Description
The Maverick 88 Security 12 GA 18.5 in Blued Synthetic is a plainspoken, hardworking pump-action shotgun built for folks who value reliability over frills. Chambered in 12 gauge with an 18.5-inch cylinder-bore barrel and a brass bead front sight, this model delivers fast, close-range target acquisition for home defense or general field use. The black synthetic stock sports a rubber recoil pad, and the cross-bolt safety sits ahead of the trigger for instinctive operation. Per manufacturer specs, this blued finish shotgun weighs about 6.5 pounds, making it nimble and easy to handle.
| Manufacturer | Maverick Arms (a division of Mossberg) |
|---|---|
| Model | Maverick 88 Security |
| Material | Synthetic stock, blued steel barrel and receiver |
| Compatibility | 12 gauge 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells (per manufacturer specs) |
| Finish | Blued metal, black synthetic furniture |
| Weight | 6.5 pounds (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- 18.5-inch Cylinder-Bore Barrel — This short, open-bore barrel gives you a wide shot pattern at close quarters, ideal for home defense or hunting thick cover where targets pop up fast.
- Brass Bead Front Sight — A bright, easy-to-acquire sight picture lets you get on target quickly, even in low light or when adrenaline is high.
- Cross-Bolt Safety Ahead of Trigger — Placed right where your trigger finger naturally lands, this safety is intuitive to engage and disengage without fumbling or breaking your grip.
- Rubber Recoil Pad — Soaks up some of that 12-gauge kick, making extended shooting sessions more comfortable and follow-up shots faster.
- 5+1 Round Capacity — With a magazine tube holding five shells and one in the chamber, you’ve got six rounds on tap for defensive situations or a quick dove field reload.
Who It’s For
This shotgun is a perfect fit for the southern shooter who needs a no-nonsense home defender or a budget-friendly bird gun for dove hunts and rabbit runs. It’s also a smart choice for first-time shotgun owners who want a reliable, affordable platform to learn on. If you value simplicity and toughness over bells and whistles, the Maverick 88 Security is right in your wheelhouse.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Rock-solid pump action, affordable price point, lightweight and easy to maneuver, compatible with Mossberg 500 barrels and stocks for customization, and backed by Maverick’s reputation for reliability.
Cons: The cylinder-bore barrel limits range and pattern density for longer shots, and the synthetic stock has a slightly utilitarian feel compared to higher-end models. Also, the cross-bolt safety can be a bit stiff out of the box, though it loosens up with use.
Comparison
| Feature | Maverick 88 Security | Mossberg 500 Persuader | Remington 870 Express |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 18.5 inches | 18.5 inches | 18.5 inches |
| Capacity | 5+1 | 6+1 | 4+1 |
| Safety | Cross-bolt, ahead of trigger | Tang safety, top of receiver | Cross-bolt, behind trigger |
| Weight | 6.5 lbs | 7.0 lbs | 7.5 lbs |
| Price | $263.08 | $450–$500 | $400–$450 |
| Aftermarket Parts | Limited but growing | Extensive | Extensive |
FAQ
Does the Maverick 88 Security accept Mossberg 500 barrels?
Yes, the Maverick 88 Security is compatible with most Mossberg 500 barrels, though some minor fitting may be required. Always verify with the barrel manufacturer before purchasing.
What gauge shells does this shotgun handle?
Per manufacturer specs, the Maverick 88 Security accepts 12-gauge shells in 2.75-inch and 3-inch lengths, giving you flexibility for everything from target loads to heavy magnum buckshot.
Is the Maverick 88 Security good for left-handed shooters?
Yes. The cross-bolt safety is ambidextrous, and the pump action is neutral, making it a fine choice for left-handed users. The only potential issue is the shell ejection which is right-side, but that’s common on most pump guns.
Can I add a pistol grip or collapsible stock to this shotgun?
Yes, because the Maverick 88 uses the same stock and forend mounting system as the Mossberg 500, you can upgrade to aftermarket stocks, pistol grips, or even adjustable stocks from brands like ATI or Hogue. Just ensure compliance with local laws.
How many rounds does the magazine hold?
The factory magazine tube holds five 2.75-inch shells, plus one in the chamber for a total capacity of six rounds. Some aftermarket extensions can increase this.
Trust Block
- ✅ Nationwide delivery to all 50 states
- ✅ Ships within 1–2 business days
- ✅ 30-day return policy on unused items
- ✅ Secure checkout with encrypted payment
Browse our full selection of Pump Action Shotguns and check out Home Defense Shotguns for more options. You can also explore Maverick 88 Accessories to customize your rig.
Last updated: April 2026
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