Thoughts on home defense shotgun between 870, Nova, 590?

[kpp80202]

I think I'm going to pick up a home defense shotgun in the next couple months. I'd like to get your input on a solid pump gun, and I'm thinking about the 870 "Regular" and Tactical, the 590a1, and the Nova Tactical. I know I'll need practice with it, since I've owned several pumps before (Winchester 12s, Ithaca 37s, etc.) but honestly was never the best with them when bird shooting. I tended to do better with O/Us (Beretta and Browning) and autoloaders (Montefeltro, Auto 5, AL391). That said, there are a few home defense autoloaders available used for under $1k (VersaMax and Benelli M2) that could fit the bill as well; I just know know how reliable they are in high adrenaline situations where they may not be shouldered properly. Any insight is welcome! Thanks.

[CS1983]

I have the Nova Tactical and I like it.

My favorite feature on it is the ability to unchamber a round without having to mess around with it trying to load another, via the foreend's push button shell stop.

I like the ghost ring sights on it as well.

My choice to go with the Benelli instead of an 870 was due to the issues with QC Remington has seemed to have the last few years.

Keep in mind aftermarket accessories are going to be less available than with an 870 or 590.

[kpp80202]

Thanks for the input. On this particular piece, I don't think I'll be adding or modifying anything. I used to have a 590A1 with some bells and whistles, but didn't feel I needed them.

[CS1983]

I should mention the only reason I did NOT go w/ the 590 is due to the tang safety and concern for it to potentially engage safe during use due to recoil.

I like the location for the ergonomics, but I just prefer the crossbolt safety for the reliability. But, my fears may be unfounded.

[brutal]

I have the Nova Tactical and I like it.


My favorite feature on it is the ability to unchamber a round without having to mess around with it trying to load another, via the foreend's push button shell stop.


I like the ghost ring sights on it as well.


My choice to go with the Benelli instead of an 870 was due to the issues with QC Remington has seemed to have the last few years.


Keep in mind aftermarket accessories are going to be less available than with an 870 or 590.

I have a SuperNova tactical (regular stock) with the ghost rings and a mag extension. Nice gun. I also bird hunt with an SBEII that has never failed me (inertia action). If I had to do it again, I would save for a Benelli auto for a tactical as well.

[Wulf202]

While I've never had them engage during firing Mossberg safeties are not well placed if you plan on a pistol grip stock

[Mazin]

While I've never had them engage during firing Mossberg safeties are not well placed if you plan on a pistol grip stock

+10
This is the exact reason I'm going back to a 870. I like the Nova but just for a bird gun, the tactical with a 4+1 capacity is meager imho at best. 870 pistol grip config is my choice unless you go AOW.

[kpp80202]

Good point on the safety. I'd use the full stock, and I like the idea of the tang safety, but haven't considered inadvertent activation of it. Hmmm.

[ray1970]

You can?t go wrong with any of the ones you mentioned. Find one you like the ergonomics of and run with it.

Most of the semi autos in your price range are likely going to be gas operated and should run fine whether you have it shouldered or not.

[davsel]

Having not grown up with pumps, I prefer the auto. Benelli works with everything but light target loads. Defensive rounds should prove reliable, and not having to work the action is a plus for me. Benelli M3 is my shotgun of choice, but the M2 or the Versa are great autos. I'd be more concerned about short stroking a pump than light shouldering an auto in a high-stress situation.