a quick study in barrel length...

[Old Unc']

all too often we are quick to ask, "what's the barrel length", thinking about overall handling and so-called swing dynamics. Barrel length is important, to a point, but the overall length of the gun is what really matters.

Case in point. Here is a comparison of a Remington 1100 LT-20 with a 28" barrel and a Franchi Affinity 20 gauge with a 26" barrel. Yes, the Affinity has an extended choke tube to lengthen it a little, but overall both guns measured 48" end to end. The 1100 has a 14" LOP, the Affinity 14-1/4" LOP. The big difference is in the length of the receiver, the Franchi is noticeably longer.

So, next time you worry about barrel length, check the overall dimensions and length of the gun...

 

[oneounceload]

It all comes down to where the weight is distributed - most target shooters want more weight forward for smooth swings while upland hunters want it more balanced between the hands - especially for fast flushers like grouse, chukar, etc, where a nice slow, deliberate smooth swing is not going to happen. Longer barrels help the smooth swing characteristics - which is why you see serious clay guns with 30+ inch barrels.

There is also the MOI to consider.

You can read Bruce Buck's take on it here:

http://www.shootingsportsman.com/technoid-talk/2012/august/moment-inertia

 

[jmr40]

The only Remington SG barrel I've ever measured that was exactly the stated length was a rifle sighted slug barrel. Every thing with a vent rib is off. Measure it and I'll bet you get 27.5". Most of them are either 1/2" longer or shorter than stated.

Just a guess, but I'll bet Remington makes all barrels to one longer length, then cuts them off at the vent rib post closest to the length they want before threading them for tubes. All others brands I've measured were just about right.

Benelli receivers are longer as well. I see exactly the same when I put my 24" Benelli beside my 26" Remington 870

 

[oneounceload]

Benelli and Franchi receivers HAVE to be longer to hold the recoil spring - "inertia" is a fancy word for simple "blowback" operation

 

[Milkmaster]

Benelli and Franchi receivers HAVE to be longer to hold the recoil spring - "inertia" is a fancy word for simple "blowback" operation

YEP!

 

[jmr40]

But not the Nova. It is just as long as the semi-autos. Not complaining, it is just what it is. I have noticed that with Benelli I can use a 2" shorter barrel to get a similar balance and feel when compared to the Remingtons.

 

[Virginian]

The only Remington SG barrel I've ever measured that was exactly the stated length was a rifle sighted slug barrel. Every thing with a vent rib is off. Measure it and I'll bet you get 27.5". Most of them are either 1/2" longer or shorter than stated.
Just a guess, but I'll bet Remington makes all barrels to one longer length, then cuts them off at the vent rib post closest to the length they want before threading them for tubes. All others brands I've measured were just about right.

Remington has been doing that since long before choke tubes. You have now discovered the secret of why they handle so well.

 

[JAshley73]

Unc'

What's your opinion on how the two swing? That's interesting to see the two side by side like that. Blued steel and walnut vs. black metal and plastic. I see what you mean now about your Affinity being "the Glock 19 of shotguns" as you put it in your other thread.

Thanks for sharing.

 

[oneounceload]

Unc - you see the links to Bruce's article I posted in your other threads?

Great reading about MOI

 

[Old Unc']

yes, excellent article. Thanks...