Barrel Length double-check (Savage 10FP)

[Onslaught]

OK, so thanks to the abundant knowledge here at THR, I have decided on Rifle, Scope, Rings, and Base...

Just one thing though.

I bought the .308 Savage 10 FLP (left handed model) with the AccuTrigger. The Left handed model was only available with a 24" barrel. But when I originally went to my dealer's to handle them, the first one he handed me had a 20" barrel (right handed of course). The lightbulb came on right there!

Perfect balance, perfect feel, LOVE IT!

But when my 24" came in, the balance was good, but it just doesn't feel as good in my hands as the 20".

Now, for $45, I can have Kurt at Kurt's Kustom shorten, recrown, and refinish the barrel at any length I want (I'm thinking 20.5 or 21" just because).

500 yards is my maximum distance regularly available, and maybe once or twice I might get invited to a private range with 600 yards max.So my question is, will that 4" shorter barrel have any negative effect on accuracy at those distances? Will I even notice at all? I'm fairly confident it won't make any difference in performance, but I just want to double-check with the collective before I go do something I can't undo...

Thanks again!

 

[WalkerTexasRanger]

The Remington LTR in .308 comes w/ a 20" barrel, so must not be too big of an issue. I would go with what is most comfortable for you.....

 

[RTownsend]

Several guys at the local 600 yard range do fine with the LTR's 20" tube. One even reports that he has no trouble shooting his 20" .308 at the 1000 yard Husky range.

They certainly look cool with the short barrels.

 

[Glockster35]

I have the 20" Savage 10FP in .308 and I agree, it's almost a berfect balance.

I would have to agree that adding another 1.5 to 2 inches might be even better.

Either way you go, I think you will still end up with the perfect rifle.

As for distances, I think you will be fine out to about 600 meters/yards with a 20 inch barrel. I have shot mine with factory ammo at 600 meters and had no issues with accuracy. Actually I was shooting cheap ammo and getting excellent results. This was with a crappy 3x9 Bushnell scope, and a ton of hold over!