...

[Carrots]

Worked it out for myself

[NcongruNt]

You might consider a coach gun. Stoeger makes some relatively inexpensive ones, and they're a lot of fun. Short-barreled SxS guns that are also suitable for hunting/skeet. They even make a tactical model if that sounds appealing to you.

http://www.stoegerindustries.com/firear ... h_guns.php" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Also, regarding the barrel length, you'd be surprised what a difference that 5.5" can make when maneuvering in hallways and through doors.

[lonewolf]

I second that from having to maneuver around inside ship's passageways with a variety of weapons. The M-14 was too long. The .45 was too short. The Mossberg 12ga was just about right. Like the Three Bears, I guess. I use the same philosophy at my home. My shorty shotty, Mossy, is just right.....

[MoJo]

For home protection - - - shorter is better.

[USA1]

For home protection - - - shorter is better.

i vote 18.5 with pistol grip .

[joe817]

I have picked out the make, model & gauge that I’d like....

Care to share what it is?

[Carrots]

...

[joe817]

You might want to glance over:

http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=473641" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

it might give you some insight into the options you are looking at.

I know nothing about the Benelli shotgun. Sorry