Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Target shooting and range information. Competitive shooting, ranges, competitions, clubs and events. Free shooting targets.

Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by nords » 18 Apr 2014, 11:11 am

So for scrub rifles and pigs guns people like short barrel rifles for handling... No long barrels to get caught on bush and the rest.

It's sort of accepted though that accuracy out of these isn't great, 1.5" - 2" or whatever seems pretty normal and people are happy with that.

Is it just not possible/practical to get 3/4 MOA out of a short barrel? 16" or that kind of length?

Anyone who buys a Tikka or Sako I think expects this kind of accuracy, but they don't really do short rifles?

If you took a Sako Hunter or whatever and cut 6-8" off the barrel, would accuracy go out the window because of the shorter barrel?
Norica Spider GRS Camo .22
Browning BLR Lightweight 81 .243
Browning A-Bolt Medallion 300 Win Mag. Weaver V-Series 3-15 x 42.
User avatar
nords
Lance Corporal
Lance Corporal
 
Posts: 191
Western Australia

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by Westy » 18 Apr 2014, 12:08 pm

I've got a 16" barrell on a 300 black in rem 700 and as of yesterday it was shooting .75" @100M .So yer it possible with the right load data and a bit of practise! IMHO
I've learned that pleasing everyone is impossible, but pissing everyone off is a piece of cake.
User avatar
Westy
Warrant Officer C1
Warrant Officer C1
 
Posts: 1276
Queensland

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by nords » 18 Apr 2014, 12:16 pm

That's heavy barrel I guess, Westy?
Norica Spider GRS Camo .22
Browning BLR Lightweight 81 .243
Browning A-Bolt Medallion 300 Win Mag. Weaver V-Series 3-15 x 42.
User avatar
nords
Lance Corporal
Lance Corporal
 
Posts: 191
Western Australia

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by Westy » 18 Apr 2014, 12:23 pm

nords wrote:That's heavy barrel I guess, Westy?

Yes it a heavy Barrell Oldmate LOL :lol: :x :lol: Looks like this
Attachments
P3280168.jpg
P3280168.jpg (82.38 KiB) Viewed 7460 times
I've learned that pleasing everyone is impossible, but pissing everyone off is a piece of cake.
User avatar
Westy
Warrant Officer C1
Warrant Officer C1
 
Posts: 1276
Queensland

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by Combat_Wombat » 18 Apr 2014, 2:31 pm

Went out with a bloke roo shooting with the same rifle in .223 and he was putting didn't miss a shot all night even out to 250m but saying that he's gone out every night for 15 years
Remington 700 CDL .270
Rossi M92 44mag
CZ 452 deluxe .22LR
Howa 1500 .204
Savage FVSR 22
User avatar
Combat_Wombat
Corporal
Corporal
 
Posts: 379
Queensland

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by Sakoh » 21 Apr 2014, 11:31 am

The "right" barrel length is largely about how much powder has to be burned.

e.g. I think 20" is pretty much accepted as the shortest barrel you can really use on a magnum cartridge. Any shorter and you're just flame-throwing the unburned powder out behind the bullet.

Chopping an inch off an existing barrel that doesn't guarantee a drop in accuracy. It can/will change the harmonics and you might need to adjust your loads, but you should be able to get the same accuracy back from a little change like this. Plenty of people do this when they re-crown a barrel.

I think you'll find lever/scrub gun accuracy (or lack thereof if you're looking at it that way) is a result of them being designed fulfil limited range shooting. If you're shooting pigs in dense bush you might only be 50m - 100m away max. 1.5" groups is more than enough for that.

I'm sure Sako could make a half MOA 16" barrel rifle if they wanted, but that extra time/tools/manufacturing etc. doesn't come for free. Are you gunna buy a $2,000 Sako for half MOA accuracy though when a $900 lever does the same job?

Different tool for a different job, that's all.
Sakoh
Private
Private
 
Posts: 75
New South Wales

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by Prios » 21 Apr 2014, 11:32 am

Sakoh wrote:Different tool for a different job, that's all.


Yep.

If you want a high precision rifle, don't buy a scrub hunting gun.
Browning T-Bolt 17HMR + Leupold VX-1 4-12x40
Browning X Bolt Hunter 30-06 Springfield + Leupold VX-1 3-9x40
User avatar
Prios
Private
Private
 
Posts: 90
Victoria

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by Prios » 21 Apr 2014, 11:36 am

Westy's 700 SPS Tactical is a good example.

It's short barrel, but as designed for "urban sniping" where high accuracy is important. In a police/sniping setting you're potentially talking about someone's life.

