Looking for opinions

[ajhaag19]

I have a remington 700 varmit 308 Has a 26" barrel. I am thinking about getting it cut down to 20" target crowned.
Im looking for peoples opinions on should I, is it worth it. My reason for wanting to do it is to cut some weight off of it and making it easier to maneuver.
I shoot 168gr BTHP for my reloads if that helps at all
Whats your thoughts?

 

[Pointman308]

Definitely do it. That's way too long for a .308. What you gain is way my more than what you will lose.

 

[Boltfluter]

Go for it. The barrel will end up stiffer to boot. A win, win situation.

Paul

 

[sib1948]

What is the twist of the barrel? Would go 20-22" and have barrel threaded for break. Will make shooting more enjoyable, unless you only shoot a few shots at a time hunting.

 

[Chanonry]

Depends what you are going to do with it.

It's very trendy so there will be lots of positive responses suggesting there is no benefit to a longer barrel. Not true in some circumstances, absolutely the case in others.

Your 168 gr bullet perhaps implies that you don't spend all your time shooting out to 1000 yards, in which case a short barrel may not be much of a handicap and as you say it will be lighter and handier.

If you are trying to get the max performance out of your 308 then this fad for cutting the barrel to 20" is a fallacy, but a 20" does not stop you getting out there with the right load and is plenty good enough for medium ranges +.