Zack Doyle

If you're looking for a semi, you won't find a better gun than the Stoeger Model 2000 for right at $400. Actually, you won't really find any other semi right at that price. Ive had one for several years now, it has never failed me, and it shoots incredibly well. If you want to be able to shoot 3.5" shells, you'll be looking at a pump, and you can pick up a Remington 870 or a Mossberg 835 for around that price. Both reliable and have great reputations.

Charlie Beanish

I just picked up a Mossberg 535. Duck, Geese, Grouse and nice and light for tracking wounded bears.

caleb hatere

Id go with R870 aswell for a pump action

John Jackson

I don't know if you're interested in a used shotgun, but something to consider: How many people who buy guns, actually use them? I can't tell you how many guns I've purchased that were trade ins, or consignments because someone bought it and it sat in a closet or drawer for years without being used more than a few times. Having said that, don't discount purchasing a good used shotgun. For $400 you can buy a great used 12 gauge if you look around enough.
One of my favorite all time semi autos is the Remington 1100. You won't find many available and those who do have them, like to hang on to them. Not saying it's impossible, but if you can find one, get it. Another favorite semi of mine is the Beretta 391 Urika. I had a sporting clays model, and just in a fit of being curious and destructive, I wanted to see how long it could go without cleaning before having a malfunction. I shot over 1,200 rounds through it before it jammed on feeding. Even then, I chambered a new shell and went on and shot another 100.
Don't be fooled that used equals low quality. Check your local gun brokers, check your local clay target ranges, and even look in pawn shops especially near military bases. I fully support buying new firearms from US Manufacturers but for a budget, used is the way to go.
Remington 870 or Mossberg 500 are two of the most reliable and well known pump shotguns and there are a variety of versions of them that can be had for around $400.
Now, I shoot an over and under more than anything. They are a little more difficult to find for your price range but again, used is a good place to start looking. I believe Stoeger makes a field grade over and under for about $400.

Good luck and have fun shooting safely!

james saal

Thanks for all your input. Now i have some ideas were and what to start looking for.

Ric Wieler

i d say go with a remington 870 i just got a new mossberg maverick under over ya the down side is two rounds at a time but it is easily one the smoothest shooting shotguns that i ve seen for 400 bucks