RE: recommendations of automatic shotguns?
 

You should easily be able to find a used 1100 in good condition for less than $400....and you'll never worry about finding parts for it.

RE: recommendations of automatic shotguns?
 

For the price of the Remingtons look at the Beretta's 390, 3901, Pintail/ES100, Franchi 612, Weatherby SAS. All of them have better quality, more features, less weight, better balance, and are just better performing. The Stoeger 2000 is not a bad choice for $400.00. I've also heard pretty good things on the Traditions ALS 2100 and Verona SX 405. They also sell for around $400.00.

RE: recommendations of automatic shotguns?
 

You're asking for allot in that price range.I agree a Remington 1100 or 11-87. I might suggest looking for a Browning Auto 5. They were discontinued a few years back.Either way you'll have to come up with more money .I would stay away from the Charles Daily. Not long ago was a post about their customer service and not honoring the warranty.I wouldn't give them my business.

Ruger Redhawk

RE: recommendations of automatic shotguns?
 

If you absolutely can't spend more than $400, just go with a Remington 870 or used 1100, or at least a Mossberg 500 or 835. All of these should be reliable enough for you.

CJW