The Ultimate All-Purpose Shotgun: Mossberg Maverick 88 Field (UPC: 015813950305)

When seeking a firearm that exemplifies reliability, versatility, and exceptional value, the Mossberg Maverick 88 Field Shotgun stands as a formidable contender. For new firearm owners, seasoned hunters, sport shooting enthusiasts, or individuals prioritizing home defense, this pump-action powerhouse delivers consistent performance without breaking the bank. It's the answer for anyone asking, "What's a dependable shotgun that can handle anything I throw at it, from bird hunting to target practice, without costing a fortune?"

The Mossberg Maverick 88 Field (identified by UPC: 015813950305) is engineered to solve a common dilemma: how to acquire a single firearm capable of excelling across a multitude of shooting disciplines. Its robust construction and straightforward design make it an ideal choice for those who value function over frills, providing a direct, effective solution for their shooting needs. This particular model, often featuring a 28-inch barrel and a durable synthetic stock with a matte black finish, is designed for enduring the rigors of the field while maintaining a low-profile aesthetic.

Who Benefits Most from the Mossberg Maverick 88 Field?

• First-Time Shotgun Owners: Its user-friendly operation, legendary reliability, and accessible price point make it a perfect entry into the world of firearms. Learning safe handling and shooting fundamentals becomes intuitive with the Maverick 88.
• Dedicated Hunters: Whether you’re pursuing waterfowl in marshy blinds, tracking upland game through dense cover, or even aiming for deer with slugs, the Maverick 88 Field’s adaptability with various ammunition types and choke options makes it an excellent hunting companion.
• Sport Shooting Enthusiasts: For those who enjoy trap, skeet, or sporting clays, the 28-inch barrel provides an excellent sight radius and smooth swing, crucial for hitting fast-moving targets. It’s a popular choice for regular practice sessions and friendly competitions.
• Home Defense Minded Individuals: While this specific model is optimized for field use, the inherent reliability of the pump-action mechanism and the undeniable stopping power of the 12-gauge round make any Maverick 88 a viable option for personal and home security. Its simplicity of operation under stress is a significant advantage.
• Budget-Conscious Consumers: For shooters who demand quality and performance but are mindful of their budget, the Maverick 88 offers unparalleled value. It provides Mossberg's proven reliability and heritage at an exceptionally attractive price point.

Unpacking the Core Features: Why They Matter

The Mossberg Maverick 88 Field (UPC: 015813950305) isn't just a basic shotgun; it's a carefully crafted tool with features that directly translate into a superior user experience.

• Pump-Action Reliability: The quintessential feature. The manually operated pump system is inherently simple and incredibly robust, capable of cycling a vast array of 12-gauge loads – from light target loads to heavy magnum waterfowl shells – with remarkable consistency. This mechanism is less susceptible to ammunition-related malfunctions that can sometimes plague semi-automatic designs, making it a trusted choice in adverse conditions.
• Versatile 12-Gauge Chambering: The 12-gauge is arguably the most popular shotgun gauge globally for good reason. It offers an incredible spectrum of ammunition choices, allowing the shooter to tailor their load precisely for the task at hand. From spreading patterns of birdshot for small game, to dense buckshot for defense, or powerful slugs for larger animals, the Maverick 88 can accommodate it all.
• 28-inch Ventilated Rib Barrel: This barrel length is considered a standard for "field" models. The longer barrel provides an extended sight plane for more precise aiming, particularly beneficial for wingshooting where smooth swinging is paramount. The ventilated rib dissipates heat and provides a clean, elevated sighting plane, reducing mirage effects during extended shooting.
• Durable Synthetic Stock and Forend: Built to withstand the elements, the synthetic furniture on the Maverick 88 resists moisture, temperature changes, and impacts far better than traditional wood. The matte black finish not only looks sleek but also minimizes glare, a crucial advantage when hunting or in tactical scenarios.
• Dual Extractors and Twin Action Bars: These are hallmarks of Mossberg's dependable pump-action design. Dual extractors ensure reliable spent shell ejection, while twin action bars prevent forend twisting during cycling, leading to smoother, more consistent operation and fewer jams.
• Cross-Bolt Safety: Conveniently located at the front of the trigger guard, the cross-bolt safety is intuitive and ambidextrous, allowing for quick and decisive engagement or disengagement with either hand. This placement is preferred by many for its accessibility.
• Accu-Choke System (Interchangeable Choke Tubes): The Field model typically includes Mossberg's Accu-Choke system, which allows the shooter to change the constriction at the muzzle to control shot pattern density. This is vital for versatility, enabling tight patterns for long-range waterfowl or open patterns for close-range upland game. Typically comes with a set of Modified, Full, and Improved Cylinder chokes, which cover most common applications.
• Ventilated Recoil Pad: Even with the robust 12-gauge, shooting comfort is paramount. The integrated recoil pad significantly absorbs felt recoil, making extended shooting sessions more enjoyable and manageable, especially with heavier loads.
• Capacity: With a standard capacity of 5+1 rounds (five in the magazine tube, one in the chamber), the Maverick 88 offers ample firepower for hunting, sport, and defensive applications.

