One of the biggest trends for 2026 will be the proliferation of NFA items, including suppressors, short-barreled rifles (SBRs), and short-barreled shotguns (SBSs). This is due to the reduction of the NFA tax fee to $0, which took effect on January 1st. Out of the gate, Mossberg is taking advantage of this trend with the introduction of the 990 SPX Magpul, in both 18.5” and 14.75” NFA/Class 3 (SBS) models.
SPECS
The 990 was first introduced in 2025 as the 990 Aftershock. While it maintained a 14.75” barrel, it didn’t have a stock. Instead, it featured a “bird’s head” style grip, making it a “firearm” under the definitions provided by the Gun Control Act of 1968.
Immediately, enthusiasts took the Aftershock and filed NFA Form 1s to convert the firearms into SBSs. This, along with the tax stamp reduction, paved the way for Mossberg to offer that as an option from the factory.
The standard specs are as follows:
- Model(s): 83009, 83014
- Caliber: 12 ga. 3”
- Capacity: 7+1, 5+1
- Sights: Ghost Ring rear, and Fiber Optic front
- Optic Cut: Yes, Micro Red Dot (Presumably RMSc/K footprint)
- Barrel Length: 18.5”, 14.75”
- Overall Length: 37.25”, 33”
- Finish: Matte Blue, Black
- Weight: 7.75 lbs., 7.35 lbs.
- Choke: Accu-Choke, Cylinder.
- Price: $1309 MSRP (Both)
FEATURES
As I mentioned earlier, the 990 SPX Magpul is available with either a 14.75-inch (NFA) or 18.5-inch barrel. It features a gas-operated system fully contained within the forend, providing smooth, reliable cycling across various types of ammunition. Mossberg also included critical internals like the gas piston, magazine tube, hammer, and sear, all coated with nickel-boron and specialized finishes to resist corrosion and improve durability.
Loading is quicker and cleaner thanks to an enlarged, beveled loading port, a pinch-free, elongated elevator, and a high-visibility orange anodized follower. The oversized, ambidextrous top-mounted safety has a red indicator, while the SPX handguard offers M-LOK slots and built-in QD cups for modularity.
Additional features include a knurled charging handle, paddle-style bolt release, an optic-ready receiver cut, winged front fiber optic sight, and a Magpul SGA stock with adjustable fit and better recoil control, making the 990 SPX Magpul feel purpose-built from front to back.
Zooming Out
I’ve long been a fan of Mossberg shotguns, especially their semi-autos. The 940 JM Pro has been my go-to for years, both as a competition gun and in the field. The new 990 SPX Magpul offers similar performance in a compact, modular package, perfect for defense, training, or duty.
