The Ultimate Versatile Shotgun: Maverick Arms 88 Combo 12 Gauge (Model 31014)

Are you searching for a single firearm that can confidently handle diverse shooting scenarios, from securing your home to pursuing game in the field or enjoying a day at the range? Do you need a reliable, robust, and budget-friendly shotgun that offers unparalleled adaptability without compromising performance? The Maverick Arms 88 Combo 12 Gauge, specifically model 31014, is engineered precisely for individuals who demand versatility, reliability, and value in their pump-action shotgun. This isn't just a firearm; it's a complete system designed to meet a wide array of needs for both new and experienced shooters.

Many users wonder, "What is the best all-around shotgun for multiple purposes?" or "How can I get a reliable home defense shotgun that I can also take hunting?" The answer often points directly to the Maverick 88 Combo. Its ingenious two-barrel system, featuring a 28-inch vent rib barrel optimized for field use and an 18.5-inch security barrel ideal for personal defense, truly sets it apart. This combination eliminates the need to purchase multiple shotguns for different applications, making it an incredibly cost-effective and practical choice. Whether you're a first-time firearm owner looking for an accessible entry point, a seasoned hunter seeking a dependable companion, or someone prioritizing home and personal security, the Maverick 88 Combo 12 Gauge delivers.

Unpacking the Maverick 88 Combo: A Deep Dive into Its Features

The Maverick 88 Combo (UPC: 049533310144) is built on the proven design principles that have made Mossberg shotguns legendary. It's a no-frills, high-performance workhorse designed to function flawlessly under challenging conditions. Its key features are thoughtfully integrated to provide maximum utility and user-friendliness.

• Dual Barrel System for Unmatched Versatility:
  The cornerstone of the Model 31014's appeal is its inclusion of two distinct barrels:
  • 28-inch Vent Rib Barrel: This longer barrel is your go-to for hunting and sport shooting. The vent rib design aids in dissipating heat and provides a clear, elevated sighting plane, crucial for wingshooting where quick target acquisition is paramount. It typically comes with a Modified Accu-Choke tube, allowing for versatility in shot patterns, whether you're hunting ducks, pheasants, or breaking clays on the skeet or trap range. This barrel's length helps in smoother swings and provides a longer sight radius for more precise shots at distance.
  • 18.5-inch Security Barrel: Compact and maneuverable, this shorter barrel is specifically designed for home defense and close-quarters applications. Its reduced length makes it easier to navigate inside a home, through doorways, and in confined spaces, offering superior handling. It typically features a fixed cylinder bore or bead sight, ensuring a wide shot pattern at close range, which is advantageous in defensive scenarios where rapid target engagement is critical.
• Robust Pump-Action Reliability:
  The Maverick 88 operates on a time-tested pump-action mechanism, renowned for its exceptional reliability. Unlike semi-automatic firearms that can be sensitive to ammunition types or cleanliness, a pump-action shotgun cycles rounds manually, providing unparalleled dependability. This manual operation ensures that the firearm will feed and extract most 12-gauge shotshells reliably, from light target loads to heavy magnum loads, making it a true workhorse in any environment. Its simple, robust design contributes to its longevity and ease of maintenance.
• Durable Construction and Finish:
  The Model 31014 features a blued finish on its steel components, providing a classic aesthetic while offering good resistance to corrosion and wear. The receiver is made from an aluminum alloy, contributing to a lighter overall weight without sacrificing strength. The synthetic stock and forend are incredibly durable, weather-resistant, and require minimal maintenance. Unlike wood stocks, synthetic furniture is impervious to moisture, temperature fluctuations, and rough handling, making it an ideal choice for a firearm intended for hard use in various conditions.
• Generous Capacity and Ammunition Versatility:
  With a standard capacity of 5+1 rounds (five in the tubular magazine, one in the chamber), the Maverick 88 Combo provides ample firepower for most applications. Being a 12-gauge shotgun, it can chamber a vast array of ammunition types, from birdshot for small game and clays, to buckshot for personal defense, and slugs for larger game like deer. This versatility in ammunition is a significant advantage, allowing the user to tailor the shotgun's performance to the specific task at hand.
• Mossberg 500 Compatibility:
  A major benefit of the Maverick 88 is its high degree of parts interchangeability with the legendary Mossberg 500 series. While there are minor differences (like the safety location on the trigger guard for the Maverick 88 vs. tang-mounted for the Mossberg 500), many accessories and components, particularly barrels, stocks, and forends, are cross-compatible. This broadens the aftermarket support and customization options available to Maverick 88 owners, enhancing its long-term utility and value.

