I agree with the above statement that a cantliever barrel is typically more accuracte and repeatable than a receiver mount, espeically if your shotgun multi-tasks and you are changing out barrels frequently.

That said, the real problem in my eyes with a canteliever barrel, or most any shotgun not specifically designed to shoot slugs, is that its made to shoot birds to have the shooter looking down the rib.... not looking over the barrel through a scope... it makes you have to lift your head way way up off the stock, and frankly it feels very un-natural. I have an 1100 12ga with a canteliever barrel on it as my slug gun.... it works fine... and it was free.... and I really don't ever use the damn thing as my BP gun will shoot much better and I'm much more comfortable and confident with it.

I think the biggest problem with slug guns, is that most people think that just because they have scopes and rifled barrels that they are rifles... and that just ain't so. You cannot expect rifle like accuracy out of a slug gun.... you might luck up and get it.... but more likely than not.... you'll be dissappointed. You'll get 'Minute-of-Deer" accuracy out to 125-150 yards with a decent one... 150-175 with a good one... and anything over 200 in my experience is exceptionally rare. 'Minute-of deer' accuracy, by the way, is a 5" group... just one of my analogies. Keep in mind that a centerfire rifle that shot a 5" group at 200 yards wouldn't be fit to use as a drag anchor... but its a gem of a slug gun.

Lots of folks have had decent success with the single shot NEFs. They certainly handle very well and you don't get the issue with shooting position like you will with a cant. barrel. And considering they run about the same price as a cant. barrel... I think they are a better choice personally. Again... lots of them shoot good.... and couple shoot great... and I've seen a few dogs.

The 20 vs 12 debate does have some merit on both sides.

If you want horsepower... the 12 is a better choice. Period. You have faster speeds, and with heavier slugs and leave bigger holes... game, set, match. And, despite some stupid rumor someone started.... it also shoots flatter.... just read the side of the damn box...... however, it also is often in a heavier gun, and still kicks harder. No matter how fast it shoots, if you cannot shoot it and handle it to put a slug where it needs to be... you might as well have a pellet gun... at least you won't stir the woods up as much.

The 20 is much more enjoyable to shoot... the velocity is really quite near what the 12s are despite shooting a lighter payload (generally... in the same cartridge and slug respecitively). Its easier to carry and easier to shoot well. Both of which are major considerations....

Inside of 100 yards... it doesn't make one bit of difference personally. Beyond that, its kind of a crap shoot.

I can't speak on twist rates in slug guns. The gun guys at Savage didn't just fall off the turnip cart.... so I suspect its that way for a reason.

Personally now, if I was to buy a new slug gun today.... I'd be looking at a Savage 20 ga bolt.... followed by a 12ga bolt if none other was available. If I am going to try and shoot a shotgun like a rifle.... then I want it built like one and I want it to feel like one. If nothing else... at least it will look cool when I miss.