Shotgun recommendation

[Cat City Slim]

I would think that most any gas operated 20 gauge semi would be a good choice. I have a Beretta 390, it has hardly any recoil with game loads and has been completely reliable.

 

[crrcboatz]

I’ve had 4 Czs and found every one to be suberb

 

[MacFromOK]

This Field & Stream article might be of interest (updated Dec, 2021):

10 of the Best 20-Gauge Shotguns for Hunting Waterfowl

Never hunted waterfowl meself.
___

 

[turkeyrun]

I was a goose guide for 10 years. May soon received a 3" 20 ga 870 for his 8th birthday. He took many ducks with it. He received a 12 ga 3" for his 13th birthday. That was when he took his first goose.

20 ga is not a goose gun with steel shot. Using premium (expensive) bismuth or tungsten shot is possible.

16 yard Trap is double with 20 ga. Be gone that and you are seriously handicapping yourself.

From the OP, 12 ga Semi-auto is THE choice.

 

[Chaparral]

Like the Brownings. If his budget is low and wanting to play find an old Savage clone of the A5. They are easily much less expensive and they work very well. It may meet all his needs.