Re: What's your favorite barrel contour?
I would (and do) prefer a factory varmint contour for the practical reason that this one of the most popular countours that aftermarket stocks' barrel channels are demensioned to accept. No good reason to invent new problems. Also, mine have always shot well.
As for the most accurate barrel contour, I think the accuracy is at least as much in the shooter as in the barrel.
I do not adhere to the recent trend toward shorter rifle barrels. They have their place, but that's in close quarters and thick brush.
Anywhere else, and I think trimming barrel length is a contrarian fad. The whole point about having a rifle is to be able to shoot further. Shorter barrels do not help that happen.
If I wanted a barrel shorter than 26". I'd be looking for a carbine, intending it for entirely different purposes, and chambering it with a smaller capacity cartridge.
I like a .44 Mag carbine, and a .30-'06 rifle. So call me a Neanderthaler...
Greg