quote:
Originally posted by Norsk:
I know most factory specced doubles are 24-25 inches, but traditional barrel length is approximately 28 inches? Ken says 26 inches max... Any opinions?
It is true that if done properly 26 in barrels swing nicely but that has more to do with a proper balance built into the rifle by a knowledgeable gun maker. Just about any length barrels can be built to balance if the maker knows what he is doing.
The 28 and 30 in barrels are simply hold overs from the black powder days when the long barrels were needed to get the velocity needed to make the cartridge up to the task for hunting dangerous game. However today with the powders and very good steel for barrels anything over 24 in barrels are simply a choice of the buyer, but not necessary with modern ammo.
Actually there is a place for even 18 inch barrels on a double for specialized use, when going into the tight weeds with a wounded cat, or for a light carry rifle for following dogs on cats and black bear in very rough terrain where every ounce counts to be able to reach where the dogs have come to tree!
In the final analysis the length of the barrels today is simply a matter of taste rather that any perceived operational NEED!
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