18" or 20" ?

[Coop de Ville]

I'm looking at a coupla 870 PMs and can get either an 18 or 20". I've read a lot of threads saying that there really is not a difference and that the 18" will handle better.

Was curious as to just how much more awkward the 20" would be in an HD scenerio versus what kind of velocity increase it would give. Also, I do enjoy slugging at a distance.... Would the 2 extra inches be worth it?

Thanks for your time, -Coop

[Dave R]

Go for it. I don't think the extra 2" will make much difference in handiness. Can't hurt for slugging.

[9mmMike]

I like the 20" for the extra shell I can get onboard. I run a +3 extension with a 20" (the 18" extension is +2) for asthetics.
I also like the rifle sights available on the 20"ers.
My buddy's 18" Marine Magnum does not handle any faster for me.
Mike

[melglock]

I chose the 20" barrel for my Mossberg 590A1, because that one can use the 8 round magazine, so I have a 9 round combat load.

I doubt that two inches will make much of a difference, but two extra rounds might.

[Dave McC]

Got one of each. The 20" "Deer" 870 may be a smidge slower to swing, but I doubt it'll be noted under stress and adrenaline inducing conditions.

As for handling in tight spots, as big as I am, I seriously doubt two inches more of bbl and extension shall be unwieldy.

Two more inches of sight radius is nice, but again,not decisive.

[Coop de Ville]

Thanks for all the replies. I kinda figured 2" wasn't that big a deal anyway. The ones I'm looking at only have the front bead, so I was planning on installing a receiver ghost ring and either leave the front (depending on height) or install front tritium. I had an 18" with RF, and it was nice, but I do think the sights were too close together.

-Coop

The Marine Mag is real nice, excpet I wish they made that in a parkied model. It may have been a bit cheaper than the Police model.

[Dave McC]

With an 18" bbl, rifle sights mean a sight radius on the order of 12". Going to a peep(a GRS without a press agent) almost doubles that. And with practice, it's at least as fast as open sights.

Peeps also are easier for old eyes to work with. After 40, that'll be important....