I presume you have already rejected the Benelli 3” 28ga semi auto?
Perfect for your late season, non tox, open country, shooting.

If focusing purely on O/U, look for a 28ga w/ alloy receiver, and 28” monoblock barrels.

Yildiz comes to mind.

Dickinson will be another option.

Presuming you want new, under $5k, for your test, with modern ammunition necessity.

As for the earlier question, why carry a 28 that is as fat as a 20?

Out there doing it best I can.