bigbulls, The statement you made about NO 3 1/2" auto firing light 2 3/4" shells reliably isn't exactly true. From the two he is looking at, I think you are exactly right because of the reason you mention, both are gas operated. I owned a 1187 super mag. and it would cycle 1 1/8 oz. loads about half the time. I now own a Benelli SBE and I have put somewhere around 13,000 rds. through it with NO problems. Of course, I did read the owners manual which states that the first four boxes (100rd.) you put through the gun need to be 1 1/4 oz. or heavier. The day I brought it home I bought 4 boxes of 2 3/4" 1 1/4 oz. #4's. I just stood outside and ran them through the gun as fast as I could. I took it in the house, cleaned it, and have never looked back. We, do alot of dove hunting and it will even cycle those God awful Winchester "Super Speed" shells which are less than an oz. Just a little food for thought for anyone looking at 3 1/2" autos.