Reading a little about obt, harmonics, finite element analysis, etc, there seems to be an idea that a specific velocity for a particular length produces the best accuracy. Since muzzle velocity changes with barrel length, even with the cartridge parameters remaining the same - when (or does) an increase/decrease in barrel length require a new load? Like, 16 increased to 18, 26 down to 22, etc. Keeping all else the same - manufacturer, steel, coating/treatment, twist rate.
I'm wondering because factory match doesn't seem to come in carbine/pistol etc varieties. Do they just assume a narrow range of barrel lengths used, or does it not matter since the increase in velocities for longer barrels tracks with the optimum velocities for those lengths? Perhaps a particular round is most accurate at 2600 from an 18 inch barrel, but needs 2750 on a 22 - and it just so happens that those are the average velocities of that one load out of those two lengths without changes to charge weight or seating depth.
I'm wondering because factory match doesn't seem to come in carbine/pistol etc varieties. Do they just assume a narrow range of barrel lengths used, or does it not matter since the increase in velocities for longer barrels tracks with the optimum velocities for those lengths? Perhaps a particular round is most accurate at 2600 from an 18 inch barrel, but needs 2750 on a 22 - and it just so happens that those are the average velocities of that one load out of those two lengths without changes to charge weight or seating depth.