The Mossberg Maverick 88 Bantam is a pump-action shotgun in 20 gauge, built around a shorter length of pull and compact dimensions for youth and small-statured shooters. It comes with a Mossy Oak Bottomlands camo synthetic stock, a steel receiver with blued finish, and dual bead fixed sights. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Mossberg 
• Model Name: Maverick 88 Bantam 
• Gauge: 20 GA 
• Action Type: Pump Action 
• Capacity: 5+1 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 22 inches 
• Overall Length: 39.75 inches 
• Weight: Approximately 5.25 lbs 
• Chamber Size: 3 inches 
• Sights Type: Dual Bead (Fixed) 
• Stock Material: Synthetic, Mossy Oak Bottomlands finish 
• Receiver Material/Finish: Steel, blued 
   

Features 

 
At 39.75 inches overall and just over 5 pounds, the Bantam is notably lighter than full-size shotguns, which helps reduce fatigue over a long day. The 22-inch barrel keeps the gun maneuverable in tighter spaces. Dual bead sights are fixed -- nothing to adjust or lose. The Accu-Choke system lets the shooter swap choke tubes to change the shot pattern, useful when going from birds one day to clays the next. The synthetic stock doesn't absorb water or warp through seasonal changes. 
 

Usage 

 
The Bantam works well for youth hunters making the step to a real hunting shotgun, or for adults who prefer a lighter gun for upland bird or small game work. The 5+1 capacity handles most field and home defense situations. The camo finish helps in the field; the light weight helps on long walks.

The Mossberg Maverick 88 Bantam Camo 20 GA draws consistent feedback as a youth and small-frame shotgun.

Owners regularly praise the light weight and controllable recoil -- the 20 gauge chambering and 5.25-pound weight are the main draw for parents buying a first shotgun for younger kids. The adjustable stock gets called out as a useful feature that extends the gun's useful life as the shooter grows.

Reliability feedback is positive. The pump action cycles cleanly after breaking in, though some users mention the action is a bit stiff out of the box and loosens with use.

The camo pattern is well-received for hunting applications. Parents note confidence in the safety features when introducing young shooters to the gun.

A few users mention wanting more accessory options or upgrades than are readily available, though for most purposes the gun is used as-is.