i had the same problem when picking out my new shotgun. I know the benelli sbe2 comes in 24, 26, and 28. I couldn't decide so i went with the in between at 26. Its short enough that i can pick up birds quickly, but long enough to reach out and tag the birds far out. By the way, i recomend the sbe2. I bought mine about a 1/2 year ago and love it
. It has light recoil, chambers 3 1/2, and the inertia driven system is virtually indestructable. Many people have their opinions, but i think that the barrel length isnt near as important as how heavy the gun feels, and how well it fits you.