Description
For the American shooter who values adaptability without the premium price tag, the Maverick 88 Security/Field Combo Pump-Action Shotgun offers a straightforward solution to multiple shooting disciplines. Whether you need a reliable home defense tool for the nightstand or a field gun for upland birds and waterfowl, this 12-gauge combo delivers two distinct barrel configurations in a single purchase. Designed for the practical gun owner who wants one platform that transitions between roles, the Maverick 88 provides a no-nonsense approach to personal protection and outdoor recreation across the United States.
What This Product Is and Who It’s For
The Maverick 88 Security/Field Combo is a pump-action shotgun chambered in 12 gauge, packaged with an 18.5-inch security barrel and a 28-inch field barrel. This setup is intended for shooters who need a single firearm capable of handling home defense scenarios and hunting trips without purchasing a second gun. It suits the budget-conscious homeowner, the weekend bird hunter, the first-time shotgun buyer, and the experienced shooter seeking a reliable backup or truck gun. The synthetic stock and black finish make it a durable choice for harsh weather and heavy use, while the 10-round capacity (with the 18.5-inch barrel) provides ample firepower for defensive situations. This is not a specialized competition gun or a collector’s safe queen—it is a working firearm for practical American shooters.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: 12 Gauge (2.75-inch and 3-inch shells)
- Action: Pump-action with twin action bars
- Barrel Lengths: 18.5 inches (security) and 28 inches (field)
- Overall Length: Approximately 38.5 inches (18.5-inch barrel) and 48 inches (28-inch barrel)
- Capacity: 6+1 rounds (28-inch field barrel); 9+1 rounds (18.5-inch security barrel)
- Stock: Synthetic, black, with a textured grip and forend
- Finish: Matte black oxide on metal surfaces
- Weight: Approximately 7.25 pounds (varies by barrel configuration)
- Sights: Bead front sight on both barrels; no rear sight
- Choke System: Fixed modified choke on the 28-inch field barrel; cylinder bore on the 18.5-inch security barrel
- Safety: Cross-bolt trigger safety
- Receiver: Steel receiver, drilled and tapped for scope mount bases
Feature Deep-Dive
The dual-barrel combo is the central feature of this Maverick 88 model. Switching from the 18.5-inch security barrel to the 28-inch field barrel takes under a minute with basic tools, allowing the shooter to reconfigure the shotgun for different tasks. The security barrel’s cylinder bore and shorter length make it maneuverable in tight spaces, while the field barrel’s modified choke provides a balanced pattern for bird hunting at moderate distances. This flexibility reduces the need for multiple firearms, which is a practical consideration for shooters with limited safe space or budget.
The pump-action mechanism uses twin action bars, a design shared with the Mossberg 500 platform. This system reduces binding and ensures smooth cycling, even with heavy loads or in adverse conditions. The action bars are steel and connect the forend to the bolt, distributing force evenly during operation. The result is a reliable cycling action that functions consistently across a wide range of ammunition, from low-recoil target loads to high-brass hunting shells. Users will find the pump stroke to be positive and predictable, which is critical in defensive or hunting scenarios where a malfunction is not an option.
The synthetic stock and forend are constructed from a high-impact polymer that resists moisture, temperature extremes, and impact. The stock features a textured grip area and a raised cheek piece for a consistent cheek weld. The forend includes finger grooves that provide a secure hold, even with wet or gloved hands. Unlike wooden stocks, this synthetic furniture will not warp, crack, or swell in humid conditions, making it a durable choice for hunters who operate in rain, snow, or marsh environments. The black finish is non-reflective, reducing glare in low-light defensive situations.
The steel receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mount bases, allowing the shooter to attach optics such as a red dot sight or a low-power scope. This is a useful feature for those who want to improve accuracy for slug hunting or precision shooting. The receiver also houses a cross-bolt safety located at the rear of the trigger guard, which is ambidextrous and easy to operate under stress. The trigger pull is consistent and breaks cleanly at around 5 to 6 pounds, which is acceptable for a pump-action shotgun at this price point.
The 28-inch field barrel comes with a fixed modified choke, which is a versatile choice for upland game, waterfowl, and turkey hunting when using appropriate shot sizes. The 18.5-inch security barrel has a cylinder bore, which produces a wide pattern suitable for close-range defensive use. Both barrels are made from steel with a matte black oxide finish that resists rust and corrosion. The bead front sight on each barrel is simple and effective, providing a clear aiming reference for fast target acquisition. For shooters who want interchangeable chokes, aftermarket options are available from third-party manufacturers, though the factory configuration is fixed.
