{"id":223048,"date":"2025-11-02T15:55:21","date_gmt":"2025-11-02T21:55:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/?p=223048"},"modified":"2025-11-09T19:51:38","modified_gmt":"2025-11-10T01:51:38","slug":"mossberg-990-aftershock-review","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review\/","title":{"rendered":"Mossberg 990 Aftershock: Tiny, Savage, Semi Auto"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-estimated-reading-time yoast-reading-time__wrapper\"><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-icon=\"clock\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" style=\"display:inline-block;vertical-align:-0.1em\" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\"><path stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\" stroke-width=\"2\" d=\"M12 8v4l3 3m6-3a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__spacer\" style=\"display:inline-block;width:1em\"><\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__descriptive-text\">Estimated reading time: <\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__reading-time\">10<\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__time-unit\"> minutes<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mossberg finally drops a semi auto Shockwave style thumper, and the 990 Aftershock brings real gas gun control to a compact 12 gauge that hits hard up close.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-shockwave-energy-semi-auto-control-meet-the-990-aftershock\"><strong>Shockwave Energy, Semi Auto Control: Meet the 990 Aftershock<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7039-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock compact 12 gauge semi auto on range\" class=\"wp-image-223049\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7039-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7039-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7039-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7039-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7039.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Mossberg upended the shooting industry in 2017 by introducing the 590 Shockwave. The Shockwave is not a shotgun by definition, because it features a 14-inch barrel and is just over 26 inches in overall length, which means it isn&#8217;t a short-barrel shotgun and as such does not come under the National Firearms Act. To me this a situation where if it looks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck, then it probably is a duck. It&#8217;s a shotgun. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"This Is NOT a Shotgun - Mossberg 990 Aftershock Review\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/-lAfplddd-g?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Since that introduction many different brands have introduced pump-action Shockwave-style firearms. A few brands even took the Shockwave concept and applied it to semi-automatic shotguns. I used a Remington TAC-13 a few years back which features Remington\u2019s excellent V3 gas system to create a semi-auto firearm. I always wondered why Mossberg didn\u2019t come out with a semi-auto version. No need to guess any more since the Mossberg 990 Aftershock is here.<\/p>\n\n\n<a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/search?keyword=mossberg%20990\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"mossberg-990-aftershock-review\" title=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock: Tiny, Savage, Semi Auto\" style=\"text-decoration:none;font-weight:700;line-height:1;border-radius:9999px;background:#eef4ff;color:#1849a9;border:1px solid #d8e0f0;padding:10px 16px\">\n  \ud83d\uded2 Check Current Price for Mossberg 990 Aftershock on GunsAmerica\n<\/a>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><h2><br \/>Table of contents<\/h2><ul><li><a href=\"#h-shockwave-energy-semi-auto-control-meet-the-990-aftershock\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"mossberg-990-aftershock-review\" title=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock: Tiny, Savage, Semi Auto\" data-level=\"2\">Shockwave Energy, Semi Auto Control: Meet the 990 Aftershock<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-mossberg-990-aftershock-feature-set\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"mossberg-990-aftershock-review\" title=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock: Tiny, Savage, Semi Auto\" data-level=\"2\">Mossberg 990 Aftershock Feature Set<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-forend\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"mossberg-990-aftershock-review\" title=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock: Tiny, Savage, Semi Auto\" data-level=\"3\">Forend<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-defensive\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"mossberg-990-aftershock-review\" title=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock: Tiny, Savage, Semi Auto\" data-level=\"3\">Defensive<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-built-for-tight-spaces-and-fast-decisions\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"mossberg-990-aftershock-review\" title=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock: Tiny, Savage, Semi Auto\" data-level=\"2\">Built for Tight Spaces and Fast Decisions<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-heavy\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"mossberg-990-aftershock-review\" title=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock: Tiny, Savage, Semi Auto\" data-level=\"3\">Heavy<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-loads\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"mossberg-990-aftershock-review\" title=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock: Tiny, Savage, Semi Auto\" data-level=\"3\">Loads<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-loading\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"mossberg-990-aftershock-review\" title=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock: Tiny, Savage, Semi Auto\" data-level=\"3\">Loading<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-push-pull-technique-faster-hits-less-pain\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"mossberg-990-aftershock-review\" title=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock: Tiny, Savage, Semi Auto\" data-level=\"2\">Push Pull Technique: Faster Hits, Less Pain<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-is-the-mossberg-990-aftershock-worth-it\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"mossberg-990-aftershock-review\" title=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock: Tiny, Savage, Semi Auto\" data-level=\"2\">Is the Mossberg 990 Aftershock Worth It?