A 12 gauge is just so versatile. If you want to shoot light loads, plenty of factory ammo is available. Obviously you can also get some serious magnum loads with the 12 gauge. If you ever want to deer hunt with the gun, not really very many OO or OOO buckshot loads available for a 20 gauge. I use my 12 gauge for everything from doves to deer, and really can't see a reason to use anything else except in the case of rifled barrel shotguns. With the advent of all the new high end sabot loads, a 20 gauge is just right for killing deer, and not putting excess recoil into your shoulder. Otherwise, my recommendation, stay with the 12 gauge.

Wow, great advice so far. Thanks for the input.

As far as price, entry level is what I am looking at. I have looked at the Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 in a few stores. Just did not know if they were worth the money or not. For example, IMO the Remington 710 is an adequate rifle but for justfew dollars more you can get a much better rifle.

I have no experience with different types, pump, auto etc so I was wondering about reliability and maintenance. This will be used sparingly so the least maintenance issues would be the best. I know single shot is the easiest but how are pump actions?

It seems the 12 vs 20 is about like what cartridge to hunt with. A personal choice more than a function choice.

Anything else to consider? Chokes? Barrel length?

Let's just say that the Remington 870 is the shotgun by which all other shotguns are judged They've been called the most reliable shotgun in the world, the single most popular gun model, and a gun with which someone, somewhere, is hunting with right now.

Chokes...modified covers most of my bird hunting. IC for some dove hunting, and full for some pheasant hunting. Extra or Super full will cover you for turkeys. Barrel length...I'd get at least a 24" bbl. I shoot only 26" and 28" barrels. The shorter, the 'whippier' for close up fast shotsand the longer, the more stable for easier follow through.