Real-World Applications: Where Does the Maverick 88 Combo Excel?

The Maverick 88 Combo 12 Gauge isn't just a collection of features; it's a solution to common firearm needs.

• Home Defense and Personal Security: For those asking, "What is the best budget-friendly shotgun for home defense?" the 18.5-inch security barrel is a primary answer. Its shorter length allows for easier maneuvering within a home, reducing the risk of snagging on furniture or doorways. The 12-gauge cartridge, especially loaded with buckshot, provides overwhelming stopping power for close-range defensive encounters. The pump-action mechanism, with its distinct racking sound, can also serve as a significant deterrent. Many responsible gun owners choose this configuration for peace of mind, knowing they have a reliable tool to protect their loved ones.
• Hunting Small and Large Game: When the question arises, "Can I hunt deer or waterfowl with a Maverick 88?" the answer is a resounding yes, thanks to the 28-inch field barrel. This barrel, especially when paired with the appropriate choke tube, makes the Maverick 88 a highly effective hunting companion.
  • Waterfowl and Upland Birds: With birdshot and the correct choke (Modified, Full, or Improved Cylinder), you can confidently pursue ducks, geese, pheasants, quail, and doves. The vent rib aids in lead and follow-through, crucial for hitting fast-moving targets.
  • Deer Hunting: By swapping to a rifled slug barrel (an aftermarket accessory, or using the 28" barrel with appropriate slugs in areas where smoothbore slug hunting is permitted), the Maverick 88 can become a capable deer hunting platform.
  • Turkey Hunting: Specific turkey choke tubes can be installed in the 28" barrel, concentrating the shot pattern for the tight groups needed for turkeys at typical ranges.
• Sport Shooting and Recreational Use: "Is the Maverick 88 good for recreational shooting like clay pigeons?" Absolutely. The 28-inch barrel is well-suited for trap, skeet, and sporting clays. Its smooth swing and reliable cycling make it an enjoyable firearm for breaking clays and honing shotgunning skills. It's an excellent entry-level shotgun for those interested in competitive shooting without a significant financial outlay.
• A Perfect Beginner's Shotgun: For new shooters wondering, "What is a good first shotgun to learn on?" the Maverick 88 is often recommended. Its simple operation, robust design, and relatively low cost make it an accessible platform for learning firearm safety, shooting fundamentals, and basic maintenance. The ability to swap barrels also introduces beginners to different shooting disciplines without needing to buy multiple firearms.

Optimized Handling and Operation

Understanding how to operate and maintain the Maverick 88 is straightforward, contributing to its popularity.

• Slide-Action Mechanism: The forend is used to cycle the action, ejecting spent shells and loading new ones from the magazine. This manual operation provides direct feedback to the shooter and ensures positive feeding.
• Cross-Bolt Safety: Located conveniently at the front of the trigger guard, the cross-bolt safety is easily manipulated with the shooting finger. Pushing it from left to right engages the safety (safe/red ring not visible), and from right to left disengages it (fire/red ring visible). This ergonomic placement allows for quick and intuitive engagement or disengagement when ready to fire.
• Action Bar Release: Situated on the left side of the trigger guard, the action bar release allows the user to unlock the forend and cycle the action even if the hammer is not cocked. This is essential for unloading the shotgun or clearing a jam.
• Barrel Swapping Simplicity: One of the most frequently asked questions is, "How do I change barrels on a Maverick 88?" The process is remarkably simple and requires no tools.
  1. Ensure the shotgun is unloaded and safe.
  2. Unscrew the magazine cap at the front of the forend.
  3. Carefully slide the old barrel forward and off the magazine tube.
  4. Align the new barrel with the magazine tube and receiver, sliding it into place.
  5. Replace and tighten the magazine cap, ensuring the barrel is securely seated.
  This quick changeover allows the user to transition between home defense and field applications in a matter of seconds.

Why Choose the Maverick Arms 88 Combo 12 Gauge (Model 31014)?

