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Hey, there, all. I'm in the market for a 12ga shotgun, and I want something that's not gonna kill me on the price, but isn't a 'throwaway' either. preferrably something with an extended magazine that I could aftermarket customize a bit. I looked at the saiga, but it's really not my cup of tea (so far as shotguns go, anyway) I'd prefer something more traditional looking (ya know, pump-action, mayyyyybe semi auto).
Just throwing it out there to see what folks think.
thanks,
S.

PS I wouldn't want, or would need to be able to remove, chokes. :)

For what purpose?

This won't kill you on price:

Purpose: Hunt
http://www.maverickarms.com/pages/88field.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Purpose: HD
http://www.maverickarms.com/pages/88security.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

I don't consider it a throwaway either.

-Cain

Sorry, yeah, should have specified HD shotgun. That security model is awfully nice looking. and at under 500$ I could definitely go for that.
thanks!

The NEF H&R Pardner Pump Protector is a copy of the Remington 870 and has many interchangeable parts with the 870. It only has a 5 shot capacity in the magazine, but I've heard of people putting extended tubes on them. I believe the price runs about $180 at Academy. At that price you could do a lot of mods and still keep it low.

It's listed at the bottom of the page.
http://www.hr1871.com/Firearms/Shotguns/pardnerPump.asp" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Mossberg 590

I like my Mossberg 500 got it used for $150, new is not much more. 7+1 rounds can take 2 3/4" or 3" with an 18 or 20 inch barrel. Always feeds and is rugged enough for the military so is good enough for me. I haven't added anything more than a stock but it is a common shotgun and i know new parts are easy to find.

Good luck with your search.

I'm fond of the factory-configured Remington 870 Tactical models. I think you should be able to find one NIB for under $600.

You have a lot of options. In a pump, I'll choose a Tac 870 every time.

Ahh...shotguns!...right up my alley!

And, since you asked ......in my humble opinion if you are looking for a home defense shotgun for less than $500, you can't go wrong with one of these:

http://www.remington.com/products/firea ... -round.asp" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

I bought mine new for less than $300 two years ago. Plan on $350-400 now. If you really plan to use it for home defense, hang a sidesaddle and maybe a light on it and call it done. No need for any more tacti-cool junk to get in the way. Spend the cash you would spend on useless accessories on ammo instead and learn to use your new gun.

Find a tactical shotgun match in your area and learn to operate your gun under stress in a simulated combat environment. It's similar to an IDPA match, except for shotguns instead of handguns. If you ever have a chance to shoot a tactical match you will understand why I believe in keeping accessories to a minimum on a gun you trust your life to. You don't need a sling that will hang up on a piece of furniture and jerk the gun out of your hands, or a heat shield that comes loose due to recoil and jams up the forearm rendering your gun useless. Been there, done that as they say.

You might also look for used 870P or an 870 Wingmaster and add an 18" barrel and a two round mag extension. Both can be found in this same price range. I have owned a truck load of shotguns over the years, some expensive and some not...I'm a shotgun junkie. IMHO , their is no better value than a Remington 870 Express. Take care of it and it'll last two lifetimes.

I have a Mossy 590 20", 8+1, loaded alternately with buck and slugs.

I would take a Remington 870 Home Defense or Mossberg 590 for sure!

Actually, I'm saving up for the 870 HD now...

I've had a Mossberg 500 for about five years now, and I love it. I wanna say you can get a new one for just over $200 thesedays (last I checked was a few months ago). I use it more than any gun I own. Bird hunting, skeet shooting and all that. It's had thousands of rounds of all types of ammo go through it and it still feels just as good as it did the day I bought it. IT's cheap in price, but definitely NOT a cheap gun.

Winchester Defender 1300.

I had a Maverick - - - it was a pile of junk. Buy an 870 or a 500.

Two words.............. Benelli Nova ........... I love mine!!!