I chose the Mossberg model 500 because it offers a good quality reliable pump at an affordable price. Mossberg makes only shotguns, and they have become quite good at it. The 500 is their standard issue pump and has remained virtually unchanged for years. Thanks to a variety of factory and aftermarket options the 500 can be tailored to almost everyone's needs. The standard field grade 500 comes with a blued finish, walnut wood, and a 28 in vented skeet barrel with 3 chokes.
Barrels are easily interchangeable by simply unscrewing the retaining nut at the end of the barrel.
Rifled barrels for those who want to use smooth or sabot slugs can also be had. A wide range of options include better wood and engraving on the receiver. Mossberg's Marinecoat finish is a good choice for a boat gun or anywhere the gun may live in a harsh environment. For specialized rescue work, Mossberg also makes a line launcher model that uses special blanks and an adaptor to shoot a 300 ft line to the receiving party. If installing anything other than a full non pistol gripped stock, check local laws before doing anything.