Re: Barrel Length .308 any Ideas
What are you looking for hard evidence of? Accuracy? Shorter barrels are arguably more accurate than longer barrels of the same profile, but that probably applies more to thinner, hunting type barrels. When you get into the world of precision shooting and are shooting a barrel that is around 1" in diameter all the way out to the muzzle, the general rules don't apply.
I'd say that for total no holds barred accuracy, the longest barrel that you can get will be the best. The rifle will recoil less, it will be more stable, I think it will take longer to get hot and you'll get more velocity up to the point where all of the powder is burned off and the bullet is no longer being pushed.
Still, in the real world, firearms are like everything else. It's all a trade off. By going with a shorter (and consequently lighter) barrel, you are inviting more recoil, a less stable platform, more heat and less velocity. On the other hand, you gain a more portable package that is easier to handle.
My rifle has a 22" tube and I'm really considering chopping it to 20". My current barrel starts at 1.25" at the breech and tapers to around 1" at the muzzle. My next build is going to be based on an 18" tube with a 1.25" straight taper (or no taper). Short rifles are mighty handy.
If you need a comparison, I have a friend that built his rifle almost the same as mine. HS Precision stock, Krieger barrel, Remington 700 action. My barrel is 22" long and his is 26" long. Both had their chambers cut using the same reamer and both were installed by the same gunsmith. We go to the range, share ammo, etc. Both rifles shoot bug holes (.2-.3" groups) regularly. The only difference is that he's getting around 80 FPS more velocity out of his rifle than I am. At 600 yards that translates into my having to dial an extra 1.5 min of adjustment. Really no big deal.
In short, I really think that barrel length is more of a preference than a need in order to have accuracy. Get what you think looks cooler. Just remember, if in doubt, go longer. You can always have it cut again.
