Turkey gun question

[rosscrazyelk]

Do you think the barrel length makes a big difference with a shotgun. The reason I ask is because my friend and I are at differences with this subject. He says it is all in the choke and I say that is part true but the length of the barrel is a big part also. Can there be that much difference between a 24" and a 28" barrel with the same choke?

[jackelope]

the biggest part of a short barrel in my opinion is that it is easier to handle.
currently i am shooting a 28" gun, but will be buying a short one soon. regardless of what you shoot, pattern it.
i went through 3 chokes before i found 1 i like. i punch fist sized holes in targets at 20 yards and it patterns real well at 40 yards. it has more to do with chokes and ammunition than barrel length IMO.

 

[bobcat]

The only affect the length of barrel has is on how that shotgun points and handles.

[yelp]

I have both length barrels I son't see a difference.  The shorter barrels are easier to carry around in the brush.  The guys above mentioned patterning your guns that is the best way to test them.  Use different chokes and loads.  Some say the shorter barrels kick more less weight..As long as it does the job in the woods that is what matters.

[bobcat]

The difference in weight in a few inches of barrel shouldn't be significant enough to make a noticeable difference in felt recoil.

One thing I didn't think to mention before is that the shorter barrel will be louder, since it's closer to your ear, so if you're worried about a loss of hearing it is best to not go extremely short with the barrel length.

[Wacenturion]

Shorter barrel equals less movement.  Todays chokes more than make up for any advantage in length.

[Gobble]

I shoot a Model 50 Winchester in 12 ga. It has a 30" barrel full choke and only shoots 2 3/4 shells. It reaches out a long way for a small shell.   

[Intruder]

Theres no true difference in performance that would translates better ability to kill a bird between the 2 lengths.  As most have pointed out the shorter barrels are advantageous from a handling perspective.