Maverick 88 Security/Field Combo 12ga 18.5″/28″
Pros & cons
What works
- Dual-barrel system provides home defense and hunting capability for $290.99—less than most single-purpose shotguns
- Weighs 6.8 pounds with security barrel—1.2 pounds lighter than all-steel equivalents like older Remington 870 police models
- Twin action bars and dual extractors provide reliable cycling even with low-power 2.75-inch target loads
- Accepts most Mossberg 500 accessories—aftermarket support includes stocks, forends, and sight options from multiple vendors
Trade-offs
- Cross-bolt safety requires breaking grip to engage—less intuitive than tang safeties on Mossberg 500 models
- Single modified choke tube included—additional choke tubes cost $25-40 each and require separate purchase
- Synthetic stock has minimal checkering—expect to add skateboard tape or stippling for $15-30 for improved grip in wet conditions
- Blued finish shows wear quickly—expect visible holster wear after 6-8 months of regular use compared to cerakoted alternatives
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Maverick 88 Security/Field Combo 12ga 18.5″/28″ is a dual-barrel pump-action shotgun designed for both close-quarters security and field hunting applications. It represents Mossberg's budget-friendly workhorse platform built on proven mechanical architecture that has served law enforcement and civilian shooters for decades. This configuration specifically addresses the need for a single firearm capable of transitioning between defensive scenarios and hunting environments without requiring multiple dedicated weapons.
What is the Maverick 88 Security/Field Combo used for?
The Maverick 88 Combo serves as both a home defense weapon and field hunting shotgun. The 18.5-inch cylinder-bore barrel delivers effective patterns at close ranges with 00 buck or slugs, while the 28-inch vent-rib barrel with modified choke provides consistent patterns for upland game or waterfowl at distances up to 40 yards. This dual-purpose capability makes it ideal for rural homeowners, budget-conscious hunters, or those seeking a single platform for multiple shooting disciplines.
How does the Maverick 88 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Maverick 88 offers superior versatility and lower cost compared to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge 30in. While the Stevens 555 provides faster follow-up shots with its over-under design and comes with 5 choke tubes versus the Maverick's single modified choke, the Maverick's pump action is more reliable with low-power target loads and costs $290.99 versus approximately $650 for the Stevens. The Maverick is better for defensive applications and rough field use, while the Stevens excels at dedicated clay shooting or hunting scenarios where quick second shots matter.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Maverick 88 Combo weighs 7.25 pounds with the 28-inch barrel installed and measures 48.5 inches in overall length. With the security barrel, weight drops to 6.8 pounds and length reduces to 39 inches, making it significantly more maneuverable in tight spaces. The synthetic stock contributes to the weight savings compared to wood-stocked alternatives like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge review, though it lacks the traditional aesthetics some hunters prefer.
Who is this NOT for?
This combo is not for competitive shooters requiring rapid follow-up shots or those needing specialized choke configurations. The pump action limits practical rate of fire to approximately 4-5 rounds per minute for most shooters, compared to 8-10 rounds with semi-automatics or over-unders. Additionally, the single modified choke tube restricts pattern customization compared to dedicated hunting shotguns that typically include 3-5 choke options. Serious trap or skeet competitors should consider dedicated competition platforms.
What's in the box?
The package includes both 18.5-inch and 28-inch barrels, one modified choke tube installed in the field barrel, and the receiver/stock assembly. Unlike higher-end shotguns, it does not include additional choke tubes, case, or cleaning kit—expect to spend approximately $40-60 additional for essential accessories. The security barrel comes ready for cylinder-bore shooting without interchangeable chokes, reflecting its dedicated defensive role.
Is the Maverick 88 worth it at $290.99?
At $290.99, the Maverick 88 Combo delivers exceptional value for a dual-barrel shotgun system. You're effectively getting two dedicated shotguns for less than the price of most single-barrel alternatives, with the mechanical reliability of Mossberg's proven action design. The cost savings come primarily from the simplified trigger group assembly and cross-bolt safety versus the tang safety on more expensive Mossberg 500 models, but functionality remains nearly identical for practical purposes.
Key attributes
| upc | 049533310149 |
| manufacturer | Mossberg |
| manufacturer part number | 31014 |
| action | Pump Action |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 28"/18.5" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 46.375 |
| model | 88 |
| package height | 3.6 |
| package width | 9.0 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 10.85 |
| sights | Bead |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Mossberg 500 barrels?
- Yes, the Maverick 88 accepts most Mossberg 500 barrels with one critical exception: it requires barrels with the magazine tube ring located 4.5 inches from the receiver face. Standard Mossberg 500 barrels with a 5.25-inch ring spacing will not fit properly. Always verify barrel compatibility through Mossberg's technical specifications before purchase.
- Does it fit in a standard 42-inch rifle case?
- With the 28-inch barrel installed, the shotgun measures 48.5 inches overall—it will not fit in standard 42-inch cases. You'll need a 50-inch case for transport or must separate the barrels for storage. The security barrel configuration at 39 inches will fit most 42-inch cases with approximately 3 inches to spare.
- How long does shipping take to FFL?
- Standard shipping to your selected FFL dealer takes 3-5 business days after processing, which typically adds 1-2 business days. All firearms shipments require adult signature confirmation and cannot be left at delivery locations. Coordinate with your FFL before ordering to ensure they accept transfers from online retailers.
- Can I use 3.5-inch magnum shells?
- No, the Maverick 88 is chambered for 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells only. Attempting to fire 3.5-inch magnum shells can cause dangerous pressure spikes and action damage. For 3.5-inch capability, you'd need to step up to Mossberg's 835 model or similar platforms designed for the longer chamber length.