Wow what a resource! Almost what it feels like to strike oil or gold...lots of great info here at Mossberg Owners.com. Stopped by the residence of a local FFL with a buddy just before Christmas who was picking up a new Sig 1911 and while waiting for his background check I happen to ask the dealer where I might find a Mossberg 500. The fellow steps into his "safe", which was a converted study full of new weapons, and the next thing I know I am suddenly the proud owner of a brand new in the box 12 gauge 20" 7+1 Persuader with black synthetic stock and pistol grip kit. Of course I was also suddenly $390 (the cost incl. tax and transfer fee) lighter in the wallet, but I could not be happier. Especially since I did not have to deal with some cocky sales clerk at a retail store or drive all over the state searching for a gun while demand is record high and supply is non-existent. Have not fired it yet (almost too pretty), but did put a few shells through my buddy's 12 gauge 18.5" Maverick...such a thrill! Got a factory Mossberg heat shield on eBay and spent over 3 hours installing it...luckily without scratching anything too badly. Man, that part is a poor design, a couple of extra threads on the bracket screws would have made things a lot easier. If anyone is considering adding a heat shield, just don't...not fun! In any case, I am glad to be among the Mossberg legion here...which definitely is very fun!