Real-World Applications and Problem Solving

The Mossberg Maverick 88 Field (UPC: 015813950305) excels in practical scenarios:

• Hunting Waterfowl and Upland Birds:
  • Problem: How do I reliably bring down fast-moving birds at varying distances?
  • Solution: The 28-inch barrel provides excellent swing dynamics, essential for tracking birds. The interchangeable choke system allows you to optimize your shot pattern. For distant geese, a Full choke and heavy steel shot might be ideal. For flushing pheasants, a Modified or Improved Cylinder choke with appropriate lead shot will deliver the spread needed for quick, close shots. Its synthetic stock is impervious to the wet and cold conditions often encountered in duck blinds or upland fields.
• Deer and Hog Hunting (with appropriate barrel/ammunition):
  • Problem: Can a field shotgun be effective for larger game?
  • Solution: While primarily a smoothbore, the Maverick 88 can effectively launch powerful 12-gauge slugs for deer and hog hunting in areas where rifles are restricted or shotguns are preferred. For enhanced accuracy, specialized rifled slug barrels are readily available and interchangeable, transforming the Maverick 88 into a surprisingly capable big game firearm.
• Sporting Clays, Trap, and Skeet:
  • Problem: What's a good, affordable shotgun for clay target shooting practice?
  • Solution: The Maverick 88 Field's consistent cycling, smooth pump action, and 28-inch barrel make it a very capable claybuster. It’s durable enough to handle thousands of rounds, making it perfect for regular practice without worrying about wear and tear on a more expensive competition gun.
• Home and Property Defense:
  • Problem: What’s a simple, robust firearm for family protection?
  • Solution: While its 28-inch barrel is longer than dedicated home defense models, the Maverick 88’s inherent reliability, ease of operation, and 12-gauge power make it a formidable deterrent. The cross-bolt safety is quick to manipulate, and the unmistakable sound of a pump-action shotgun cycling a round is often enough to deter intruders. For those seeking shorter barrels for confined spaces, Mossberg offers security barrels that are compatible with the Maverick 88 receiver, allowing for simple customization.

Understanding Your Investment: Value, Durability, and Maintenance

One of the most compelling aspects of the Mossberg Maverick 88 Field Shotgun (UPC: 015813950305) is its incredible return on investment.

• Unrivaled Affordability: The Maverick 88 consistently ranks as one of the best budget shotguns on the market, offering features and reliability often found in firearms costing significantly more. This makes it accessible to a wider audience, democratizing access to a high-quality firearm.
• Built-to-Last Durability: Mossberg has built its reputation on ruggedness. The Maverick 88 is constructed with robust materials and precise manufacturing, designed to endure harsh environments and consistent use. Millions of Maverick 88s have been sold worldwide, a testament to their enduring strength and functionality in diverse conditions.
• Ease of Maintenance: The pump-action design of the Maverick 88 is straightforward to disassemble for cleaning. Basic field stripping can be accomplished quickly with minimal tools, allowing for routine maintenance that keeps the shotgun running flawlessly for decades. Simple cleaning kits and gun oil are all you need to keep your Maverick 88 in prime condition.
• Parts Availability and Mossberg 500 Compatibility: A significant advantage of the Maverick 88 is its high degree of compatibility with the legendary Mossberg 500 series parts. While the trigger group and safety location differ, many critical components, including barrels, magazines (with some minor modifications for older models), stocks, and forends, are interchangeable. This means a vast aftermarket of accessories and replacement parts is available, allowing for easy customization or repair. This shared platform ensures that finding accessories like pistol grips, extended magazine tubes, or specialized barrels is straightforward and widely supported.

