A local store has one of the Remington 783 Varmint models, with the laminated stock. Looks quite nice. I noticed that this has a 26 inch heavy profile barrel. I get that the heavy barrel takes longer to heat up under sustained fire (although a bolt gun probably wouldn't have to worry too much), but what's the theory behind 26 inches of barrel? Squeeze a little more velocity out of the round?
Question on varmint barrels
- Thread starter Slater
- Start date
- Status
Yeah, and stability..... Long heavy barrels soak up more scope wobble and recoil.
Grumulkin
Member
1. Whether you will benefit from the longer barrel depends on the cartridge. After a certain point, velocity increments will decrease and at some point the bullet will slow down. For say a 308 Winchester 22 inches would be enough but 26 inches doesn't hurt anything.
2. The heavy barrel soaks up heat and it's stiffer. A shorter barrel will have less vibration than a longer one.
I've quit worrying about having a heavy barrel. I've had many rifles with standard contour barrels that shoot very well. If I was into bench rest competition and not satisfied with anything but .25 inch groups I'd go with a heavy barrel.
I am weird. Almost all of my (more recent purchase) rimfires (and small caliber varmint centerfire) are bull barrel/target barrel or heavy target profile. Almost all of my larger caliber hunting rifles are sporter profile. But it makes some sense because the rimfires are primarily used from a bench or a fixed position whereas I carry my hunters and even if working from a blind or stand I would stalk my way in and out.
My boss hates bull barrels and target profile barrels and I love them. Everything has a purpose.
My boss hates bull barrels and target profile barrels and I love them. Everything has a purpose.
People in the varmint fields typically shoot a lot, and often bring more than one rifle so one can cool down while they shoot the other one, heavy barrels are nice there.
- Status
