Newbie's First Shotgun - Norinco vs. H&R Pardner vs Other?

Got some questions for you shotgun folks. I have seen the (Norinco?) "Ultra 87" 12 gauge shotgun for what appears to be a very good deal at $150. I've also heard the H&R Pardner Pump is a good shotgun available for cheap. Now, are these the same gun, or just very similar? If they aren't the same, what makes them different/which is better? How do other options compare i.e. Mossberg Maverick 88 and others (kind of leary of used guns, especially since I don't know shotguns well, but if that's the way to go then so be it)?

I'd like a shotgun because:
1. They seem inexpensive and money is tight.
2. I have rifles and pistols and I'd like to fill the "triad" ;-)
3. They seem like fun and versatile tools/weapons - I can shoot slugs, shot, and buck.
4. Likely would see duty as a home defense gun.
5. Don't hunt, but if that changes it might see duty as a hunting shotgun.
6. Mostly though I just want a good, cheap gun I don't have to baby that's fun to put through its paces at the range.

Also, does anyone know why I can't shoot shotguns at the indoor pistol range? I understand slugs, maybe even buckshot, but what is the harm in firing a few rounds of birdshot? Too loud? On the same note, is a shotgun out of place on the rifle range (outdoor)? This would be the only other place for me to shoot it besides maybe trying skeet/trap. I know these questions have probably been asked a million times, but I do appreciate your input. Thanks.

Well let me say thanks for all the replies. I also want to say I meant the H&R Pardner Pump, NOT the single shot model.

I've heard that the 870 Express is cheaply/poorly made. Is this true? I also read in another thread that the Pardner Pump might even have better steel.

I also want to say I don't have a lot of money right now. The difference between $150-170 and $220-300 is substantial. This is my biggest reason for leaning towards one of the "Chinese guns". Also, the Ultra 87 comes standard just the way I want it: 18.5'' bbl, sling swivels, and rifle sights. All I'd want to add is a slip-on shell holder and a white light on the slide (well probably - we'll see after I shoot it some).

The thing the Ultra 87 or Pardner Pump does NOT have is the bbl interchangeability, though at this point its not a huge concern as I don't hunt.

I've basically got no friends or family interested in guns, much less shotguns. They find them fun and come shooting with me sometimes, but none of them own guns or are very knowledgeable about them. There is a skeet/trap place nearby that I think is private, but I think they occasionally have some open clinics, so that's an idea.

Basically what I am thinking at this point is get the Ultra 87 or Pardner Pump for $170ish and shoot it like crazy. Later on, when I can afford more or I start hunting, I will probably end up getting a Mossy 500/590 or Rem870, or maybe even the KSG. But for now I think the Pardner Pump or Ultra 87 is looking like a great way to get started. However, my mind is NOT made up and I am open to opinions.

Hmmm you guys are making this difficult. I'm getting the sense that I should take a look at the used rack, classifieds, gunbroker, etc. Maybe a pawn shop if I can find one.