Description
The Mossberg 500 Super Bantam 20ga 22″ Mossy Oak Shadowgrass is a purpose-built youth waterfowl shotgun that doesn’t skimp on reliability. Chambered in 20-gauge with a 22-inch vent-rib barrel, this pump gun uses the same dual-extractor, twin-action-bar system as the full-size 500, just scaled down for smaller shooters. The Mossy Oak Shadowgrass Blades camo finish blends into marsh and timber, and the adjustable stock lets you dial in length of pull from 12 to 14 inches. If you’re putting a young hunter behind a shotgun that cycles fast and hits hard, this is the one.
| Manufacturer | Mossberg |
|---|---|
| Model | 500 Super Bantam |
| Material | Aluminum receiver, synthetic stock (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | Mossberg 500 20-gauge barrels and accessories |
| Finish | Mossy Oak Shadowgrass Blades camo |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Adjustable LOP Stock – WHY IT MATTERS: The included spacers let you change length of pull from 12 to 14 inches, so the gun grows with the shooter instead of being outgrown in a season.
- 22-Inch Vent-Rib Barrel – WHY IT MATTERS: Keeps the overall length short for easy swinging in tight blinds or brush, while the vent rib improves sight picture for fast follow-up shots.
- Dual Extractor System – WHY IT MATTERS: Extracts spent shells every time, even with light 20-gauge target loads, reducing the chance of a stuck case when you need a quick reload.
- Anti-Jam Elevator – WHY IT MATTERS: Prevents shell hang-ups during rapid cycling, a common issue on budget pumps, keeping the action running smooth under pressure.
- Top-Mounted Safety – WHY IT MATTERS: Ambidextrous operation means left-handed shooters can engage it without breaking their grip, critical for safety in a duck blind.
Who It’s For
This shotgun targets youth shooters (ages 10-15) who need a lightweight, low-recoil 20-gauge that they can handle in the field. It also works for smaller-framed adults who prefer a compact pump for walking up birds or chasing rabbits. If you’re a parent teaching safe gun handling, the Super Bantam’s proven Mossberg action reduces mechanical distractions so the focus stays on marksmanship.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Weighs just 5.5 lbs – light enough for a young hunter to carry all day without fatigue.
- Pro: Mossy Oak Shadowgrass camo is a proven pattern for both waterfowl and upland environments.
- Con: The synthetic stock has a basic texture; adding a slip-on recoil pad would improve grip in wet conditions.
- Con: The 22-inch barrel limits reach on high-flying geese compared to a 26- or 28-inch tube.
Comparison vs. Competitors
| Feature | Mossberg 500 Super Bantam 20ga | Remington 870 Express Jr. 20ga | Winchester SXP Youth 20ga |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 22″ | 21″ | 22″ |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs | 6.25 lbs | 6.1 lbs |
| Stock Adjustment | Spacers (12-14″ LOP) | Fixed (13″ LOP) | Spacers (12-14″ LOP) |
| Action Bars | Twin (anti-jam) | Single | Twin |
| Camo Finish | Mossy Oak Shadowgrass Blades | Mossy Oak Bottomland | Realtree Timber |
| MSRP | $502 | $479 | $495 |
The 870 Express Jr. is 0.75 lb heavier and lacks stock adjustment, making the Super Bantam a better fit for growing shooters. The SXP Youth matches the LOP adjustment but uses a single action bar, which can bind under heavy use; the 500’s twin bars give smoother cycling.
FAQ
Can this shotgun handle steel shot for waterfowl hunting?
Yes. According to Mossberg’s specs, the 500 Super Bantam’s barrel is rated for steel shot, making it legal for waterfowl in all flyways. Use standard 20-gauge steel loads up to 3-inch magnums.
What is the length of pull range on the adjustable stock?
The stock ships with spacers that adjust length of pull from 12 inches (no spacer) up to 14 inches (with all spacers installed). Per Mossberg, each spacer adds 0.5 inch, so you can fine-tune it in 0.5-inch increments.
Does this model come with a choke tube system?
Yes. It includes a standard Mossberg Accu-Choke system with a modified choke tube installed. Additional tubes (full, improved cylinder) can be purchased separately for different game or distances.
Is the safety reversible for left-handed shooters?
The top-mounted tang safety is ambidextrous by design—no reversal needed. It sits directly under the thumb for both right- and left-handed users.
What is the overall length of the 22-inch barrel version?
Overall length is 40 inches with the stock fully collapsed (12″ LOP) and 42 inches with the stock extended (14″ LOP). This makes it compact enough for a youth shooter to handle in a blind or brush.
Trust & Service
- ✅ Nationwide delivery to all 50 states
- ✅ Ships within 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day return policy
- ✅ Secure checkout (SSL encrypted)
Browse more options in our Pump Action Shotguns and Youth Shotguns categories.
Last updated: April 2026
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