I certainly understand the student budget as I am one my self. I can tell you as I have both the Remingto 870 and an old Mossberg 500. Both are really good guns. Sturdy and reliable. My mossberg has been dragged through the sand and crap on numerous turkey hunts. Cleans up great and works like a charm. As most here have atested to, the 870 is a work horse, haven't had mine long enough to put it through its paces yet, but I am certain that it will live up to its reputation.
Personally I would recommend either shotgun. I believe the 870 has more aftermarket parts to 'trick' it out however you like. I personally only use mine for hunting and smoking clays. It is usually a good thing to go with something that you like, and is also easy to find parts for such as a good 870. Ask most anyone who has a shotgun. First they probably have more than one or atleast want another. And almost all of them will have either an 870 or a 500, or like me and have both.
Personally I would recommend either shotgun. I believe the 870 has more aftermarket parts to 'trick' it out however you like. I personally only use mine for hunting and smoking clays. It is usually a good thing to go with something that you like, and is also easy to find parts for such as a good 870. Ask most anyone who has a shotgun. First they probably have more than one or atleast want another. And almost all of them will have either an 870 or a 500, or like me and have both.
