shotgun for under $500

[VastRWCon]

First shotgun purchase need some freeper help.

[TLOne]

I last purchased a Remington 1187 semi-auto new for around $500. It's ideal for skeet and trap and is available with bbls for either sport. Trap uses the longest bbl and skeet a shorter one.

IIRC there are a number bbl choices, I chose the middle length, lightweight tapered contour, standard bbl. All have interchangeable chokes.

If doing it over I'd select the long std bbl. New bbls are close to $300. I'd love to get the long trap bbl and trap chokes.

The Rem 1100 and 1187 are very similar, the 1187 has improved gas valving so is able to cycle a greater variety of shells thus giving you the ability to shoot both low power target shells up to 3" magnum shells.

I highly recommend the 1187 as a great all around gun, much more expensive than a pump but extremely versatile and not overly expensive. Make sure the gun you select has a raised rib down the bbl. It's worth the slight extra cost as well.