A $200 Shotgun SHOCKER: The Mossberg Maverick 88 Test

You asked James Reeves to test the ultra-budget $200 Mossberg Maverick 88, one of the cheapest shotguns money can buy. James accepted your challenge, and, in this video, he accessorizes the Mossberg Maverick 88 and takes it to the range to subject it to a 505-round torture test of mixed 12 gauge loads. James and the crew from the St. Bernard Indoor Shooting Center in Arabi, LA subject the Maverick 88 to one round of 12 gauge every 9 seconds for 77 straight minutes. How'd it do? You'll have to watch to see.
««« GEAR USED IN THIS VIDEO »»»
‣ Streamlight Polytac Flashlight: amzn.to/3WkwTrY
‣ Trigger: www.mcarbo.com/store/p/36-Mos...
‣ Sling: Magpul RLS, $19 (Probably better for a shotgun than the Troy) amzn.to/3FtVNyl
‣ Sling Mount - BFG HK Sling Loop: amzn.to/3hF9LSK
‣ Sling/Light Mount - GG&G Light/Sling Mount: amzn.to/3UVURID
‣ Light Mount - UTG Offset: amzn.to/3vrFWfN
‣ Good Shotgun Cards - Esstac: esstac.com/7rnd-shotgun-card-...
‣ Cheap Shotgun Cards - Spanker Shotgun Cards: amzn.to/3V1qW1M
‣ Cheap Shotgun Cards - Funanasun 6 rd. Shotgun Cards (cheaper than Spankers and hold an extra round. Downside: They are not called "Spankers"): amzn.to/3MCp2B1
‣ Eye Pro - James loves Oakley M-Frames for indoor ranges: amzn.to/3YopWaR
‣ Ear Pro - Walker Razors are some of the best, dollar-for-dollar: amzn.to/3Lxo5tJ
‣ Apparel: All TFBTV apparel is sponsored by 5.11 Tactical and you can get it at www.511tactical.com
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[@samuelibarra4467]

I work at the factory that builds these guns and am a final inspector and this video makes me super proud that a pump gun from my little town with the name sake of our county is approved and loved by you James, the other week we saw troopers come and take a tour of the facility, hit up mossberg and see if they'll let you id love to meet you and have you see what goes on in our little town

[@RyanLovesReds]

Just bought one, partially due to your comment. It’s good to know my money is going towards people like you, Americans from Small Towns in the Country with Big Hearts that take pride in what they do. Building a quality tool that’s affordable so I can defend my family, I have a 1 year old son. This will be my first shotgun…and Ill give it to my son one day. May God Bless this Great Country, we are heading into darker times. Thanks Samuel for the work you do, supporting our God Given Right to Defend Ourselves. Looking forward to my new shot gun…every dad should have at least one, haha.

[@jasonfoley4677]

I’ve been a fan of Mossberg shotguns since I first saw them when I was in the navy. We replaced our old Remington shotys with Mosbergs. It was in 96. Not sure if they were 500s or 590s but they were fun out on the range. If they are good enough for the navy then you know they will run

[@bat1159man]

You should be proud of the work at your factory. My experience is similar to @TFBTV as I have the Mossberg 835 Turkey Pump and have run a lot of rounds through it - never an issue. Let me tell you, a 3.5" round can be punishing to both your shotgun and shoulder.... LOL! Mossberg makes a dang fine pump gun.

[@royrobles6555]

Samuel we appreciate the work you do ...thank you for helping make a wonderful product that is affordable in these crazy times...

[@asmodeus20]

Dios te bendiga, Samuel

[@tylerlowder2338]

This really should be a full series on budget & entry level guns.

[@vule3613]

Idea: budget guns with "gucci" accessories pls make it happen

[@franciscogarcia-xi7ig]

Hop just shed a tear reading this.

[@danielboatright8887]

Two series: budget guns that slap, and budget guns to avoid.

[@ter8901]

The new haven/ mossberg 600 AT is $140

[@ter8901]

They havent made them since 98 though so idk if youre looking for off the shelf today deals but yea

[@warrenb8228]

I love when companies make guns for the “less than middle class” people. Like myself. Makes me brand loyal.

[@timothyporras3720]

Ruger too USA 🇺🇸 affordable reliable

[@antisocialstoner5887]

No doubt 💯

[@timwilson7326]

You dont have to be poor to buy one of these, you just have to be cheap/budget minded

[@derickcoleman9907]

I bought an 88 maverick when I was 17. I am now 35, almost 36. I've hunted everything with that gun and put more shells thru it than you can imagine. Years of dove seasons, small game hunts, duck hunts to include dropping it in freezing water, using it as a paddle when the motor wouldn't run, deer drives, pheasant hunts, hog hunts in the Georgia swamps, countless turkeys, hundreds of clay pigeons and pop cans, literally THOUSANDS AND THOUSANDS of shells through it. And I have zero problem handing that thing down to my boy when the time comes. It's got some bruises and some scratches. The only thing I've done is clean it and took off the stock sights and replaced with a Hi-Viz bead. Goes boom every time!

[@edwardsantoyajr6322]

Sweeeeeet love hearing reviews like this,,,, I've worked at the factory in eagle pass (home town lol worked their in 2011-2014 ) the ppl they have working their KNOW their assembly art practice and ins and outs of their craft, knowledgeable ppl,,, be safe my guy ❤❤❤

[@iKenFlyPPG]

Heck yeah man! I got the riot version almost 20 years ago, added a heat shield, pistol grip w/ collapsible stock and 5 round mount, it's a beast.

[@Auden.]

I am 19 about to buy it

[@zacktohill1]

Bought a 18” in 2012 and a 28” in 2014 never had to buy another again. Absolute best bang for your buck. 10/10 would buy for a 3rd if needed.

