Slug guns are a long tradition for deer hunters in brushy places, and the Mossberg 500 Slugster in 20 gauge fits that role. It is a pump-action shotgun priced near five hundred sixty-three dollars.

A Slugster is set up for slugs, usually with a rifled or slug-friendly barrel and sights suited for them. The 20 gauge keeps recoil lower than a 12, which helps younger or smaller shooters, and a 20 gauge slug still has plenty of energy for deer at moderate range. Check North Carolina regulations about slugs in your area.

The 500 action is simple and dependable. Pump guns ask you to work the forend with a firm hand, and practice makes this natural. Mounting a scope helps with accuracy at longer distances.

Test a few brands of slug at the range, because every gun has its favorite. Keep the barrel clean, and wipe down the action after wet days. This kind of gun gives the new hunter a way to take part without buying a centerfire rifle. This shotgun is new. It ships to a North Carolina FFL dealer for the background check and transfer.