01-11-2020, 05:07 PM
Because they can? Seriously, though, there are lots of reasons to have a <short barrel> which is of course a relative term. My Howa's 20-inch barrel is about perfect for me. There does not seem to be any accuracy loss, so far, and I like the compact form of the rifle which will sometimes be used a <truck gun> as well as a walking-around rifle. In its walk-about role I carry it slung on my shoulder, muzzle down. A longer barrel would be in the way. Blanket statements of disapproval are seldom validated.