[@deafpool]

You had me at peasant hunts brother

[@terryanderson2120]

My Maverick has run about 4k rounds in about 8 years. My son and I were caught in a blizzard on an afternoon duck hunt, my son's new 870 was about ruined by the time we got home that evening, the barrel and action had started to rust, the laminate stock swelled and the finish cracked off. The Maverik didn't have a speck of rust or damage and still doesn't, it runs like a champ. They're about bomb proof, They're American made!

[@markdumas6387]

Remington has dissapointed me more than once.

[@very7962]

@@markdumas6387 it really has. Got a 870 express model, the thing would not cycle properly, the pump would get stuck, the fit between the parts were mediocre at best And on top of that, it started rusting from putting my hands on it. No other shotgun I’ve had does that. Freedom group really destroyed Remington

[@silvester359]

It was ruined that quick in a blizzard. Damn it's almost as if your kid didn't know how to properly maintenance his gun. That's just crazy 1 blizzard and bam, 870 was useless. Crazy how you survived a blizzard but a shotgun couldn't. Crazy as hell

[@fadedjate7230]

Its because freedom group the Chinese company bought them out like 15 years ago. And the quality has completely atrophied since then.

[@shawnpanks4444]

New shotguns i would get the maverick or 500, 590s any day. Sadly Remington went down hill fast after they where bought out they used to make great guns but today i would only buy a new mossberg/maverick as far as a good pump goes. An old 870 from before will take the abuse far better than the newer ones. I have an 870 wingmaster that my grandfather gave me for my 12th birthday that he bought new in 1956 it still runs great and never i have never had an issue with it. He used it every year for duck and turkey hunting so it got a lot of use thru out its life and is still being used today. New Mossberg/maverick hands down is the way to go.

[@enricopaolocoronado2511]

"We haven't seen this kind of cost-cutting since the North Korean ballistic missile program." IDK why, but that line made me chuckle.

[@GorgeousMerc]

You know why it's funny

[@paullomax574]

Hell yhea it's funny!! This guy could be writing for the wall street journal. :)

[@speakeasydoorman4966]

@John Kale I confess being a dumb ass A sinsere ...why English in North Korean missiles?

[@zachhubbard8629]

I have a Mossberg maverick 88 that I have had since I was 14 yrs old for pheasant hunting in South Dakota. I still have it to this day, im now 38. This gun is solid, zero issues, very few jams. This gun is well worth the money

[@dud1f3r4]

I bought one about a year ago, and just now stumbled upon this video. Love it to death, and this video affirmed my decision to buy it.

[@m1k3_flo]

I was born in ‘88 over the border in Montana, and you’ve sold me… if it’s good enough for a guy from your area, I’m good to go

[@joedlf3618]

First gun I ever bought was a maverick 88 the day I turned 18 at my local Walmart. I feed it a constant diet of the cheapest ammo I could afford. Never a had a problem with it, even stood up to rust.

[@stevennix7848]

Me too guys just got mine back from brother I got from Walmart when I was 15 I’m 35 now

[@Nightdiver20]

This was my first gun. Still running strong after 20+ years

[@troydixson1394]

Through and doolie inpressed

[@user-qo3yy9nv1u]

Same. Got mine when I was 12 and is still a great gun.

[@Dies1r4e]

I was robbed a decade or so ago, lost all my nice guns, was young didn't have a ton of money, I bought a Maverick 88 to keep the house safe (weirdly in the crap place I was living they liked to rob someone several times in a row? why? I do not know you'd think the first fuckers would get all the good stuff). but I used that gun for everything for about a year, and kept it around as sort of thank you to it for being with me in the dark times> I have been shooting it on and off since then and the thing keeps chugging like a freaking tank to this day. I have taken it hunting in -20 degree Norther NY, and in the swamps of south Florida and the thing just refuses to die. Gun has a special place in my heart for sure, and while my 590 is cooler and my 930 is more fun, I wont ever get rid of this little beater.

[@Rumpleskin]

That's what the anti gunners don't understand. Guns are more than firearms

[@newerest1]

just because of your story, I want a mave88

[@tannerthurman5158]

I feel the same way about my 88. It was my first pump gun. I love my saiga 12 to death, but between magazines and awkward reloading, I’ve preferred my little 300 dollar shotgun. I still have it. I remember the first time I took it apart I dropped one of the ramps and I cried because I couldn’t find it and I hadn’t shot the gun yet. But when I found it 30 minutes later and put it back, I put the ugly as fuck hogue pistol grip on it as a joke, but I put the real stock back on and I have had 0 problems with it. Eats ammo. Runs. Good. Needs lubed up every now and again, but that’s a reasonable request from a cheap pump action

[@armadefuego5907]

I don't tell anyone I have a gun collection. I wouldn't tell anyone where I live while at a gun range. An acquaintance of mine died. His guns were stolen during his funeral. Another acquaintance had his entire gun safe stolen while he was out of town. I coined this phrase. There are two types of gun stores. Gun stores that have been robbed and gun stores that are going to get robbed.

[@randymcadoo8977]

I'm with you

[@andrewphaggot297]

Finally, refreshing my KZbin feed at 1 am has paid off.

[@williampeck7879]

Lol, me too 👍

[@rascoehunter3608]

I live in central time so I always found it odd that KZbinrs who also lived in central time would release videos at 1am in the morning.

[@lognliv]

James talking about his Excellent Elite Spanker (whilst wearing his obligatory smedium Baby Gap t-shirt and boy-shorts) is second only to him speaking of his affinity for H&K's "squeeze cocker".

