Description
The 12 gauge Shockwave made a big splash when it hit the market, but plenty of folks who picked one up found it to be a handful. That's exactly where this 20 gauge version shines. You get the same head-turning profile, the same proven 590 pump action, and the same bird's-head Raptor grip, just with recoil that's far more manageable. At 4.95 pounds and 26.37 inches from muzzle to grip, it tucks into tight spaces a full-size shotgun never could, and it swings and points fast when it counts.
What Makes the 20 Gauge 590 Shockwave Tick
Under the hood, this is pure 590. Dual extractors, twin action bars, positive steel-to-steel lockup, and an anti-jam elevator have kept this action running in duty use for decades, and it cycles just as smoothly here. The tang-mounted safety sits right under your thumb and works the same whether you're a righty or a lefty. The 14.375 inch heavy-walled barrel wears a matte blued finish and a cylinder bore, and the 3 inch chamber handles both 2.75 and 3 inch shells. A simple front bead keeps sighting quick and uncomplicated at the close ranges this platform was built for.
Raptor Grip and Strapped Forend Working Together
The Raptor grip isn't just for looks. Its bird's-head shape rolls with recoil instead of driving it straight into your wrist, and paired with the milder push of a 20 gauge load, follow-up shots come back on target quickly. Up front, the corn cob forend wears a hand strap that keeps your support hand planted and safely behind the muzzle while you run the pump. Mossberg also added a clean-out magazine cap, so tearing into the 5+1 tube for maintenance takes seconds.
Where the Shockwave 20 Gauge Fits
This one earns its keep as a bedside gun, a camp companion, or simply the most fun thing you'll bring to the range all month. If the 12 gauge version felt like too much muscle, this is the Shockwave you've been waiting for.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Mossberg
- Model: 590 Shockwave
- Manufacturer Part Number: 50657
- UPC: 015813506571
- Gauge: 20 Gauge
- Chamber: 3"
- Action: Pump Action
- Capacity: 5+1
- Barrel Length: 14.375" Heavy-Walled
- Overall Length: 26.37"
- Choke: Cylinder Bore
- Sights: Front Bead
- Safety: Ambidextrous Tang-Mounted
- Grip: Raptor Bird's-Head Grip
- Forend: Corn Cob with Hand Strap
- Weight: 4.95 lbs
What’s Included
- Mossberg 590 Shockwave 20 Gauge firearm
- Raptor bird's-head grip (installed)
- Strapped corn cob forend (installed)
- Owner's manual
- Cable locking device
Frequently Asked Questions
How much softer does the 20 gauge Shockwave shoot compared to the 12 gauge?
The difference is noticeable right away. A 20 gauge pushes considerably less recoil energy than a comparable 12 gauge load, and the Raptor grip's shape helps the gun roll in your hand rather than punch straight back. Most people who found the 12 gauge version tiring can run this one comfortably through a full range session.
Can the Mossberg 590 Shockwave 20 gauge handle 3 inch shells?
Yes, it has a 3 inch chamber, so it runs both 2.75 and 3 inch 20 gauge shells. Keep in mind that capacity is 5+1 with 2.75 inch shells, and heavier 3 inch loads will bump up felt recoil. For most range and defensive use, standard 2.75 inch loads are the sweet spot.
What is the strap on the forend for?
The hand strap on the corn cob forend keeps your support hand anchored and behind the muzzle while cycling the pump. On a firearm this short, that's an important design feature, and it also gives you a more consistent grip for controlling the gun during rapid follow-up shots.
Is the 590 Shockwave a good choice for home defense?
It's a popular pick for that role. The 26.37 inch overall length and sub-5 pound weight make it easy to maneuver in hallways and store in tight spots, and the 590 action has a decades-long track record of reliability. The 20 gauge chambering keeps it controllable while still delivering serious close-range performance.





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