would like to hear anyones thoughts on a 18.5" heavy varmint barrel in 25/08 for a combo varmint and paper puncher.

arky65

Look up the specs on the 25 Souper, I don't know how much difference the shorter barrel will make.

fjold, done that, i know i will loose some velocity, i'm estimating 50 feet per inch of barrel length. based on that info i may up the barrel to 20". i can always cut some off later but can't put it back.

thanks arky65

I think you will find that you will have a tremendous amount of muzzle blast at 18.5". I used to have a 250 Sav with an 18" barrel and also one with a 25" barrel. The 25" barrel was 250fps faster with the same load. I would start a little long- like you said you can cut it off, but it is really hard to add it back once removed.

I echo Duane's comments. You should shoot a gun (243, 7mm08, 308, ect.) with a 18" bbl and see if you like it. There is a significant difference in muzzle blast between 18" and 22" or longer !!! I shoot a 25-08AI with 24" bbl and really like it.