Barrel weight for a 22-243

[Big Jake Duke]

The next project is a 22-243. My question is what would be the minimum weight/taper at 24" to be able to shoot small strings and still be practical. Thinking of a cool litttle PBR/ long range varmint rig. Looking for the balance of weight/stiffness/accuracy and Practical length.

Thanks

 

[Jud96]

My favorite contour for all around use is the Sendero contour. It will be stiff with the 24" barrel and not be overly heavy. If that is too much, look into a Light Palma or something around .750 at the muzzle.

 

[ZSteinle]

my 22-243 ackly is a benchmark #3 24" I think its about .65 or .68 at the muzzle. I don't shoot a lot of strings with it but it is sure nice to carry for hunting! Comes in at 10LB with bipod, scope, loaded mag, suppressor, and sling.

 

[Big Jake Duke]

Would you do the Ackley over again in this cartridge?

I have 4 AIs already and it seems I fireform more than anything else!

 

[just country]

morning, I prefer the AI. configuration. the cartridge has less stretch in the shoulder to

neck area. I am building a 22-243AI or a 22-250AI. Not much difference. I have a lot

243 and 22-250 brass. THK. U lightbulbgun)

 

[just country]

morning, 5.5 contour and weight. hart barrels SS 28". THK. Ulightbulbgun)

 

[daniel brothers]

I'll always use the AI version... mine was a Brux 28", 8 twist, ss, rem varmint contour, ... finished to 26"..

 

[Big Jake Duke]

How about twist rate? I would like to shoot the heavier 75-90 gr bullet. Berger recommends a 1-6 for their 90 gr. At these speeds ( 3300ish?) is that fast a twist needed or a good idea? Most barrel makers go to 1-7.

 

[daniel brothers]

I have no problem shooting 90 gr bergers in my 8 twist at 3400 fps... I'd never go to a faster twist.... the faster you push them... the less twist you need

 

[Big Jake Duke]

I have no problem shooting 90 gr bergers in my 8 twist at 3400 fps... I'd never go to a faster twist.... the faster you push them... the less twist you need

That was my understanding also. You have a 26" do you think 24" will have the same velocity in such a small case? 3400 sounds awesome- and worth the fire forming!

 

[daniel brothers]

24" with speed...that would only be a guess on my part. Not sure why you would want a wildcat to shoot less than it's potential. what is the point of having a shorter barrel?

 

[Big Jake Duke]

24" with speed...that would only be a guess on my part. Not sure why you would want a wildcat to shoot less than it's potential. what is the point of having a shorter barrel?

I have bigger heavier rifles- such as my - 243 AI with a 28" truck axle barrel, I was thinking this would be a coyote hunting/ PBR rifle. I just have a different intended use for it. 24" stiff barrel with good handling characteristics and an awesome cartridge is what I was looking for.