which shotgun question

[cookingdaily]

I was wondering if you all could  help me choose a shotgun and gauge for a first time fowl hunter
there are a lot to choose from

Thanks Chris

[duckmen1]

Stoeger 3500 12 gauge  best gun for value. Shoots all size loads, cycle smooth and reliably, feels great, and just a plain good looking gun.

[PNW_Hunter]

Are you looking to make a purchase from this thread? Only reason I asked is because you posted it in the classifieds section, but didn't have a WTB or anything in the subject line. Just for clarification 

[BigGoonTuna]

if you're a first timer, i'd definitely look for a 12 gauge with a 3" chamber and screw in chokes.  leave the 3.5" guns to the guys that like to punish themselves

browning bps, mossberg 500 or rem 870 would be my picks.

[bowhunter851]

I like Mossberg 500 it feels the best to me even tho I love 870s the mossber just feels better

[cookingdaily]

so what are the other gauge sizes for?
410
20,16,
I Imagine they are for specific applications
do some come with threaded barrels for slug purposes?
super novice but want to get into the bird side of things 

 PNW_Hunter sorry posted in wrong spot on info gathering mission

[PNW_Hunter]

so what are the other gauge sizes for?
410
20,16,
I Imagine they are for specific applications
do some come with threaded barrels for slug purposes?
super novice but want to get into the bird side of things 

 PNW_Hunter sorry posted in wrong spot on info gathering mission

.410 is actually the diameter, and is not a gauge, and they are mainly used for training (could hunt rabbits, etc if need be)

I would most surely go with a 12 gauge. If you are looking for a pump action shotgun, i'd look into the 870's as stated before, and they will generally be less expensive than an autoloading shotgun of similar quality.

Autoloading shotguns need a more meticulous cleaning routine as they are prone to problems when not properly cleaned (although all guns should be routinely cleaned, it is just more of a problem with an auto).

All the shotguns listed are great suggestions, but if it were me, i'd be leaning towards the 870 or a Benelli Nova (just based on personal experiences with them). Reasonably priced, and a lot of gun for the money

[Atroxus]

Stoeger 3500 12 gauge  best gun for value. Shoots all size loads, cycle smooth and reliably, feels great, and just a plain good looking gun.

Lies! This is a terrible shotgun, you should keep an eye out for stores that carry them in camo with 28" barrel and post back here to warn me...um...so that I know where to never shop again! 

Seriously though this is what I am looking for at the moment as an upgrade from my Mossberg 500. The reviews I have read pretty much all say the m3500 is the best bargain value semi-auto around. If you can afford(not much more expensive than a mossberg 500) and can find one, I say get it. Even if you don't plan to use 3.5" shells now, you'll have the option to do so later.

[C-Money]

I would get a 3" 12ga, in a Remington 870 Express. It is as close to the perfect shotgun as you can find for the money. Sometimes you can get a $40 rebate, keep an eye out for that. If you want a rifled slug barrel, they are available, many more accessories as well. Have fun!!

[cookingdaily]

so do I get a finders fee.....LOL
I found this for you

http://www.armslist.com/posts/2556627/spokane-washington-shotguns-for-sale-trade--stoeger-m3500

[boneaddict]

I would get a 3" 12ga, in a Remington 870 Express. It is as close to the perfect shotgun as you can find for the money. Sometimes you can get a $40 rebate, keep an eye out for that. If you want a rifled slug barrel, they are available, many more accessories as well. Have fun!!

[boneaddict]

.410.........vermin, home defense, spending money (shells are expensive compared to other gauges), grouse
16....
20 gauge....great for upland, trap, good for ducks. Fun gun to shoot
12.....great for waterfowl, especially geese, home defense, war, deer or big game.  Can be used for just about anything really.  Little big for snakes, but there are some that really hate snakes. 
10 gauge.......skybusting geese 

[boneaddict]

I prefer 870s over Mossberg, but here is one on top of the huntwa classifieds

http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,144791.msg1922354/topicseen.html#new

[Atroxus]

.410.........vermin, home defense, spending money (shells are expensive compared to other gauges), grouse
16....
20 gauge....great for upland, trap, good for ducks. Fun gun to shoot
12.....great for waterfowl, especially geese, home defense, war, deer or big game.  Can be used for just about anything really.  Little big for snakes, but there are some that really hate snakes. 
10 gauge.......skybusting geese and dislocating your shoulder

Fixed that for you. 

[boneaddict]

and probably your budget for buying ammo.