What to get

[johudamana]

Ok, I have an AR-15 and a P95, so now I'm wanting to get a shotgun.

Any suggestions for my first shotgun? I'm looking to spend between 3 and 4 hundred for it. I've been looking around and and am interested in the following:

Mossberg 590, with 20 inch barrel
Remington 870 Express Synthetic 12GA, 18 Inch

or should I get a Double-barreled shotgun? Suggestions?

I've shot friends shotguns before but haven't thought about comparing them until now... any expertise you might have would be greatly appreciated.

 

[The Deer Hunter]

What are you looking for in a shotgun?

Are you going to use it to shoot clays or shoot at targets and use it for HD?

I have an 870 Wingmaster and it has never jammed or had any problems besides a small amount of surface rust(oil your guns...). I have never shot one but I hear the Mossberg guns are just as reliable.

I've seen used 870s going for around $250-$300 around here. Good deal, they will last.

 

[Deer Hunter]

Before buying a new shotgun, check out what is availible in your area on the used racks.

 

[johudamana]

I'll probably use it mostly at the range but, if need be, I may use it for home defense... I would hope that I wouldn't have to though...

I keep my guns oiled, but always a good reminder. Is there a different process to oiling a shotgun vs a rifle/handgun? If so please advise.

Thanks for the reply

 

[The Deer Hunter]

Umm, not really. Just oil the parts that rust(so everything steel including SS)...

 

[mnrivrat]

Seems you already came up with two of the top choices in the Mossberg and the Remington. I would not go for a double , but that's a longer story and of course an opinion.

For HD or just having fun the short barrels are fine. If your wanting to extend the shotgun into some hunting or trap type games, then longer barrels can help extend the range.

Before you run out and buy I would also enourage you to look at the 20ga. versions . They are lighter and have good handling charateristics. In other words, depending on what you want a shotgun for - they may be a better ga. choice for you ? Ya - I shoot 20ga. , I have owned and shot a lot of 12ga. guns as well.

The Remington 870 is the most popular of all pump guns , and the Mossbergs have a strong following. Pick the one that fits you and your usage needs.

 

[johudamana]

I hear people say they have found awesome deals on used guns, but I've always been afraid that if I got one it would blow up in my face... I know how I take car of guns, but how did the last person type of thing.

As for those 2 guns, I haven't found anything bad about them yet. I thought I'd ask if there were any concerns that I haven't heard about. Also, are there any other models that I should look at?

I didn't think there would be anything special that I'd have to do as far as oiling goes, just double-checking. Never hurts to ask, but it might if you don't.

As for the different gauges, what are the differences between 12, 20 etc?

 

[ArchAngelCD]

Both the Mossberg and Remington shotguns are great choices. When it comes down to it your choice should be which feels better in your hand. I chose a Mossberg 500 and my son chose a Remington 870, we are both happy with our choices.

 

[shoup dawg]

I got exactly the Remington you mentioned. I'm a total novice to guns and haven't ever owned one before. I had been eyeing the mossberg 500 persuader for weeks and was all set to buy one, but the store had none in stock. And I was wavering as the action seemed "clunky" and "rattly" as some folks have mentioned. I wanted the Mossberg because of the lower price (229 vs. 279 for remington) and the locations of the forend release and the safety. But I am happy with the remington thus far even though I have yet to shoot it. It feels more solid. However, depending on how it all goes, I think I'll be one of the many who will end up owning both...