[@dnandez79]

I bought a used Maverick at a pawn shop for $70, 6 years ago. Its had around 800 shells run through it and it still a champ. Hands down best shotgun I've ever owned.

[@d-lowz-no9931]

I’ve got six shotguns ranging from the Maverick 88 to the Benelli M2 tactical and I still like to pull this one out and shoot it every couple months. It’s a great shotgun, reminds me of a much simpler time when budget meant everything. Best part about this one was even though I was on a budget, it performed just as well as the Remington 870s and mossberg 500s my buddies were shooting. Never felt lesser than anyone because I had a great gun even at the price point this was in. Hats off to mossberg for making such spectacular firearms.

[@Gottaculat]

The Mossberg brass bead watching the other accessories fail: "Pathetic..."

[@keeganaldrich404]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@Non-existent1]

Mine fell off 😂 was bent to begin with

[@richardnott9587]

I went and looked at one and the sight was drilled at 12:45 instead of 12. How do they fix that without replacing the whole barrel.

[@owens.449]

Front bead fell off mine 😂 only issue I've ever had with it, bought a new bead, tightened it up, good to go

[@johntriplett4470]

Took that tiny bead off and put on an nice big elevated Skinner front bead. Best thing on my 500.

[@DNice337]

I’m loving these budget builds and breakdowns from James.

[@bradcampbell7253]

Now if we can get James to drive an 88 jeep Cherokee.

[@fearlessleader8623]

Fanny packs, spankers, short shorts and cheap shotguns whats not to love

[@Tinnmann]

@@fearlessleader8623 😂😂😂

[@bokusworld9780]

Sexy, dumpster-divin’, foodstamp firearms

[@SCH292]

Say..will James run those..new..."Rem Arms 870" or something? Lol

[@MarsDK88]

I’ll say this about America… it knows how to produce a good weapon. This is my second 88 and I shoot everything through it with no issues. Thank you 🇺🇸 / 🇲🇽

[@Abel-Alvarez]

💯🤙

[@jonwilbeck01]

The 88 is an excellent weapon that is probably underpriced for what it is capable of. You should never feel under gunned running one of these beautiful machines.

[@maybecole]

shhh, don't make them raise the price.

[@dancollins8296]

I love mine

[@killer147896325]

Sportsman warehouse is about to sell them for 240$ and ik really thinking about driving out there and getting one

[@Wings671]

@@killer147896325 I would. In Cali got the Mav88 Combo (18.5” and 28” barrels) for $310 in January. Would assume prices are going to continue rising

[@killer147896325]

@@Wings671 I had to order mine they where al.sold out. I got the 20 inch barrel. 7 tube +1 so basically 8 rounder for about 260

[@MrMinuteman69]

We bought an 88 12 gauge for $155 for my son when he was shooting trap on 4H trap team. It was an upgrade from the H&R single shot 12 gauge he used for the first year and a half. ( he was big kid at 14) he shot 1000s of rounds through the H&R. I feel that toughened his shoulder. He shot 1000s of rounds through the 88 over the nearly three years he used it. It had screw in chokes. He would practice with extra full Turkey choke. Then used modified for competition. He finish 3rd overall in state championships his first year with 88. The next year he got 4th. And his last year he was tied for first. After over 200 rounds of shoot off he ultimately missed one and got second. He was shooting against a $2000 over under browning. After competition was over he realized he had used extra full turkey choke for entire thing. This gun is still operating today. He is now 35 years old and still uses the gun today. Never had any issue with it yet. 88 is well worth every penny.

[@Arto257]

Damn, 200 rounds of shoot-off. That must've been tense

[@MrMinuteman69]

Yes it was. Neither one would miss. They moved them back every 25 shots until they were at farthest shooting position. Then it was continued blasting. My son missed at number 24. Thought they were gonna go again. I was just about to go buy more shells when he missed.

[@jimbomorrison7133]

I bought my first shotgun from K-Mart in the 80’s. It was an H&R 12ga.crack barrel. Wish I would have kept it.

[@almanac520]

So, they come with longer barrels? And choke attachment ability

[@MrMinuteman69]

Don't know the length right off hand. Think it was 24 inch vent rib barrel. Has screw in chokes. Black plastic stock and forend.

[@georgegonzalez-rivas3787]

As a friend once explained to me: "Any fool can get a great bottle of wine if the price is no object - only a knowledgeable person buys a great wine at a great price." Same thing here.

[@TupDigital]

Well put. Years ago I worked at one of the only places in my city that boasted an advanced level sommelier, and being that we sold bottles of wine that cost $3k, I was pleasantly surprised when I asked how to buy/afford good wine at the store and he told me that if you learn what's what, you'll know why spending over $30 on a bottle is often a waste. Stuck with me and is the same message you had. _and that's my courageous story_

[@southdubify]

Same is true for bourbon and whiskey. I make an exception for some of the pure islays though...

[@leshemby9430]

@@southdubify liquor store I go to has a bottle of whiskey 5000$ . I've been tO up from the flO up off md2020 lol

[@shainshartershwate7421]

@@leshemby9430 you should go chug that bottle right in front of the cashier and then yell *MAVERICK 88 M*************

[@redglock2210]

Maverick 88 has so much to give for such a minimal price! Its dependable, sturdy, extremely low maintenance and super easy to take apart.

[@captainnibby]

Christmas- 1998... I was 15 and my dad passed me a very long, rectangular wrapped gift. Lo and behold, it was a Mossberg Mav 88 12ga... this gun has been my bird hunter, my home defender, and fun shotgun for almost 25 years. I've taken this gun with me on rivers, in mud, and a clear and open range and it's been a great companion. And when asked why he bought me the Mav88 instead of the Mossberg he has, my dad said simply- "It was cheaper and all black like you'd probably like". Well, you just can't argue with that, now can you? lol... But in all reality I love this gun- it's been with me for well over half my life and in my opinion it's the only shotgun I ever really need.