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-mossberg-990-aftershock-specifications\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"mossberg-990-aftershock-review\" title=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock: Tiny, Savage, Semi Auto\" data-level=\"2\">Mossberg 990 Aftershock Specifications<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-pros-and-cons\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"mossberg-990-aftershock-review\" title=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock: Tiny, Savage, Semi Auto\" data-level=\"2\">Pros and Cons<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-related-reads-from-gunsamerica-digest\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"mossberg-990-aftershock-review\" title=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock: Tiny, Savage, Semi Auto\" data-level=\"2\">Related Reads from GunsAmerica Digest<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-mossberg-990-aftershock-feature-set\"><strong>Mossberg 990 Aftershock Feature Set<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mossberg.com\/firearms\/others\/990-aftershock.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"mossberg-990-aftershock-review\" title=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock: Tiny, Savage, Semi Auto\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mossberg 990 Aftershock<\/a> is an all new gas operated, semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 12-gauge with a 3-inch chamber. There are multiple versions available. One is an 18.5-inch barrel model, a 14.75-inch barrel model which I tested, and a version equipped with a Crimson Trace Lasersaddle. In hand, the 990 Aftershock with the 14.75-inch barrel is only 27.1 inches long and weighs about 6 pounds unloaded. It feels like a small heavy stick. A small stick with a big whack. In fact, 5+1 rounds of whack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7041-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock oversized bolt release and charging handle closeup\" class=\"wp-image-223051\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7041-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7041-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7041-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7041-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7041-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7041-2048x1536.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Both the bolt release and the charging handle are oversized so manipulating the Aftershock is easy and fast.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>What I like about the 990 Aftershock is that Mossberg incorporated features found on their Model 940 semi-auto shotguns and applied them to the 990 Aftershock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7043-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock forend strap for recoil control and safety\" class=\"wp-image-223053\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7043-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7043-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7043-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7043-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7043-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7043-2048x1536.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The forend strap is necessary because it allows you to control muzzle flip during recoil plus your hand stays clear of the muzzle.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-forend\">Forend<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Like the enlarged and beveled loading port and elongated elevator which eases loading the 990 with no pinched thumb. Controls, knurled charging handle, paddle-style bolt release, and ambidextrous safety, are all oversized making the 990 easy and fast to operate with or without gloves. The forend wears a strap which is a necessity with these types of firearms. Recoil can be a bear and the strap ensures your support hand stays in place on the forend and doesn&#8217;t slip past the muzzle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I&#8217;ve used Shockwave style firearms without the strap and it can feel like you are trying to hang onto a fat slippery, wiggling eel in recoil. Just like with an SBR or large format pistols such as AR15 or AK pistols, it is important to keep hands clear of the muzzle. The forend is relatively thin for a gas system gun. The piston is inside the forend and on many sporting guns, the piston can make the forend feel thick in hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7044-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock M-LOK slots for tactical light mounting\" class=\"wp-image-223054\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7044-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7044-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7044-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7044-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7044-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7044-2048x1536.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">M-LOK slots incorporated into the Mossberg 990 Aftershock allow you to add a tactical light.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-defensive\">Defensive<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>What I also liked about the 990 was that Mossberg didn\u2019t forget that this is a defense weapon. The M-LOK accessory slots on the sides and bottom allow you to attach a tactical light that is in close proximity of your support hand thumb when you need to turn it on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7046-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock large ambidextrous top safety detail\" class=\"wp-image-223055\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7046-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7046-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7046-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7046-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7046-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7046-2048x1536.