shotgun minimum barrel length?

**bripro** · June 6th, 2012, 10:28 AM

I've always thought the minimum barrel length was 18.5 inches but just saw some info suggesting its actuall 18 inches even. Does anyone know which is correct? Thanks, Brian

**bac0nfat** · June 6th, 2012, 10:35 AM

Originally Posted by bripro

I've always thought the minimum barrel length was 18.5 inches but just saw some info suggesting its actuall 18 inches even. Does anyone know which is correct? Thanks, Brian

There is no minimum barrel length, but if it's less that 18" (even) or less than 26" overall length, it needs to be registered as a short barreled shotgun with the ATF.

Manufacturers often make it 18.5" just to be safe.

**JayBell** · June 6th, 2012, 11:09 AM

restating to be specifically clear...there are minimum lengths...but it depends on the classification of the shotgun.

minimum Federal (and PA)barrel length for a Title 1 non NFA shotgun is 18", and overall length is 26" with the stock in the open/extended and firing position.

a Title II or "NFA" registered short barrel shotgun has no minimum barrel length, or minimum OAL.

**bripro** · June 6th, 2012, 11:13 AM

Thanks for the detailed answers. As always it's very much appreciated. While we're at it, does anyone have any ideas for a homemade front bead? Thanks.

**Pete D.** · June 6th, 2012, 05:36 PM

Homemade bead. You could get a piece of 1/8" brass rod. Thread one end appropriately and cut it off so that it is about 1/8 to 3/16 ths inch long (a small piece of metal to be sure). Holding it in a small, taped vise grip, you can use a jeweler's file to round the end. It'll work.
Or....you can buy a bead from Brownells.
Pete

**aryfrosty** · June 7th, 2012, 11:44 AM

The length for a non-NFA shotgun is 18 inches. The use of 18.25 or 18.5 inches is to be certain that any BATFE agent who measures the barrel will get the length right.
The moderator is correct on the NFA guidelines. My Cobray/Mossberg 12 ga. has an 11.75" barrel but some have less.