RE: question for all u bird hunters
I would get the Remington 870. It's a good solid shotgun & points well. Most shotguns now come with screw in chokes & you can get them in 3 1/2 inch---so you will be set there. For steel shot you will need to down size 1 choke--ie mod choke with give you a full choke. Sometimes imp cly will be better with the larger steel shot. The reason is that steel shot does not compress & a little choke is all that is needed.
I don't like the Mossberg because they seem to have a loose fit & tend to rattle. They are good reliable guns, several buddies shoot the 835 & have had no problems.
You should try them all for fit. I'm 6'1'' & the 870 fits me like a glove, the 835 is too short for me, does not fit my long arms at all.
The pump action will give you the most bang for the buck. I've had my 870 for 30 years now & have never had a problem.