The Mossberg 500 Cruiser (Model 50452) is a 20-gauge pump-action shotgun in the Special Purpose series. Compact at 38.5 inches overall with an 18.5-inch barrel, it works for home defense, field use, and sport shooting without requiring a large commitment on weight or bulk. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Manufacturer: Mossberg 
• Model: 500 
• Series: Special Purpose 
• Gauge: 20 Gauge 
• Action: Pump 
• Barrel Length: 18.5 inches 
• Capacity: 5 rounds (3-inch chamber size) 
• Weight: 6.5 pounds (104 ounces) 
• Total Length: 38.5 inches 
• Choke Configuration: Fixed Cylinder Bore 
• Receiver Material/Finish: Steel, Blued finish 
• Stock Material/Finish: Synthetic black with rubber butt plate 
• Safety Feature: Ambidextrous thumb-operated safety 
   

Detailed Features 

 
The pump action uses twin-action bars, which adds stability and makes the stroke smoother during rapid cycling. The ambidextrous thumb safety is fast to engage or disengage regardless of which hand is dominant. Bead sight keeps target acquisition simple. The blued steel receiver resists corrosion and holds up to outdoor use. The synthetic stock with rubber butt plate absorbs some felt recoil and grips well in wet conditions. A ten-year limited warranty and gun lock are included. 
 

Target Audience 

 
Shooters who want a 20-gauge in a compact form — lighter recoil and manageable size make this accessible to a wider range of users. Good for hunters working small game and birds, and for homeowners who want a lower-recoil defensive option. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

 
Home defense in tight spaces benefits from the short barrel and light weight. Small game and bird hunting work well with the 20-gauge chambering. Trap and skeet practice are reasonable uses at the range.

The Mossberg 500 Cruiser in 20 gauge gets solid marks for reliability and ease of use.

The most consistent positive is how dependably it runs. Owners report the pump cycles cleanly and the action holds up across a variety of loads. The 20-gauge caliber gets called out specifically as a good fit for less experienced shooters or those sensitive to recoil — it's less punishing than a 12-gauge while still effective. The compact size is appreciated for home defense where maneuverability in hallways matters.

The main complaints are around customization and capacity. Five rounds is workable but some owners wish for more before a reload, especially compared to other Mossberg models. Adjustable stock options aren't standard, which bothers shooters who want to dial in fit. The fixed stock is comfortable for most, but a few users find it limits how much they can optimize their shooting position.