I bought my first 870 in 72 and never had any trouble with but it was stolen in a B+E. in 84. I bought an 870 express a few years later. I use mod.,improved,and improved cylinder, depending on the hunt itself.I have covered it in mud ,sand ,marsh crap ,and had to retieve it from the bottom of a slew once when our boat sunk.Itwas the only one in working order out of 4 shotguns that went for a swim,the others were various autos. I am also a southpaw and use the righthanded model with no trouble at all. I was brought up using an Ithica 20ga but I prefer my 870 anytime.
That is one man`s opinion.