I've had a 3" 12-gauge 870 since 1979, back before they came with screw-in chokes. I order it new, from J.C. Penney of all places, with two barrels, a 30" full-choke and a 26" IC, both with vent ribs. Eventually replaced both barrels with a 26" with chokes. Have used it in several countries (including a real workout in Argentina) on birds from doves and quail to Canada geese and turkey, and with a rifled slug barrel it's taken deer, black bear and moose. Hard to get more all-around than that.
But the 12-gauge I use most anymore on pretty much the same range of birds is a 75-year-old Sauer Model 60 side-by-side choked full and fuller, weighing 6-1/4 pounds. If I feel like wider patterns might be in order I use spreader loads.
