I have several each of Model 1912s, 12s, and 42s, and used to have an Ithaca 37. The Winnies may be built better than an 870, but if I could only have one gun for the rest of my life, it would be my 870 Magnum with nice checkered wood and Rem Chokes. That gun will do everything.

My Model 1912 20ga with solid rib and 25" Full barrel is really a sweet dove gun, though.