C Kid
Bull, or heavy, barrels are used for different reasons. First, a heavy barrel tends to dampen barrel vibrations which, theoretically means more accuracy. Second, a heavy barrel does not heat up as fast as a skinny one and, again, theoretically will last longer since heat is really what destroys a barrel. Finally, a heavy barrel, within reason, makes for easier holding on the target since it will absorb some of the shooter's shakiness when his heart is pounding like a trip-hammer.
Now, having said all that, is a heavy or bull barrel better than a skinny one? Well some skinny barrels shoot just as good as, and sometimes better than the fat ones. Also, if you have to lug a rifle up a mountain slope or across that mile-wide meadow to get a shot, then you'll be thankful for the less weight.
So, there's no easy answer to you question. Ain't that the way it always is?
I'm sure you'll get a lot of input from other shooters.
Have fun shooting.
Ray
[ 11-01-2004: Message edited by: Cheechako ]