For a one gun solution that is an excellent choice. I wouldn' t worry about getting a 3.5" unless you like pain when you shoot. You can also get an 870 with the rifled barrel. I think any of the standard guns will suit you fine. You can always find stuff to camo a gun if you really want, and as long as you take care of your gun and wipe it down, getting it wet shouldn' t be a problem. And as far as wood or syn stock that just depends on how much weight you want to save.