The Mossberg 500 in the Persuader configuration is one of the two pump shotguns most American buyers see at gun counters — the other being the Remington 870. This 50411 build runs an 18.5-inch barrel, holds 5+1 with 2-3/4 inch shells (4+1 with 3-inch), and weighs 108 oz (6.75 lbs) at 39.5 inches overall. The aluminum alloy receiver keeps the gun lighter than the steel-receivered 870 Express's 120 oz, and the top tang safety works for left- and right-handed shooters without aftermarket swaps. Mossberg includes a pistol grip kit with the 50411 so buyers can configure the gun either way.

The 500's real edge is its aftermarket: barrel swaps, stock changes, side saddles, magazine extension tubes, and rail systems are available from dozens of manufacturers, and most install with a screwdriver or no tools at all. Buy the 500 if you want a defensive shotgun under $500 street with the widest pump aftermarket on the market and a safety that works ambidextrously out of the box. Look at the 590 instead if 6+1 instead of 5+1 matters to you, or the 590A1 if you want ghost ring sights and a heavy-walled barrel without an aftermarket build.