First off I think your doing the right thing by taking your time and actually handiling the differant guns in the store. I did the same a a few years ago while looking for a 3.5" pump for duck, goose and turkey. I was almost set on the 870 and then picked up the benelli nova. I payed around 400 for a full camo version back then at Bass Pro. I don't know what they run now. I would take a look at one if you get a chance. The Nova can be completly stripped with no tools. The 835 I had and my dad's 500 are more dificlut to strip. I have had no complants with the nova, and it has held up well to the salt marshes here. The most important thing is to make sure the gun fits and points well for you. I would agree with the majority of the above posts that between your origioinal choices I would get the 870. The BPS felt like a well made firearm, but did not fit me well, much like my 835 (the fit part anyway).