Out of all the shotguns I've ever shot and/or owned...my 870 marine magnum is my favorite handling shotgun (for less than $1000 anyway!). I've owned it since I bought it new the 2nd year they were available and it has never let me down.
I've shot several Mossbergs and they ar fine guns, as well.
The Remington is just my favorite.
I also don't care for heat shields, rails, ghost rings or anything else. A flashlight on the front and a tritium or gold bead is all I need or want, but to each his own.