INITIAL THOUGHTS
The Shockwave is short, compact, and lighter than a full-size pump shotgun; however, I had doubts about whether I could handle the stiff recoil/kick of 12-gauge buckshot loads fired in such a small package. All my shotguns have long barrels and full stocks – how would I aim something meant to fired from the hip?
With the laser touchpad, it all makes sense. Just point with the red Crimson Trace laser and squeeze the trigger.
Mossberg correctly designed this gun to meet ATF requirements. It must be 26 inches long to allow the 14-inch-long barrel. Classified as a 12-gauge "firearm" and not a shotgun, the Shockwave requires no separate background check and no tax stamp from the ATF. I like that.
FEATURES
My favorite two features of the Shockwave are its short overall length and its reliability. This is a point-and-shoot gun that I can imagine in my truck, backpack, or bedroom. It takes up little space but packs more punch than any handgun that I own – not built for concealed carry, but still short enough to avoid attention until needed.
The Shockwave’s design is based on Mossberg’s well-proven line of 500 and 590 hunting and combat shotguns. Tested and carried by law enforcement and our military, its action is simple, positive, and strong. Despite being an alloy receiver, all internal action parts are steel. I like the twin action bars and anti-jam elevator, which combine to smooth the pump action. Twin extractors will pull any stubborn empty from the chamber.
Mossberg knows that the 12 gauge can be a handful. The “corncob” forearm and attached strap enable me to hold on tight while running the action without fear of overreaching the muzzle. The unique Raptor pistol grip is smooth with a swelled shape that fits my hand.
External features include an ambidextrous tang-mounted safety, sling mounts, and a receiver that is drilled and tapped for an optical mount. The brass bead front sight at the muzzle is unnecessary, since the included laser sight is the best way to sight the Shockwave.
CRIMSON TRACE TO THE RESCUE
Crimson Trace and Mossberg have combined forces to make the Shockwave aimable in low-light conditions. The LS-250 Laser Saddle with touchpad activation instinctively enables me to print a red laser dot on my intended target. It is quick, accurate, and adjustable. Elevation and windage can be dialed into the sight for precise aiming.
The touchpad is the best part of the laser saddle. It extends from the tang and runs the length of the right side of the receiver just above the trigger. Although nearly invisible when viewing the firearm, it is easy to feel and activate with the trigger finger or thumb. Left-handed shooters can still reach the laser touchpad with their thumb, and once learned, it is quick and instinctive to activate and simply point the gun from the hip and shoot.
Although the Crimson Trace Laser Saddle is functional and reliable, it does not project its red dot in daylight. Pointing the activated laser at steel targets 7 yards distant was pointless. No laser spot could be detected, but in my dim bedroom interior, the red dot is very visible. It aids in steadying the gun and makes target acquisition fast and easy.
RANGE TIME
Area 52 in Southern Arizona was the perfect place to test the Shockwave, with steel plates at 7 yards and 2-liter soda jugs at 10 yards. Ammunition was Federal 1 1/8-ounce loads of 7 1/2 shot and Sellier & Bellot 00 buckshot loaded with nine pellets per shell. Both represent typical loads for home defense.
My initial shooting was with Federal light birdshot loads. The Shockwave likes to be held at arm's length when fired rather than from the hip. Hip shooting is fast but not accurate in daylight without seeing the laser dot. Extending the gun and holding a bit low is the proper way to shoot and hit center. Simply aim down the barrel and align the bead sight on target.
When shooting the Shockwave, I am sure to place my left hand through the forearm strap and hold on tightly with both hands. Lean forward as the shot breaks, and roll back with the recoil. Although sharp, the kick is manageable. Be sure to keep the Raptor grip a few inches below and in front of your face and chin. Never attempt to shoot the Shockwave from the shoulder.
I love the sound made by pumping the action – anyone in earshot knows that you are locked and loaded. Sliding five shells into the magazine is effortless and smooth. By adding one shell to the chamber, I have a six-shooter that has more power than any old West .45 revolver.
At 7 yards, the Shockwave’s cylinder bore patterned 6 inches on steel with birdshot, while it placed all nine 00 buck pellets within a 4-inch circle at the same distance on paper. The 2-liter soda jugs simply vaporized when hit.
The pump action is smooth, and the internal steel feed mechanism does not miss a beat. Empties were thrown clear, and each new round chambered cleanly. It is important to allow the Shockwave to roll upward with each shot, and I found that I could pump and return the gun down to fire the next shot quickly.
No jams nor failures to feed, eject, or fire were encountered in this test. Functioning was smooth and consistent through two boxes of shells.
Ron Calderone
Ron Calderone is a national record holder and recognized NRA competitor with a legendary background in Black Powder Cartridge Rifle Silhouette. A certified match director and former board member of the Tucson Rifle Club, Ron now enjoys retirement quail hunting with his French Spaniel and sharing his decades of competitive expertise.
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