depends if you want auto, pump, or o/u...There are many choices in both pump and auto. The most reliable and close to the cheapest would be a Remington 870 deer/field combo. Semi Auto is going to be more expensive but less recoil and a little more maintenance required (cleaning). I too am lokoing for a new shotgun for waterfowl and deer hunting. I think I am going to go with the 870 and get a good recoil pad to cut down on the recoil.