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I posted this on the reloading forum, as well. I've got a new #5 Shilen .338 barrel on the way. The barrel happens to be 30" long, so before I start having the end of the barrel lopped off, how much sense does a longer barrel make in a .338 WinMag regarding ease of carry, muzzle blast, and velocity difference from 26" to shorter lengths? I originally planned on a 23.5"-24" barrel, but since the barrel I'm getting is already 30" long, it's got me wondering about 25" or even 26". It's easy to cut off a little barrel, but hard to add back. Your thoughts, please. | ||
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That's going to be a heavy rifle.....maybe you like them that way. I had a M-70 with a 26" barrel and hated it. For me 24" or even 23" is enough. Barrel length is is personal thing and you make it the way you like it. Don't fret the velocity issues as the 338 will have an enormous amount of energy anyway. /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// "Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery." Winston Churchill | |||
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As I mentioned, I had been considering a 23.5-24" barrel. It's going to be a little on the heavy side in the #5 contour, but I couldn't pass up the price. I may even flute the barrel. I've got a 300WinMag that weighs in at 10 pounds, 1 1/2 ounces with scope, sling, and 4 rounds of ammo. I don't mind sitting around with it on my lap, but it's been 35 years since I lugged it up and down perpendicular hills in Montana. I'm not in good enough shape for that nowadays. | |||
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First. Thanks for your website. I use your data often. As to the 30" barrel. Using my actual experience of cutting a 26" to 22" the increase from 22-30" would only be 100fps. If you are not going to carry it you might consider the increased weight worth it. To me the rifle would just not look right and would be way to muzzle heavy. For me carry or not I would go to the 22-24". Time for morning coffee. As usual just my $.02 Paul K | |||
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I have had them from 22" to the original standard Pre-64 of 25". I sure liked the Standard Pre-64 length the best, but it's a personal choice for each of us. Power is okay anyway. | |||
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How much weight reduction is there with fluting? | |||
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I wouldn't go with less than 24" and 26 would be ideal. If you plan to build a carrying rifle with open sights then 22-23" would be better suited. If velocity is important to you the longer the better. Fluting the barrel would certainly lessen your load, ask the manufacturer what difference there would be. The contour and the number of flutes are factors. bigbull | |||
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I think Charlie Sisk performed a controlled test w/ a 338WM barrel starting long and cutting it back an inch at a time. He may have the data published on his web site. GVA | |||
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