What is a good pump shotgun?

Answer 1

It depends on what you want the weapon for and your body type.

For home defense if you're someone of average to heavy build and in good physical condition I'd recommend a Mossberg 500 or 600 AT 12 gauge. (Same gun different model names) with a 18" barrel and full stock. (Those pistol grips might look cool in the movies but they can break or sprain your wrist easily) Load up with #1 or 00 buck and you have a solid piece of anti-burglar hardware.

For hunting I'd switch off the 18" barrel with a 28" barrel and load whatever rounds are appropriate for the game you're after.

You can probably find a good used model for around $150-$200usd

If you're a female of light build, or a elderly man or otherwise someone with less than average physical ability a Mossberg 500 in 20 gauge with the same layout as above would work just as well. (Use #4 buck for home defense however as #1 buck isn't made for the 20 gauge)