No such concerns hunting pigs obviously.
Browning T-Bolt 17HMR + Leupold VX-1 4-12x40
Browning X Bolt Hunter 30-06 Springfield + Leupold VX-1 3-9x40
User avatar
Prios
Private
Private
 
Posts: 90
Victoria

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by roob » 21 Apr 2014, 11:37 am

What if the pigs take your buddy hostage? :P
7mm-08 Tikka T3 Varmint and a .22-250 Tikka T3 Varmint
User avatar
roob
Lance Corporal
Lance Corporal
 
Posts: 125
New South Wales

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by fordj » 21 Apr 2014, 11:39 am

If that happens leave it to the professionals.

Call Samuel L. Jackson.
Tikka T3 Hunter in 308
Savage Model 10 in 22-250
fordj
Recruit
Recruit
 
Posts: 33
Northern Territory

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by BBJ » 21 Apr 2014, 11:40 am

I'd rather get saved by Michelle Rodriguez ;)
Weatherby Vanguard .223 Remington
Tikka T3 Varmint Stainless .243 Winchester
R.I.P. M1 Garand .30-06 Springfield

Leupold VX-R 4-12x40
User avatar
BBJ
Corporal
Corporal
 
Posts: 347
Northern Territory

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by jennageit » 06 Aug 2014, 10:52 pm

Hi Guys,

Although I'm still seriously considering the Marlin XT 22 for my first rifle, I've been doing a bit of research. I found this thread because the rifle I'm looking at seems to be a compact. The barrel looks quite short, and i'm wondering if it will affect accuracy for fox shooting and some target shooting. I've been told that the Marlin may not be much good for targets, but I was willing to give it a go anyway.

This evening I found the "Ruger American Rimfire Compact" The stats say its overall length is 35.75 inches, as opposed to 41 inches on the Marlin. The article I'm reading says nothing on the barrel length of the Ruger, but the marlin is 22 inches. Will this greatly affect accuracy?

The price difference is Marlin $345 through Clayton Firearms, but whichever Ruger 22 I choose is $450.

Is the extra $100 worth spending?
Does Ruger have a better reputation than Marlin? Will it do the job I want?

Suggestions please guys.

I'm thinking of spending a maximum of $500 on my first rifle to do fox and rabbit shooting, plus some plinking.

Thanks in advance!
Back from a break, and ready to shoot again :)
User avatar
jennageit
Corporal
Corporal
 
Posts: 306
Victoria

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by Gregg » 07 Aug 2014, 3:32 pm

nords wrote:It's sort of accepted though that accuracy out of these isn't great, 1.5" - 2" or whatever seems pretty normal and people are happy with that.


A pig won't know the difference if you put one through its heart, or an inch to the side ;)
Howa 1500 .270 WInchester
Savage Model 10/110 Predator .204 Ruger
User avatar
Gregg
Corporal
Corporal
 
Posts: 378
South Australia

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by kurl » 07 Aug 2014, 3:33 pm

Plenty of accurate short barrel rifles.

Look up groups for any of the 'tactical' rifles like the Remington 700 SPS etc.
User avatar
kurl
Private
Private
 
Posts: 70
Victoria

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by Seconds » 07 Aug 2014, 3:39 pm

jennageit wrote:Although I'm still seriously considering the Marlin XT 22 for my first rifle, I've been doing a bit of research. I found this thread because the rifle I'm looking at seems to be a compact. The barrel looks quite short, and i'm wondering if it will affect accuracy for fox shooting and some target shooting.


You're talking about completely different things with a centrefire barrel and a .22 Centrefire has heaps more powder to burn so can need the extra barrel.

The Marlin XT has a 22" barrel which is pretty standard. You won't see any 22LR's with a 30" truck axel on the front, they're not for F-Class :lol:
Sako 85 Hunter
.308 Winchester
User avatar
Seconds
Corporal
Corporal
 
Posts: 357
New South Wales

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by Supporter » 07 Aug 2014, 3:42 pm

jennageit wrote:The barrel looks quite short, and i'm wondering if it will affect accuracy for fox shooting and some target shooting.


Random bit of trivia here but just FYI, I know Anschütz do some of their top target line barrels in 19" and they're as accurate as it gets.

Shorter than your XT barrel.
Winchester 1894 30-30
Howa Varminter .204 Ruger
Savage Model 10/110 Trophy Hunter XP 30-06 Springfield
User avatar
Supporter
Lance Corporal
Lance Corporal
 
Posts: 249
Western Australia

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by jennageit » 07 Aug 2014, 4:09 pm

Wow, thanks guys for the advice, although now I'm more confused than ever lmao

Here's what I'm going to do.

