Self Defense Shotgun

Question
Thank you for your service.

I am keeping my question vague NOT in hopes of getting a long answer, but instead so I don't bog you down with details. A few sentences is all I need to be happy!

I'm looking into getting a shotgun for home defense. I have discovered Mossberg's guns and am really liking what I'm seeing. Are they as safe and reliable as they're saying?

I also like about Mossberg that I can get a shooter for less than $400. Are there any other highly reliable shotguns in that price range you can think of?

Thanks!

Answer
In terms of value for $, Mossberg is about the best. I've had a Mossberg 590 for years that has a Vang barrel, Choate follower, and Hogue short stock. Besides that, nothing's been done to it. I use it for everything from running classes, to shooting varmints, to breaking clays, to taking along to "iffy" places. "Technically," the Remington 870 is probably a better gun, but I've never had any problem with the Mossberg, and it's a lot cheaper. I think it's a good choice.