22lr optimum barrel lenght

[glr1]

what is the optimum barrel length for 22lr,ithink anschutz made some research but cant find it

 

[msnations]

there really isn't an optimum length, its more crucial to make sure the blank is crowned at its tightest spot. Anschutz makes 500, 660, and 690mm barrels...seems fairly arbitrary to me...

 

[holstil]

I just read a piece on this over on Benchrest Central. There is claim of 16"-18" to be optimum for powder burn, but it may be barrel to barrel for accuracy. At least that's what I got from it.
Jim

 

[RichinKansas]

If you want maximum velocity, 16 - 17 inches is pretty close. For maximum accuracy it gets more complicated. If there is a loose spot in the bore where you cut it off you will get poor accuracy no matter what the length. Also if your target shooting with standard velocity target ammo you risk the shot going supersonic with a short barrel. Worse case you might have some go supersonic and others not. Also you might do ok in cooler weather but go supersonic in warmer weather. Of course most of this you can figure this out testing lots. With a short barrel you might need slower lots of ammo. The reason you don't want the ammo going supersonic is as it drops back below supersonic it is buffeted and groups open up. Also slower .22 rimfire ammo drifts less in the wind. Personally I like a little longer barrel for offhand target shooting. I feel the gun swings back and forth a little smoother with the additional weight. For hunting that might not be the case. So many variables. But one thing I would not do is cut the barrel of a gun that shoots good, no matter if its 20 feet long ;D Rich