The 870 is a much larger piece of crap... I'd rather have a smokepole. At least I know it'll shoot. The 870 has only a single extracting hook that if not properly cleaned on a regular basis jams up and causes major problems. I'd rather have TWO extractors like the Mossbergs have. Also, their receivers are not aluminum, at least mine aren't. They're steel, and I can test that by putting magnets on them. (Aren't I smart?) The ones that are aluminum, are aircraft grade and thats one I trust.

Also, I don't know if you've ever taken yours apart, but the internal mechanism is much more complicated than the Mossberg, and therefore more expensive and difficult to fix. The safety is in an uncomfortable position for most shooters I've spoken with. The only thing the 870 has against the Mossberg is aftermarket upgrade parts, but the Mossberg is quickly gaining speed.

FYI, the Mossberg is the only shotgun the US Military uses extensivly in combat. Its the only shotgun that meets military standards. The 870 doesn't stand a chance and feels very cheap.