Model 7 .308 18-1/2"bbl. Rebarrel to 18 or 20"?

[CLP308]

I have an older Model Seven in .308 that needs a new bbl. I have over 1500 rounds out of it and the bore has several spots that look like cracks and are pretty deep. So, the dilema is do I keep it real short or go 1.5" longer. Next, which contour? I am thinking 20" with a magnum sporter contour fluted to lose any extra weight. The work will be done by Bobby Hart as he is 20 min down the road. I use the gun for hunting whitetails from thick brush to open fields. 300 yds is the longest field that I hunt over. It will also be getting Bobby's muzzle break.

I want to keep it under 6.5lbs without the scope using the factory walnut stock.

Thanks

 

[liltank]

Talk to Bobby Hart and get his opinion. He will steer you right. IF it were me, I would go with the 20" with a taper to .850" at the end of the muzzle. I currently have an 18" with a 1" straight palma contour. If I did it again, I would have them cut it down to .850" Things shoots really well though. Can't complain about that.

Tank