New (used) shotgun

[TX1911fan]

My son just started shooting shotguns (he's 11) and we want a project gun for him. I refinished an old Winchester 1400 with my daughter, and he'd like to do one for himself. I've had some reliability problems with the Winchester, so I'm looking for recommendations. I'm thinking my best bet is an older Remington 1100 in 20 gauge. Can anyone recommend any other brands? I'm looking to keep it under $500 for the gun. Thanks.

 

[conhntr]

1100 is a great gun. id go for the 12 though. get one a little beat up. make a project of cutting the stock down for him. sanding/refinishing it. clean up the metal. and give him some 7/8 or 1oz loads and it will kick less than the 20. then when he gets bigger have some $ saved up for a replacement stock that is fullsized so he can keep it forever. i still have mine from when i was in 6th grade!