Q: I was looking to buy a shotgun today for home defense, and was wondering if the Mossberg 500 Tactical Cruiser 12 Gauge would be a good choice. Here is a picture of it. http://www.webarms.com/gun%20suppliers/Mossberg%20Shotguns/54125.gif I am not interested in any rifle, semi-auto, or revolver. I only want to know if this shotgun is an excellent choice or not?
A: The Mossberg 500 12 gauge Tactical / Cruiser models are an excellent choice for home defense. I have one in my home and my family members have these Mossberg 500's in there homes also...... I do think you should consider a slightly different model. That one in the photo has the door breacher on the end of the barrel..... Its completely not necessary.... I also recommend against the pistol grip model..... Its very difficult to accurately aim and hit anything with the pistol grip model..... I tried it -- didn't like the fact you cant hit anything beyond 15 feet and its brutal on the right hand.... Consider this model..... Its not as "mean" looking but does the job.... In the photo you will note it has a regular stock but the model # 50411 does come with a pistol grip in the box -- that way your not limited and can try them both.... http://www.mossberg.com/images/Mossberg_Guns/930/NEW/50411.jpg I happen to have a big house with lots of easy ability to move around so I use this.... Its a 20 inch barrel model that holds 8 shots.... http://www.mossberg.com/images/Mossberg_Guns/930/NEW/50577.jpg