My vote is on the SX3, best value for money I'd say, and it shoots 3 1/2's which help on geese. It is gas, but after the mud, water, dirt, blood, and grass that got on it this year, I'd say that's irrelevant. Dropped around 100 birds with mine this year. (7 geese, 9 grouse, and 80-ish ducks. Yes, I do have pictures of the majority of my hunts should anyone doubt it... I have a good hunting spot.
)
But, for the little it's worth, here is my opinion on a few more.
Less money? Mossberg 935. Doesn't necessarily shoot 2 3/4's consistently, will do 3's & 3 1/2's just fine. Not pretty, but it will get the job done. I've seen them around the $700 mark used.
Little more? Quite a few options, but I'd say the Franchi Affinity would top my list near the $1k mark. I'm told it's basically the same action as a SBE2 in a cheaper frame, my boss has one and loves it. Only shoots up to 3" shells though.
More money? SX3. Excellent gun, top tier performance for about $500 less. Shoot's 3 1/2's, and is a gas system, so you can actually shoot a box of 3 1/2's in a couple hours and not regret it later.
Even more money? A400, SBE2, Browning A5, whatever floats your boat. You won't be disappointed, just do your research and find which one is right for you. Some are better in some area's and not others.
Finally, as said before, ALWAYS, and we mean it, go try a shotgun out for size before you buy one. Some just won't fit you, and some will fit much better than others. An awkward shotgun won't work nearly as well as on that fits.
Also, you could just go buy a decent pump like an SXP to use for this season. It will force you take a little more time on your shots and you'll waste a lot fewer shells. You'll never appreciate a semi until you are good with a pump.
)
