One thing that you may want to think about is not so much for a "trainer" or "practice" rifle but another rifle to compete with. Which by inturn will help you shoot better. In my area it is much easier to find some form of smallbore comp then an fclass. Or any other long range type matches. At least that's how justified my smallbore set up.
If you are set on just FCLASS practice just shoot your rifle and loads. Barrels are expendable and cheap, compared to the components to burn it out. I could have about 6 barrels chambered for the cost of my smallbore rifle. Then you need a small fortune in ammo to find what it will shoot. Then you need another small fortune for enpugh of that particular lot to last you for a while. Just my opinions
Nick
Nick,
Exactly what I was thinking. I don't see that as hardware goes, you are saving anything. The rifle, barrels, stock, scope, rest, etc all cost a pretty penny. Don't have the reloading equipment, but the ammo does add up for quality match grade 22LR.
I think I will just practice with my rifle, and replace the barrel when necessary.