I wouldn't go with anythign less than a 26" barrel. I have a friend with an 870 and he hates it. Nothing but problems with it. If you're wanting a good inexpensive waterfowl gun that's good for turkey too, I'd recommend the Mossberg 500. I shot one for over 10 years and it has NEVER jammed or caused me any problems. You can get one at Wal-Mart for around $200. Sometimes, they even have them cheaper. They're $159 at one of the Wal-Mart's here. They come with three chokes too. Great gun. If you want to spend more money on the best pump on the market (my opinion), get the Benelli Nova. Around $320 here in Oklahoma. IT's an awesome gun. If you've got money to blow, get an automatic. I have a Mossberg 935. I haven't hunted with it yet, but I've put about 100 rounds through it. I'm pretty pleased with it. I got it for $439 at Bass Pro. Matt