There is a 12 gauge Winchester Defender near my bed right now. I only paid $189 at Wal-Mart but that was a few years ago.
It is tactically just as good as an 870 but I sure like the feel of the 870 better.
Right now it is loaded with 8, 2/34 inch OO buck shot, tho at times I have gone with BB shot, #4 buck and even number 8 bird shot.
I have arthritis in my hands and I added a pistol grip along with the same type butt and pump handle. I find the pistol grip (it looks much like an AR-15 type) makes it much easier to handle with my arthritis.
Same here, but I load #4. Right next to my wifes 22/45. :-)