OK Joker, what do you want to spend on this shotgun ?? It's kind of like asking someone which vehicle to buy, various models have different purposes. Personally, I currently own two "combat" shotguns, a Mossberg M-590 ( 20" cyl., Parkerized, w/ Speed-Feed stock ) & an older production Ithaca M-37 with an 18" cyl. bbl. ( I have both the full wooden stock & pistol-grip for my Ithaca ) The M-590 is for basic "all around" use, and the M-37 is used for close up & fast work. ( Primarily in-vehicle use & home defence scenarios ) Both are ultra reliable and basically trouble free. As I type this, I can almost hear the Rem. 870 fans screaming at me, but I stand by my 590 for a few select reasons. First, my Dept. issues / uses both the 870 & 590, so I've had the opportunity to use them side by side many times. Yes, the 870 may be a little slicker in it's pump action, but short stroke one and see what happens. You can short stroke the 590 just as well, but it's MUCH easier to clear it if that occurs. I also LOVE a top tang safety, it's much more user friendly than the cross bolt set up on the 870. With that said, I wouldn't really feel poorly armed if I had to use an 870, I just prefer the 590. We could go on for days about all the various shotguns available, but it all boils down to what you can afford. There are many quality combat shotguns available, way too many to mention here. I mentioned the pump variety because they are among the most affordable and readily obtainable. What will be your shotguns primary purpose & how much can you afford should determine which weapon you end up with. Regards, Dom Pastore Jr.