I'm going to get a new gun soon, and I was wondering if a 26 inch barrel would be a big difference from the 28 inch pattern wise. Thanks.

Patternwise...No. The difference comes into play when you consider "feel" and swing balance. I like the 26. feels good to me and is amazing how much difference2 inches can make when manuevering the gun in and out of the house, trucks, blinds, etc...

I would suggest a 26" with a extended choke.

You will never see a pattern difference, you may "feel" a smoothness difference!

OK cool. I'm going to get an M2, but didn't know what barrel length to get because my gun shop has a 26" in stock. I've always used 28" though, so I wasn't sure. Thanks

That is enough of a difference in my opinion to order yourself a 28" barrel. I've personally always shot a 26"... and I can tell a huge difference when shooting a 28" or a 24".... maybe its sight picture... but I tend not to get out far enough in front of birds with a 28" barrel... maybe its all in my head... but even so... its enough of a reason for me.

I agree

Not to question you decision, to each his own, but with the M2, do you never plan on wanting to shoot 31/2"?

If you're used to using a 28" barrel, you prolly want to stick with that length with your new gun. You won't be able to tell any difference in the pattern, but the gun will swing faster. 28" barrel shotguns are what I use because the swing is so gradual. It will also help you stay on line with follow-up shots.

No, I don't think I'll ever need to shoot 3 1/2". People say that I should use them for sea ducks, but they cost too much, and I've always used 3". I've got a supernova as well, so if I felt the need to use 3 1/2", I could. Plus, I can't justify spending the extra 300-400 dollars for something that I can already do, I just want a semi-auto.