I'm buying a new side by side. Are 26 or 28 in. barrels best for most upland birds? [20 ga]

[plevena1]

I'm buying a new side by side. Are 26 or 28 in. barrels best for most upland birds? [20 ga]

[rserwe44]

I would go with the 26 mostly for easy handling.

[PAShooter]

I agree, my upland doubles are 26" for weight and quick handling, especially in brush.

[Treestand]

Yes sir 26" tubs are the way to go.

[Jere Smith]

All of my shotguns are 26".

[pbshooter1217]

I have 26" and 28" guns. I really can't tell that much of a difference. A 26" might be easier to handle and lighter to carry on long hunts.

[Beekeeper]

My preference for a side by side is the 28. I feel it points better and gives me a smooth swing.

[sweetangler]

50 cals work great for upland birds.

[shane]

You'd be surprised how short 28 inchers look and feel on a SxS. Unless it's a grouse gun you'll probably appreciate them. With that said a 28" 20 gauge double is my grouse gun.

[steve182]

Unfortunately the upland bird hunting here in Jersey is lousy. Get the one that swings and points best for you, which means don't buy w/o handling a few of each.

[Del in KS]

I haved owned and shot both and agree with Beekeeper and Shane. With a semi-auto or pump which has a long action go with 26. With any double I would go with the 28 incher.

[CPT BRAD]

I like a 26 but the 28 will put you 2 inches closer to the bird!

[jwallen]

All of my S x S guns are 28" but I like them to be more muzzle heavy. I have one over under that is 26" but the barrels are heavy so the balance point is similar and don't notice it too much. The swing of the longer barrels just seems smoother to me.

[MLH]

I think jwallen has a point - the balance may be different between guns. Might want to try them both out before committing. In the thick with birds like grouse and woodcock some people like short barrels to avoid the trees, and you might only get a quick point and shoot anyway. In the open having a bit more weight out front might help with following through. It's a personal choice that will likely develop over time.