how to measure the barrel?

[colo-pr]

hello guys,

i have an 870 express that i bought for home defende (not fired yet) and im not decide to keep it because i dont like how long is, if i looks for the specs from remington say is 18.5" barrel but why when i try a Super Nova or other tactical shotguns like stoeger, weatherby, etc i found mine so long? this 1/2 extra make this difference? Im thinking to buy the ATI Tactical Stock but i dont want to spend more money until be sure if i keep it. If i want to cut this 1/2 inch extra (i believe that the minimum by law is 18") how i can measure properly? from the muzzle end to the action start? (as i show in the number 1) or from the begining of the barrel inside the action to the muzzle? (as i show in number 2)

thanks in advance