Next wednesday night the LSBR club have their weekly meet. I'm going to go there (if my back play by the rules) and chat to the guys. I've been promised the opportunity to have a go with some of their club rifles, so maybe I'll find one that will suit my needs. Then, I'll find one to buy, save up my dollars (hopefully under $500) and start there.

Sound like a good idea?
Back from a break, and ready to shoot again :)
User avatar
jennageit
Corporal
Corporal
 
Posts: 306
Victoria

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by Prios » 08 Aug 2014, 11:23 am

Sounds good.

One thing I'll add though after seeing all your others posts... :lol:

I know choosing your first rifle sucks. Takes ages, you go round and round (and round) trying to find the right thing. At some point you've just gotta take the plunge and get one so you can get some hands on experience and actually know what you're talking about instead of reading about it.

I don't have a Marlin, but from all accounts its a good shooting, affordable 22. I know a few of the guys here have one and they say the same. What more can you ask for really?

Get your first rifle and learn. You can always sell and upgrade down the road if you want something else ;)
Browning T-Bolt 17HMR + Leupold VX-1 4-12x40
Browning X Bolt Hunter 30-06 Springfield + Leupold VX-1 3-9x40
User avatar
Prios
Private
Private
 
Posts: 90
Victoria

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by jennageit » 08 Aug 2014, 11:50 am

Thanks Prios,

That's what I'll end up doing I reckon.

I've already booked my spot for next wednesday night at the LSBR club, and I'm already looking forward to it. I find myself wishing it was happening this weekend.

All I have to do is make sure my back keeps improving so that I can actually go. If it flares up again, I'll end up stuck in bed and have to put it off for another week. Can't have that!!! lol
Back from a break, and ready to shoot again :)
User avatar
jennageit
Corporal
Corporal
 
Posts: 306
Victoria

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by Prios » 11 Aug 2014, 8:49 am

All the best with your back.

Keep up the meds and maybe add a stiff drink into the mix to stay relaxed? :lol:
Browning T-Bolt 17HMR + Leupold VX-1 4-12x40
Browning X Bolt Hunter 30-06 Springfield + Leupold VX-1 3-9x40
User avatar
Prios
Private
Private
 
Posts: 90
Victoria

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by Ken » 11 Aug 2014, 8:49 am

They say alcohol is the best medicine right :D
Whatever you do, don't look at the mayonnaise...
User avatar
Ken
Lance Corporal
Lance Corporal
 
Posts: 103
Queensland

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by Hercl » 11 Aug 2014, 8:50 am

We do.

"They" don't :lol:
What is this "too many rifles" you speak of?
User avatar
Hercl
Lance Corporal
Lance Corporal
 
Posts: 246
New South Wales

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by jennageit » 13 Aug 2014, 10:56 am

Prios wrote:All the best with your back.

Keep up the meds and maybe add a stiff drink into the mix to stay relaxed? :lol:


My back was excruciating the other night.

I'd taken my Targin (oxycodone hydrochloride 10mg), Gabapentin (nerve pain tablets 300mg), Endone x 2 (oxycodone hydrocholoride 5mg) Nurofen, and 2 panadol and it was still trying to tie me up in knots. :evil: How I was still able to remain upright and carry on any sort of conversation, or at least string two words together, I have no idea lol

I came out of the bedroom to complain to my husband, and he handed me a shot of butterscotch Schnapps. slept beautifully that night, for a whole 6 hours (unheard of since I did my back)! :D

It's not something I'd ever do again, unless I was in the same situation, but it really did help.

On the bright side, my back seems to be getting better, so there's little chance i wont be able to go shooting.

As for accuracy for short barrelled rifles, you lot have explained it all to me nicely, so now I think (maybe) I understand. :lol:

Jenna
Back from a break, and ready to shoot again :)
User avatar
jennageit
Corporal
Corporal
 
Posts: 306
Victoria

Re: Accuracy of short barrel rifles

Post by whert » 14 Aug 2014, 8:52 am

jennageit wrote:Endone


I have a friend who' a Midwife. She tells me that's the good stuff :lol:

(for patients, she's not taking it)
Weatherby Vanguard S2 .270 Winchester
Mossberg M464 30-30
Gamo Maxima .177
User avatar
whert
Lance Corporal
Lance Corporal
 
Posts: 226
Victoria


Back to top
 
Return to Target shooting - Competitive shooting - Shooting ranges