The '8 shot' model is a 20" barrel with a 7 round magazine (2 3/4" only) and one in the chamber. Whatever you do, DON'T get a PISTOL GRIP model. As for the model names and numbers, don't get caught up in that. The 590's have more bells and whistles but if you aren't in Law Enforcement, you probably won't miss them. Get any standard model and I think you will be happy.
The Mossberg Model numbers are as follows:
9 shot, Metal trigger guard/Safety, Ghost Ring, Parkerized: 51663
9 shot, Metal trigger guard/Safety, Bead sight, Parkerized: 51660
8 shot, bead sight, Blued: 50577
The difference is about $100 if you can handle the blued version. Try the Mossberg site at:
www.mossberg.com
As for the metal safeties and trigger guards, why are you buying a Mossberg if you want that crap? Just get a Remington. Mossberg had to add those to their shotgun to meet specifications put forth by the Military. The Model you want is the one Led mentioned above then. It's the '9 shot' version. Get the one without the speedfeed stock but with the Ghost Ring sights. And yes it is heavy, but that might make it a bit more pleasant to shoot.
I prefer Ithaca's but the long magazine ones are difficult to come by.
[This message has been edited by badgerarms (edited August 06, 2000).]