First Shotgun

[snellav]

I'm getting close to purchasing my first gun. I've decided that I want a multipurpose 12 gauge. I want something quality and well made but at the same time don't want to break the bank.

I've looked at the Remington 870, Benelli SuperNova (pump), and the Franchi I-12 (semi auto).

I really would prefer a semi auto but the Franchi is the only thing I've found close to my price range. I don't wanna cut corners and spend the money on a semi auto unless it will be trust worthy and last.

The price of the 870 is attractive because I could also afford to get a .22. I'm willing to spend more if there is a noticeable benefit.

Looking for any thoughts or suggestions. Thanks.

[5hundo]

Just a "heads up", there is a shotgun-specific forum on here. You'll probably have better luck getting some responses over there.

For a good "first" shotgun, it's really hard to beat an 870. It seems like just about everyone who has ever owned a shotgun has had either that, or a Mossberg 500. Their reliability and effectiveness are legendary and even though I'm personally more partial to the 870, I know that the mossberg is still a great pump-action shotgun.

Plus, if it will save you enough to ge a Ruger 10/22, I'd say to get the Remmy 870...

[Jon Se]

For a semi auto shotgun look up the Mossberg 930 series, they may be within your budget.

[dirtykoala]

my first shot gun was the Nova, i love it, but i do want a remington 870, i would say go for either of the 2, you wont be disappointed by either. i do think the 870 is a little more versatile though as far as tactical / home defense mods.

[valleyguy]

Get the 870 (or a cheap Chinese 870 clone like the IAC 982 or Pardner Pump) -- great buy for your money, meets all your requirements, and easy to strip.

[ErikTheRed]

First choice: Mossberg 500.

Second choice: Rem 870 Express.

I own both, and the Mossberg is now over 20 years old, thousands of shells through it, and still functions like new. The Rem is also in excellent condition though not as old nor well-used. Either gun will provide YEARS of use without issue.

[ripcurlksm]

my first gun was a 1911, my second gun was a Franchi I-12... and its awesome! Great for trap shooting and would be my HD gun of choice as well (owning no other shotguns). Franchi is a solid choice for ~$550. There is nothing wrong with a pump for HD if you dont plan to shoot trap, as others said the Moss 500 and Rem 870 are tossup 'no brainers'. Go for whatever is cheaper, and if you want to sport the I-12 is solid.

[ripcurlksm]

dupe

[professorhard]

Saiga-12

[mtnfolk mike]

i say go for the Rem. 870.. or possibly the Mossberg 500... both are great choices and not terribly expensive... lots of cool upgrades and after-market products for them too...

i have Mossy 500a.. i love it..

[Dr.12ga]

My first gun was a .30-06, first shotgun was an 870 Express. It eats any ammo that ive thrown at it.

[AndrewMendez]

870!!! Its just prefect!

[Plisk]

In my opinion, it's a pretty even match between the Remmy 870 and the Mossy 500. The Mossy is made of aluminum, and is lighter, and the Remmy is made of steel so it's heaver but sturdier. Also the Remmy trigger group assembly is mounted on metal, the Mossy is polymer. Things to think about, durability vs. weight.

I've heard very good things about Winchester 1300s, but I have no experience with them.

[wellfedirishman]

Win 1300

I have a Winchester 1200 (older version of 1300) and it is a very solid shooter. I have taken a bunch of pheasants and a few rabbits with mine. It has never jammed or failed, ever. I paid 225 for mine used a few years ago in like new condition, and that was a bargain.

[FieldsofFire]

I'd go for an 870...I might be a bit biased though since I own one and it was my first shotgun. Easy to figure out how to strip and reassemble first time through, and there are lots of parts out there for them should you choose to customize yours.