Mossberg Launches 990 SPX Magpul Semi-Auto Tactical Shotgun

Mossberg just announced the 990 SPX Magpul, a 12-gauge semi-auto tactical shotgun built on what the company is calling their latest semi-auto platform. It's available in two configurations: A 14.75-inch NFA version and an 18.5-inch standard barrel model.

The 990 SPX uses a gas-operated system housed entirely in the forend. Mossberg's treated the internals (gas piston, magazine tube, hammer, sear) with nickel-boron coatings for corrosion resistance, which is a nice touch. The real test will be seeing how it holds up with sustained use and varied ammunition.

Features Worth Noting

There are some legitimate improvements here over older designs. The loading port is enlarged and beveled, the elevator is longer so it won't eat your thumb quite as readily, and there's a high-visibility orange follower. The tang-mounted safety is oversized and works for both lefties and righties, with a red indicator.

The SPX handguard features M-LOK slots for accessories, as well as QD sling attachment points. The receiver is cut for micro-dot optics, and it ships with a fiber optic front sight that should co-witness. Pretty standard tactical shotgun stuff at this point, but looks to be executed well.

It comes with a Magpul SGA stock, which is a good call. The SGA's been around long enough to prove itself. Some folks might prefer a fixed stock, but for a tactical setup the adjustability makes sense.

Capacity and Cost

The 14.75-inch version holds 5+1 with 2.75-inch shells, the 18.5-inch holds 7+1. Both have Accu-Choke barrels and matte blue finish. MSRP is $1,309, though you'll probably find it for less once it hits shelves.

That price puts it in the same neighborhood as other modern semi-auto tactical shotguns. Whether it's worth that over something like a Benelli M4 or even Mossberg's own older designs is going to depend on how well this new gas system actually performs.

What We Don't Know Yet

The specs look fine on paper, but there are questions that only hands-on testing will answer. How reliable is it with cheap ammunition? With high-brass hunting loads? How does the gas system handle rapid fire? Does the fit and finish match the price point?

Mossberg's got a good track record with shotguns. They build stuff that works. If the 990 SPX lives up to that standard, it could be worth a look.