Optimal Barrel Length for 10/22

[7mmRemMag]

I am looking into a new Grn Mtn Barrel for my 10/22 and was wondering what the optimal Barrel Length for accuracy would be. I have a choice between 16", 18", and 20". I personally like the look of a longer barrel but I heard there is a point at which you start to loose velocity. Would the 20" give better velocity and accuracy?

Also has anyone had any exp with BSA's Sweet 22? What do you suggest for glass?

 

[hksw]

It is said the sweet spot for maximum velocity for the average standard velocity .22 lr is between 16" and 17".

However:

Maximum velocity does NOT equal highest precision.

If that were true, hardcore match grade gun makers like Anschütz, Feinwerkbau, Walther, Weihrauch, etc. would be making all of their guns with 16-17" barrels. They don't.

 

[ArmedBear]

The optimal barrel length for accuracy on a 10/22? Whatever length it is when you sell the gun and buy another rifle.

I tried a BSA on a couple .22's including the Ruger before I sold it. It was an utter POS that wouldn't hold zero. I've read that the new ones are better, but BSA doesn't get another chance from me.

If you want a good .22 scope for all-around use, a Nikon for $100 or a Leupold for $200 are good choices. On a budget, my little Simmons 22 Mag has worked very well (I think they're the same price range as a BSA, but they hold zero and have a nice, bright, clear image.)

If you want to do serious .22 target shooting, get something with a LOT of magnification, but don't buy cheap. However, I'd put that on a top quality bolt gun, or something like a Volquartsen custom that uses the 10/22's basic design, but none of the parts. Be advised that ".22" does not necessarily mean "low budget" when you really get into it.

 

[Clipper]

My wife has a 2-7X Sweet .22 on her plinkster. It's right handy, and is working as advertised...She really likes it.

 

[ThomasT]

From what i have read 22s will achieve their max velocity in about 16" of barrel. The only round that will gain more velocity is a CCI Stinger. It has enough slow powder to utilise up to about 20 to 22" barrels.

That info is several years old may need to be updated. The barrel length won't detemine your accuracy. The quailty of the barrel will. Short barrels are handy and long barrels will give a lower report with low velocity ammo. I have seen guys shooting 24" barrels with standard velocity that are almost silent. I did the same thing when shooting rats and squirrels in town out of my pecan tree. I used a Marlin 39 and two Remingtons with 24" barrels. CCI CB caps shot from long barrels are much quieter than my Benjimin or Sheridan 22 air rifles.

Longer barrels will give you an advantage if using open sights. After that ammo and gun quality come into play. Also a scope with the proper paralax for the range you are shooting at. Of coarse this is assuming you can shoot as well.

Remember there is no paralax if you are dead square behind the scope.

 

[ArmedBear]

WRT velocity, the timing of a blowback action like a 10/22 has to have an effect on the desired barrel length. Once the bolt opens, the pressure drops like a stone.

With a bolt gun, lever gun, etc. this would not be the case.

What I don't know is where, exactly, the bullet is when the bolt opens significantly.