20 inch barrel vs. 24 inch barrel

[DML2007]

High Road,

What am I gaining or lossing in barrel length in a 30-06 or a .308 with either a 20 or 24 inch barrel?

Im looking to hit paper up to 800 meters. Basically just have fun and challenge myself.

Id like to keep it rather cheap (600 or less rifle only) and I like the Remington 700 SPS with a 24in tapered compared to the Remington Tactical 20 inch bull.

What does a heavy/bull barrel do compared to a tappered?

Thank you, Dave

 

[GunTech]

The difference between 20 and 24 is less than you think - under 200 fps probably. I cut the 17.5 inch bbl on my 308 40x down to 20 inches, and it still whacks the 1000 yard gong just fine with about 36 MOA of come-up. The weight loss is a real plus when I have to carry the thing around during a tactical match. My barrel is like a sewer pipe - 0.995 at the muzzle, and POI does not change after firing 50 rounds.

Here' a before and after:

 

[Zak Smith]

If you really intend to shoot it at long distance, get the longer barrel.

 

[SamTuckerMTNMAN]

i luv montana

 

[USSR]

If you really intend to shoot it at long distance, get the longer barrel.

+1. Also, you'll be REAL unpopular with the guys on the firing line with a .30-06 with a 20" barrel.

Don