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The safety is large and ambidextrous and falls right under the firing hand thumb.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The grip was also thought out with a rubberized palm that offers some cushion from recoil. There is also a QD cup in the grip butt perfect for use with a one-point sling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"931\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7052-931x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock grip with integrated QD sling cup\" class=\"wp-image-223057\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7052-931x1024.jpg 931w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7052-273x300.jpg 273w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7052-136x150.jpg 136w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7052-768x845.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7052-1396x1536.jpg 1396w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7052-1862x2048.jpg 1862w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 931px) 100vw, 931px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Aftershock grip features a QD cup in the grip butt perfect for use with a one-point sling.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"745\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7053-1-745x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock rubberized palm swell on grip closeup\" class=\"wp-image-223060\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7053-1-745x1024.jpg 745w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7053-1-218x300.jpg 218w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7053-1-109x150.jpg 109w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7053-1-768x1056.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7053-1.jpg 873w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 745px) 100vw, 745px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The grip on the 990 Aftershock is rubberized palm that offers some cushion from recoil.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-built-for-tight-spaces-and-fast-decisions\"><strong>Built for Tight Spaces and Fast Decisions<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Aftershock is a close quarters style weapon. Ideal for cramped environments like the hallway of your home, it is also the type of companion you may want with you in your vehicle if things go sideways on the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"622\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-GOPR1271-1-1024x622.jpg\" alt=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock firing test showing 12 gauge gas system control\" class=\"wp-image-223062\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-GOPR1271-1-1024x622.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-GOPR1271-1-400x243.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-GOPR1271-1-150x91.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-GOPR1271-1-768x467.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-GOPR1271-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">At close range the Mossberg 990 Aftershock offers a lot of 12 gauge firepower; the gas system makes this beast easy to control.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-heavy\">Heavy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>These are difficult firearms to shoot, however, since it is too heavy to fire like a pistol and there is not a stock or brace to steady the weapon while you aim. As such you can\u2019t get a steady aim with these types of firearms and that\u2019s the reason why they are close range weapons. I find two ways of shooting these firearms works out best for me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7035-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock patterning results with birdshot and 00 buck at 15 yards\" class=\"wp-image-223065\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7035-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7035-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7035-113x150.jpg 113w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7035.jpg 900w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Federal birdshot shredded the target and had over spray at 15 yards. Two blasts from the Panzer 00 Buck is center of mass and the Hornady Critical Defense is lower on the target.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>One way is to hold the Aftershock in front of your body and use the red fiber optic tube to aim with. Make sure the 990 is away from your face or you will soon realize why it should be. This technique offers the best accuracy, and as I found depending on the load the Aftershock can be surgical. A 3-inch group with Hornady Critical Defense at 15 yards is impressive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"893\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7059-893x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock beveled loading port closeup for faster reloads\" class=\"wp-image-223067\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7059-893x1024.jpg 893w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7059-262x300.jpg 262w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7059-131x150.jpg 131w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7059-768x881.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-IMG_7059.jpg 1046w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 893px) 100vw, 893px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The beveled loading port on the Mossberg 990 Aftershock makes it easier to load shells.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The second way is to shoot the Aftershock is from the hip with the Aftershock on the side of your body. This technique offers less accuracy but is effective at close range. With the Aftershock at your side, your arms absorb the recoil.