Dave, I just picked up a new Merkel 47SL (their basic sidelock) in 12ga, new, for well under your budget. In fact, got it for about what an AyA #2 sells for, and at that price I think it's a very good buy. Take your time shopping; decide whether you want vintage or new. Actually, some of the best bargains fall into the "in-between" category best described as "newer used". With the latter, you don't need to worry about short shells, low pressure shells . . . shoot factory American stuff. And compared to new--although you can find some pretty good buys if you look, as I did with my Merkel--there's a real price advantage because the Euro is currently so strong against the $.
Take your time. Don't hesitate to ask questions about specific guns. You won't find anything out there that someone here--probably a lot of people here--hasn't owned.
