Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field 20 Gauge Shotgun (Model 56436): The Ultimate Versatile Companion for Hunters and Sport Shooters

Are you searching for a dependable, easy-to-handle, and highly versatile shotgun that excels in various shooting scenarios? Whether you're an avid hunter targeting upland birds, a passionate clay shooter aiming for perfect scores, or a new enthusiast looking for a manageable yet powerful firearm, the Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field 20 Gauge shotgun, model 56436, stands out as an exceptional choice. This pump-action shotgun, renowned for its legendary reliability and robust construction, offers a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and adaptability for a wide range of applications.

Why Choose the Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field 20 Gauge (Model 56436)?

The Mossberg 500 series has earned its place as one of the most widely used and trusted shotgun platforms globally. From countless households to law enforcement agencies and even military forces, its proven design principles ensure consistent performance under demanding conditions. The All Purpose Field variant, specifically the 20-gauge model 56436, embodies this legacy, offering a refined experience tailored for field use while maintaining the robust features that define the 500 line.

This shotgun is more than just a tool; it's an investment in a reliable shooting experience. If you're pondering questions like "What's the best 20 gauge shotgun for bird hunting?" or "Which pump-action shotgun offers excellent value and versatility?", the Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field 20 Gauge should be at the top of your list. It's designed to solve the common dilemma of needing a firearm that can comfortably transition from the duck blind to the skeet range, all while providing consistent, smooth operation.

Unpacking the Core Features of the Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field 20 Gauge

Every component of the Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field 20 Gauge (model 56436) is engineered for optimal performance and user convenience. Here's a closer look at what makes this shotgun a cut above the rest:

• Gauge and Chamber: chambered in 20 Gauge with a 3" chamber. This versatility means it can handle both 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch shotgun shells, allowing you to choose the appropriate load for anything from light target shooting to more powerful hunting loads for larger game. The 20-gauge offers a significant advantage in terms of reduced recoil compared to its 12-gauge counterpart, making it an excellent option for shooters of all experience levels, including younger or recoil-sensitive individuals.
• Barrel and Sights: It features a 26-inch vent rib barrel, providing an optimal balance for swinging on fast-moving targets while maintaining excellent pattern density. The vent rib helps dissipate heat and offers a clear, unobstructed sight plane to the dual bead sights, aiding in quick target acquisition and precise aim. The matte blued finish on both the receiver and barrel ensures durability and reduces glare in the field.
• Capacity: With a 5+1 capacity (five in the magazine tube, one in the chamber), this shotgun provides ample firepower for various hunting scenarios, ensuring you have enough rounds for follow-up shots on flushing birds or quick target transitions on the range.
• Action and Reliability: The renowned pump-action mechanism of the Mossberg 500 is at its heart. It incorporates dual extractors for reliable cycling, a positive steel-to-steel lockup for secure firing, and twin action bars that virtually eliminate twisting and binding, contributing to the "Quiet Carry" smooth operation. An anti-jam elevator further enhances feeding reliability, ensuring that shells move seamlessly from the magazine to the chamber. These features collectively contribute to the Mossberg 500's reputation for being incredibly robust and dependable, even in harsh conditions.
• Ergonomics and Handling: The black synthetic stock is designed for durability and weather resistance, requiring minimal maintenance. Its full-size configuration and a comfortable 13.87-inch length of pull ensure a natural and stable shooting posture for right-handed shooters. Weighing approximately 7 lbs, the shotgun is light enough for extended periods of carrying in the field without sacrificing stability or recoil absorption.
• Ambidextrous Safety: One of the hallmark features of the Mossberg 500 series is its tang-mounted safety. Positioned conveniently on the top of the receiver, this large, easy-to-manipulate slide safety provides truly ambidextrous operation, allowing both right and left-handed shooters to activate and deactivate it quickly and instinctively without altering their grip. This is a significant advantage in fast-paced hunting or shooting environments.
• Accu-Set Chokes: The inclusion of an Accu-Set choke system is a key differentiator for the All Purpose Field model. This system provides you with three interchangeable choke tubes: Full (F), Modified (M), and Improved Cylinder (IC).
  • Full (F): Delivers the tightest pattern, ideal for long-range shots on tough birds like turkeys or high-flying waterfowl.
  • Modified (M): Offers a moderate pattern, versatile for a wide range of upland game and general clay shooting.
  • Improved Cylinder (IC): Provides a wider pattern, excellent for close-range flushing birds like quail or for skeet shooting.
  This adaptability allows you to optimize your shot pattern for different game, distances, and shooting disciplines, truly living up to its "All Purpose Field" name.

