Shotgun barrel length for all applications

I would agree with Downshift.

26" would probably be ideal for an all around barrel length.

Depending on what you're looking at, some offer a combo with 2 barrels. Usually 24" and 28". You could look into that also.

Most semiauto 12ga have a 28" barrel. I have a Beretta A300 with a 28" barrel and use it for everything without a problem.

You'll find guns specifically designed for shooting clays will have the 30" barrels but most general purpose shotguns come in 28" or 26" and either is fine.

As already mentioned, 24" is too short, too loud and more difficult to shoot accurately at flying targets. If it were a dedicated turkey gun or a dedicated rabbit gun, I'd be down for the 24", but I wouldn't want to be hunting ducks with it (and neither would the people in the blind next to you).

26 is best for your situation. If you only get one you will get used to whatever you buy and it will not be a problem.

Guess I'm in the minority here, but I say 28".

I like 28”

I shoot a 28” with a pattern master (80% the time), no complaints.

Just stick with the 28, the extra 2” of barrel length is not a “pain in the arse”.

I shot competitive sporting clays and hunted my arse off for 15 years. Had every kind of shotgun and barrel length imaginable. Had two fully automated Posner loaders and between them and what I (luckily) won in Lewis Class shoots I shot close to, if not over, a million rounds.

If you won't shoot a lot then get a 28. If you do shoot a lot then a 26 will be fine.

Your physical size plays a part. You would think two inches of barrel length wouldn't make a difference but it might in the swing. Most shooters don't mount the gun right and tend to whip the barrel through the target. That longer sight line might help.

Fit is the most critical part. Find a shotgun you like and dry mount about 50 times in the store simulating hunting conditions, ie., over head shots, l-r, r-l, etc. If it doesn't fit well then move on.

What you wear will make a difference in the mounting of the shotgun, but short of stock extender/pad I'm not sure how you fix that.

Choke extenders work just fine and add little weight to the barrel, balance of the gun.

There are SO MANY good shotguns out there right now. Do your homework and be patient in the purchase. The best fitting/shooting/mounting shotguns I ever owned were a 16 ga citori lightning and a 302 beretta with an english stock. Completely different design, stock, etc. Go figure.

i love a 28.
gain a little more accuracy from what i understand.

i would throw up a bunch and see what you enjoy.

recently played around w a 16ga model 12
and a 28ga franchi in 26

browning gold 12ga 28 is perfection for me for all but i think i'm going to jump into the 20ga game

wondering how i'll like the 26 for wingshooting

good luck and keep us posted!