Thanks for the compliments,Whit. I've had some really good people teach me stuff and I like to pay it forward.
First, an out of the box, absolutely stock 870 is a terrific close range weapon in trained hands. Possibly the best yet invented.
Practically all 12 gauge ammo is effective for HD.Close range wounds with #8 shot are called "Bloody ratholes" by forensic surgeons. At typical HD ranges, the load hits as a semi solid mass, oft still within the wad.
The old Fed database I can't access anymore had the shotgun doing oneshot stops 99%+,regardless of gauge or load. I doubt the stats have changed.
Which load to use(and slugs are hardly ever a good choice) is more a matter of neighborhood and proximity of non involved people than of terminal ballistics.
The best accessory for you right now is a flat or 6 of ammo. Get some cheap, 1 oz field loads in 8s or 7 1/2 size shot and hit the range.Shoot trap, skeet, sporting clays, steel plates, bowling pins or rats at the dump. Learn your weapon until it feels like a body part.
Then, you'll be able to choose just what addon and mods are good, and what are just Wallet Vacs.
Right now, get your stock fitting you, make sure whatever sights are on your 870 work for you, and the trigger's weight is less than say, 5 lbs. Most of that last are.
Hope this helps and feel free to ask any questions you may still have,IF the Archives aren't giving you the answers...
