If 3.5" shells aren't a necessity, you can take a look at the Mossberg 930 also. I've heard good things about them from a lot of people I know that own them.

You're correct that the Franchi doesn't have a pistol grip option. If you ask yourself a couple of easy questions you'll get your answer, forget the reviews because all those guns have good and bad reviews and they all have their die hard supporters and their die hard bashers. Is money an object? Then go with the Mossberg. If the money doesn't matter, pick the one that feels right. Regardless of how well the gun functions or how much it costs if it doesn't feel right in your hands and when it's on your shoulder, it doesn't matter. Since the 3.5" isn't a necessity, take a look at the 930, the M2 and give the SBE 2 a shot anyway. Chances are if you handle them one will just feel right to you.