[@AviationJeremy]

The Maverick is cheap BUT it’s reliable, hails from the 500/590 lineage, and a reputable manufacturer. It’s a pump gun, so it doesn’t have complex internals that need to be tuned or cost a lot to manufacture. It uses a mechanism that became popular almost 150 years ago. If it had any major issues, I would have been genuinely surprised.

[@coltonowens2742]

Not cheap, just really really fucking cost effective.

[@joshburke4083]

Tbh mine keeps having an issue ejecting 3" shells like its cost me a few ducks clearing it's jam. Would so want a 500 over it!!

[@Fanuc_Operator1990]

A lot of people post on reddit about parts falling off their maverick 88. If you get a good one it's good but I don't feel like the quality control is there. I just recommend everyone who want one to really inspect it well before purchasing it.

[@MisterOcclusion]

Yep, it belongs to the same family as the Ithaca 37, Remington 31, Browning BPS, which are all fantastic guns. I love my 590A1 - it’s hilarious on the skeet field with the barrel shroud and 1907 pattern sling I put on it to make it look like a trench gun.

[@AviationJeremy]

@@Fanuc_Operator1990 Good rule of thumb for any large purchase, especially durable good.

[@ghostjeff4963]

Win, lose or draw. Props to Mossberg for having the balls to back up their product. Just like Steyr with the AUG and Karl's mud test

[@dennisdavis6898]

Mossberg said, bet, run that shii,😂 I love that

[@SonofIiberty]

I love my Maverick 88, an absolute work horse! For only $200 I aint worried about messing it up, I can throw it around and get it filthy and it just keeps on chugging.

[@bubbalawrence1]

@@papimaximus95 I dare say that sounds like a collectible since it came out a year after inception lol

[@derekbutts1782]

haha no shame in it brother

[@joelmclamore1139]

Sounds like a miami vice shootout.

[@sithlordpunkin]

Never had a doubt it would pass. I'm somewhere around 2800 rounds through my 88. No problems. It's a beast that takes what you have and asks for more. Highly recommend getting one or two or three if you haven't yet.

[@nate8867]

One for each day of the week am I right

[@HarryManback0]

You could get 4 of these for the prices that 590A1's are selling for now. I've been considering selling my 590A1 for $800-$900 and getting a new 20" 590 with ghost rings and pocketing the rest.

[@nate8867]

@@HarryManback0 I just paid 550 for a 590 retrograde it is a sweet gun not a bad price either

[@emanuelhoyos1030]

@@nate8867 where?

[@emanuelhoyos1030]

@@nate8867 ordered it and just got the confirmation email. Thank you! 🤟🏼

[@ModernDiecast]

The Maverick is my favorite shotty. Love the way its set up and the price. I've had 4 of them over the years. Also bought a 20 ga for my wife as well, and it's quite possibly one of my favorite guns ever. They have seen me through classes, hunts, range trips, and teaching others. Never had a problem.

[@Llamadww10]

Utterly speechless that it didn’t break down. Damn shocked actually. Feeling very justified for my purchase two years ago. FDE finish. Not a single upgrade or accessory on her but the Esstac. Worth every penny. Will definitely take your recommendation on the upgraded trigger though. That is a no-brainer.

[@jclaxton78]

I have the Maverick 88, Mossberg 500 and 590. Aside from safety setup, which is preference, these guns are almost identical. The biggest difference between the latter 2 and the 88 is the pinned forend. This is the main reason why it's so much cheaper than the 500 or 590. The pinned forend can crack over time or in very cold weather. However, it's very cheap to replace and this forend setup makes the 88 lighter by about a pound. The heavier, more durable forend (has a steel tube underneath the corn cob) can be found on most 500s and the 590. Another difference between the 88 and the 500 & 590 is that the 88 has a lighter buttstock, the plastic walls are not as thick but it's not a big issue. A great upgrade is the 12" LOP Hogue buttstock because the 14.25 LOP that comes on the gun is pretty long for most people. Don't be deterred by the blued finish found on the Maverick 88. It's easy to fix any scratches on a blued finish if you wish. If you're worried about rust, I highly recommend getting some microcrystalline wax to protect it. I use the E.J. Wheaton brand but Renaissance Wax is the same thing. Lastly, don't be apprehensive about the low price of the 88. Mossberg has been making shotguns for a very long time, they're very efficient production-wise and sell them by the boatload. IMO, Mossberg shotguns are underpriced for what you're getting (quality and reliability). PS, as much as I want a Beretta 1301, the Maverick 88 video is the one that James should have titled "this is the best shotgun for the money".

[@jclaxton78]

@@shellcracker18 Not sure where you heard that from, but it's false. They all have the extractor screwed in place. The only part that's pinned on the 88 is the forend/forearm that I already mentioned. Perhaps many years ago what you said could have been the case, I don't know. But not in the past 20+ years.

[@shellcracker18]

@L C indeed I was mistaken 👍

[@CAM-7EA]

I second the use of the shorter LOP stock for a HD shotgun. I have the hogue 12” LOP stock with a small sized slip-on pachmayr decelerator magnum recoil pad. That gives me just the right amount of LOP and tames the kick ever so slightly more.

[@Cam-se9sw]

Im at least the third owner on mine and its been reblued at least once. It still works pretty good, the action does start to stick when it gets hot though

[@AFreeThinkingDawg09]

@L C parts are pretty much interchangeable but when you get to the 590 they’re just a tad beefier for durability and the intended use. I love my beretta A400 xtreme but IMHO it feels very plastic for a gun that’s almost 4 the price of a mossberg 590a1. The mossberg 580a1 feels very solid but your shoulder feels after a day at the range

[@Eulicidcfinder1]

Been telling everyone about this shotgun since I got mine in 2015, absolutely love it and never had a problem

[@rascoehunter3608]

I saw a used Maverick at a gun store for $178. I wish I bought now.

