Some of the Chinese knock offs are actually arguable better guns than some of the domestic models they are patterned after. I think it is a pretty dubious argument that a new model 870 express is in any way better than a Hawk or pardner pump. I actually think is is easier to argue it the other way. I have also long wondered why folks buy new expresses rather than shopping a used wing master though.
If one is on a limited budget one can get a hawk/Pardner pump/Maverick and set it up with everything one needs (including things that some will argue aren't needed) for the price of an entry level 870/500. I have a couple norcs, a couple 870s and an old 500. I'd feel OK with any of them. None however are my primary shotgun. (I really prefer semis to pumps and carbines to shotguns for social purposes).
If one isn't on a budget then why buy a cheap pump gun (870/500/590) over a Benelli (or an AR for that matter)?
