[M14sRock]

Hop on GB and search for "JC Higgins Model 20". Should run you less than $150 in good shape.

They are only 2 3/4", but are machined, forged steel. Made by Hi Standard. I have "some" and love them.

Overall length from trigger to end of mag tube is shorter than an 870, but the M20 holds one extra round.

They are exceptionally smooth and fast. Lightning fast. Some have magazine cutoff, and some don't. Some have vent ribs, some don't. Some have Cutts Chokes, some don't.

You will need a hacksaw and a file, or a decent 'smith.

The only reason to use 3" or 3.5" shells is to goose hunt, or qualify for mall ninja of the week. Nice to have the ability to use 3" & 3.5" but you won't need them for general use. 2 3/4" will do anything you need.

Mossbergs use the High Standard design.

[bgeddes]

Is the bead sight going to be ok for HD though?

Sure.

In a HD situation I doubt you'll even see the sights. One reason for using a scatter gun is the fact that a hit is a lot more likely with multiple projectiles. You are on the right track, the Mossy 500 and the Rem 870 are Ford and Chevy truck of home defense guns, they are everywhere.

[Hunt SD]

Get a Mossy

[ninjatoth]

Originally Posted by hunter Joe

You should also be able to find a Mossberg 500 Persuader or Cruiser for under $300.00. These come with extended tubular magazines and a pistol grip.

I want one of those,but here in MI it's stupid,I can buy it with the buttstock with no registering it,but once I put the pistol grip on it I have to register it with the state police.

[Benning Boy]

NEF Pardner Pump Protector, $200, reliable, and that leaves you $100 for ammo...

[Alchemist]

Yeah, I've got an NEF Pardner pump too. Mine is 18.5" bbl... for home defense ...but it comes in hunting configurations too. It's very solid/heavy...well-enough-made for the price... dependable. I know that at least some of the parts are manufactured in China (even though NEF stands for "New England Firearms"... ha!). That doesn't bother me. It serves my purpose and I'm happy with it. NEF brand is also associated with "Harrington and Richardson". They're all part of Marlin now as far as I know. Got it at sporting-goods-box-store-chain Gander Mountain. Here's a link. Mine is at the very bottom of the page:

H&R Pardner® Pump

[orangello]

MOSSBERG PISTOL GRIP TACTICAL SHOTGUN, 8 SHOT, VENTED HEAT SHIELD. BRAND NEW IN THE FACTORY BOX WITH WARRENTY AND MOSSBERG CABLE LOCK....ITEM # MOSS-PERSUADER..........$289.95


Mossberg Maverick Model 88 Security Model
Model 88 6-Shot Security model features a 3" chamber, 18½" Cylinder Bore fixed choke and a non-ported barrel. A rugged black synthetic stock and forearm, blued metal finish and a brass front sight bead are also included. Our model 88 is a combo package that also includes the pistol grip. A great value on a really nice shotgun. Don't miss this.......
ITEM # MAV-88..............$199.95.

from Classic Arms Inc. about 1/3 down the front page.

I have an aging Mossy 500 & no complaints.

[davemccarthy707]

The old Maverick 88 is as tough and reliable as all get-out. If it's just gonna hang out next to your bed for protection that would be my choice. ( I have a Winchester 1300 Defender but would buy a Maverick 88 in a heartbeat).

[ScottA]

Most recent Cabelas sales flyer showed up in the mailbox today. Had a Remington 870, 7 shot, home defense for $299.

[M14sRock]

Originally Posted by ScottA

Most recent Cabelas sales flyer showed up in the mailbox today. Had a Remington 870, 7 shot, home defense for $299.

Tough to beat an 870....