Entry level Auto shotguns? Stoeger Model 2000 Defense vs Escort MP-S/A 12?

[CrazyCobraManTim]

Anyone have experience with one or both of these shotguns? For about $400, they seem like reasonably priced, entry level semi-auto shotguns. The Escort especially has some extra features (rails, sites, spare holders etc) that seem to make it worth considering.

Thoughts (aside from overt disparagement of Chinese pieces)?

[CrazyCobraManTim]

Helps to include pictures

[ICONIC]

i have a Hatsan Escort and have had zero issues with it.

[TZL]

Stoeger 2000 is pretty good, its uses a combination of Beretta and Benelli parts

Early once (2005-6) had teething problems, but I've heard good feedback on recent ones

Some Benelli M1/M2 accessories fit, along with their extension tubes, but beware of 922r

[CrazyCobraManTim]

I'd most likely be looking at a recent new one, though I did read somewhere that one of these suffers from gas o-ring (?) issues, and you should keep spares on hand.

[omnitravis]

The Hatsan or Stoeger suffers from O-ring issues? I am trying to choose between these same firearms as well right now.

[Khanan]

The Hatsan or Stoeger suffers from O-ring issues? I am trying to choose between these same firearms as well right now.

Since the Stoeger isn't gas, it does not suffer from O-ring issues.

I have an M2000 that I shoot 12 gauge and doubles skeet events with. I have not had any issues at all with over 1000 out the tube.

[omnitravis]

Thanks for the input, Khanan. A buddy of mine has an escort, I liked shooting it. I saw some Stoegers at the shop yesterday though, and they got me thinking. I had a choice between two different 3000s and a 3500, at $450 and $550.
I see Escorts at big 5 pretty often for around 450$ as well.

[olhunter]

Check out the H&R Excell.

http://www.hr1871.com/Firearms/Shotguns/excell.asp

It's my go-to field gun that I don't mind getting dirty or worried about scratching.

Never had any problems of any kind. Shoots everything. Screw in chokes. What's not to like?

Not sure they still offer/make them but you can find them used for around $300-ish. Well worth it.

[reptilla]

I have the escort and its great! Super reliable,shoots any ammo and the only thing it need was a mag extension and I added one so now its perfect. I was at the rang one time shooting my MP-A and another guy with a benelli m4 was checking out my shotgun so we switch for 5 rounds and I must say I liked my escort better (the m4 is a little light so more felt recoil in my opinion).the only odd thing is the trigger rocks up instead of pulling to the rear.

[CrazyCobraManTim]

Thanks for the great feedback everyone! I'm either going to purchase one new / used or trade something for one of these two. Am leaning towards the Escort due to it sexy looks, but haven't ruled out the 2000 Defender. As for the Excell - due these have kits to swap them into pistol grip config??