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Author Topic: Barrel length  (Read 2014 times)

Offline Keebler213

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Barrel length
« on: May 22, 2020, 02:59:01 PM »
I have a friend who is looking into getting a new muzzleloader and we were having a discussion about barrel length and its effect on accuracy. I know load development and the shooters ability can have a major effect on accuracy but how much does barrel length effect it? What would be a good length barrel to improve accuracy? And this would all be for hunting in Washington and with a maximum range of 200 yards.

Offline h20hunter

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Re: Barrel length
« Reply #1 on: May 22, 2020, 03:01:09 PM »
@Sabotloader

Whatever he says.

Offline CastleRocker

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Re: Barrel length
« Reply #2 on: May 22, 2020, 07:11:45 PM »
Barrel length effects velocity, and a longer sight radius allows for easier aiming.  I've only seen one documented experiment with barrel length, and it was done with a 44 Remington Magnum.  A group was shot out of a Ransom Rest, after which one inch was cut off the barrel, and the barrel re-crowned.  It was a Ruger Super Blackhawk that started with a 10 1/2" and ended with an 1 1/2".  Group size never changed, it just kept getting lower on the target as velocity fell off.
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Offline Magnum_Willys

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Re: Barrel length
« Reply #3 on: May 22, 2020, 07:17:50 PM »
Idk about muzzy but generally shorter the better except for wind.   Since wind is not a factor with muzzy ranges I would think accuracy isn’t that big of factor except or sight alignment.   

Instead figure whats optimum length for impact velocity vs carry weight. 

Offline Sabotloader

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Re: Barrel length
« Reply #4 on: May 22, 2020, 07:28:14 PM »
I have a friend who is looking into getting a new muzzleloader and we were having a discussion about barrel length and its effect on accuracy. I know load development and the shooters ability can have a major effect on accuracy but how much does barrel length effect it? What would be a good length barrel to improve accuracy? And this would all be for hunting in Washington and with a maximum range of 200 yards.

I will offer my perspective but it really is up to the individual and the use of the rifle...

Longer barrel generally - creates better velocity and can add improved accuracy!  With that said in 200 yards the difference between a 22" and 27" barrel would be minor.  It would be my suggestion to choose a rifle that feels comfortable to you.  Rifle sights that you might choose to use will have a greater influence on accuracy that barrel length.

Keep shooting muzzleloaders - They are a blast!!

Offline Keebler213

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Re: Barrel length
« Reply #5 on: May 28, 2020, 02:46:51 PM »
Thanks for the responses!

Offline dilleytech

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Re: Barrel length
« Reply #6 on: June 12, 2020, 09:50:11 AM »
When tests have been done typically a shorter barrel is actually more accurate. But a longer barrel will give you better velocity and a longer site radius which increases YOUR ability to shoot more accurately. Also a longer barrel increases weight which reduces recoil. Which for some increases there accuracy if they are prone to flinching

 


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