This April I went through the exact same situation. I had saved some money, and was looking to buy a good shotgun, but I was looking in the $500 range. After much research, I finally settled on the Benelli M2 Field. The extra money was worth it, without question. I was able to put the $500 down, and Wells Fargo financed the rest interest free for twelve months. I cannot be more pleased. The SBEII looked like a great idea as well, but I live in Alabama- ducks, dove, turkey, clays, and deer are about all I draw a bead on. Unless you are planning on taking down some geese, a 3" chamber (already considered a Magnum) with a 26" barrel should perform great! Have fun! Buying a gun is almost a fun as shooting it. -Roger