6 1/2 inch or 5 1/2 inch barrel? (Ruger Single-Six .22 mag revolver)

[newhandgunner]

I'm looking to purchase a Ruger Single-Six .22 mag. Based on what I want/need, and the homework and research I've done, I've decided to buy this gun; however, I'm undecided on the barrel length (6 1/2 inch versus 5 1/2 inch).

From what I've read, I get the impression that the extra length equates to higher cartridge velocity and better accuracy (greater ability to aim down a longer barrel) (I may be wrong). I'm not sure that 1 inch will make that much of a difference, but I wanted to get input from other folks to see what they know about this and/or prefer.

The other factor I'm thinking about is, will the 6 1/2 inch barrel be a bit long and cumbersome when drawing the gun from a holster?

I welcome any feedback. Thanks so much!

 

[sfhogman]

Welcome to the forum.
For myself, I like the 5.5". I don't think the increase in velocity and sight radius offset the difference in balance and ease of presentation from the holster.

I'm sure that you won't be disappointed, no matter what Single-Six you get.

Jeff

 

[tantrix]

If you're only carrying it in the woods and stuff for hunting or killing varmints, I go with 6.5" or longer.

With that being said, I have a 6.5" blued Super Single Six with adjustable sights and love it. Every bit of length you can get helps, especially if you're ever going to shoot the magnum cylinder. If you aren't used to long revolver barrels, the 6.5" may seem a bit overwhelming at first but you'll get used to it eventually. On top of that, the 5.5" isn't but an inch shorter so not alot of difference there.

Like sfhogman said, he prefers the 5.5" while I like 6.5" and above. It's really just a personal preference thing, there is no wrong or right answer. As far as drawing from a holster, I use the Triple K leather OWB from Ruger's website (has the Ruger logo stamped on the side of it). It hangs low enough and has enough angle to it (for me) where it isn't a problem to draw. The type of holster you get makes a big difference on how easy you can draw a long-barreled handgun.

 

[Confederate]

Either one. The extra length doesn't bother me with this gun and the difference isn't very pronounced. With magnum ammo you get a bit more bite, but I wouldn't want anything longer than 6.5-inch barrel.

 

[Elkslayer]

I have just purchased a SS Single-six with both cylinders in 5 1/2". Being stainless the ejector rod shroud is steel and this adds weight to the revolver over the blued version which has an aluminum shroud.

Just handling the revolver (haven't shot it yet) I am surprised how heavy it seems to feel holding it single handed. Now mind you, I am sitting there watching a TV shows or some game and cycling the rev. repeatedly to try to break it in and help smooth the trigger pull so, yes, it does seem to become heavy after a half hour of doing this.

Just a suggestion for you, if possible, handle a 5 1/2" and the (what is it?) 4 3/8 or 4 1/2" model as well.

 

[461]

I'm wrestling with close to the same issue right now except mine is between the 4 5/8" Vs. the 5 1/2". I actually prefer a shorter barrel but Ruger doesn't make a stainless in the short length and I prefer stainless. Seems I can never get exactly what I want.

As to your questions though, you're dead on on everything you said. The ammunition improvement will largely come into play in the .22Mag and unless you're planning hardcore hunting then it really makes no difference. Even with hunting, the extra fps is likely to be negligent in the end. The .22Mag is truly suited to rifle length anyway so a pistol will not fully exploit it.