My Stoeger 2000 12 gauge semi-automatic shotgun is as fast cycling and reliable as any gun I own. I have a Mossberg Silver Reserve O/U that I've put 15,000 rounds through without a hitch and still closes tight. Just this past weekend I shot two 24's and a 23 with it.
And my main "practice rifle" is a Moisin Nagant model 91 that will put 5 shots in 2 inches at 100 yards. Not a one of those guns cost me more than $400 with the taxes and fees included, and I've never had a problem.