Well if it were me i would choose the 870. I like them so well i have 4 of them and havent had any trouble out of them. Probly the most popular pump today and has been for along time but if she doesnt like it, owell. If i had to go with either of the other guns id choose the winchester 1300. A buddy of mine has a ranger compact in 20 gauge and its a great gun but he always talks of how he wishes he had and 870. Good luck with your decision the 870 or 1300 will both be great guns, dunno nething bout the nova.