Hello,
I wanted to get back into hunting (I went a couple of times years ago) and I need to ask a few questions about shotguns: First what is the big advantage to a long barrel? What size should I get? If I have a barrel that has a natual tight choke do I really need a long barrel? I have an 18" barrel that can shoot 00buck about 7-10"at 25yards. Do I need something tighter than that? I guess that 2shot would be a good choice for waterfoul....how do I find out if my barrel "can take steel shot" or not? Would a factory Remington 11-87/1100 barrel do the trick? Does anyone know a good website to find out the local hunting laws of different states?...Florida and Georgia for starters. Thanks.

Also, any other advice you could think to offer would be appreciated. Thanks guys

For barrel lengths, anything 26-28" is considered normal, although some fellas prefer 24"{faster handling}.I think 18" may be a little short, although I've never tried one.As a general rule,factory full chokes are a no-no for steel shot. If you want a tighter pattern, you may want to look into aftermarket choke tubes, like Wad Wizard or Terror tubes.Most factory full chokes are only designed for use for lead shot with turkey in mind.

It's hard to beat an 870 Express Magnum. I shoot a 28" barrel with modified choke using 3" #3 Nitrosteel loads in 1-1/4oz. My maximum shots are typically around 40 yards when hunting open water but in the swamp they're much closer. This is my standard setup and it hasn't changed in many years.

My brother shoots an 870 EM with a 26" barrel with lesser success, but then again, he's still working to figure out WHY you have to LEAD the birds... pretty typical for an electrical engineer

I also shoot an 870 and I love it, 3 inch 3's for ducks, BB's for geese and sea ducks. I use a full choke but if you don't shoot alot start off with a modified.

I have a 870, with a full choke. I agree with Swamper.

Do any of you guys hunt for ruffed grouse? I need some tips