Like Tree climber, i USE to own a 3.5 inch 12 guage and was not a big fan at all. Mine was a benelli nova, and was one of the worst-shooting shotguns i have ever seen. I guess i just got caught up in the name brand when i bought mine, because i regretted every day after i got it. Also, the 3.5 inch nova, being as light as it is, was a BEAST when it came to recoil. I could shoot two 3.5 inch shells from the nova and my shoulder would be twice as sore as if i shoot a whole box of shells from my 300 win. mag. I'm talking violent recoil. Well, if i picked one word to describe the 3.5, it would be unecessary. That's my take on the 3.5, hope it helps.