07-06-2012, 08:13 PM
The 18" barrel is a pretty good compromise for a lot of folks who want convenience of handling and good reach.
Go to this thread to get an idea of muzzle velocity changes for barrel length: http://www.65grendel.com/forum/showthrea...d-Velocity
The rationale is that most shots taken at big game are less than about 250-275 yards. In those ranges, you won't be able to tell the difference in drop between a 18" and 24" barrel when compared to the canonical 10" vital zone. At longer ranges, one is likely to be using range finders and mil-dot, other complex reticle, or tactical turrets. Again, no real difference in convenience factor.
Going to longer barrel lengths makes sense when one is shooting serious long-range competition at ranges of 500 yards and greater. Interestingly, the differentiator at these longer ranges is more wind drift than drop.
Go to this thread to get an idea of muzzle velocity changes for barrel length: http://www.65grendel.com/forum/showthrea...d-Velocity
The rationale is that most shots taken at big game are less than about 250-275 yards. In those ranges, you won't be able to tell the difference in drop between a 18" and 24" barrel when compared to the canonical 10" vital zone. At longer ranges, one is likely to be using range finders and mil-dot, other complex reticle, or tactical turrets. Again, no real difference in convenience factor.
Going to longer barrel lengths makes sense when one is shooting serious long-range competition at ranges of 500 yards and greater. Interestingly, the differentiator at these longer ranges is more wind drift than drop.