I looking at some used Mossberg .410s on the internet ( UK ) they are all around the same price but a couple look older and have 26" barrels, one looks quite new with a 24" barrel and fitted recoil pad. My question is are the older Mossberg 500 .410s more reliable than the newer models ?
Brand new Mossberg shotguns are expensive over here or I would buy new.

I doubt the older ones are more reliable, but they likely have nicer wood. Also, the longer barrel is desirable, IMO.

Bought one new about 7-8 years ago. It has a 24” barrel and the recoil pad. Don’t know about the reliability of the older models but mine has not had any issues. Use it for squirrel hunting.

Thanks for replies, the older ones do look good but the newer model with the 24" barrel looks a lot less used.

One thing to consider is that some of the barrel lengths had different chokes, like the 20" I believe had a MOD while the longer barrels had a Full,

I did have one a few years back that had a 24" and a Mod choke, not sure the age.

Also the 500 .410 is known for feeding issues, most of mine did, I called mossberg and they sent me new shell stops etc at no charge and it was a 10 min fix, annoying but the parts came fast and I new ahead of time it may be an issue, having had a few in the past. Although being in the UK you may have to wait a bit longer for parts Just be aware.

My newest one has been 100% reliable.
also winchester ammo is the most trouble free as far as feeding.

Good luck!

Thanks Kal52, being in the UK is more of a problem than you think, Winchester .410 ammo is unbelievably expensive $27.42 for 25 and that's if you can find them and used Mossberg's are more expensive than new ones in the States.
I have just ordered a X Ring survival reloader because availability of .410 shells is pretty restricted over here too.