Thanks ~ what would be your suggestion if one were to, say, go hunting in MD where only slugs are allowed. 12 or 20?

You can get a slug barrel 24in-3in chamber. Check out www.tjgeneralstore.com/t/cbarrels.htm and stroll down to Encore, there will be T/C Encore pistol and rifle barrel's that you can get. And than stroll to accessories for-forends and butt stocks