I would suggest a Remington 870. I have had one for almost 10 years now and never had any problem out of it. And ill be the first to tell you that I dont do the best i can to take care of that gun. Even with the abuse, it has never failed me.

If i was going to buy a rifle i would go with a .243. I have always been of the mind that i needed a larger gun, like a .270 or a 30-06. I own a .270 and just recently purchased a Savage Model 111 .243 for my Fiancee. Once i bought the gun i fell in love with it. They have that gun at Dicks for a little less than $350, and it comes with a scope. But I will tell you that the scope that comes with it is extremely cheap. I never even took the scope out of the box and went out and bought a Nikon to put on it.

If i had to decide between a rifle and a shotgun, I would take my 870 any day of the week. It is by far the most versatile gun I own.