How far does a 12 gauge mossberg 500 pump action?

The effective range of a 12-gauge Mossberg 500 pump-action shotgun typically extends to about 40 yards for buckshot and around 25-50 yards for slugs, depending on the specific ammunition used. However, the shotgun can still deliver pellets at much greater distances, though accuracy and stopping power diminish significantly beyond its effective range. For hunting or self-defense purposes, staying within the effective range is crucial for reliability and effectiveness.