Answering Common Questions About the Maverick 88

Q: Is the Mossberg Maverick 88 Field suitable for beginners?
A: Absolutely. Its straightforward pump-action operation, reliable feeding, and comfortable synthetic stock make it an excellent choice for new shooters. It's an ideal platform to learn proper shotgun handling, aiming, and shooting fundamentals without the complexities or higher cost of more advanced firearms.

Q: What's the main difference between the Mossberg Maverick 88 and the Mossberg 500?
A: While they share many core components and a similar robust design, the primary differences lie in the trigger group, safety location, and some cosmetic finishes. The Maverick 88 has its cross-bolt safety located on the trigger guard (forward of the trigger), whereas the Mossberg 500 features a tang-mounted safety on top of the receiver. The Maverick 88's trigger group is pinned into the receiver, while the 500's is a self-contained drop-in unit. Functionally, they are both highly reliable pump-action shotguns, with the Maverick 88 offering a more budget-friendly approach by streamlining some manufacturing processes without sacrificing core performance. Many barrels and stocks are interchangeable, offering great versatility.

Q: Can I use slugs in my Maverick 88 Field model?
A: Yes, you can use slugs in your smoothbore Maverick 88 Field shotgun. For optimal accuracy with slugs, it's generally recommended to use "rifled slugs" which are designed to stabilize themselves when fired through a smoothbore barrel. For significantly improved accuracy, especially at longer ranges, purchasing a dedicated rifled slug barrel (which is interchangeable with the existing barrel) is the best option.

Q: How do I choose the right choke tube for my shooting activity?
A: The choke tube constricts the shotgun's bore at the muzzle, controlling the spread of the shot pattern.

• Full Choke: Tightest pattern, for long-range shots (e.g., distant geese, turkey hunting).
• Modified Choke: Medium pattern, good all-around choke for various hunting and clay shooting scenarios (e.g., pheasants, ducks, trap).
• Improved Cylinder Choke: More open pattern, ideal for close-range targets where a wider spread is beneficial (e.g., quail, rabbits, skeet shooting).

Your Maverick 88 Field typically comes with a set of these common chokes, allowing you to adapt to different shooting conditions by simply swapping them out.

Q: Where can I find reliable accessories or parts for my Mossberg Maverick 88?
A: Given its extensive compatibility with Mossberg 500 parts, a vast array of accessories—from shorter security barrels and extended magazine tubes to different stocks, forends, and sighting systems—are readily available. For genuine Mossberg parts and a wide selection of accessories for your Maverick 88, you can find everything you need at DEGuns.

Why Mossberg Stands Apart

Mossberg's legacy in the firearms industry is built on a foundation of innovation, quality, and an unwavering commitment to the American shooter. With over a century of manufacturing experience, Mossberg has earned its reputation for producing firearms that are not only effective but also accessible and reliable for generations. The Maverick 88 series, a cornerstone of their pump-action lineup, embodies this philosophy perfectly. Millions of Maverick 88s have been produced and are in active use globally, a testament to their robust design and consistent performance under the most demanding conditions. Choosing a Mossberg means investing in a piece of firearms history, backed by a company dedicated to producing tools that empower individuals for sport, hunting, and personal safety.

In conclusion, for anyone searching for the definitive all-purpose shotgun, a firearm that can reliably perform across diverse applications while offering exceptional economic value, the Mossberg Maverick 88 Field Shotgun (UPC: 015813950305) is an unparalleled choice. It represents a smart, durable, and versatile investment for any shooter.

Mossberg Maverick 88 Field Shotgun Specifications

Feature	Description
Model	Maverick 88 Field
Gauge	12 Gauge
UPC	015813950305
Capacity	5 + 1 Rounds
Barrel Length	28 Inches
Barrel Type	Vent Rib, Smoothbore
Choke System	Accu-Choke (Interchangeable)
Stock Material	Synthetic
Stock Finish	Matte Black
Receiver Finish	Matte Black
Sights	Bead
Safety	Cross-Bolt
Length of Pull	14.5 Inches
Recoil Pad	Vented