Which is the best

If the action is bedded correctly and the barrel is good and it is a Model 70 or Rem 700, then the barrel touches nothing.

If the action is bedded correctly and the barrel is good and it is a Mauser, Pre Sako 75 or Howa or Wby Mark V or Ruger 77 then the barrel should be bedded for the first inch or so if long term accuracy is the goal.

If the action bedding and barrel are so so, then whatever works.

Mike

I had bad experience after full-length-bedding a tapered barrel (I didn't know better)
After the barrel heats up and streches, POI changed and group went to hell.

IMHO full length bedding is for straight barrels or straight section(s) on a barrel, like stepped military barrels.

The best way to bed a rifle is the way it shoots best- just like people each rifle is an individual- there are no hard fast rules of which is best, only a bunch of opinions. I free float all barrels first, test for accuracy and then work out from the action, first with a couple of inches, then with a pad 2" back from the muzzle, and if all else fails the entire barrel channel.