First let me say that I'm new to shotguns of any type and I don't know too much about them.

My dad gave me his 1100 12ga, I think it's an '88. It has a shorter (21-22") slug barrel. Fine for hogs/deer, but I'd like to get a barrel that will be primarily for ducks and may work for turkey as well. I liked the idea of the steel shot 26" barrel, but will my 2 3/4" gun work with that barrel? If not, anybody have suggestions on what to use? Need to use steel shot for ducks and I don't want to damage a barrel that can't handle steel. And am I wrong in thinking I can simply switch the choke and use lead shot in a steel shot barrel when it comes time for turkey? Thanks for any and all help

Side note, I put a few shots through it recently to make sure it cycled correctly and the last shell did not eject. Just a gas port cleaning issue as I've read?

Yes it will work and it sounds like you have already picked the correct barrel. The 26 inch steel shot barrel will be great for ducks using a more open choke and then you can change it to a tighter choke and using lead shot go after turkeys without issue.
Now here is the quirk......when using steel shot your 1100 will be able to shoot 3" shells, BUT when shooting lead shot shells at turkeys DO NOT USE 3" SHELLS as the pressure these shells produce will damage your 2 3/4" receiver.
Sounds like a good cleaning is in order and yes, the gas ports are part of it, but not necessarily the issue here.
Follow this link for help in caring for 1100's
http://www.shotgunworld.com/bbs/viewtop ... 55&t=91897

Never, in any other forum I've ever used, have I had someone answer every question I had in one shot. Thanks a lot!

Your Welcome!
That is usually due to most forums being inundated with folks acting childish; instead of being helpful, they want to give their opinion tainted with silly emotions and forget all about answering the real questions posed.

Welcome to the Remington Owners Forum Hokey !!