Best inexpensive tactical shotgun for first time buyer

[Franktank]

I'm going to buy my first gun and I know three things for sure...
1. I want something inexpensive
2. I want something reliable / well made
3. I want it to look tactical

I really like the look and features of the Benelli SuperNova Tactical but I really don't want to spend that much. I found a Stevens 320 I like but I'm not sure if it is reliable but it is inexpensive. There is also the Mossberg 500 line but there are soooo many models I can't decide.... I very nearly pulled the trigger on a Mossberg 500 ZMB this evening but wanted to find out more about Stevens first.

Is there a SuperNova copy available?

what gun do you guys/gals recommend based on my requirements?

Thanks in advance!

Cheers,
Frank

 

[aeropb]

Get the Mossberg 500 ZMB. Its the perfect hybrid of cheap, cool looking, and functional that you need.

 

[h8ns8n]

http://www.okshooters.com/showthread.php?140593-Mossberg-590-tactical-12-guage-never-fired

 

[Sanjuro82]

I'd recommend the IAC 982 Hawk or the H&R Pardner Pump. Both are Remington 870 clones and are great buys for the money. Being an 870 clone opens you up to a pretty much unlimited source of accessories. Under $200 for the shotgun, and then spend 100-200 to make it as tactical as you want!

I went with the 982 because I wanted the ghost ring sights. It is one solid shotgun! So far I have around 300 shells through mine with no problems.

The Mossberg 500 ZMB would be an excellent choice as well.

 

[SMS]

Define "Tactical"?

Beyond that, you can't go wrong with a regular old 870...lightly used models can be had with 18/18.5 inch barrels and tube extensions for very cheap, relatively speaking. Mossberg will do you ok too.

 

[peanut]

I'm looking at a remington 887 nitromag.
Holds 7+1, chambered for 2", 2 3/4" and 3" shells.
Looks(you said looks!!) tactical, has a muzzle brake.
Cost around $400 with 18" barrel.

 

[Fyrtwuck]

Get an 870 and then you can build on it and modify it for the rest of your life. I started with what was described as a "Home Defense" model new in the box. I paid about $325.00 for it. It was matte finish with an 18.5 bead sighted barrel and wood furniture. This is about as basic as it gets.

I have since changed the barrel to a 20 inch rifle sighted barrel that was sent to Hans Vang for backboring the internal choke. A magazine extension tube was added for greater magazine capacity. Black synthetic furniture with a "youth" stock that makes it easier to shoulder without the long pull or reach. A "Limbsaver" recoil pad was installed. It takes some of the bite out of it when shooting slugs. A Mesa Tactical 8 round sidesaddle carrier for extra rounds and sling swivels that can be used if needed.

 

[jakerz]

mossy 500. Going on break...

 

[Robert871]

i think reddog has some nice rra 18 inch with heat shields for a little over 200 if i recall correctly.

 

[68mustang]

U can get a new moss 500 all purpose/security model (28 and 18.5 barrel) for 275 brand new. Comes with a pistol grip as well.