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-loads\">Loads<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>I ran two different 00 Buck loads and a bird shot load through the 990. For the tactical loads I used Hornady Critical Defense 00 Buck and Panzer Defense 00 Buck. As side note: I&#8217;ve found that Hornady Critical Defense load consistently shoots tight patterns compared to other brands of 00 Buck ammo. It averaged a 3-inch pattern at 15 yards while the Panzer averaged over 4 inches. The Federal Ultra Clay &amp; Field loaded with 1-1\/8 ounce of #8 birdshot spewed a 21 inch pattern on average. Bird shot might be a good option to avoid over penetration especially in the confines of your home. The bird shot does not have the energy of buck shock, and will penetrate less. It will also over spray the target which is something to consider when deciding on a defense load for your situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"883\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-GOPR1270-1-1024x883.jpg\" alt=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock hip fire technique demonstration\" class=\"wp-image-223070\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-GOPR1270-1-1024x883.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-GOPR1270-1-348x300.jpg 348w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-GOPR1270-1-150x129.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-GOPR1270-1-768x662.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-GOPR1270-1.jpg 1065w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Shooting the Mossberg Aftershock from the hip offers less accuracy but is effective at close range. Your arms absorb the recoil.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-loading\">Loading<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Loading up the Aftershock I found the beveled loading port made inserting shells fast and easy. I didn\u2019t pinch my thumb on the last round loaded. The over sized controls allow me to operate the 990 smoothly. I hate bolt release buttons that are small and hard to press. Loading up with Federal bird shot and ripping through a magazine of shells shredded the cardboard target. Shooting from the hip the Aftershock was fairly easy to control when shooting fast. Recoil is stout; your arms and hands take all the abuse. The strap on the forend keeps your hand in place. Not only does it allow you to hold on and keep away from the muzzle, it keeps your hand off the hot barrel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"834\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-GOPR1270-2-1024x834.jpg\" alt=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock close range technique using fiber optic front\" class=\"wp-image-223072\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-GOPR1270-2-1024x834.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-GOPR1270-2-368x300.jpg 368w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-GOPR1270-2-150x122.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-GOPR1270-2-768x626.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-GOPR1270-2.jpg 1064w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Mossberg 990 Aftershock can be surgical with the right load and shooting technique. One shooting technique is to hold the Aftershock in front of your body and use the red fiber optic tube to aim.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-push-pull-technique-faster-hits-less-pain\"><strong>Push Pull Technique: Faster Hits, Less Pain<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Point shooting with the 00 Buck loads I used the push pull technique, pull the grip with my firing hand while pushing with my support hand, to steady the Aftershock. At 15 yards it was an easy task to get all 00 Buck pellets on target. Shooting the Aftershock this way helps to manage recoil. Remember to keep it away from your face or else you might get whacked. The speed and amount of 00 Buck pellets you can get down range is impressive. The Aftershock cycled smoothly and even with the light Federal birdshot load. It cycled relentlessly with no issues. I ran about 200 shells through the Aftershock and full disclosure I had a grin on my face. It is a fun firearm to shoot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-is-the-mossberg-990-aftershock-worth-it\"><strong>Is the Mossberg 990 Aftershock Worth It?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The 990 Aftershock reverberates with power. I admit that it is a fun firearm to shoot, but it is more difficult to shoot than a handgun, shotgun or rifle. It is an expensive option for home defense, compared to similar pump-action firearms. Firearms like the Aftershock are unique and take a training just to be competent and consistent, but it does offer a lot of fire power in a small package.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-mossberg-990-aftershock-specifications\"><strong>Mossberg 990 Aftershock Specifications<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><tbody><tr><th>Model<\/th><td>Mossberg 990 Aftershock<\/td><\/tr><tr><th>Caliber<\/th><td>12 gauge<\/td><\/tr><tr><th>Barrel Length<\/th><td>14.75 in (tested) or 18.5 in<\/td><\/tr><tr><th>Overall Length<\/th><td>27.1 in<\/td><\/tr><tr><th>Weight<\/th><td>about 6 lb unloaded<\/td><\/tr><tr><th>Capacity<\/th><td>5+1<\/td><\/tr><tr><th>Action<\/th><td>Gas operated semi automatic<\/td><\/tr><tr><th>Chamber<\/th><td>3 in<\/td><\/tr><tr><th>MSRP<\/th><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-pros-and-cons\"><strong>Pros and Cons<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros:<\/strong> Compact 12 gauge package, gas system softens the chaos, oversized controls and beveled port run fast, M-LOK timing with light is intuitive, strap keeps you safe and planted.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons:<\/strong> Still tricky to aim compared to a stocked shotgun, recoil is stout without a brace, costlier than pump options, technique dependent for best results.