20 Gauge Franchi Affinity 3 Compact vs Mossberg 500 Super Bantam

[MM14]

I currently run a 20 gauge franchi affinity 3 (26 inch barrel) with a burris fast fire 3 red dot the past few seasons, it is the compact youth version. I have been looking into getting something with a shorter barrel and came across the Mossberg 500 Super Bantam (20 Inch Barrel). Does anyone own this gun now and can provide any feedback? I am debating if 6 inches difference for the barrel is worth buying another gun. Hunt in MS so frequently in open bottomland, fields, or young pines. Any thoughts are appreciated.

[btomlin]

In the practical sense, 6" barrel reduction is not worth it.  In common sense, a new gun is always worth it.  LOL

[OJR]

In the practical sense, 6" barrel reduction is not worth it.  In common sense, a new gun is always worth it.  LOL

My sentiments exactly. I have been all over toting 26 and 28 inch barrels and never thought about it once. But a new gun is always nice!

[kytrkyhntr]

for what its worth, i have a benelli m2 with a 26" barrel. i also have a youth bantam mossberg 500 20.

the benelli usually is just pointed at doves and clay birds these days. i have shot all the chokes, all the ammos. lead or tss it doesnt matter my mossberg out shoots that benelli all day. i do perfer the feel of the slim semi auto but that mossbergs pattern and my confidence in it is unmatched. im also a sucker for a tang safety

[Dtrkyman]

I turkey hunted most of my life with a 26 inch barrel, currently using a 23 inch, I don't really care to much about the barrel length, overall weight is what I look at.

Would I buy a new gun just for the shorter barrel? No.

I also do not like a short stock, I feel all hunched up trying to shoot with one.

[Yelpster]

my boy shoots the 500 SB. very nimble. i did have my 870 & 1187 cut to 18.5". there is never a bad reason to have more turkey guns.

[Ondavirg]

I have both. The barrel length isn't very noticeable but the weight is.  Actually would sell the mossberg as it doesn't get used.