For many people, reduced recoil is a primary reason for using an autoloader. And if it isn't now, it probably will be sometime in the future. I have a 1970s-vintage 1100 Tournament Trap and an 1100 field gun but always drooled over the Beretta trap autos until I shot one. For me, the felt recoil wasn't much softer than a fixed-breech gun, so you really should shoot one before buying.
Remington autoloaders can be purchased from a lot of sources for affordable prices. Parts for Remingtons are everywhere and aren't expensive. Release triggers, when/if needed, are readily available at reasonable prices. Replacement barrels for hunting, skeet, sporting clays, slugs, etc. can be easily found. I don't think any of those qualities apply to the Beretta autoloaders.
There are a LOT of Remington autoloaders - 1100s and 11-87s, primarily - out there happily breaking targets. It is true that they are less durable than the Berettas or a fixed-breech gun but from your post, I gather you are or will be a casual "fun" shooter - if so, a Remington autoloader will last you a long, long time.
By the way, I am quite fond of Beretta trap guns and own two of their trap combos. But for the casual shooter seeking an autoloading shotgun, I think the Remingtons are a better fit.
Ed
