Even in the 21st Century, the 12-gauge pump shotgun still has its place. Since 1987, the U.S. military has been issuing the Mossberg 590A1. While not the only shotgun in service, the 590A1 has been a workhorse. It’s been used by all branches of the service (okay, I’m not sure about the Space Force) and has seen combat across the globe. It doesn’t look like that’s about to end any time soon either, as the U.S. Army just awarded O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc. a $11.6 million contract for additional Mossberg 590A1s.
The 590A1 in Military Service
Mossberg’s original 590 was first adopted by multiple branches of the U.S. Military in 1987. It proved its reliability and durability by successfully completing the rigorous MIL-SPEC 3443E testing protocol. A test that a lot of other shotguns have failed.
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After its initial adoption, and despite its already rugged base, the U.S. Military requested a purpose-built variant. They wanted a version capable of withstanding “sustained, high-volume use in the most demanding environments.” Mossberg obliged with a strengthened, mission-ready evolution of the original 590 platform.
Mossberg 590A1 shotguns are based on the time-tested Mossberg 500 pump-action. They have non-binding twin action bars, a positive steel-to-steel lock-up, and an anti-jam elevator for smooth, reliable operation. Dual extractors ensure reliable extraction of spent rounds.
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The anodized aluminum receiver has proven durable, and mounts Mossberg’s excellent, ambidextrous top tang-mounted safety. Some of the updates on the A1 include a heavy-walled barrel, a metal trigger guard, a metal safety selector switch, and a parkerized finish.
Mossberg’s Statement
“Mossberg is honored to receive an additional contract from the U.S. Department of Defense for the battle-proven 590A1 shotgun,” said John MacLellan, Mossberg’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing.
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“This award reflects our long commitment to supplying rugged, mission-capable firearms built to exacting standards — and reinforces our pledge to provide timely solutions that support the safety and effectiveness of U.S. service members.”
590 Fan Boy
In full disclosure, I was geeked by the continuation of the 590A1’s service life. The 590A1 is my all-time favorite shotgun, and I’ve owned one for over 30 years. I picked up a semi-auto Mossberg 940 Pro Tactical SPX earlier this year, which I like a lot. It’s supplementing my 590A1, though, not replacing it. If (God forbid) I could only have one shotgun, it would be a 590A1.
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