Ithaca Model 37 - 18.5" vs. 28" Barrels

I test fired my Ithaca Model 37 shotgun using Remington reduced recoil 00 buckshot ammo with both my 18.5" barrel and my 28" barrel.

 

I wanted to see what the spread was for the different barrels. When do you start seeing a noticeable spread. I also want to see what the difference in recoil between "reduced recoil" and standard shells were.

 

A little background: I've never owned a shotgun prior to this, and has shot one less than 10 times in my life. This was my first outing with it, and my first usage of a shotgun in 2-3 years. I have substantially more experience with pistols and rifles.

 

The targets largely speak for themselves. My takeaways:

1. Noticeable spread won't happen until starting at 10 yards.
2. If you have home defense shotgun, the myth of pointing anywhere is bunk. There inner cicle was about 5 inches in diameter. Since nowhere in your house will there be anything longer of a shot than 7 yds, there is a small amount of forgiveness for inaccuracy, but that's about it.
3. The forgiveness from a shotgun comes from the fact that if you are off the mark, the force would be so huge, that you have time to follow-up. Take the 18.5" barrel, lower left shot. I was aiming for the center of the circle, but the result would be have hit an intruder's shoulder. It wouldn't likely be a fatal wound, but the stopping power allows you to have a follow-up action.
4. I can say I have poor aim, as I generally shot high. Having only a front sight takes a little getting used to. Practicing is key.
5. I don't like the results of the 15 yard try, and would like to go back with a fresh shoulder and some clean targets. I am a bit surprised the change in spread from 10 to 15 yds, but I think a reshoot is required to make any real conclusions.
6. Reduced recoil is marginal - 1200 fps vs 1275 fps, which is 5% less energy. I shot both, and you could tell that the difference was only marginal). While I likely need a new recoil pad (who knows how old this one is), my shoulder is sore after 9 shots of reduced recoil, and 1 of  standard. I'm also 6'2" and 200 lbs. I