Absolutely, LGF. I have straight grip, POW and pistol grip waterfowl S x Ss, and can use 3" loads in them all. I usually shoot 3" shells at ducks, loaded with 1 1/4 oz. shot at anywhere from 1280 to 1450 fps. The recoil is handled MUCH better with a pistol grip, or at least a POW. I handle recoil very well, never has bothered me. What DOES bother me is the extra time it takes to recover from the first shot and get on target for the second when using a straight grip and heavier loads.
I know Nash Buckingham used a straight gripped Fox with 1 3/8 to 1 5/8 oz. loads, very well it is said, but he had big hands and he was a big, strong man. I have noticed that from the many pictures of him I have. I am not a wimp, but I absolutely cannot get on target as quickly with the second shot from a straight gripped gun and heavy loads. It is very noticeable to me. And they have never recoiled the guard into my finger and hurt it.
All my best, SRH