The Mossberg 590 Nightstick is a legendary pump-action shotgun, renowned for its compact size, maneuverability, and stopping power, making it a popular choice for home defense. But is the hype justified? This in-depth review dives into the features, performance, and overall suitability of the 590 Nightstick, helping you decide if it's the right shotgun for you.
What Makes the Mossberg 590 Nightstick Stand Out?
The Nightstick's most striking feature is its short barrel. This significantly reduces the overall length of the gun, improving its handling in tight spaces—crucial for navigating a home environment during a defensive situation. This compact design is achieved without sacrificing the reliability and power inherent in the Mossberg 590 platform.
Key Features:
- Compact Design: The short barrel (typically 18.5 inches) makes it incredibly maneuverable indoors.
- Reliable Pump-Action: Mossberg 590s are known for their robust and dependable pump action mechanism. Few malfunctions are reported, even under stress.
- High Capacity: Depending on the configuration, it can hold between 5 and 8+1 rounds, providing ample firepower in a defensive situation.
- Durable Construction: The 590 Nightstick is built to withstand harsh conditions, ensuring reliability when you need it most.
- Affordable Price: Compared to other comparable home defense shotguns, the 590 Nightstick offers excellent value for its features.
Performance and Handling: A Practical Perspective
The short barrel of the Nightstick does affect its range and accuracy compared to longer-barreled shotguns. However, for its intended purpose – home defense – this is less of a concern. The focus is on close-quarters combat where the reduced length is a significant advantage.
Range and Accuracy:
While not designed for long-range shooting, the Nightstick delivers acceptable accuracy at typical home defense ranges (under 25 yards). Accuracy will naturally decrease at longer distances due to the shorter barrel.
Recoil:
The recoil is manageable for most shooters, even with heavier ammunition. However, first-time shotgun users might experience a noticeable kick. Practice with different ammunition types to find what works best for you.
Reliability:
The 590 platform is renowned for its reliability. The Nightstick upholds this reputation, with minimal reports of malfunctions. Consistent cycling is critical in a self-defense scenario.
Comparing the Nightstick to Other Home Defense Shotguns
Choosing a home defense shotgun involves considering several factors: barrel length, capacity, weight, and features. The Nightstick competes well with other popular options:
| Shotgun Model | Barrel Length (in) | Capacity (rounds) | Weight (approx.) | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mossberg 590 Nightstick | 18.5 | 5-8+1 | 6-7 lbs | $500 - $700 |
| Remington 870 Tactical | Varies | Varies | Varies | $500 - $800 |
| Benelli M1014 | 18.5 | 5+1 | 7-8 lbs | $1,200 - $1,500 |
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary based on retailer and configuration.
Is the Mossberg 590 Nightstick Right for You?
The Mossberg 590 Nightstick is an excellent choice for home defense, especially for those who prioritize maneuverability in confined spaces. Its reliability, compact size, and affordability make it a strong contender. However, it's crucial to consider its limitations: shorter effective range and potentially higher recoil compared to longer-barreled shotguns.
Consider the Nightstick if:
- You need a maneuverable shotgun for home defense.
- You prioritize reliability and a robust design.
- You're on a budget.
Consider other options if:
- You need a longer effective range.
- You prefer less recoil.
- You need additional features such as ghost ring sights or a pistol grip.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice for Home Defense
The Mossberg 590 Nightstick delivers on its promise of a compact and reliable home defense shotgun. Its strengths in close-quarters combat outweigh its limitations for most users. Before purchasing, it’s vital to handle the shotgun, practice with it, and ensure it fits your needs and shooting style. Always remember that responsible gun ownership and proper training are crucial.