I've only shot the 870 and the Mossberg and either one is excellent. The 20 gauge is perfect to start a kid out with or a woman shooting shotguns. They areeffective and don't kick as bad as a 12 gauge. I shoot a 20 alot because my wrsit is messed up and if I shoot a 12 gauge too much I can hardly move my wrist by the end of the day.