Thread: Shotgun Suggestions

Although my list for next firearms is already rather large (all things considered), I'd like to get a shotgun. I used to have a Charles Daly autoloader. The primary purpose of it will be home defense, so I'd like the shortest without going NFA (I believe that's an 18" barrel, correct?). I'm still undecided on if I want a pump or semi-auto. I had the semi-auto, but want to try out a pump to see which one I like better. I've shot pumps before, but not an 18" barreled one. Shoot away with suggestions...just let me hide behind this bullet-proof wall first...

870 or Saiga 12. I have both and like both.

870 express would be a good choice.You can change barrels in a minute if you want to go longer for hunting.If you get an express HD,make sure you get the 6+1 that has the mag extension already on it from the factory.Not but about $30.00-$40.00 more and you want have to deal with those mag tube dimples like you would with a 4+1 model and then decide later you want to add an extension.Also a 590A1 with 18" barrel on gunbroker for $390.00 if you want to go with mossberg.Most 870 barrels will be 18.5" nowdays.I have an old 870 wingmaster with a barrel that is exactly 18" that was an old Texas border patrol gun.I think all the old police barrels were 18" but I would rather have that extra 1/2" in case the ATF's dowel rod is "a little off".A police magnum will not have the dimples if you can find one at a good price.Look in pawn shops.You can find good deals on used police guns or just get an express.Easy to take apart and upgrade as you see fit.And,a pump is not picky about ammo such as low recoil buckshot like an auto might be.

Another thought to add.If you go mossberg,the 500 will require that you remove the mag tube if you need to change the spring or follower.the 590 has a cap like an 870 making spring change easier.Mossberg ejector takes a screwdriver to replace,870 requires a staking tool if that were to ever be a problem.If you want to go cheaper than an express,get a mossberg maverick.HD shotgun doesn't have to be much.Clean it good and run 1-200 shells through it to make sure no problems and you're good to go.Change shells or at least check every so often to make sure they aren't starting to bulge from spring pressure.

Thanks for the suggestions. I guess I really need to hold those first before knowing for sure. I'm leaning towards pump both because I owned an auto before and also (something I didn't think of until your post) the feeding reliability.

I think I remember holding one of those less expensive Mavericks. How are those for quality? It felt rather cheap to me, if I remember right. Although, for $150-200 I guess I can't complain.

Just from quick searching, I like the 870 the best so far.

Originally Posted by SGT.Cap

870 or Saiga 12. I have both and like both.

as do I !

but for the price you can't beat a used 870

What prices are people paying for the "hi cap" 870? On gunbroker, it looks like they're going for $300-350 new. So, I can probably expect maybe $350-400 at the gun store?

call CDNN. They have had some good deals on used 870s recently. Buying a used 870 is like buying a used anvil.

I think I'm going to go with an 870. But, I may not purchase until I get back to Statesboro in July. If I come across a good deal before then, I may jump on it.

Check Gun broker.Look for the express with the extension.One should come up from Sportsmans Safari or something like that.He was in Statesboro but now says he's in Portal even though the phone number is from Atlanta or somewhere.Should save you shipping cost.Or check with Southeastern Gun Supply where Honest John pawn used to be.Ask for Jeff and see what he has used.If your interested,I have a wingmaster with a 20" barrel and a factory +3 extension I just put on.New spring with wilson follower and barrel has rifle sights.Let me know and I'll make you a deal.That'll give me some extra to put on a stag AR I'm wanting.