The long barrel guys dont seem to be dedicated grouse or woodcock hunters. Im not saying they should be, but, Id bet if they got the chance, they would come to understand their 32 guns have a place, but, it isnt where these birds make a home.
All of us "long barrel guys" aren't the same, Ted. They (we) don't all think that 32" barrels are best for everything. Some are close minded, I'm certain. I'm not. Notice that I said that I'm fine with 26" barrels for pointed quail and woodcock, although I have done quite well on a few occasions in the quail woods with a 687 SPII Sporting 20 ga., with 30" barrels.
30 inch barrels are absolutely no hindrance on a good handling small bore in situations like the above, and I DO understand that not all quail are hunted in cover like that. I've hunted Gambel's in AZ in cover much different. I really think for flushing birds shorter barrels are fine, though I see no
need to go any shorter than 28" for anything.
Sure would like to get the opportunity to hunt grouse someday. Looks like great fun.
Best to you, SRH
