It is a large ring if a quarter will pass through the magazine tube ring on the barrel. This would mean that it is a 20 gauge shotgun but built on the 12 gauge frame.
If a 20 ga. 870 is built on 12 guage frame, there will be a pronounced taper to the barrel where it meets the reciever. The 870 in the photo appears to have that taper. Beautiful shotgun DoeSlayer.
so which is more desireable-large ring or small ring?
IMO the std recevier just moves better, smother I think. If weight is an issue Im sure then the 20 ga receiver would get the nod, but I dont see enought weight savings to give up the better balance and smooter swing.
If I had the extra cash this gun would be on its way to MI.