Did a backflip into a rancid slough a few years ago with mine in my hand. The gun was the first one to take the fall and came up with dirt in more crevices than I care to mention here. I did some quick field work on it and went on to smack a few snows that day ( it was the spring season, if that matters) When I got home and cleaned it up, I was utterly amazed that it even fired for as much crap as I got outta there. Like tsodak said, once you get them broke in, they are an excellent gun. Mine has been through ten years of carnage and is still going strong and looking as good as a Mossberg can (sorry, I couldn't resist). I am in the market for a new gun, however. So, if you know anybody who wants a used 835, let me know.