I appreciate the help gentlemen. I will give an open choke a try with my shorter barrel. I hope to get out this weekend, so wish me luck.
I'm on the fence about what to get for a future bird gun. I would really like an O/U but am seeing much varying opinion about gauge difference between pheasant and smaller. I think I'm going to get my feet wet first, and probably buy a Rem Choke replacement barrel for my 1100 and go from there. I'm used to hoofing a rifle and weight for miles, so I'm not worried right now about the heavier shotgun. I'm sure I'll change that tune in 10 years.