The Maverick 88 Cruiser 12 Gauge is a pump-action security shotgun from Mossberg with an 18.5-inch blued barrel and a black synthetic pistol grip (Mossberg part no. 31008). Mossberg notes that the pistol grip and short barrel make Cruiser models easy to maneuver in tight, confined spaces, which is what makes the format popular for home defense. A Cylinder Bore choke and bead sight keep it simple and quick to point. At 28.125 inches overall, it is compact enough to store in a closet or safe.

Key Specifications

• The gauge is 12 gauge, a proven home-defense bore with wide ammunition choice.
• The action is pump, a manual design that keeps controls simple under stress.
• The chamber is 3 inches, so it accepts 3-inch shells and shorter loads.
• Barrel length is 18.5 inches, short enough for tight hallways and doorways.
• The barrel finish is blued, a protective coating on the steel.
• The choke is Cylinder Bore, an open constriction for close-range patterns and slugs.
• Capacity is 5+1, a solid reserve for a home-defense gun.
• The grip is a black synthetic pistol grip in place of a shoulder stock, which makes the gun very compact.
• The sight is a bead, a simple front reference for quick close-range pointing.
• Overall length is 28.125 inches, a compact size for storage and maneuvering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the Cruiser have a pistol grip? Mossberg describes the pistol grip and short barrel as the combination that gives Cruiser models easy navigation in tight and confined spaces.

What choke does it have? It has a Cylinder Bore choke, the open constriction typically used for close-range work.

Can the barrel be changed later? Yes. Mossberg states that Maverick 88 pump-action models are fully interchangeable with Mossberg 500 barrels within gauge and capacity.

Buy the Maverick 88 Cruiser 12 Gauge Pump Shotgun, 18.5-Inch, Pistol Grip, Bead Sight, 5+1

The Cruiser format trades shoulder-stock length for maneuverability, and this 12 gauge gives you a 5+1 magazine in a very short package. Order it from our Lubbock, Texas gun shop for fast, insured shipping to your FFL, and browse more pump action shotguns while you are here.