I can't decide between the reliability of a pump, or the quickness of a semi-auto. I have always shot my 870, and still will for deer, but looking to upgrade to something that takes a 3.5 for turkey and waterfowl. Any input would be appreciated. I'm choosing between a benelli nova or the stoeger m3500.

If those are your choices I would choose Benelli.

Those are pretty limited choices. Both are fine guns, though. For anything that flies you would be greatly benefited by a semi-auto. Plus, they are lighter in recoil, so turkey loads won't be quite so cumbersome. The semi-autos out there these days are plenty reliable, IMO, as long as you get something quality. You might be well served to look for a used semi-auto that is a higher level gun than that Stoeger. The 3500 is fine, but there are certainly better options out there. I went through a pretty extensive searching process before buying my last shotgun. I shot 8, and shouldered several more. I ended up choosing the Browning Maxus, and I am very glad that I did. I would suggest that you not limit yourself to two options. Shoulder, and shoot as many as you can. Go from there.

SLM1234,
I'm in love with my SuperNova. Great shooter, great ergonomics and great looks! I, of course, love my 870 and always will, I just place it in the "workhorse" category whereas my Benelli is in the "specialized". If you can swing a little more out of your budget give the SuperNova a nod. Being factory drilled/tapped for a rail is great and while I've not shot the 'ComforTech' stock (mine has the pistol grip), I hear it helps a lot in managed recoil. My 2 cents. Happy shopping.

I would look into a Franchi as well. I thinks it's manufactured at the same place as Benelli with out the price of a Benelli. I just got done looking at a 3 1/2 brand new with bottom land camo for $999

Thank you everyone! Please the replies coming.

I have shot both these guns and love them both. Like the one guy said, my 870 will become my work horse gun and my new one will be more specialized. I wish I had $1600 to spend on a brand new benelli semi auto, but I'm a workin man, just like many of you are. I didn't realize the stoeger m3500 was the 2012 shotgun of the year.

How about the 870 super magnum.

I bought a Benelli Super Black Eagle II this year. So far all I can say is wow! The trigger is excellent and it points great I will post how it does on turkey's after next weekend.

Take a Look at the Benelli M2, I'm extremely happy
with mine for both Turkeys and waterfowl.