thanks to everybody for all you comments so far..starting to think this barrel was cut down from a 28" or 30" and had the sight bead re-attatched...i have measured the chamber best i can (multiple ways, include holding it up to light and measuring to shadow of forcing cone..which i can clearly see....and with a dowell...and a old credit card) and i still come up with 3 1/4 "...but i'm no expert...so i'm gunna bring it to a gunsmith....anybody have an email account i can send the photos to so they can post them for me?