I have a similar Mossberg 590A1, nine-shot pump, 20-inch barrel. Everything I read/researched, about Mossberg, was good, to excellent. They are good quality, reliable, durable, etc... and reasonably priced. The 18.5 " barrel holds one less shot, but, could be more manageable, in a tight area, like an indoor, hallway. I wanted the extra shot, though. Remington makes a good rival, to the Mossberg, Shotgun. I heard number 4 buckshot, ammo, is excellent, for home defense. Shortly after I got it, new, ten+ years ago, they became hard to find, long waitlists, and more expensive. She is loaded, standing near my bead, and never be fired, by me. I hope to pass it down, the Family, unused.