I have a 12 gauge 870 Express w/ 28" barrel. If I get a fully rifled, cantilever barrel, is it practical to use the gun without

[josephavellino]

I have a 12 gauge 870 Express w/ 28" barrel. If I get a fully rifled, cantilever barrel, is it practical to use the gun without a scope attached (in case I just want to shoot without the scope from time to time)? Also, is a fully rifled barrel practical for home defense? I would prefer to leave 1 barrel on the gun, but would buy a short slug barrel as well if that is better for home defense than leaving the fully rifled barrel on the gun. Thanks in advance.

[philbourjaily]

A cantiliver without a scope on it might block your view of the target. Of more concern is that a rifled barrel will disperse buckshot loads rapidly into a very wide pattern without many pellets in the center. At range of more than a few yards it could make you miss.