Mossberg 500 22 or 24 inch barrel

[packmule]

Hi,

I'll be purchasing a Mossberg 500 20 gauge and it looks like I have the choice of a 22 or 24 inch barrel. 

Interestingly enough, it looks like the overall length of the model with the 24 inch barrel is 44 1/4 inches long, and it weighs 7 1/4 lbs.  The 22 inch barrel model is only 39 1/4 long, and weighs 6 3/4 lbs.  . . seems like a big difference in length and weight for only a 2 inch difference in barrel length?

Anyway, I'm wondering how many of you have patterned the 22 inch mossberg 20 gauge.  It seems like it will be a nice small, easy to carry turkey gun, but I don't want to buy it if I can't get it to pattern effectively and wishing I would have got the model with the 24 inch barrel.

Any thoughts would be appreciated!

[southernfly]

Sounds like the 22" barrel must be a youth gun since the overall length is more than 2" less...just a thought

[packmule]

I don't think it is. . . .looks like it's just the difference between the "Turkey" and the "Grand Slam Series" models?

[R AJ]

I believe that the 22" is the Bantam model. Bear in mind that if you add an extended choke onto the 22" it could be close to a 24". The 22" is good if it sights well for you. Mine is the 24" and with a SumToy it is a tad over 25".

[southernfly]

super bantam has adjustable stock I see...must be the difference...generally longer barrels pattern better...but my 870 20 ga with 21" barrel throws an awesome 40 yd pattern....i do believe cleaning/polishing barrel helps a lot...good luck

[surehuntsalot]

22" would be my choice
short barrels are handy in the woods

[goblr77]

24"