Rem 870 Compact 21" barrel or 870 Compact Jr. 18.5" barrel for my 12 yrs old nep

[chestnut oak]

Which version would be best for my 12 year old nephew ?

Was wondering if the 18.5" barrel would pattern as good as the 21" barrel version ?

Anyone had experience with both ?

[nyhunter]

I have no experience with the 18.5" barrel but I can tell you I have 3 with 21" barrels and they all pattern awesome, with both the old Fed. HW#7's and tss. lot's of guy's on here shoot the compact 21" with amazing results that would be my choice

[Fieldturkey]

Yes it will pattern just as good. I have put together four with the 18.5" barrel. They will all do over 300. One consistently hits 360+ with Ronnies Hornet load

[chestnut oak]

Well, I bought it before I seen the two replies.

I went with the 21" .

Thanks

[BandedSpur]

Good choice.

[Gmed]

I think you will be pleased with the 21".......

[LRD]

I think you made a good choice as well.  I shoot a 21" and so does my 12 year old son.