i cant say anything for their rifles or shotguns, but i was just in a gun shop a couple days ago. apparently rock island is a fillipino company. they actually bought colts machines for the 1911 and use them to produce their 1911. the guys at the shop said there have not been any complaints about their guns. if the price is right and the quality is good, then go for it. and let us know how it works. i am thinking of a 12ga as well. i was going to go with the reputation of the 870, or mossberg, but if this is a good alternative, i may be interested.