TAC-14 VS. SHOCKWAVE

A look at the Mossberg Shockwave and Remington Tac-14

Have you ever gone to the gun store all pumped up about buying the new shotgun you have been wanting for home defense or target practice, only to get it home and find out it doesn’t really fit your needs? Well to help with your decision process here is the rundown on the differences between two very popular shotguns right now; technically they are not considered a shotgun, a pistol, or a long gun. These models are in their own category: the Mossberg Shockwave and Remington Tac-14.

Now I know you’re probably wondering what makes them different than any other offerings out there right now. Well quite a bit and I’ve got all the juicy details on both. Let’s start with the Mossberg Shockwave. If you have ever used or handled a Mossberg 500 or 590 then you are up to speed. The differences between the classified shotguns and the Shockwave boil down to two major things: 1) the Shockwave does not have a stock or a traditional “pistol grip” but rather a slightly angled grip referred to a Raptor grip, 2) the barrel length is shortened to 14” rather the the standard length 18 ½”. As for the rest of the gun everything is standard Mossberg, the release button is to the rear of the receiver on the left side and the safety is on the top of the receiver near the grip for either left or right handed operation. What’s great about the Shockwave is that since the gun is so compact, it is easily maneuverable within the confines of the house, car or any small area.

Now if you have ever handled a Remington 870, then you are up to speed on the new Remington Tac-14. The Tac-14 is the same as the full size 870 but with a few changes: 1) the inclusion of the Raptor grip in lieu of a pistol grip, 2) the barrel length of 14” as opposed to the standard 18 ½” on the full sized shotgun, 3) a new for-end designed by Magpul. Everything else is standard 870. The safety bolt is still located behind the trigger, and the release is in front of the trigger guard on the left side of the receiver. The Remington Tac-14 is a great addition to anyone who is familiar with the fundamentals of the company’s full sized 870 offerings but would rather have a more compact variant for various applications.

Although very similar, the Mossberg Shockwave and the Remington Tac-14 do have some differences. We are frequently asked, Which is better? While both serve a similar purpose and are great guns, the Shockwave has 1 more round capacity than the Tac-14. It also has a strap underneath the fore-end that the Remington does not have. The Shockwave’s safety is on the top vs. near the trigger guard like the Tac-14.  The Remington Tac-14 safety is behind the trigger and also includes a Magpul fore-end grip that some people prefer over the other model. In the end it comes down to personal preference when choosing which brand and model to go with.

Now that we got the similarities and differences between the two out of the way, now on to the main question: Why would you want one of these? Well let me tell you, when it comes to full sized shotguns, barrel length is a big factor. For the most part, shotguns are either used for trap/skeet, hunting, target practice, or home defense. Now normally these activities are done outside where manipulating a long barrel doesn’t pose an issue, however, it does become a factor when you use it in a home defense scenario. Most shotguns that are catered to self defense are typically 18 ½”. While that doesn’t sound too long, trying to manipulate one in a small hallway can be a bit cumbersome, that’s where the Shockwave and Tac-14 come into play. They allow the user to enough room for clearing and ease of hallway/doorway manipulation. The short overall size is ideal for small apartments, town houses or for anyone that prefers a shorter length firearm. Another use for the diminutive Mossberg and Remington are as vehicle or truck guns. There are some people out there who prefer to have a gun at the ready in their vehicle for emergencies. Something that is compact and packs a punch is normally what is preferred. The Shockwave and Tac-14 fit the bill for their size and power which is why they have become so popular.

For those that are concerned about the legality of this firearm, it is important to note that ATF has issued a statement regarding the firearm. They are considered non-NFA firearms and are perfectly acceptable for purchase in states that do not have independent restrictions on them. Should you have any question about purchase, be sure to consult your local FFL that you plan to transfer the firearm to. They can let you know any issues that might arise depending on your state. Click here to view ATF letter regarding Mossberg Shockwave.

If you have ever wondered what it would be like to shoot a shorter version of the full size counterparts, today is your lucky day. Here at Arms Deal Shop we offer both the Mossberg Shockwave and Remington Tac14 for sale at highly competitive prices!