[@Eulicidcfinder1]

@@rascoehunter3608 that's a shame man, got mine brand new for $185, the "security" model with the 20" barrel and 7 shot tube.

[@rascoehunter3608]

@@Eulicidcfinder1 that was a month ago I think. It would be funny if it was still there. I have seen shotguns that have been there for 4 months straight.

[@0devast8r0]

@@Eulicidcfinder1 i got mine back in 2018 Maverick Security for the same price 5+1, 18.5" with 28" barrel for hunting

[@brianmowry689]

My dad an I have them too each with different barrels. We have had 1 jam on each one in the few years running them. I bought mine new for $187.

[@chrisbruton7305]

I bought this for my first patrol job. So reliable I carried it for 15 years. It ran like a champ one day during some particularly rough quals in the rain and mud. We were kicking the slides open with our boots on the department owned 870s from the mud that got in them. My 88 and another guys 500 were still running smoothly. It served me well as a full time police officer, and I still have it. Bought it in the mid 90s.

[@111Panda]

The Maverick 88 was my first firearm purchase back in 2014. Since then I added a few things to it since there isn't much furniture you can do to it. But it's honestly one of the guns that makes it to the range almost everytime I go. I absolutely love it.

[@rafaeldeleon6260]

In the words of Pippin when seeing Merry buy a pint for the first time: "I'm getting one..."

[@yergyddub]

Bought one of these on a whim in 2010. Thanks y’all. Now I can be poor AND smug.

[@dusterstilldustin]

Love the videos brother, this was actually the shotgun I was looking at for my first shotgun.

[@nerdworld8211]

Purchased a model 88 at the local farm supply, and have had zero issues. Bought the rubber plug to run short 1.75” shells and it cycles no problems. Kinda nice to have 14 shells in the tube.

[@jamesmackinnon3741]

I’ve had my maverick for 7 years, I had no doubt it would do well with this test. It has to be one of the best ultra-low cost options for home defense on the market today.

[@Keyet96]

For anyone buying/using an 88, I recommend picking up the TRUGLO Fiber-Optic Universal Shotgun Front Sight. Clips right onto the barrel indexed to the little brass bead and it gives you much better sight acquisition.

[@mwilkinson5474]

A strip of 3m redline tape under works to help prevent loss.

[@anthonygarcia7451]

Thank You For Your Amazing Review, You Have Answered My Question On The Maverick 88. 💪 Looking Forward To More Reviews.👍

[@KennethRisner-fz9sc]

James I appreciate your honest reviews

[@MikoTactical]

Couldn’t find one of these, but I’ve got a 1970’s Montgomery Ward Mossberg 500 I got for $300 a few months ago. Stock was cracked and I didn’t notice, but 24 hours of clamping it shut full of wood glue has it running like a top 😂

[@commie4164]

just get an aftermarket stock. that wood glue isnt gonna hold up long under full power loads, and there should be an obscene amount of after market stuff to pick from

[@easbreid9879]

It should run fine even if the stock is cracked, eventually it will seperate again especially if you run slugs. If you spent another $150 you could have got a brand new one

[@MikoTactical]

@@easbreid9879 Nah, it’s a 28-inch full-choke fudd machine. Buckshot only lol

[@dick-parker]

Just get a new stock😂

[@justplinkin4809]

@@MikoTactical you can swap barrels very easily and remove the FUDD from it. I got one one eBay cheap or a couple of bucks more get it from Mossberg.

[@SldgeHammr]

"Tax: Is Theft" thank you James, that made the entire video for me

[@donh1572]

^^^this!

[@godshammer3122]

Not legally, the 16th amendment makes it legal to tax citizens.

[@donh1572]

@@godshammer3122 the 16th amendment wasn’t ratified legally, plus it goes against the founding fathers intent…even so taxation is still based on coercion therefore it’s theft. No matter what laws the government passes, it can’t change morality

[@godshammer3122]

@@donh1572 yes, it was ratified. Why do you think it wasn't?

[@donh1572]

@@godshammer3122 maybe you should research the history…but once again it still goes against what this country was about. Plus the amendment was supposed to only tax the top one percent, a one percent tax. Now look at your paycheck. You are officially a slave

[@programmerm5907]

What a great video. Articulate, thoughtful, honest, and funny. Awesome content!

[@Hank..]

This was the first gun I ever bought, and I picked it up because I heard it was good quality for the price, and was similar to the 500. I've always liked it, and I'm glad to see it stood up to testing. It's not a Benelli M4, but it's probably the best shotgun you're gonna get for $200

[@Radio_Active369]

I've had a Maverick for over 10 years and never had a single failure. I've shot basically every single load you could think of (that it accepts), well over 1000 shells, slugs, buckshot, bird shot, home defense tactical loads, you name it. I love it and it is still the most solid firearm I've ever owned.

[@schecterguitarist1]

Me to. Can't complain about it at all.

[@edgar3776]

Mine fails all the time. Guess some work and some don't

[@UriRocky]

@@edgar3776 when was the last time you fully cleaned it? From the barrel down to the firing pin

[@DaveTex2375]

@@UriRocky I have only had issues when 1: I short stroked the gun. 2: the occasional el cheapo ammo fails to extract. 3: My gun was filth from multiple outings blasting clays, etc. 4: My late 70's model mossberg 500 extractor finally crapped out on me.

