The Mossberg Maverick 88 Slug is a 12-gauge pump-action shotgun with a 24-inch barrel, 5+1 capacity, and adjustable rifle sights. The synthetic stock and blued steel receiver keep weight at 7 lbs and 43.5 inches overall. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Model: Maverick 88 
• Caliber/Gauge: 12 Gauge 
• Action: Pump Action 
• Barrel Length: 24 inches 
• Capacity: 5+1 rounds 
• Chamber Size: 3 inches 
• Overall Length: 43.5 inches 
• Weight: 7 lbs 
• Sights: Adjustable Rifle Sights 
• Stock Material: Synthetic (Black Finish) 
• Receiver Material/Finish: Steel with Blued Finish 
   

Detailed Features 

Adjustable rifle sights let shooters dial in slug loads at varying distances, which is the practical point of the dedicated slug barrel over a standard bead-sight shotgun barrel. The synthetic stock holds up to weather without warping or cracking. Pump action cycling is straightforward and the cross-bolt safety is easy to operate. The 3-inch chamber accepts both 2.75-inch and 3-inch loads. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

• Deer Hunting with Slugs: The 24-inch barrel and adjustable sights are configured specifically for slug accuracy at hunting ranges. 
• Home Defense: 5+1 capacity with 12-gauge loads is more than adequate. 
• Recreational Shooting: Works with birdshot, buckshot, and slugs for versatile range use.

The Maverick 88 Slug has a strong reputation for value and reliability. Owners going into their first slug season or wanting a dedicated hunting setup without a large investment consistently report satisfaction. The pump action is reliable with a range of loads, and the adjustable sights make dialing in slug accuracy at 50-100 yards straightforward.

Recoil is manageable for most adults though the synthetic stock transmits more felt recoil than padded or semi-auto alternatives. Trigger pull is heavier than higher-end models, which comes up in reviews. The capacity — while fine for hunting — draws comparison to competitive shotguns in the same price range.

Customization discussions are active: aftermarket stocks, pistol grips, and sights all see mention, and owner satisfaction with personalization options is generally positive. The overall consensus is that it performs its intended function — dedicated slug hunting and general-purpose defensive use — reliably and at an accessible price.