What is the optimal barrel length for a .375 H&H rifle? I'm thinking about getting a Ruger RSM, but wonder if the 23" barrel is a bit short for this caliber.

Thank you for any help,
Scott

Depends on how the rifle fits you. I'm 5'-10" & a 22"bbl. seems a bit short & the 24" a bit long. My new .404 is coming w/ a 23"bbl.

My 375 has a 25" tube and it carries well for me.

I wouldn't worry about the barrel length/velocity relationship with this calibre. The differences just won't amount to a hill of beans regarding terminal ballistics.

I would concentrate more on the balance of the rifle. If that 23" barrel balances nicely in the Ruger package, I'd take her home.

Try to spend some time at the shop bringing her up, carrying it around in your usual methods, etc. It would be a half hour well spent.

Good luck to ya.

I docked a CZ550 in 375 to 21.5".Still loads to factory levels and works well in the rainforest here.

Having said that I keep them at the original 25.5" or whatever it is now.



Karl.

I Like the 25" barrel they hang great for off hand shooting. But hey whatever floats your boat mate !!

I guess I'm the odd ball here.....I had Hill Country Rifles cut my Winchester M70 .375 H&H down to 22" as well as a few other 'minor' custom options. It's very first hunting trip was my first safari to S. Africa.....it did well by taking 7 of 9 animals ranging from a duiker on up to kudu and wildebeest.

I'm one of those that prefer 'carbine length' rifles......I guess I'm just a tad weird!

I HAVE a 21" tube on my Model 70 in .375H&H.
Because I handload I don't feel I lose that much energy wise and I like it's compactness for clawing my way through the crap in the Ontario "bush" when moose or bear hunting.

The whole thing only weighs 8 pounds due to the kevlar stock and it points easily and balances well.