I have a semi, a Benelli Legacy in 20 gauge. I like it a tremendous amount and yes, it goes bang every time. I find the Beretta stock dimensions don't fit me as well. Their comb is too high for me and clips my cheek bone mercilessly. Either make will provide stellar service and will not disappoint.

The Remington 1100 is known for its ability to go bang and the design has been around for a very long time. I had one circa 1973 and it was fantastically reliable. A really good and cheap bang about gun is the Remington 870 pump gun. I have a newer Marine magnum that was very stiff when new but has broken in nicely. Remington's are however now well known for erratic QC and build quality in spite of their pragmatic and functional design. Winchesters are another low end option that have worked well over the years.

In summary, I'd go with Ripp's recommendation and stick with Benelli or Beretta. The Beretta is a gas gun so the recoil will be less than the inertia driven Benelli. Which fits you better? Either one will provide stellar service. Twice as expensive in North America as the Remington 1100, but IMHO, it is a premium that is well worth every penny.