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Posted: 1/22/2007 5:28:40 PM EDT
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Any recommendations as to 'optimal' barrel length for an all-around shotgun? I've got a Ithica Featherweight M-37 shotgun (12 ga 2 3/4") with a 28" barrel. It's too long for me, and I've been thinking of having it cut down & screw-in chokes installed. The question is, though, what length? I'd like it short enough to be suitable for self-defense type uses, but retain some options if I ever want to use it for hunting or shooting clays if I have the opportunity. I was leaning towards something like 22" or 24" - thoughts? Is there a happy medium? Thanks, Brian |
This is true when shooting stationary targets such as turkeys, deer, self defense ect. But barrel length gives swing. For bird shooting you need swing. 18" barrels don't swing. MIKE. |
| I bought a Browning Gold FLD Stalker the other day with a 26" barrel that feels great. I wouldn't go shorter than 24", but that's just me. I have hunted ducks with my Mossberg 835 with 24" barrel with no problems, and like Mike103 said his boys' guns have 22" barrels and they work just fine. Anything less wouldn't feel right, or "swing" like Mike said. |
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Yes, but finding what "feels right" is a personal decision everyone has to make on their own. My field BPS has a 24" tube and I'd have bought a 22" barrel if it was available, but that length works fine for me. Other folks like a 30" barrel for the extra mass and/or longer sight radius. It all comes down to personal preference and being able to hit you're target. |
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Yea you can. Its just gonna cost you $200plus for a new barrel. Why not just buy a 22-24" and keep the other. If you dont like it resell it and put the old one back on. If you like it, sell the old one. I have three barrels that I keep depending on the type of game and location Im hunting. I also know which loads I put in them depending on the game/location. |
This is the best choice if money is no object. I have several 870 bird, defense, deer both rifled and smooth, and turkey barrels.MIKE. |
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