hunter1089

I'v been looking for a shotgun for a long time but have been between a Mossberg 500 Bantam 12-Gauge or a Remington 870. What do you think would be best for both Turkey and Other game birds? What length of barrel do you think is best for all game?

Mite

I've owned a Mossberg 500 (sold it) and currently still have a Rem 870 express. Both are good guns but the Rem holds the edge, IMO. If you do get a Rem, make sure you get one that can shoot 3" shells. Their website will tell you what model depending upon serial # of the barrel.

As to barrel length, I don't really have an opinion. I'm pretty simplistic. Upland birds I like a short barrel (26" for an o/u that I shoot) and just change chokes. For waterfowl, longer barrel (+28") because I'm stationary and able to prepare for the shot, ie. no swinging the gun around.

buckhunter14

I have always used the Remington, have no idea about the other though... Sorry

idahotrapper

I always shoot Remingtons. I have a 870 express super mag for 3 1/2'' shells. and a 28'' barrel. does a great job on geese and fox down to doves.and it always shoots. one time while duck hunting I sunk down to my waist in mud and my gun was nothing but mud, but it had no problems shooting.

Viking_hunter

I've owned both the mossberg and the 870 express. The 870 is better. But I'd go the extra coin and buy a Benelli Nova. You won't be sorry.

stuckinthereeds

I think you are forgetin a very good gun...The winchester 1300. Its in the same category for the Mossberg and Remington. Very good gun!!!!!!!!!!!

Wild Outdoorsman

Remington 870, no question! I have 10 in different gauges and models. If I use a shotgun, it's a Remington.

Windwalker7

Rem 870 is by far the better gun.

Rem1100

MA Jay

I currently own both and like them both.

"Trusty Rusty" is my Mossberg 500 and I have had it for 21 years, and it has claimed more critters then all other weapons that I own combined. Pheasant, Quail, Chukar, Grouse, Woodcock, Dove, Duck, Geese, Turkey, Rabbit, Fox, Coyote, Squirrel, Woodchuck, and 1 deer. I have had and shot it so long it is an extension of me, I must have shot 10,000 clay pigeons with it. Not a single issue with that gun. I take Trusty out once in awhile still even though I own nicer now, and he ALWAYS produces. That gun has a bit of magic in it.

My Rem 870 is only4 years old and I have a 28" smooth barrel and a shorter fully rifled barrel. I "like" it, and with the fully rifled barrel and RedDot scope on it is a deer killing machine. I don't like it on birds as much as Trusty though. It doesn't cycle as well as the Mossberg and has been a little finicky with ammo. That being said, I think it has to do with quality standards at Remington, as my Father's older 870 is flawless. I have held "new" Mossberg's and they do not appear to be as well made as my old one. The Remington now is just my deer shotgun.

I don't think you could wrong either way, and while I want tolove all Remington's I have had to many issues with recent purchases across the board to feel confident in them anymore.