Barrel Weight Question

[R AJ]

I know that some barrel diameters are different as are the thicknesses.

But just what is the difference in weight per inch in a 20 gauge and 12 gauge Remington 870 for example?

I see the shorter barrel being an advantage in brush and vines but some posts would lead you to think that you are carrying an extra pound or so for 2"-4" of extra barrel length. And then you tote four or more 3.5" shells in your 12 gauge gun ?

Just curious.

[allaboutshooting]

Hey Robert,

Fairly recently, I commented about the weight in 12 gauge barrels and as I remember it's maybe a 2 oz. per inch or so but I'd have to check to make sure.

Gun for gun, there's about 1 pound of difference in weight between the 12 and the 20.

I also find that the shells make quite a difference.  If you just look at the shot weight alone, 20 gauge shells at 1.25 oz. and 12 gauge shells at 2 oz. the 12s would add 2.25 oz..f or 3 shells, in the shot payload alone.

So, if you compare guns of equal barrel length, the 20 fully loaded might be one pound and 2.25 oz. less than the 12 gauge.

Thanks,
Clark