I've been considering getting a short, fast, open-sighted rifle for some time. The primary use would be for hunting hogs in thick cutovers. I like the short Marlin levers in 45-70. But how would my 870 with a 20" slug barrel stack up against a 45-70? A slug barrel is much cheaper than a new gun, and operating a pump is already second nature for me. Would the slug barrel be an acceptable alternative, or are we talking apples versus oranges here? Thanks in advance for your comments.