The Remington 870 is the industry standard firearm for totally screwing up a bad guys whole life. There is no telling just how many reprobates either met their Maker or had a come to Jesus moment after looking at the business end of this weapon.
I own both a 870 and a Mossberg 500. Either will leave a perp just as dead as the other. Both have options available to fit it up the way you want it. If money is a prime consideration, the Mossberg will run a bit less than the 870. The difference? If you have ever fired a Colt 1911 and anything else chambered in .45ACP and really favored the Colt, you will have to have a 870. If you can’t really tell any difference, get the Mossberg and save the money.
OK you Kimber, Springfield, Glock, etc. shooters, let the flaming commence, lol.
LOL!
LLS