Does the 597 have the metal or plastic magazine? If plastic, you probably got one of the bad ones. The new ones come with metal magazine and a few other internal improvements. Take it back and exchange it for a newer one. As far as Remington goes, I would not shoot another brand. I have 3 870' s, of which, I have never had one problem with. Yeah two of them have plastic trigger guards, but I prefer that. Makes the gun lighter, holds up better than the metal ones, and probably makes it easier for me to buy one (cheaper). If you are a serious target shooter or hunter, then don' t look at the 597' s or 710' s. Remington is hands down the best manufacturer for the money. By the way, my game baq or deer pole have never been empty because I was carrying a Remington in the field.