The Savage 24 combo guns were very popular where I grew up. Their versatility appealed to frugal folks who looked upon firearms primarily as being everyday tools. Lots of kids back then, myself included, hunted birds and small game during the season at every opportunity. This was both recreation and economic necessity: many of our families were pretty strapped financially and the meat we brought home more than offset the cost of our ammo allowance.
I've only handled one of the Baikal combos when they were formerly being imported. It seemed to be well-enough made, but the sighting arrangement struck me as being a bit funky. The rear was huge and the front rather resembled those on an SKS or AK making for a very high line-of-sight. IMO, they might make hitting running or flying game with the shotgun barrel tougher to do. FWIW, EAA stuff is very often found for sale at a rather substantial discount from the MSRP, something which might well make them your most cost-effective option compared to the others mentioned.
Another option would be the late, sometimes lamented, Springfield M6 version of the old U.S. issue pilot's survival weapon. These are very "basic", lightweight, compact and ruggedly built. IME they're capable of surprisingly good accuracy once one becomes accustomed to the "bar" trigger and rudimentary sights. They were discontinued several years ago, but can be found pretty regularly (as are the Savage M24's) on the various firearms auction sites. Prices for examples of both in nice condition have escalated pretty sharply of late, so it might be better to keep a sharp eye out in your local shows and shops if you want to find a bargain.