I’m trying to decide between a 24 inch and 26 inch barrel for my 6.8 western build. It will have a 1-8 Twist rate. And I will either be shooting a muzzle brake or suppressor. Mainly used for hunting, but if I’m not worried about the weight would there be any advantage or disadvantage between the 2 lengths? Thank you
In a general sense, you gain/lose 25 fps for every inch. In other words, barrel length between the 2 would be about 50 fps. For hunting, I tend to go shorter and add a suppressor when possible.
Is a longer barrel more accurate? As well? Thank you for the information
I’ll let the others chime in as well, but I have not noticed any difference in accuracy either way. As long as you find an ammunition that the rifle system “likes” you should be fine. Each barrel is slightly different and will like or prefer a loading that can be slightly different. I have 3 6.5 Creedmoors (2 bolt and 1 AR) and each barrel has a favorite load combination.
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24…you wont need the extra 50 fps, but you will notice the ease of carry and movement in a blind of a 24 vs 26 inch barrel. 22 would even be an option.
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24 inch barrels are manageable but not ideal, 26 would be a challenge in any hunting situation. I am only building 20 and 22 these days, animals won’t be able to tell, but you will. My current build was 22 and it was a great compromise in a 7 PRC.
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