You'll get little argument from me regarding any discernable difference of 26" vs. 28" barrels in a hunting gun. Having said that, I prefer a Repro in a 20 or 28 with 26" barrels for hunting. But, I don't care for a 12-ga. with 26" bbls. -- they just look too stubby IMHO. It takes at least 28" of barrel for a 12-ga. to be aesthetically pleasing to my eyes. Additionally, I believe a 28" gun will yield higher dividends down the road if you should ever decide to move it.[/QUOTE]

I agree with you on aesthetics even on my newer longer stocked 20 gauge with 26 inch barrels it looks a little stubby but I like it for a quick pointing upland gun. A 12 gauge yea it looks stubby and my dad got a VH 12 gauge that someone had cut back the barrels so gun is now bored at cylinder in both barrels. It does look balanced and not barrel long, but man its a hard gun to miss anything out to about 20 to 25 yards in its setup. Its a game getter.

Also agree on longer swinging shots that a longer barrel is better. I think a few more ounces at the end help keep the swing momentum. Its still a tomato or tomatoe call though and great reason to have a lot of different guns to fit situational hunting. Btw for duck hunting I like my 28 inch barrel on my 12 gauge Browning BPS. I think its one of the most easy shooting and dependable guns I have ever owned.

Really like the Parker Repros though. Came close to pulling the trigger on one years ago and wished I had, it just had been fit to someone with to much cast for a right handed shooter and would have to spend more on top of it to get it back neutral or a little cast for me as a lefty.

My decision to buy a 12 ga repro was pretty much an impulse decision. Too much time on my hands during deer season - cannot run the dogs. So I guess I'll keep shopping, perhaps for that 28" IC/M gun but 26" will not be a deal breaker. I have a factory 26" P grade with twist barrels and it handles beautifully.

Thanks so much for all the input. I'll keep looking.

Chokes
 

My 12 ga. With 26” bbls. Are .004 and .006.

Hi Jack..welcome.

Thanks for sharing the hard numbers from your 12ga - Q1/Q2 I presume?

I like the 28" Repros. However, my 24" DHE Damascus 16 would probably be a better choice for birds.