I have an older Red Label in 12 gauge. It's choked IC / Mod with 26 inch barrels. It also has the nicest wood I've ever seen on a Ruger. I bought it used for $650.00 several years ago. It is my skeet, quail and dove gun of choice. I have also shot turkey and geese with it (when I didn't have another 12 gauge to use).
Yes, you could use it for everything if you want. I have, but I prefer my 870 Express Magnum for turkey and waterfowl. It's just more comfortable for that use.
I have heard some disconcerning things about quality control problems with the new Red Labels. But mine has had tens of thousands of rounds through it with out a hiccup.
If you want an over/under and that's going to be your only shotgun for a while, then go for it. There's nothing wrong with that. BTW- all the scratches on mine got there while quail hunting. In my opinoin if you are afraid to take a gun hunting because it might get scratched - you paid too much for that gun.
