I agree with Marlin30/30. The 870 and 500 are more or less the "standard" if there is one.

I make no secrets about the fact that I am biased towards remington; I have had nothing but success with them (Though unless you want an expensive door stop, don't buy the 770).

While both of these guns are quite a bit under your price range Remington makes the 870 supermag in camo which is a very nice gun.

A few things to consider about this gun:

1. it holds 3 1/2 shells which isn't necessary but has its uses
2. it has a camo barrel and synthetic stock; which makes it more ideal for nasty conditions (e.g. hunting thick/muddy sloughs). The stock won't warp and the metal is a little more protected from moisture.
3. **You still need to ALWAYS clean your gun as soon as possible**
4. It is a very simple gun and seldom has problems
5. It's not going anywhere. Parts will always be available for it

With your price range, these qualities can be found in many different guns, however it gives you an idea of what to look for. The most important thing is that it fits you. A bird gun isn't like a deer rifle that only gets shot a few times a year. It becomes your best friend when you're in the thick of it and you will be putting hundreds of shells through it. Take care of your gun and it will take care of you.

Also, a side note: Possibly consider not spending up to your budget on a gun. Hunting is a VERY expensive sport and you will find yourself wanting to purchase other things such as: good ammo, blinds, decoys, chokes, camo, waders, calls, flags, robo ducks...just to name a few.

Around here for autoloaders, the Beretta Extrema2 is a very popular gun.

Best of luck,

BurdBuster