How much of a difference is there in using the 3 1/2 super mag rounds compared to the regular 3 inch shells. I'm looking at a shotgun and was curious if it would make that much of a difference. Obviously its going to have more knock down power, but does the difference come in the distance?

Also, how do we feel about using a scope when hunting deer with a shotgun. Another option is the scope mount vs. the front and rear sights.

A 31/2 definitely has more knock down power than a 3". Whether you'll need that extra knockdownvery oftenwill remain to be seen but it is nice to have it there waiting for you when and if you ever need it. I shoot the 3 1/2's and wouldn't trade it for anything. A 3 1/2" will give you more shot in your pattern too if you get it hooked up with a choke and shells it likes. My Rem. 870 Super Mag will consistently put over 100 pellets in a head and neck turkey silhouette target (equivalent tothe out line of your clenched fist and forearm)at 30 yds and 85+ at 40 yds and 45+ at 50 yds. That is a lot of shot in a small area at some pretty decent distances. I don't think you will find a 3" that can do that. Most times you won't need that kind of pattern but when you do it is nice that it is there. If you blow a yardage guess it is nice to have that kind of knock down power. Also if you buy a super mag you can always shoot 3" out of it anytime you want to.

The Simmons Pro Diamond Recticle is a decent shotgun scope for slugs.

I agree with SJAdventures. I wouldn't trade my 870 super magnum for anything. I can shoot 3.5 anytime I want to. When waterfowl hunting it works great because you put so many more pellets in the air. Also, I have tried using a scope on my 870 and it works out fine, that was with my smooth bore. Last year I got a rifled barrel and it has the front and rear sights and I currently don't use a scope.As long as you get it sighted in it willwork fine. I shot a 10 pointer's heart out at 90 yardswith it15 minutes after sunset.

I've got a Benelli Nova that I love for the the ability for magnum loads. I have both a bird barrel and cantilever deer barrel. The only downside is that it is noticably heavier because of the beefy receiver. Because of that, I also bought a used 870 with a cantilever barrel and I put a Boyd's laminate thumhole stock on it. I find myself carrying that primarily now during deer season. Although, I have a Bushnell Holosight on the Nova and a Bushnell red dot on the 870 (4 reticle, green and red). So, depending on how I feel...

I've been extremely adept at keeping the extra toys from the (you bought what????) wife.