I have never found barrel length an issue as to working in cover I take my guns (30") guns all over and hunt thick African bush, pigeon hides, rough shooting, grouse in butts, driven pheasants etc. I don't think an inch or two ether way makes you any more likely to hit a tree with your gun etc. The only real exception would be a double rifle for African hunting in thick mopane scrub. Short barrels make the walking a lot easier.

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