I have .204 Ruger barrels in 24, 26 and a .20 BR in 28 inch lengths. One day at a 600 yard bench rest match at my Range, a guy came with a .204 Ruger and 24 inch barrel. I made a loud snap, that could be heard in spite of numerous shooters, when the bullets broke the sound barrier before reaching the target. The shooter went to view his target and immediately crumpled it up. He was never seen again. I regularly shoot at the same distance and do not have subsonic problems with long barrels. The .204 Ruger has great capacity and if you burn all of the powder it packs, you will be rewarded at long range. When does 4 ounces of barrel dictate your performance? Buy lighter scope mounts, stock or scope if you have to save weight. Also I prefer a muzzle brake, I have barrels with and without in .204 Ruger. I have several 50X Sightrons for 300 yard plus work. When the wind blows I have to get closer and choose a lesser power scope. The further the muzzle brake is from my face the better. My next .204 Ruger barrel will be 26 inches.