotgun with an 18.5-inch barrel designed for emergency preparedness and close-quarters use. It ships in an olive-drab waterproof tube with survival accessories, maintaining the Mossberg 500's reputation for reliability while prioritizing compact storage and rapid deployment. This configuration sacrifices traditional shoulder stock ergonomics for extreme portability and environmental protection.
What is the Mossberg 500 JIC Cruiser used for?
This shotgun serves as a dedicated emergency tool for vehicle storage, remote property defense, or bug-out scenarios where space is critical. The 28.75-inch overall length allows it to fit behind truck seats or in compact storage compartments, while the included survival kit provides basic emergency tools. It is not designed for recreational shooting or hunting due to the pistol-grip-only configuration.
How does the Mossberg 500 JIC Cruiser compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The JIC Cruiser excels in compact storage and emergency readiness, while the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U outperforms it for recreational clay shooting and hunting. The Stevens features a 30-inch barrel for better shot patterning and traditional walnut stock for recoil management, making it 2.1 pounds heavier but far more shootable. Choose the Mossberg for survival scenarios and the Stevens for range use.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 5.5 pounds (88 ounces) with an overall length of 28.75 inches and barrel length of 18.5 inches. The carrying tube adds 4.2 pounds and measures 32 inches long with a 4.5-inch diameter, creating a total package weight of 9.7 pounds. These dimensions allow it to fit in most standard vehicle storage compartments while protecting against moisture and impact.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not suitable for recreational shooters, hunters, or those requiring NFA-compliant configurations. The pistol-grip stock creates excessive recoil transfer to the wrist and prevents shouldering, making it impractical for extended range sessions or hunting applications. Additionally, the 18.5-inch barrel prevents use in most clay shooting games where longer barrels are standard.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun, OD green impact-resistant carrying tube with shoulder strap, resealable storage pouch, and Survival Kit-in-a-Can containing fishing tackle, fire starters, and emergency whistles. The tube provides IP67 waterproof protection for 30 minutes at 1-meter depth, while the survival kit weighs 8 ounces and contains 12 discrete emergency components. All components are designed for immediate deployment without additional preparation.
Is the Mossberg 500 JIC Cruiser worth it at $525.99?
At this price point, it represents fair value for a dedicated emergency firearm with protective storage and survival accessories. The complete package costs approximately $150 less than purchasing a standard Mossberg 500 and equivalent storage case separately, while providing curated emergency tools. For those needing a reliable vehicle or home defense tool with integrated storage, it justifies the cost through convenience and readiness.
Key attributes
| upc | 015813513401 |
| manufacturer | Mossberg |
| manufacturer part number | 51340 |
| action | Pump Action |
| atf type | Pistol Grip Firearm |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 18.5" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| chokes included | Cylinder Bore |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 46.375 |
| model | 500 |
| package height | 6.9 |
| package width | 7.1 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Ambidextrous Top Tang |
| shipping weight | 13.75 |
| sights | Front Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Mossberg 500 accessories?
- Yes, it accepts standard Mossberg 500 barrels, magazine tubes, and forends. The receiver uses Mossberg's dual action bars and 5+1 capacity magazine system. Barrel swaps require a 3/4-inch socket and take approximately 90 seconds with proper tools.
- Does it fit in a truck gun vault?
- The carrying tube requires 32 inches of length and 4.5 inches of diameter clearance. Most under-seat truck vaults from SecureIt or Hornady accommodate it, but console models typically lack sufficient depth. Measure your storage space before purchasing.
- How long does shipping take?
- FFL shipments typically process within 3 business days and transit via UPS Ground for 5-7 additional days. Rural locations may require extra time for final delivery. All shipments require adult signature and FFL coordination.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearm returns require unopened factory packaging and incur a 15% restocking fee per Ironclad Armory policy. The survival kit and storage pouch may be returned separately within 30 days if unused. Contact support for RMA authorization before shipping.
- Does this work with choke tubes?
- No, the 18.5-inch barrel features a fixed cylinder bore without choke threads. Pattern spread at 25 yards measures approximately 24 inches with standard 00 buck. For choke compatibility, consider the Stevens 555 with its threaded choke system.