Hey, my first shotgun was an 870 express 3" mag 12 gauge. Great gun. I have a friend with the 3 1/2" supermag. I'd probably have it it they made it when I bought mine. Good thing they didn't. I weigh 150 lbs dripping wet. I weighed 135 when I bought it. I shoot alot of different calibers, 458 win mag being the largest and I still hate to shoot his 3 1/2". I don't think they make slugs in 3 1/2" but I haven't checked lately, I moved to montana and just use my 12 for upland birds. But even still, the effect of a 3" slug on a whitetail is devestating. I like the cantilever scope mount on remingtons, but it is an expensive option. The combo with 21" rifle sights and full rifling with a 26-28" vent rib is probably the best bang for the buck. Good luck with your choice.

I have a friend with the mossberg 500 and he likes it. Others like the nova, and finally, the Winchester 1300. One friend has one and he claims that he can cycle the action faster than the 870, but it is six to one, half dozen to the other. Buy what you like. and especially what fits you well.

Lots of 870's around.

If you find a clerk that you like, that has some experience, and doesn't just try to sell you something, Stick with them. Big store or little guys. They are there because they want to help you. You chance finding them in little stores because the own the store, or are a friend of the store owner, or they really know what they are talking about, it isn't just an afterschool job for them. I've heard some clerks answer with some of the craziest answers because they don't have a clue or don't care.

Enjoy what ever you get!