Mossberg 930 spx, or FN SLP

[sevin8nin]

I currently have a mossberg 590a1 with ghost ring sights and I really like it, but I've got a fever, and the only cure is a semi-auto shotgun. I'd like something with similar features and something that doesn't cost a LOT.
I like my mossberg just fine, but am not a huge fan of the safety. It was kind of an impulse buy, and in retrospect and maybe should have purchased the 870 and put ghost rings on it.

Anyway. I was all rip rearin to buy the mossberg 930 spx when I saw a picture of the FN SLP. Now, they're both very similar, except the SLP has the safety mounted down on the trigger guard, where i'd prefer. And the SLP has two chokes (cylinder and improved cylinder i think). It also has two gas valves, but from the sounds of it i'd only be using one.

To me the SLP looks a little more sturdy, but it's a good $250 more than the mossberg. The one factor that could swing this for me is reliability. I've read more horror stories from SLP owners then I have 930 owners, but most of the threads are pretty old. Does anyone here own either of these guns?

Gratuitous photos:
Mossberg

FN

 

[dasanii19]

I prefer the SLP, you just cant beat the SLP's quality.

 

[dasanii19]

Fn Slp 18"

Disassembly

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NBCP04GASbs

Reassembly

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9D3ks5-gQiA

 

[sevin8nin]

can anyone comment on the spread difference with the supplied chokes on the slp?

 

[MAX100]

You can have Tru-Chokes installed and the cone lengthened to 4" on the SPX for about $90 with shipping if you have Mike Orlen do the work. I had mine done by him and I am very pleased as everyone is with his work. I believe the SPX is a better deal and you get 7+1 capacity with it.

Both are very good shotguns so you can't go wrong with either.

The SPX is a pertty close copy of the SLP. The only real internal difference is the mag tube setup and the gas cylinder.



GC

 

[sevin8nin]

That sounds like a nice option. I guess having that extra round is a nice factor too. And if I just trained more with the mossberg safety then i'd be good to go on either of my shotguns.

Hmmmm.

 

[dasanii19]

Side by side the FN SLP has a bit better quality finish as well.

 

[Smitty in CT]

You pay a whole lot more for "a bit better quality finish"

My 930's are still going strong.... best shotguns I've ever owned...

 

[jesse485]

I'd suggest the SLP just on the fact that you prefer the trigger guard safety. I prefer tang safeties, so I'd go with the Mossberg. It isn't like a good shotgun is all that difficult to find, I'm sure either would serve you well.

 

[dasanii19]

You pay a whole lot more for "a bit better quality finish"

My 930's are still going strong.... best shotguns I've ever owned...

For years Tanners Sports Center has been selling the FN SLP 18" and 22" for $669 and $699. I do think the SLP is more, but not a "whole lot" more.

 

[glazer1972]

I would prefer the FN but wouldn't turn down the Mossy.