243AI barrel length 26'/27'/28'

[CdnHotshot]

Final detail of current project is regarding barrel length best suited for my application.
I have 3 choices, 26", 27", 28"
The barrel is 1:10 Pacnor with #7 Douglas/Sendero contour with 8 flutes. The rest is Bat Machine on a Robertson Composite.
The "primary application" is 600-880 yard coyotes with 90 Scenars from stationary postion. Also, occasional big game hunting with varying distances on antelope & whitetail.
My first choice is 26" for easier handling, weight reduction, rifle vehicle/case storage, but wonder if 27" or even 28" might be better for longer distance,s).
Barrel length comments welcome !

 

[eddief]

The animals won't notice the difference in velocity. As far as accuracy goes that will be barrel specific at what length it will shoot the most accurate. Personally, I'm having a 243AI built right now, and I'm going 26". It's being built for hunting primarily, but if strictly for comp. it would be 28-30". Later !

Eddie Fosnaugh

 

[Bobs243Ackley]

For what it is worth, my .243AI is going back together with a Pac-Nor 12" twist, #7 Taper that has been finished out at 25" for the length. I went with this length to "split the difference" for hunting & match work, since this rifle will be used as a live varmint rifle, and light big game rifle. For varmint, or match, use I would have opted for the 28" barrel. If the rifle would have been set up for light big game walking use, it would have been a 24" barrel with a #4 profile. This rifle is going together as a switch barrel set-up, so I have the ability to do something different, regarding barrel length, if my needs change.

Cordially,
Bob

 

[CdnHotshot]

26" was my first choice as other shooters have agreed for benchrest and hunting combination.
Switch barrel is in the works...

 

[Wild_Bill]

As a hunting rifle dont go past 26" as it will be to long for most work you will do if it was for range work i would have gone for a 30"

So 26" should be a good compromise.

Cheers Bill
Australia