Mossberg Silver Eagle Reserve II: No. 1 Over-Under Shotgun Of 2020

by
posted on February 27, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
mossberg-reserve-ii.jpg

The performance and budget-friendly price of Mossberg’s Silver Reserve II over-under models never escaped the notice of shotgun enthusiasts. Last year, the line was the top performer in that category, according to the annual rankings compiled by GunBroker.com.

It was a big move up from its No. 6 position of 2019, although the company no longer lists that particular model as being available on its website. They’ve been replaced with new-for-2021 Mossberg International Silver Reserves, although there are still some new Reserve IIs on the market out there. The updated versions are every bit as striking and carry Mossberg’s reputation for long-lasting performance, but if you spot one of the old models for sale, think twice before you pass it by.

The Silver Reserve II over-under shotgun is a break-action first introduced by the company in 2012. It appeared on this website that year, with MSRP of between $600 and $1,200. In true Mossberg tradition—quality at a value price point—last year taking one home would set you back only $797 to $1,198, depending on the version.

Highest in the price range was the Super Sport with shell ejectors. There were two models of it, one with 30" barrels, the other wearing a pair of 32" barrels. Its silver receiver gave it a timeless look, accented nicely by scroll engraving. A black walnut stock with a raised comb contrasted nicely and barrels were blued. The 12 gauge could chamber 3" shotshells, and the guns came with five choke tubes.

A Field Combo version shipped with a set of 12- and 20-ga. barrels. Both could chamber 3" shotshells. The same silver finish adorned the receiver—as it did throughout the line—although the walnut was slightly lesser grade. Barrel lengths available included 26" and 28".

The company also made a Sport with Shell Ejectors version, a Youth Bantam model and four different Field flavors of the Reserve II. Gauges available included 12, 20 and 28, as well as .410 Bore.

There are six of the new Reserve models currently being made by Mossberg. The same chamberings are available, although none are available with ejectors. The look is almost identical, with the exception of the black polymer stocked Eventide, as is the quality. So don’t be surprised when it climbs fast onto 2021’s top-10 list, too.

Latest

IHTOG 1854 Lorenz Jagerstutzen 1
IHTOG 1854 Lorenz Jagerstutzen 1

I Have This Old Gun: Model 1854 Lorenz Jägerstutzen

The Austrian Lorenz Jägerstutzen was a unique variant of sharpshooting rifle that made it stateside during the American Civil War.

SHIELD Sights Celebrates 40 Years of Red-Dot Optics Innovation

SHIELD Sights is celebrating its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of British engineering, innovation and contributions to the evolution of modern red-dot optics.

TX Maxed: The Taurus TXM in 5.7x28 mm and .22 WMR

Using its TX series architecture yet again, Taurus is adding the 5.7x28 mm and .22 WMR to its chambering options with the new-for-2026 TXM.

Review: Federal's 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak Ammunition

Federal’s new 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak takes a long-range staple even farther.

New for 2026: Pulsar Thermion 3 Riflescope

Pulsar’s newest thermal scope offers longer range, sharper detail and expanded functionality.

AKs In The USA: The Current State of the American AK Platform

Despite it being the primary rifle of the enemy for most of its existence, American shooters have nonetheless warmed to the AK platform, creating an unlikely love story.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.