Measuring barrel length??

[Regis G]

How do you measure barrel length? Is it the overall length from crown to end of threading? Or is it the length of rifling? Or back of chamber to crown?
I never gave it any detailed thought until I learned that it is a parameter in some programs for ballistics and an inch or 2 makes a difference. Mine don't quite match the gun manufactures listed length.
Appreciate anyone clearing this up,
Regis

 

[JRS]

Bolt face to crown.

 

[shoot4fun]

Use a wooden dowel (smaller than the bore of course). Insert from muzzle to face of closed bolt and mark the dowel. Measure to the mark and you should have it. You can use a cleaning rod but take extra care not to damage the crown. On rifles that have a vent hole in the action I usually measure from the hole to the crown for an accurate measurement.

 

[clowdis]

Modern barrels are measured including the threaded stub. Some antiques on the other hand are measured from the front of the receiver. A holdover from the days of percussion and flint rifles.

 

[FrankG]

For the most part is from the crown to the bolt face like was mentioned.

The only exception that I know of now a days is the Marine Corp. M40 rifles are measured from the crown to the front of the receiver and not to the bolt face. The new M40A6 might be different but the older ones where done this way.

Later, Frank
Bartlein Barrels

 

[Regis G]

Thanks all,
Regis