Mossberg 500 vs. Remington 870
 

I'v been looking for a shotgun for a long time but have been between a Mossberg 500 Bantam 12-Gauge or a Remington 870. What do you think would be best for both Turkey and Other game birds? What length of barrel do you think is best for all game?

RE: Mossberg 500 vs. Remington 870
 

I've owned a Mossberg 500 (sold it) and currently still have a Rem 870 express. Both are good guns but the Rem holds the edge, IMO. If you do get a Rem, make sure you get one that can shoot 3" shells. Their website will tell you what model depending upon serial # of the barrel.

As to barrel length, I don't really have an opinion. I'm pretty simplistic. Upland birds I like a short barrel (26" for an o/u that I shoot) and just change chokes. For waterfowl, longer barrel (+28") because I'm stationary and able to prepare for the shot, ie. no swinging the gun around.

RE: Mossberg 500 vs. Remington 870
 

I have always used the Remington, have no idea about the other though... Sorry

RE: Mossberg 500 vs. Remington 870
 

I always shoot Remingtons. I have a 870 express super mag for 3 1/2'' shells. and a 28'' barrel. does a great job on geese and fox down to doves.and it always shoots. one time while duck hunting I sunk down to my waist in mud and my gun was nothing but mud, but it had no problems shooting.

RE: Mossberg 500 vs. Remington 870
 

I've owned both the mossberg and the 870 express. The 870 is better. But I'd go the extra coin and buy a Benelli Nova. You won't be sorry.

RE: Mossberg 500 vs. Remington 870
 

I think you are forgetin a very good gun...The winchester 1300. Its in the same category for the Mossberg and Remington. Very good gun!!!!!!!!!!!

RE: Mossberg 500 vs. Remington 870
 

Remington 870, no question! I have 10 in different gauges and models. If I use a shotgun, it's a Remington.

RE: Mossberg 500 vs. Remington 870
 

Rem 870 is by far the better gun.

RE: Mossberg 500 vs. Remington 870
 

RE: Mossberg 500 vs. Remington 870
 

I currently own both and like them both.

"Trusty Rusty" is my Mossberg 500 and I have had it for 21 years, and it has claimed more critters then all other weapons that I own combined. Pheasant, Quail, Chukar, Grouse, Woodcock, Dove, Duck, Geese, Turkey, Rabbit, Fox, Coyote, Squirrel, Woodchuck, and 1 deer. I have had and shot it so long it is an extension of me, I must have shot 10,000 clay pigeons with it. Not a single issue with that gun. I take Trusty out once in awhile still even though I own nicer now, and he ALWAYS produces. That gun has a bit of magic in it.

My Rem 870 is only4 years old and I have a 28" smooth barrel and a shorter fully rifled barrel. I "like" it, and with the fully rifled barrel and RedDot scope on it is a deer killing machine. I don't like it on birds as much as Trusty though. It doesn't cycle as well as the Mossberg and has been a little finicky with ammo. That being said, I think it has to do with quality standards at Remington, as my Father's older 870 is flawless. I have held "new" Mossberg's and they do not appear to be as well made as my old one. The Remington now is just my deer shotgun.

I don't think you could wrong either way, and while I want tolove all Remington's I have had to many issues with recent purchases across the board to feel confident in them anymore.