After lot of research, asking and reading on the 12 gauge combos I narrowed it down to the 870 Express vs. Mossberg 535 combo.
Will probably go with the 535 mainly because of the up to 3 1/2" shells if/when I need to use them and also some reports I've read about rust problems with the 870.
Finding a good deal on a new 535 proved to be impossible mission though. I've been checking everywhere...not a single good deal...even for Boxing day...so if someone knows where I can buy a new 535 combo for less than $600 out the door let me know please.
Cheers,
Ice Fisherman