I have two shotguns one has a 26 inch barrel that I use for pheasants. That is in 20 ga. I also have a 12 ga with a 24 in barrel that I use for turkeys ducks and geese. The 12 gives me the exta power and distance needed to bring down the bigger birds. I like the shorter barrel for fast pointing. I would also suggest semiauto for the follow up shots. This is just my personal preference. As for brand this is also up to you but I LOVE my Berettas. I would suggest the A390as it is fairly cheap for semiauto and it is very reliable and capable.