I have used both. A 1970's vintage Mod. 870, 12 ga. was about my favorite shot gun for years. It was stolen. A few years ago I won a nice gift certificate and used part of it it to buy a Nova "Turkey Gun". No problems. Killed plenty of Toms with it. As far as grip style, I figure that is a personal preference. I am right handed and have had to make several "left handed" shots on Toms. With a "standard" grip, that is a simple transition for me. Not sure how that would work with a pistol opr thumb-hole grip.