"Sure they can.
But what's so important about a few inches of length?
In addition to cutting the barrel, the tapered rib will have to be dealt with, along with replacing the front bead sight.
Maybe a different barrel would be a better choice, if available.
Another consideration is that shortening a barrel may change the point of impact.
The thin shotgun barrels aren't always perfectly straight their entire length.
The chambers and muzzles line up, but not necessarily the whole barrel.
Just a thought."
Mr willikers, Thanks. that's a sensible and informative answer.
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