Browning Upland Special 24" barrels and light (6lb 4oz??)
Maybe out of your budget, I paid $1,000 in 1993???
You will need no other gun for upland game unless you choose too,
so spend your money wisely on something YOU want, if possible...

I have the 12 ga and like the thought of more pellets.
I typically shoot #8 for grouse, woodcock and rabbit for the first 2 or 3 weeks of the season.
Then I'll put in an 8 top (1st) barrel and a 7 1/2 (2nd shot) when the leaves drop and I can shoot further.
I'll jump up to #6 for pheasants...