I see people telling you not to get one, but not telling you why? I don't own one, but have looked at them. And I have honestly not heard anything bad about them. I am sure they are selling them being they are priced so low. If they were real pieces of junk I would think we would be seeing more posts about how bad they were.
If someone here has a valid reason not to get one I would be interested in hearing it because I am also considering one. Other than just not liking anything mossberg makes considering they have one of the best selling pump guns on the market.
As far as the handi rifle in 243, the handi's are pretty decent for the money but I have heard the 243's have problems with the cases sticking. I don't know if they have fixed this yet or not. Besides for not much more you could get a bolt action. The Handi's were a great bargain until the mossberg and stevens 200's came out.
I honestly think you should wait until they get married
.
Paul