Reliability is a hallmark of the Maverick 88 series. The design is derived from the Mossberg 500, a platform with decades of field use by law enforcement and military agencies. The Maverick 88 uses a simplified trigger group and a different safety location (cross-bolt versus tang safety on the Mossberg 500), but the core action is proven. This shotgun will cycle a wide variety of 12-gauge ammunition, including 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells, without frequent cleaning. The magazine tube holds up to nine rounds with the security barrel, which is a significant capacity advantage for home defense. The field barrel holds six rounds, which is standard for hunting applications.
Ideal Use Cases
- Home Defense: The 18.5-inch barrel and 9+1 capacity make this shotgun effective for protecting a residence. The short overall length allows for easy maneuvering in hallways and doorways. The pump-action sound is also a recognized deterrent.
- Hunting (Upland Birds, Waterfowl, Small Game): The 28-inch field barrel with modified choke is suitable for pheasant, quail, grouse, ducks, and geese when used with appropriate shot sizes. The synthetic stock handles wet conditions well.
- Range Practice and Target Shooting: The shotgun cycles low-recoil target loads reliably, making it a good choice for clay shooting or informal target practice. The dual-barrel setup allows for quick transition between slug and shot patterns.
- General Utility / Truck Gun: The durable synthetic stock and matte finish make this a low-maintenance firearm that can be stored in a vehicle or safe without worry. It is a practical tool for property protection or predator control.
Compatibility Notes
This shotgun accepts standard 12-gauge 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells. It does not accept 3.5-inch magnum shells. The 18.5-inch barrel has a cylinder bore and will accept aftermarket choke tubes if the barrel is threaded by a gunsmith, but the factory barrel is fixed. The 28-inch barrel has a fixed modified choke and is not threaded for chokes. Aftermarket stocks and forends from Mossberg 500 models may fit with minor modifications, but compatibility should be verified with the manufacturer. The receiver is drilled and tapped for standard scope bases (Mossberg 500 pattern). Magazine extensions are available from third-party manufacturers for the security barrel, but the factory tube is fixed. Holsters are not typically used for shotguns of this size; slings are the preferred carry method, and the stock includes sling swivel studs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do you ship this shotgun to all U.S. states?
A: We ship to all states where the Maverick 88 is legal for sale. Some states and localities have restrictions on magazine capacity, barrel length, or firearm type. It is your responsibility to know your local laws. We do not ship to P.O. boxes; a physical address is required.
Q: How does the FFL transfer process work for this firearm?
A: After your order is placed, we will ship the shotgun to a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer of your choice. You must provide the FFL’s contact information during checkout. We will include a copy of our FFL with the shipment. The receiving FFL will process the transfer according to state and federal law, which typically includes a background check. You are responsible for any transfer fees charged by the receiving FFL.
Q: What ammunition is compatible with this shotgun?
A: This shotgun is chambered for 12-gauge ammunition in 2.75-inch and 3-inch shell lengths. It will cycle standard target loads, buckshot, birdshot, and slugs. It is not rated for 3.5-inch magnum shells. We recommend using factory-loaded ammunition from reputable manufacturers for reliable function.
Q: What is the warranty on the Maverick 88?
A: Maverick Arms provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner against defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty covers the firearm for its service life, with the exception of normal wear and tear, misuse, or unauthorized modifications. Warranty service is handled directly through Maverick Arms. We recommend retaining your sales receipt as proof of purchase.
Q: What is your return policy for firearms?
A: All firearm sales are final. We inspect each shotgun before shipment to ensure it meets factory specifications. If the firearm arrives damaged or with a manufacturing defect, please contact us within 48 hours of delivery. We will work with you and the manufacturer to resolve the issue. Returns for cosmetic reasons or buyer’s remorse are not accepted. Please review the specifications carefully before ordering.
Closing Call to Action
The Maverick 88 Security/Field Combo provides American shooters with a practical, dual-purpose shotgun that covers home defense and hunting without breaking the bank. It ships directly to your chosen FFL dealer from our U.S.-based inventory. Order today for reliable delivery across the United States.
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