[@rattyratstuff7125]

120 shells through mine before i was tired of the retarded recoil compared to any other shotgun. sits in the corner never looked at. barrel probably full to the top with dust lol

[@Kylenashari]

Mossberg owner for life. Aside from making a solid product, they have some of the best customer service iv'e ever experienced. 5500mk2, 590A1, 930SPX. All beasts.

[@dondickerson9978]

One of my oldest friends has had a Maverick 88 for over 10 years and loves it. It always works.

[@mannyboy95]

I needed this video, thank you for the review. Now I'm gonna pick one up

[@Deathbecomesme3]

My 88 is 23 years old and still going strong. I've damn sure got my money's worth out of that $200 spent back in 1998.

[@TheSaxyG]

I bet. If you look at the bolt and the rails inside of the receiver, Mossberg makes crazy good guns.

[@waylongroves200]

Just got one a few months ago for the same price. How is this gun inflation-proof? Dang ol’ Texan sorcery, I tell ya.

[@trynsurviven2440]

My Maverick 88 is almost 21 years old now and I couldn’t tell you how many rounds have been fired through it. It’s still going strong so yes it’s a hell of a good deal.

[@indianabanana2179]

Mine has took a beating not like yours probably but she runs good still

[@1594simonsays]

Does it have any rust on it?

[@TEB64]

Absolutely the BEST review I have ever seen, great job to the team. Hope you had excellent salve for the bruised shoulders, bourbon based of course!!

[@l0b0t59]

Huzzah for Mossberg! I own several iterations of the 500 model and I'm old enough to have never paid more than $150 for any of them. I'm happy to see Mossberg is still making a quality product. Thanks for a fun video.

[@nuancedobserver3527]

Dang right! I knew the Mav 88 would perform like a champ. I love how Mossberg dared him to beat it up

[@flyingham2640]

This was my first gun purchase when I was 18 and I have beat it through the woods and have cleaned it a whole 2 times and never a malfunction. It's my go to shotgun 25 years later

[@davidpeck3912]

Guess I'm Ultra poverty level...good to know

[@flyingham2640]

@@davidpeck3912 the way thing are going we all will be

[@68able2]

i have another year im gonna buy this one

[@alquinn3562]

Clean your gun bud. Today. Just clean it. Show it some love. It will love you back. Lol

[@Spluurj1776]

Thanks for always showing us all the gun, rifle, and shotgun tutorials which are very helpful when wanting to know more about guns and our next purchases. Keep on making videos as I enjoy them and your hard work.

[@anthonygerber8261]

I bought a Mav 88 recently, partly based on this review and Hickok45's. It's as basic as a pump shotgun gets but it's reliable AF. I see it as a Honda Civic. Basic, reliable and if ya put some $ into aftermarket parts, it can be pretty nice!

[@anthonygerber8261]

Still running strong. May upgrade to the 590S for shits n giggles.

[@Jay-qh1jp]

Just bought one yesterday. You got urself a new sub brother. I love your honesty. God bless

[@thisdudenamedz3699]

I saw the title come up on my notifications and I was “YES FINALLY A VIDEO ABOUT MY FAV SHOTGUN I OWN!!!!!”

[@insidethemusicalmind7207]

I've owned a Maverick 88 for several years now. It goes bang every time no matter what shells I put in it. It just works. Hard to beat that.

[@jonesperkins1382]

I'm glad you made this video. In the 1990s my dad had a Mossberg 500 he estimated they put 5000 rounds through that shotgun in about 2 years. They never had a problem with it. Except for people short stroking it. I have no issues trusting any Mossberg shotgun whether it be for self-defense, hunting, Recreation, or just plain and simple a good investment for a tool that does a job reliably and will last a long time

[@BeardedBoonieHat]

I was not surprised by the resilience of the 88. Owned mine for 9 years now. A couple thousand rounds through her with not a single misfire. My particular one does not like to extract Winchester's "brass/poly coated material", but anything else has ran fine. Make sure you know what'll run in your gun.

[@troopr5]

“A lot of gun powder and little bit of Gods wrath out of every hole” needs to be on some merch

[@justplinkin4809]

I got one used at a pawnshop years ago for less than $100, swapped the long barrel for an 18 1/2” and a couple other tacticool mods and have less than $200 in it. The perfect home defense tool.

[@georgedavis3488]

I set up a 20ga 88 as a dare to make it “home defense under $250” my friends wife could use. Side saddle. Cut 26” barrel down to 19” (legally 18” minimum with 1 to spare) m4 style pistol grip & adjustable stock. With 5 more shells on the stock. Under $248.

[@tizben]

@@georgedavis3488 how did you put the front sight back on it after you cut it?

[@samuelsigman745]

Far from perfect, but perfect for the price!

[@taenphillips5039]

@@tizben you can drill and tap your own or just point and shoot, it’s just a bb anyhow. It much aiming going on more pointing.

[@justplinkin4809]

@@tizben I believe I saw a kit for just that way back before I simply opted to get an additional barrel for mine. It’s crazy just how much aftermarket stuff is out there, or was anyway before Biden sold everything. By having an extra barrel if I decide to hunt with it, I can swap them out again.

[@Lees920]

James, I have been watching your videos for quite a long time and I have to say, without a doubt your videos are some of the most entertaining and informative of all of them. A little humor amongst the bullsh*t is a total hoot. Rock on, dude!

[@larryadler6035]

I have this shotgun and absolutely love it! Zero issues!!!

[@amatueralaskan6685]

This is a great video. I live in Alaska and have two Maverick 88s, a 12ga and a 20ga. The wife and I carry them on the 4wheeler, loaded with slugs, as bear guns (defense only, not hunting).

