soundmotor

Going with the pack on this.

I've had an 870 for 30 years and it is a great gun. A few things to consider when you buy one.

(1) Make sure it has the "Highway Patrol" conversion feeding tongue or you buy the parts to do this yourself. This is a movable part where the shells feed in and will have a U-shaped cutout rather than solid part. It allows a jam to be cleared should a shell become trapped behind the tongue. I bought the parts to convert mine at a police supply store for very short money.

(2) Get one chambered for 3" shells as they also chamber 2 3/4". My 870 only chambers 2 3/4" not magnums. I seldom shoot magnums in other guns that are chambered for them and nearly always shoot 2 3/4" but having the option is nice. Especially if the are the only shells you can find.

(3) A 21" deer barrel with rifle sights is more versatile than an 18" barrel. Plus, if you use an extended magazine, it does not go past the end of the muzzle.

(4) The best accessories for the 870 & other shotguns (stocks, mag extensions, etc.) are made by Choate Machine & Tool. Great customer service and products. They are located in Arkansas and can be found via Google.

(5) The 870 is my first choice but many will choose a Mossberg 500 over it. They are usually cheaper & less well finished. They are good guns however and certainly worth considering.

(6) Find a gun store that buys up police turn-ins. Here in New England I've seen good condition 870's with most of the above for ~$150.

Good Luck!