Choosing a firearm is a significant decision, and the Maverick 88 Combo offers compelling reasons for its widespread acclaim:

• Exceptional Value: The combination package effectively gives you two shotguns in one for a price that's often less than a single, specialized firearm from other manufacturers. This makes it an incredibly smart investment for shooters looking to maximize their utility per dollar.
• Proven Reliability: Built on the same fundamental design as the Mossberg 500, the Maverick 88 inherits a legacy of unwavering reliability. It's a shotgun that performs when it matters most, day in and day out, regardless of conditions.
• User-Friendly Design: From its simple pump-action operation to its easily interchangeable barrels and intuitive safety, the Maverick 88 is designed for ease of use, making it ideal for both seasoned shooters and those new to firearms.
• Wide Aftermarket Support: Thanks to its Mossberg 500 compatibility, a vast ecosystem of aftermarket accessories – including different stocks, forends, sights, and even more barrel options – exists, allowing owners to customize their Maverick 88 to perfectly fit their preferences and needs.
• Durability for Any Environment: The synthetic stock and blued finish are built to withstand the rigors of field use, adverse weather, and demanding training sessions, ensuring your investment lasts for years.
• Backed by a Reputable Manufacturer: Maverick Arms is a division of O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc., a company with a long-standing reputation for producing reliable and affordable firearms. This lineage instills confidence in the product's quality and longevity.

For those ready to experience the unmatched versatility and robust performance of this legendary shotgun, the Maverick Arms 88 Combo 12 Gauge (Model 31014, UPC 049533310144) is available for purchase at DEGuns. DEGuns offers competitive pricing, a wide selection of firearms and accessories, and expert assistance to help you make an informed decision. Investing in the Maverick 88 Combo means investing in a reliable, adaptable, and genuinely multi-purpose firearm that will serve you faithfully for years to come.

Essential Maintenance for Your Maverick 88

To ensure your Maverick 88 Combo remains reliable and functions optimally for decades, regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial. After each use, especially if used in wet or dirty conditions, follow these steps:

1. Safety First: Always ensure the shotgun is unloaded, and visually and physically check the chamber and magazine tube.
2. Disassembly: Remove the barrel (as described above), and then carefully remove the trigger group and bolt assembly. Consult your owner's manual for detailed instructions specific to your model.
3. Cleaning: Use a bore brush, patches, and a quality solvent to clean the bore of both barrels. Pay attention to the chamber area. Clean the exterior of the bolt and trigger group, removing any carbon buildup or debris.
4. Lubrication: Apply a light coat of gun oil to all moving parts, including the action bars, bolt, and internal components of the trigger group. A thin film of oil on metal surfaces helps prevent corrosion.
5. Reassembly: Put the shotgun back together, ensuring all parts are correctly seated. Function test the firearm (safely, without ammunition) to confirm proper operation of the safety and action.
6. Storage: Store your Maverick 88 in a cool, dry place, ideally in a gun safe, to protect it from theft and environmental damage.

Firearm Safety is Paramount

Owning any firearm comes with significant responsibility. Always adhere to the fundamental rules of firearm safety:

1. Always treat every firearm as if it were loaded.
2. Never point a firearm at anything you are not willing to destroy.
3. Always keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on target and you are ready to shoot.
4. Always be sure of your target and what is beyond it.

Additionally, ensure you understand local and federal laws regarding firearm ownership and use. Proper training from certified instructors is highly recommended for all firearm owners, regardless of experience level.

The Maverick Arms 88 Combo 12 Gauge is more than just a shotgun; it's a testament to practical design and enduring value. Its adaptability for home defense, hunting, and sport shooting, combined with its robust build and affordable price point, makes it a top recommendation for anyone seeking a truly versatile firearm solution.

Product Specifications: Maverick Arms 88 Combo 12 Gauge

Feature	Description
Model	31014
UPC	049533310144
Gauge	12 Gauge
Chamber	3" (Accepts 2¾" or 3" Shells)
Capacity	5+1 Rounds
Barrel 1	28" Vent Rib, Accu-Choke Compatible
Barrel 2	18.5" Security, Fixed Cylinder Bore
Finish	Blued
Stock/Forend	Black Synthetic
Sights	Front Bead (on both barrels)
Action	Pump-Action
Safety	Cross-Bolt
Weight	Approx. 6.5 lbs (with 28" barrel)