One other option to save money is to have a Gunsmith modify your existing barrel to accept remington chokes. This can be done for around $35-40 in my area. You still won't have a vent rib but it will cost less than a new barrel. Otherwise in my area you can find Remington 870 Express' used all day long for under $200. This is also less than a new barrel will cost. The third option is to go with a Hastings economy barrel that will accept chokes. These are usually under $135. I have never used a Hastings econo barrel so I don't know what kind of quality you would get. Just some extra things to think over.