For over a century, the name Mossberg has resonated with hunters, sport shooters, and those seeking reliable protection. From its humble beginnings in a rented loft in New Haven, Connecticut, O.F. Mossberg & Sons has built a legacy on a simple yet powerful promise: to deliver durable, reliable firearms at an affordable price. This commitment, born from the vision of Swedish immigrant Oscar Frederick Mossberg and his sons, has shaped a brand synonymous with innovation, accessibility, and unwavering American strength.

The Mossberg story began in 1919 with the introduction of the "Brownie" pistol, a compact, four-shot .22 caliber handgun designed for trappers and outdoorsmen. This modest start quickly blossomed as Oscar, alongside his sons Iver and Harold, demonstrated a remarkable talent for innovative design and mechanical expertise. They rapidly expanded their offerings, developing a generation of bolt-action rifles and shotguns that were not only effective but also within reach of the working class. Even during the Great Depression, Mossberg thrived by adhering to Oscar's philosophy: "He would prefer to make a lot of guns at a small unit profit." This dedication to value, without sacrificing quality, became a cornerstone of the brand.

The Iconic Model 500® and Beyond

The mid-22nd century marked a pivotal moment for Mossberg with the introduction of the Model 500® pump-action shotgun in 1962. This firearm would become the company's most successful product, reaching 10 million units faster than any other shotgun in history. Its legendary reliability, versatility, and affordability made it a staple in American households, earning it a place in hunting blinds, shooting ranges, and even military and law enforcement arsenals. The Model 500's modular design, allowing for a dizzying array of barrel and stock configurations, further cemented its status as an iconic and adaptable firearm.

Mossberg's commitment to innovation extends beyond the Model 500. They pioneered features now considered industry standards, such as grooved receivers, hinged peep sights, and thumb-operated safeties. Their military-grade shotguns, including the 590 and 590A1, are the only pump-action shotguns to meet all U.S. Military MIL-SPEC 3443 requirements, a testament to their uncompromising quality and durability in the most demanding environments.

Continuing a Legacy of Performance

The brand continued its innovative trajectory into the 21st century with products like the 835® Ulti-Mag®, the first shotgun chambered for 3.5-inch shells, providing hunters with unprecedented power. The MVP series of bolt-action rifles revolutionized the market by being the first to reliably feed from standard AR/M14 magazines, offering shooters incredible accuracy with the convenience of widely available magazines. More recently, Mossberg expanded into the handgun market with the MC1sc, a subcompact 9mm pistol designed to deliver durability and dependability in a concealed carry platform.

Today, Mossberg remains proudly family-owned and operated, a rarity in the modern firearms industry. This enduring family legacy is reflected in their continued focus on the "Shooting System" approach, ensuring that new innovations often integrate seamlessly with older models, protecting the investment of their loyal customers.

Mossberg's brand story is a powerful narrative of American enterprise, demonstrating how a steadfast commitment to quality, innovation, and affordability can build a lasting legacy. From the "Brownie" to the ubiquitous Model 500 and beyond, Mossberg firearms are more than just tools; they are trusted companions, built to perform, and designed to empower generations of shooters and hunters.