[@royjohnson465]

AmatuerAlaskan ~Good, I also live in grizzly country. My dad is now in his 90's (years old), about 50 years ago a grizzly stood up right in front of dad, with a Winchester model 88, in .308, he shot from his hip and broke it's back, he killed the grizzly before it killed him. Another time he was chased and had to run up a tree. The Maverick 88 Security model has about an 18" inch barrel, what is your barrel length for bear defense.? Yes you are right that 'slugs' are best if a person can make a direct hit with accuracy, but in my opinion in 3" inch magnum with 000 buckshot (is better than 00, also in nickle or copper coated lead shot) is the best 'if' a person can take the recoil. Sew a padded foam cushion to your jacket or vest to absorb recoil. Also Crimson Trace makes an attachable Laser Saddle for all Mossbergs and the Maverick in green or red laser.

[@billbrasky7540]

@@royjohnson465 your old man is like The Revenant IRL 🤙🏻

[@networkinc.6825]

@@royjohnson465 your pops was a bad a$$👍

[@RADIOACTIVEBUNY]

Make sure you’re using brenneke style slugs like the Black Magics. The foster style ones are soft lead and will not work as well as you’d think. Black Magics by Brenneke are hard cast and penetrate as far as they need to for a bear.

[@georgewhitworth9742]

@@royjohnson465 Slugs are better for bears, anything with a spread or pattern won't deliever the energy the same as a soild shot.

[@BillySinnz]

Best $200ish you'll ever spend for a defensive shotgun.

[@compelledpluto]

Any defensive gun honestly

[@DanUtley]

That’s exactly what I was going to say. You probably can’t spend $200 better on any gun, period.

[@Turbogto_guy]

I have two of these. Great shotguns. Never skip a beat. I’d trust my life to it.

[@AndrewAspiringGamer]

Love the shotgun + accessory burndown videos.

[@lancecluster]

Really enjoyed having a whole "crew" of characters help you out on this task. Nice editing job.

[@Fergusonturd]

My Grandma loves his shorts. She appreciates his content. He is awesome.

[@TheSuburban15]

The contents of the shorts, the videos, or both?

[@chubbyjohnson5480]

I'm new to this video and it's an older one, but it's a great one. Excellent job, James. I'm loyal to Mossberg and Ruger. Both brands have never failed me.

[@marcusmckenzie9528]

The female walking into the frame from rear left was a very good use of subtlety, well played! great video as always!!!

[@Booya456]

I work at a guns counter. Did my research, bought this bad boy instead of the more popular pumps. Modded it up, I love it. So many of my gun egotistical peers shit on me for me purchasing this, I standby my shotgun 😂.

[@poopbutt6241]

I don’t get why people shit on other people’s guns

[@flopus7]

Think I'd like the 500 more. Like that tang safety but mossberg makes reliable stuff. Sitting on a mossberg shotgun is like sitting on someone for having a ruger. Perfectly good American made gun that will deliver on value

[@ridge7524]

It blows holes like any other.Does the job❤

[@vincenthernandez2242]

If it works for you then that's all that matters 👍

[@taylorsessions4143]

Reliability is what really matters, followed closely by how comfortable the gun is to you and how comfortable you are with shooting the gun. The guys who think you didn't spend enough money finding these qualities probably wear Nike

[@francobarrientos4862]

Thank you James, I'm poor, I buy one 1 year ago for home security and train every month with no issues, but this work that you share gives me more confidence , thanks !!!!!!!!!

[@ddnak36]

we had one of them in a shooting range that I worked at in the mid 90's. Damn thing worked every time. Highly recommended.

[@kentnordland5034]

This is one of the most interesting videos I've seen in quite a while.

[@brazzy1467]

I've had my Maverick 88 for going on 25 years and it's never failed me. I've rattle can mine to prevent surface rust and I would have no problem with going out the door with only this shotgun.

[@scottshaw5213]

Ive owned this exact shotgun for several years and love it. I've had zero failures/malfunctions. Now I haven't put 500 rounds through it in a couple hours but I'm glad to know I can if the occasion arises lol. Great lil shotty for the $$$.

[@mrsimpleesarcastik3494]

I have owned my 20 gauge Maverick for 8 years, no issues! well built great price love Mossberg

[@UmamiPapi]

Got the 28 inch that was in stock. Loved it. Cut it down to 18, got the grip the shockwave has, and painted it. Couldn't be happier.

[@kevingubernatis3324]

Thanks James, the Mossberg 88 is going to be my first shotgun I think. No camo. More synthwave.

[@jd9119]

You're probably going to have to backorder it. But it'll be worth the wait.

[@TheDurivage]

Agreeing on the synthwave. The Mossberg 88 goest perfectly with Sunset - The Midnight.

[@jamesbuchanan3145]

Maverick is great. I’ve owned (and sold) a few of them over the years. Probably buy another on at some point. If you live anywhere where there is an Academy, you should be able to find a Maverick. A few of them sitting on the shelf in my town right now.

[@ronaldkrause8577]

It was my first shotgun w/28” barrel and now it has an 18” barrel w/tactical Anti-recoil stock on it. I can dish out whatever I’ve thrown at it. Including 1610 FPS slugs. I shoot my Shockwave more nowadays …anyway you can’t go wrong with the Maverick 88!!

[@OrgasmicTorture]

It was my first shotgun when I was about 14. $200 at Walmart. Now nearly a decade later it still sits atop my gun rack

[@JaeDutch80]

“Tax: is theft” I love it.

[@reighniz4488]

B. E. A. Utiful! This was amazing and I have to admit I was surprised at how tough this thing is.

[@johnfila6480]

ive been using my 88 since the 1980s and use it a lot and its still working fine..

