The Mossberg Maverick 88 Security is a 12-gauge pump-action shotgun configured for home defense. It has an 18.5-inch barrel, 5+1 capacity, 3-inch chamber, and an ATI Shotforce top-folding synthetic stock. The receiver is blued steel; the sight is a bead front. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Mossberg 
• Model: Maverick 88 Security 
• Gauge: 12 GA 
• Action Type: Pump Action 
• Capacity: 5+1 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 18.5 inches 
• Chamber Size: 3 inches 
• Weight: 6 lbs 
• Finish Color: Black, Blued Receiver 
• Sights: Bead Front 
• Stock: ATI Synthetic Top Folding 
   

Features 

 
The 18.5-inch barrel keeps the overall length manageable in tight spaces -- hallways, rooms, stairwells. At 6 pounds it's light for a 12-gauge, which helps in rapid handling situations. The ATI Shotforce top-folding stock folds to reduce storage length and deploys quickly when needed, without requiring the shooter to remove cheek weld the way a side-folder does. The cross-bolt safety is positioned for fast disengagement. The pump action cycles reliably across a wide range of 12-gauge loads from light target shells to defensive 00 buck. 
 

Usage 

 
The 88 Security is set up as a home defense shotgun. The short barrel and folding stock handle corners and confined spaces better than a field-configured shotgun. The 5+1 capacity is adequate for most defensive scenarios. It can also be used in informal shooting or practice sessions, though its configuration prioritizes defense over hunting.

The Mossberg Maverick 88 Tactical with folding stock draws consistently positive feedback, with a few practical observations.

Price is the most-cited positive. The 88 is regularly recommended in budget home-defense shotgun discussions, often described as functionally equivalent to the Mossberg 500 at a lower cost.

Reliability holds up across owner reports. Most users run various 12-gauge loads through it without issues. The pump action is described as smooth after a brief break-in period.

The folding stock gets mixed but generally positive feedback. Owners like the compact storage profile; some find it less comfortable to shoot from than a fixed stock, especially with heavier loads. Recoil with the stock folded out is manageable but more pronounced than a full-size rifle stock.

The pump action is noted as user-friendly for newer shooters and consistent for experienced ones. Some users mention running a recoil pad for extended sessions.

Build quality is described as adequate -- a few owners note that some components feel less refined than higher-priced alternatives, but for the price and intended use it functions well.

Customization options discussed include weapon lights, slings, and aftermarket sights. The platform accepts standard Mossberg 500 accessories in most cases.