Nothing against any other shotguns, but the Remington 870 is the most popular shotgun out there and has been a favorite since it was introduced in 1950. It is so popular that it is the best selling pump shot gun in US history according to Gun Digest Treasury. From 1950 to 1996 over 7 million of them were sold.
There's a reason for that.
That's also the reason why you will find more accessories for the 870 than any other shotgun on the market.
Whichever you decide to get, you will get a good gun, but I prefer the 870.
I agree. The 500 aint no slouch though, my dad has a 500 cop model, LE long tube. Its a nice gun.
Just stacking 500 vs 870 isnt very helpful unless you are willing to name price or model.
I have a 870 super mag express, 28 inch vent rib with some stick on fiberoptic front sight that came with it used, for $195 i got it about 2 years ago.
it can shoot 2 3/4", 3", or 3 1/2"shells which is neat, but i have yet to shoot 3 1/2" from it.
I do think the 870 is made and finished a bit nicer, and bit smoother. Other than that, vertually every dodad and accessory is made for each of them. I know mossberg even makes barrels (aftermarket ones) to fit the 870, remmy might do that for mossbergs also, not sure i never looked. If they dont its a testment to the universal appeal and the market, even the competition makes barrels.