What I have is the Maverick 88. It is part of mossberg. It came with a modified choke barrel and an 18" barrel with a heat shield. I prefer the solid stock. It also came with a pistol grip. I haven't tried a top or side folding stock, so I have no opinion on that. The pistol grip jumps around too much for my likeing.

As for ammo, I would say birdshot. If you have children this will put your mind to ease more than a heavy buck shot. The pattern will still be tight (for home defense range) and you don't have to worry as much about going through walls as with buckshot. And it is extremely effective at those close ranges.