Newbie needs shotgun advice

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Going back to the original posted criteria I see nothing wrong with a Remington 1100 semi auto to fill the need. It is not 3.5 inch but that is no big deal. As far as barrel it should be a smooth bore , but with a rifled choke tube you could shoot sabot rounds.
 
I also prefer the pump action over the autos. My preference in shotguns would be the 870 as well. I own one. The barrel can be changed out so you could have a smooth bore and a rifled barrel.

The Mossberg 500 is pretty nice as well. I have used both, I prefer the 870s action.

Remington 1100P

I've shot them too. I have nothing bad to say about them at all, but I still prefer the pump actions.

NEVER...NEVER underestimate the power of a good slug.

Amen. I've actually shot a car, 1970(ish) International truck to be specific, with a 12ga slug. It went completely through both doors. They're pretty powerful.

I just like the feel of pistol grips, especially since we'll almost certainly get a slightly shorter stock on the weapon for my wife

Has she fired one before? I'm not accusing you of not doing your homework, but if she hasn't, she might not share the same affinity for them that you will.

Larger shells were made for long range duck and goose hunters

Specifically to shoot steel shot because it's illegal (in every state as far as I know) to hunt water fowl with lead and steel loses velocity fast. Without a heavy load trying to shoot down a goose is like trying to shoot down a plane.

Personally I'd stick with the 3". The 3" will chamber a 2.75 or a 3 unless they've changed it. It's been a while since I've purchased anything for it, so it might have all changed by now.

I also agree with some of these guys suggesting a rifle. Depending on how you are going to use it, a carbine could be a better choice. 12ga ammo is bulky and heavier than a lot of rifle rounds. Depending on the gun, they can have a substantially less kick.
 
I would also like to toss in a suggestion. A Remington 887 tactical will satisfy all your needs. This gun has a smooth bore and the ability to chamber 2.75", 3", and 3.5" shells. The barrel and receiver is made of steel with a poly coating over all of the external surfaces of the gun. It is highly durable and reasonably priced (350ish). However, the only drawback that I know of now, I cant seem to find a sturdy or pistol grip to replace the stock with. I am certain you will be able to find one soon though, the 887 is still new to the marketplace. Good luck.
 
look at beretta

there is one you might look at it is a beretta 3" mag. comes with pistol grip good hd shotgun. the only draw back is that it WILL NOT cycle 2 3/4" shells. so you are stuck buying only expensive shells. the other draw back is that it might be hard to find i have only seen the one i gave to my kid.
 
I've re-evaluated my needs based on this discussion's (very useful) input, and I'll most likely go with one of the police-oriented 3" pumps.

Many thanks, all.
 
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