Performance in the Field: Where the Model 56436 Shines

The Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field 20 Gauge is truly designed for the rigors and demands of outdoor shooting. Its thoughtful design translates directly into practical benefits for the user:

• Upland Game Hunting: For pursuing pheasant, quail, grouse, or rabbits, the 20-gauge offers a perfect blend of power and maneuverability. The lighter recoil allows for quicker follow-up shots, and the 26-inch barrel provides excellent balance for fast swings on flushing birds. The Accu-Set chokes allow you to match your pattern to the hunting environment, from dense cover to open fields.
• Waterfowl and Dove Hunting: While a 12-gauge is often associated with waterfowl, the 20-gauge, especially with 3-inch magnum loads and a Full or Modified choke, can be highly effective for doves and even ducks at reasonable ranges. Its lighter weight is a blessing when trekking through marshlands or carrying it all day in a dove field.
• Small Game Hunting: From squirrels to rabbits, the 20-gauge provides more than enough knockdown power, making it an excellent choice for general small game pursuits.
• Deer Hunting (with appropriate ammunition): Although primarily a scattergun, the 3-inch chamber capability means this shotgun can also effectively fire 20-gauge slugs, making it a viable option for deer hunting in shotgun-only zones.
• Sporting Clays, Skeet, and Trap: The reduced recoil of the 20-gauge makes it a favorite among clay target shooters who spend long hours on the range. Its reliable action and comfortable handling reduce fatigue, allowing for more enjoyable and productive practice sessions. The Accu-Set chokes are invaluable here, allowing you to fine-tune your pattern for each discipline.

The Mossberg Legacy: Built to Mil-Specs

A significant trust-building factor for the Mossberg 500 is its connection to the Mossberg 590, which is built to uncompromising military specifications. While the 56436 is an "All Purpose Field" model, it benefits from the same foundational design principles and robust manufacturing processes that ensure the 500 series' legendary durability. This commitment to quality means that your Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field 20 Gauge is built to withstand years of hard use in diverse conditions, providing dependable performance shot after shot. This heritage speaks volumes about the inherent reliability and longevity you can expect.

Maintaining Your Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field 20 Gauge

Like any precision instrument, proper maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity and continued performance of your Mossberg 500 (model 56436). Fortunately, the Mossberg 500 is renowned for its straightforward design, making it relatively easy to clean and maintain. Regular cleaning of the bore, chamber, and action components, along with proper lubrication, will keep it running smoothly. Pay particular attention to cleaning your choke tubes after use, as fouling can build up, and ensure they are properly threaded and tightened before each use. A well-maintained shotgun is a safe and reliable shotgun.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field 20 Gauge (Model 56436)

Understanding common inquiries helps reinforce the value and utility of this shotgun for potential users.

Q: Is the 20 gauge powerful enough for hunting ducks or geese?
A: Yes, for ducks, especially with 3-inch magnum loads and a Modified or Full choke, the 20 gauge can be effective at reasonable ranges. For geese, a 12 gauge is generally preferred due to its heavier payload capacity, but skilled 20 gauge shooters can take geese with appropriate loads and shot sizes at closer distances.

Q: How does the 20 gauge recoil compare to a 12 gauge?
A: The 20 gauge generally has significantly less recoil than a 12 gauge using comparable loads. This makes it more comfortable for extended shooting sessions, easier for new shooters to learn on, and quicker for follow-up shots.

Q: Can this shotgun be used for home defense?
A: While designed as a field gun, the Mossberg 500 platform itself is widely regarded as suitable for home defense due to its proven reliability and pump-action dependability. The 20 gauge, with appropriate buckshot loads, offers effective stopping power with reduced recoil compared to a 12 gauge, which can be an advantage in a home defense scenario.

Q: What kind of ammunition should I use with the Accu-Set chokes?
A: Always match your ammunition to the choke tube. For steel shot, it is generally recommended to use chokes no tighter than Modified, as steel shot can damage tighter chokes. For lead shot, all three chokes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder) are safe to use. Consult your shotgun's manual for specific recommendations.

Q: Is the Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field 20 Gauge good for a beginner?
A: Absolutely. The lighter recoil of the 20 gauge, combined with the Mossberg 500's intuitive tang safety and robust design, makes it an excellent choice for new shooters looking to learn without being intimidated by heavy recoil. Its versatility also means it can grow with the shooter as they explore different shooting sports and hunting disciplines.

Q: Where can I purchase this shotgun?
A: The Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field 20 Gauge (model 56436) and a wide range of other firearms and accessories are available at DEGuns.com, providing a convenient and reliable source for your shooting needs.

A Trusted Partner for Every Shot

The Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field 20 Gauge shotgun (model 56436) is more than just a firearm; it's a testament to Mossberg's commitment to quality, reliability, and versatility. Whether you're navigating dense woods for upland birds, enjoying a day at the clay range, or simply seeking a durable and dependable shotgun for general utility, this model delivers. Its proven mechanics, user-friendly features, and adaptable choke system ensure that you have the right tool for any task. For those seeking an ideal blend of performance, comfort, and the legendary toughness of the Mossberg 500, look no further. This 20-gauge marvel is ready to become your go-to shotgun for years to come.

Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field 20 Gauge (Model 56436) Specifications

Feature	Specification
Brand	Mossberg
Category	Shotguns
Series	All Purpose Field
Model	500
Gauge	20 Gauge
Capacity	5+1
Action	Pump
Hand	Right Hand
Size	Full Size
Chamber	3"
Application	Field
Receiver Material	Steel
Safety	Tang
Trigger	Adjustable
Stock Material	Synthetic
Stock Finish	Black
Stock Finish Group	Black
Barrel Description	Vent Rib
Barrel Length	26"
Barrel Finish	Matte Blued
Receiver Finish	Matte Blued
Sights	Dual Bead
Choke Configuration	Accu-Set
Chokes Included	F, M, IC
OAL	45.25"
Length of Pull	13.87"
Max Capacity	5
Weight	7 lbs
UPC	015813564366