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It's always been my understanding that 20-22 inches of barrel is all that is necessary for complete powder burn with normal modern loadings. Choke of the barrel will determine the pattern, for the most part. The longer barrels provide a longer sight radius, better balance, and the additional weight reduces perceived recoil. I have an old 20 ga. Larona SxS with 20-1/2 inch barrels that can handle sporting clays, but the gun is so light that it is better suited for "snap" shooting than smooth follow through shots. That would make it better for quail than dove hunting.

The main thing to consider with a shotgun is the fit. A shotgun should point naturally, as it is NOT a gun that is carefully and deliberately aimed. It should come to the shoulder in the ready position and be naturally pointed at the target as if you held your arm extended and pointed your finger. Either pay big bucks to have the ultimate gun professionally fitted to you, try a whole lot of guns and find what fits, or get lucky. Some folks can adapt to most any shotgun to a certain degree, and be proficient. Most of us (me) don't fall into that category.

surv