I have decided in the 7x57 for this rifle (Thanks for the help) and I think I want a 22 inch barrel for it.

My main question is the barrel contour choice.

Would a #1 barrel countour be a good choice for this project or would you go with a thicker diameter like a #3 contour (or any other suggestion)for stability & accuracy.

I am stocking this project with a full length stock made from a Murtle Burl blank I have been drying for 3 years.

Any suggestions are welcome, in fact, needed!!

I'm very suprised there are no opinions out there on this subject

There are a lot of Mannlicher style rifles out there I know.

Sorry guys, I guess it was a stupid question.

I'll get the thin contour and leave it at that.

if you are looking for my suggestion, keep the barrel at a MAXIMUM of 20" (less is better) and the #1 is plenty heavy. You are not building a benchrest rifle here. If that is what you want, then my suggestion would be to avoid the mannlicher stock. So there is your first suggestion

I agree with Mark about the length and you about the #1. The full stock accentuates the barrel length and makes any particular barrel look longer than it's half-stock equivalent. I am going to do one next year at 19"; even 18" looks good.