What is the ideal shotgun barrel length for 3 gun?

mississaugagunnut

mississaugagunnut

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Hello,
I have an 870 tac express that has been a problem from day one. It does not like the cheap target loads that my wallet likes.
So now I have purchased a slightly used barrel that is 26" long. What length would you suggest I get it shortened to in order to use the gun in 3 Gun and IPSC matches?

Thanks
 
24-26" is perfect in my mind.
If you intend on being competitive, you will have a magazine extension at least that long so length isn't an issue.
And that is the length that will burn most if not all the powder in your shells.
Gives you enough muzzle velocity for heavy/sort of long range steel.
This, along with choke tubes, and you should be able to knock down anything with regular 7.5 trap loads.

See it way too often, short barrel with open choke, have to engage some steel multiple times.
 
I would keep it the way it is. Having changeable chokes is what matters. I shoot at ducks with my 24" barrel (just to give you an idea that barrel length isn't always the deciding factor).
 
Some people seem to confuse home defense with 3 Gun. They are not the same and require different tools. There is nothing wrong with a 26 for 3 Gun. As stated above, having chokes is a huge benefit. Modified is a good all around choice, as you can still shoot slugs through it and keep your pattern tighter for steel.

If you're set on cutting it down, in the States, 22 and 24 seem to be popular lengths for the serious competitors. Not worth the hassle of cutting if you're only taking a couple inches off, IMO.

Shoot some matches and have fun with the setup you have. Decide on changes later, if you still want. Good luck.
 
I think mine is at 22 or 24 and seems to be a decent length. Chokes help a lot, but I find interchangable chokes aren't always req'd. 90% of my shooting is with an IC....I shoot 6s as a standard now and have not yet come across a target I couldn't know over. Gonna start keeping 8s in supply for birds.

In most shooting, I would say longer barrel length won't hurt you.
 
Personally I am partial to 20" or so. Gives me enough barrel for a good length mag tube but it is still quick on transitions and around barricades/vision barriers or what have you. I have run 28-30" barrels but found them awkward working through ports. The little short 12 and 14" 'ers are fun but you don't have enough mag capacity.

As always.....YMMV :)

John
 
Generally what ever will hit accurately where your aiming out to 50 yards (slugs) I've seen 22 to 24 the most common at matches. 3 gun generally does not have tight ports like IPSC for shotgun sections so having a longer barrel is not going to be too much of a problem.

26" is not that bad so I'd just use it for now. As for shorting the barrel you going to have to get it re threaded for chokes so it may be cheaper to just get another barrel.
 
3 words...Vang Comp Systems. Google it. You're welcome.
If you're in GTA, look to Tactical Ordinance. They're a gunsmith service up in Newmarket and handled 2 of my 870's for getting the VCS installed (one ported, one not). They do good work
 
I have run 18 3/4, 20, 26 and 28 inch barrels in 3 gun competition over the years. I have found that 26 inch with chokes works the best. This combination let's me hit both slug and metal targets with ease and flying clays can still be knocked down. Just my two cents from a guy that has tried Mossbergs, Remingtons, Berreta and Benelli's.
 
I asked in another thread but it was a bit of a hijack, my question might be better off here, i've always wondered what rounds are alowed for shotun in a match like this? target loads only is my guess? for shorter barreled shotgun heavier shot may help with the steel targets, i'm not sure, I may not even know what i'm talking about. thanks for any help.
 
fred0000 said:
I asked in another thread but it was a bit of a hijack, my question might be better off here, i've always wondered what rounds are alowed for shotun in a match like this? target loads only is my guess? for shorter barreled shotgun heavier shot may help with the steel targets, i'm not sure, I may not even know what i'm talking about. thanks for any help.
Click to expand...
Almost any load , target, heavy field loads, they will restrict shot size, usually #6 as the largest. But almost every match bans Steel and Tungsten shot. (you need to check the match rules) They also may restrict high velocity slugs (sabot) and will also ban non lead slugs.

Generally you should use 6 or 7 1/2 lead shot (target, hunting, sporting clay loads..up to you) and lead slugs low velocity (around 1200 fps) Find something that works in your gun and is acceptable to your wallet. It also helps if you find a common brand so if your out at a match away from your local suppler and you need some more ammo you can pick it up at Wallmart or Canadian tire etc.
 
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