The Mossberg 500 Bantam Field/Deer is a 20-gauge pump shotgun with a 4-position adjustable Flex stock. Length of pull adjusts from approximately 12 3/4" to 14 5/8", which makes it suitable for youth and smaller-framed shooters who will eventually grow into a standard LOP. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Mossberg 
• Model Name: 500 Bantam Field/Deer 
• Type: Pump Shotgun 
• Caliber/Gauge: 20 Gauge 
• Chamber: 3" 
• Barrel Lengths Available: 22" to 24" 
• Capacity: 5+1 rounds 
• Weight: Approximately 6.75 lbs 
• Overall Length (OAL): Adjustable between 34.75" - 36.75" 
• Sights: Dual Bead, Adjustable 
• Stock Material: Synthetic with a Black finish 
• Action Type: Pump action 
• Safety Feature: Ambidextrous Top Tang Safety 
   

Detailed Features 

 
The Flex stock adjusts in four positions, covering LOP from 12 3/4" to 14 5/8" without tools. The Accu-set choke system allows choke swaps for different targets. Dual bead sights are raised and adjustable. The top tang safety is ambidextrous and easy to reach from a natural grip. At 6.75 lbs the gun is lighter than a full-size 500, though not as light as the 505 Youth.

The 500 Bantam Flex draws consistent praise from parents buying a first shotgun for a younger shooter. The adjustable stock is the main selling point. It fits a smaller shooter and can be extended as they grow, which makes the gun a longer-term investment than a fixed-stock youth model. The pump action is reliable and easy to teach.

Common criticism covers fit and finish consistency, with some users finding component quality below expectations. A few new shooters have needed coaching to develop pump-action technique, which is normal but worth noting. Recoil in 20 gauge is described as manageable for most youth users.