[@007twm]

James, thanks for the great review. I wasn't surprised by the outcome. I've been a Maverick fan for decades. The best bang for the buck.

[@Thor45701]

Own 2 maverick 88’s. They are tough as hell, no frills. They are absolutely reliable,I have recommended them to several friends for home protection. If you are shooting full house 00 buck , or slugs, be ready for some recoil. There are some reduced recoil 12 g 00 buck and slug rounds that are more than adequate for home protection if the recoil is a problem

[@WolfQuantum]

I run a pair of Mossberg 500s. Having to shoot lefty on long guns due to my eyes I prefer the tang safety. After I put some low recoil and buckshot rounds through both sides of an old refrigerator I felt they could do the job. Reduced/Low/Tactical, whatever the name a company uses, you can run them fast in the old pump. While the magnum guys are recovering from recoil you're already lined up and shooting again. I used to be an 870 snob and sneered at the Mossberg 500 series. Later I found they just balanced and handled better for me. So now it's the Mossy for home or field. If it can be said about the Mossy, it pretty much applies to the Maverick (BTW, I'm the next county over from Maverick County). The Maverick is probably one of the best firearm deals out there. Especially when you factor in the versatility of a shotgun. Particularly when you have a variety of barrels and chokes available.

[@networkinc.6825]

James,,then go for some bird shot for home defense,, it'll work ,,

[@duranbailiff5337]

James O: if you have not tried them yet, I would recommend the mini shells. They perform very well at moderate distances, and you can pack many more in the magazine! MAGA

[@squidy4082]

12g is my ideal but maybe I should start off with a 20g since I’m new to shotguns ?

[@curlywurly70]

@@squidy4082 I own both 12 and 20. Both are good options.

[@mattholmes4543]

Anyone else impressed that the Streamlight Polytac itself made it through the test?! That's great performance for a budget tactical light! I have one for use around the house, and was wondering if it could make it as a weapon light. Guess I got my answer!

[@JoeUglyFatMama]

I think the polymer case gives it a little cushion. Back in the late '90s, I dropped the full size XP 20 polymer case flashlight out of a moving vehicle at 40 miles an hour and watched it bounce about 10 times in my rear-view mirror. The switch was locked on, so I Saw the light going all over the place. I used that light for another decade.

[@HHIVR4]

The Maverick is a solid shotgun.Not as refined as the Mossberg 500 or Rem 870 but they are hard to beat for the price.

[@damonthesensei4031]

I own the 18” 7 round tube version and absolutely love it. Super reliable and handles any load with no issues. Love the content!

[@bungalobill7941]

Has James become a masochist with all these shotgun reviews? Suffering for the cause! 😁 Do the Tristar Raptor next.

[@mattpavao1559]

This video helped me make my decision on this shotgun. Thanks guys.

[@byronjohnson9029]

I picked up a 88 and very satisfied with the functionality of this gun, cycling was smooth and shot well 👍

[@Blando7887]

Ive proudly owned one for years, no complaints. I bought mine in like 2015

[@discipleofjmb]

First firearm I owned (and still have) is a Maverick 88 I bought on my 18th birthday. It had a 28" vent rib barrel and has since had half the parts swapped to Mossberg 500 bits including a heat shield, forend assembly and 18.5" barrel. The damn thing has held up almost 20 years. Taking a defensive class soon and I know it will run!!

[@martinshamion8002]

I just got a similar Maverick 88 for $220 after tax. I want to put an 18.5in barrel on it eventually

[@joshuamartindale868]

I bought my Maverick 88 new with a 18.5 inch barrel for $200

[@MrT13]

Just get the 20”. Same one in this video. And yea 500 barrels fit on the 88 as long as magazine tube is right length.

[@christophercomptonmr.nissa3763]

Thank you bought one 30 minutes after watching your review! Much appreciate your info and thoughts!

[@jaybiz84]

I bought one of these and absolutely loved it. All the 500 furniture and accessories also fit it

[@AlexanderOnHisDay]

The Maverick 88 is amazing. I've had 2 of them. The first was a lemon, but the second one was incredible. A few thousand round has gone through it and never jammed. However one common problem on these are the action arms. They are badly fitted to the forend and when they get worn it impacts the feeding reliability during pumping. The solution to this is to fit a Mossberg 500 tube to the Maverick 88. The action arms are spring loaded and better fitted to the tube which removes the problem.

[@shainshartershwate7421]

What was wrong with the first

[@nicholasarmstrong6857]

I bought one of these a year before COVID, and I have had zero issue with it and love this shotgun. Definitely have to rock a fanny pack now when I go shoot clays with the boys

[@bluegizmo1983]

5:42 😂 I love the receipt tax line saying "tax is theft"

[@frederickjeremy]

I have a mossberg Maverick 88 i bought in the early 2000’s from academy for 110$. It has endured countless semi-somewhat annual trap shooting spectacular’s with numerous groups of friends throughout the decades. Has ended enough rabbits to cause a coyote to die from grief. Has been a truck gun. Has been trouged through the woods in the rain, mud slung on it from a 4 wheeler, left in the heat and humidity in the truck. It has served as home defense for things that go bump in the night. It has ate thousands of rounds, cleaned once when the action started feeling gummy 5 years ago. Best 110$ i have ever spent. That thing just works. I cant recall it ever having a malfunction whatsoever. Thank you mossberg for building a true working class do anything in any environment firearm. I have full faith that my grandkids grandkids will still be shooting it. Absolutely amazing machine. 500 rounds didnt even break this gun in. It does have one design flaw if slammed down on its side, the elevator can become dislodged and jam up the action. But one has to might near try to mess that up. I have contacted mcarbo about building a threaded and tapped version to remedy this but no luck yet. Aside from that it is an absolute tank.