Shotgun basics for Newb

[eric_t12]

I'm not necessarily a newb to shotguns - but i've definately never purchased one before. I know what i want - right now - unless you think there's more to look at first. I'm just looking for a few pointers to check them out on before i purchase. Price, finishes, chokes, ammo cost... etc...

I would like a black synthetic or factory camo, 20ga, 16-18", lightweight, that i can get the adjustable stock and maybe a lighted-forearm/pumpaction.

I found one on Gunbroker almost exact,

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/Vie...?Item=68002456

any help??

Edited: add information on what i want.

[ChrisM]

you can never go wrong with a 870!! They are as reliable and rugged a shotgun as there have ever been. Lots of extras and barrels out there fro them.

Why though do you want a 20 gauge?? Not bagging, just wondering

Chris

[ichy_trigger]

I think that would be a great gun for you if you want a 20 gauge. There is nothing wrong with a 20 gauge except that defense ammo can be harder to find. Shove some goose or turkey loads in there though and you would be in fine shape for household use. We happen to have 3 870's in my home and the oldest is a 20 gauge that I bought new back in 1993. I cant even begin to guess how many loads have been through it or how many hours its been in my hands while in the rain, snow, ect... They work and they work well.

PS. I didnt say you CANT get defense loads for it, I said they are harder to find. All other types of ammo are readily available at your local wally world, etc...

[Sparks007]

Get a 12 gauge, more power and more choices in ammo.
You'll get over the recoil after the first time you take it out.

[Lazarus]

Originally Posted by Sparks007

Get a 12 gauge, more power and more choices in ammo.
You'll get over the recoil after the first time you take it out.

I totally agree with this statement but get what you feel will fit your purpose the best. Dont think a 12ga will be too harsh because it really isnt an alot depends on the gun and load you're shooting. I have a Mossberg 505 but my son shoots it, if it wasnt for him I wouldnt have gotten a 20.

[CPES]

I think the two best defense shotguns are the Mossberg 500 and the Remington 870. I happen to have a Mossberg 500 Persuader 12 guage, with the extended mag and 20" barrel. I chose the mossy over the 870 becasue of a few ergonomical issues - I like the placement of the safety and the slide release a little better on the 500 compared to the 870.

It's an awesome gun, but to each their own. I know some of the die hard Remington fans are going to puke on me for suggesting the mossy, but I happen to like mine very much.

[polykarp]

I like my Winchester 1300 Defender, 12ga

[Frostyeyes]

Both of the Remy's and the Mossy's are good guns, hold them both and look at the controls ( safety action release etc ) and see which balances best in YOUR hands. Both makers have aftermarket Mods for them most anywhere and while I own 5 Mossbergs my go to gun is a 870 or one of my 1100's so go figure.

[auditeer]

Yep- find some buddies with differnet kinds of scatterguns and shoot 'em till you decide on one. 20 is a good all around gun. My Mossberg 500 20 ga. has been bar none the most dependable gun I've ever had.

The Mossberg 835 (12 ga, 3.5 inch chamber) is reserved ONLY for Gobblers, but I wouldn't be afraid to pull it out in an act of HD. I'd pray for my shoulder, and hope I don't get TOO much of said sorry-ass who broke into my house all over my walls.

For versatility (you can shoot a 20 all day, skeet, trap, great bird guns and squirrel guns) you can't beat a 20. Load it with (like an earlier poster said) some x-press turkley loads, and you'd be giz-ood to gizz-ow for HD purposes with it too.

[eric_t12]

I think either the 500 or 870 is on my 'to get' list.

anybody willing to disclose what they paid for it? i've seen crazy price jumps on GUNBROKER.com, (where i normally shop), and i'm looking for a lil more steady number.

thanks!