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-related-reads-from-gunsamerica-digest\"><strong>Related Reads from GunsAmerica Digest<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/tag\/mossberg\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"mossberg-990-aftershock-review\" title=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock: Tiny, Savage, Semi Auto\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">More Mossberg coverage on GunsAmerica Digest<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/tag\/shotguns\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"mossberg-990-aftershock-review\" title=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock: Tiny, Savage, Semi Auto\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">All shotgun reviews and tips<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/tag\/home-defense\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"mossberg-990-aftershock-review\" title=\"Mossberg 990 Aftershock: Tiny, Savage, Semi Auto\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Home defense firearm guides<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Mossberg finally drops a semi auto Shockwave style thumper, and the 990 Aftershock brings real gas gun control to a compact 12 gauge that hits hard up close.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":65,"featured_media":223062,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_specdata_upc":"","_specdata_placement":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[694,771,38],"tags":[1080,102,108,3689,182,4510],"featured":[],"hunt365":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-223048","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-gun-reviews","8":"category-robert-sadowski","9":"category-gun-reviews-shotguns","10":"tag-12-guage","11":"tag-feature-articles","12":"tag-guns","13":"tag-headline","14":"tag-mossberg","15":"tag-mossberg-990"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.1 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Mossberg 990 Aftershock Review, 12 Gauge<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"We push the 990 Aftershock to see if this compact 12 gauge semi 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Sadowski is an American writer and journalist. He has written about firearms and 2A issues for decades, and has trained with some of the country\u2019s finest firearm instructors in handguns, rifles\/carbines, shotguns and long-range shooting. He has also had the opportunity to interview numerous individuals deeply involved in protecting our 2nd Amendment. He a is a frequent contributor to numerous gun-enthusiast publications, a few of which include: \u2022 TheArmorylife.com \u2022 TheTruthAboutGuns.com \u2022 GunsAmerica.com \u2022 GunBroker.com \u2022 Gun-Tests.com \u2022 Shooting Illustrated \u2022 SHOT Business \u2022 Gun Digest Sadowski is also the author of numerous gun books, including: \\\"9MM \u2014 Guide to America\u2019s Most Popular Caliber\\\" and \\\"Book Of Glock,\\\" both of which were #1 new releases on Amazon. He also wrote the popular DIY gun book series: Shooter\u2019s Bible Guide to Firearms Assembly, Disassembly, and Cleaning Volume 1 and Volume 2. Other gun books authored by Sadowski include \\\"50 Guns That Changed the World,\\\" and edited \\\"The M16A1 Rifle: Operation and Preventive Maintenance\\\"originally published by the U.S. Department of the Army. He also edits the annual \\\"Gun Trader's Guide\\\" to firearm values. Sadowski is also the Treasurer\/Secretary of the GLOCK Collectors Association, a non-profit organization with the mission to educate and preserve: Educate the public on the models, variations, and commemoratives built by GLOCK, as well as provide members with information on GLOCK serial numbers, importation, and other facts unique to GLOCK pistols.\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/author\/robertsadowski\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Mossberg 990 Aftershock Review, 12 Gauge","description":"We push the 990 Aftershock to see if this compact 12 gauge semi auto tames recoil while delivering fast, close range hits for home 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Sadowski is an American writer and journalist. He has written about firearms and 2A issues for decades, and has trained with some of the country\u2019s finest firearm instructors in handguns, rifles\/carbines, shotguns and long-range shooting. He has also had the opportunity to interview numerous individuals deeply involved in protecting our 2nd Amendment. He a is a frequent contributor to numerous gun-enthusiast publications, a few of which include: \u2022 TheArmorylife.com \u2022 TheTruthAboutGuns.com \u2022 GunsAmerica.com \u2022 GunBroker.com \u2022 Gun-Tests.com \u2022 Shooting Illustrated \u2022 SHOT Business \u2022 Gun Digest Sadowski is also the author of numerous gun books, including: \"9MM \u2014 Guide to America\u2019s Most Popular Caliber\" and \"Book Of Glock,\" both of which were #1 new releases on Amazon. He also wrote the popular DIY gun book series: Shooter\u2019s Bible Guide to Firearms Assembly, Disassembly, and Cleaning Volume 1 and Volume 2. Other gun books authored by Sadowski include \"50 Guns That Changed the World,\" and edited \"The M16A1 Rifle: Operation and Preventive Maintenance\"originally published by the U.S. Department of the Army. He also edits the annual \"Gun Trader's Guide\" to firearm values. Sadowski is also the Treasurer\/Secretary of the GLOCK Collectors Association, a non-profit organization with the mission to educate and preserve: Educate the public on the models, variations, and commemoratives built by GLOCK, as well as provide members with information on GLOCK serial numbers, importation, and other facts unique to GLOCK pistols.","url":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/author\/robertsadowski\/"}]}},"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mossberg-990-aftershock-review-GOPR1271-1-150x91.jpg","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/223048","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/65"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=223048"}],"version-history":[{"count":17,"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/223048\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":224759,"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/223048\/revisions\/224759"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/223062"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=223048"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=223048"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=223048"},{"taxonomy":"featured","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/featured?post=223048"},{"taxonomy":"hunt365","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/hunt365?post=223048"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}