It's just my opinion but sometimes I think people overthink this subject. Get what makes you happy. If need a pistol grip or not or an 18" barrel, it's really up to you. I use a JC Higgins model 20 that's been shortened to 18 1/2" and has a pistol grip. I got it for super cheap and with a small amount of work to the action works like a swiss (sold by Sears) watch.
