+Designed by O.F. Mossberg & Sons, the Mossberg 930 Spx is one of the most popular 12-gauge semi-automatic shotguns in the world, heavily used by hunters and skeet shooters. Very few negative things can be said about this shotgun, because most users will tell you that it’s reliable, easy to use and inexpensive.
This particular weapon is gas operated and that means reduced recoil felt by the shooter. Also, like most of the Mossberg shotguns, this one as well is safe for ambidextrous use, because it has a safety placed on the rear of the receiver. It takes 3.5’’ shells and it comes in the usual gauges, including 12.
Mossberg 930 Specifications
- Weight – it depends on the model
- Length- between 39 and 48.5 inches
- Barrel length – between 18.5 and 28 inches
- Caliber – all the normal ones, including 12
- Action – this shotgun is gas-operated
- Muzzle velocity 403 m/s for 12 gauge
- Effective firing range – approximately 40 m
- Feed system – between 5 to 9 rounds only on the internal tube magazine, but one can purchase a magazine extension and easily attach it.
- Sights – front bead or ghost ring sight
- Note: according to one Mossberg 930 review, it fires the empty shells a few feet further away than other shot guns, so shooters might want to take that into consideration, if they are not using a shell catcher.
Mossberg 930 Variants
Mossberg 930 SPX
As far as variations go, the Mossberg 930 SPX is the most important one. SPX stands for Special Purpose. This particular piece of weaponry has drilled and tapped receivers for all 12 and 20 gauge models. It is factory ready for scope base and optic installation. Another feature is the greater impact. One Mossberg 930 SPX review mentions the fact that its pattern produces an impact much larger than that of a bullet coming from a pistol or a revolver, which actually makes it perfect for small inside spaces or situations involving little room for movement.
It has completely interchangeable barrels, which means the Mossberg 930 can be configured in numerous ways, according to the shooter’s wishes. A two barrel combo, for example, is perfect for hunting ducks, turkeys or snow geese. The shotgun also has durable finishes, in a complete range of traditional blue, non-glare matte blue or the very much loved, corrosion-resistant Marinecote finish. As far as capacity options go, if you purchase this shotgun you get to choose between 6, 8 and 9 shot capacity models, according to your requirements. Apart from that, every single shotgun sold comes with a free gun lock and a limited warranty.
Mossberg 930 SPX Blackwater Edition
Also available on the market is the Mossberg 930 SPX Blackwater edition. In the same way as its mother, it comes in 12 gauge, it is gas operated and semi-automatic. The barrel measures 18.5 inches and it has a full-length synthetic stock and a pistol grip. With an 8 shot capacity and a wonderful feature of being able to house both 2.75 and 3 inch shotshells, the Blackwater will be the optimum choice for anyone wishing to protect themselves, their house or their family.
Mossberg 930 SX Tactical Semi-Automatic Shotgun
You could also buy the The Mossberg 930SX tactical semi-automatic shotgun, which is built on the 930 receiver but adds all the tactical features you want. The Mossberg 930 tactical accessories are the tactical bolt release pad, the tactical charging handle, the follower, the scope mount, side saddle shell holders, sling and flashlight combo mounts, pistol grip stock, magazine tube extensions, and front and rear sling attachments. Basically, it has all the Mossberg 930 accessories, which it shares with the SPX.
Mossberg 930 JM Pro Series
Another option is the Mossberg 930 JM Pro Series. At its core, it’s still a Mossberg 930 and, therefore, is compatible with almost all the range’s accessories. But, given the fact that it belongs to the pro series, it does have some more go-fast features. For example, it has a bigger magazine tube, lengthened to 8 shots power for the 22’’ and to 9 shots for the 24’’ model. Also, the loading port is beveled and relieved with this shotgun and the back of the forend is a lot smaller, making it easier to load, according to one JM Pro review. The recoil is comfortable and controllable and the gun appears to be easy to handle, making it a perfect choice. Also, a good thing to know is that sometimes you can find the Mossberg 930 SPX for sale, as well as the JM Pro, at a price lower than the normal $600 to $800.
They are indeed known for their low price and, more importantly, that low price is achieved without the company having to skimp on quality or safety. And building on the subject of safety, according to some users, the shotgun has an aluminum receiver, but a steel one would have been preferred. In the same way, shooters have reported wanting a metal safety instead of the plastic one the 930 has in place now. But since it’s so cheap, they seem to let these things go easily, for the sake of the price.
Mossberg 930 Feeds and Fires Without Fail
No issues have been reported with this shotgun, unlike some of its competitors, such as Remington. It has not failed to feed or fire nor has it presented any other malfunctions. The key, however, as with any other gas shotgun is to keep it extremely clean and well lubricated. This is essential to its working properly.
People who are looking for a cheap and enduring shotgun should know that Mossberg 930 is the weapon for them. Its price and quality cannot be beaten as far as hunting needs go. But most opinions tend to say that, for home defense, one would be rather better suited with a pump action shotgun.