barrel decisions

craiggers · 08-23-2008, 04:27 PM

I have a TC encore, I want to buy another barrel for it. I have looked at custom barrels on the web, but there are to many options to know where to start. My priorities are as follows accuracy(to 350 yrds), weight, knock down power, and ammunition availability/affordability. I think I have it narrowed down to these three calibers 25-06, .243, .270 in that order. Then the issue comes down to the different barrel options, rates of twist, heavy barrels, barrel length, fluting, and muzzle breaks. I am just not familiar enough with the pros and cons of each option so if you could share some of your knowledge/opinions it would be appreciated. One site I have been considering buying a barrel from is Eabco.com

craiggers · 08-23-2008, 04:44 PM

one site I have been looking at is Eabco.com

HEAD0001 · 08-23-2008, 06:52 PM

Eabco is good to deal with. I have bought a lot of stuff from them. Another good place is Match Grade Machine. I like MGM's barrels. If I were you I would call them. They will take the time to answer all your questions, and their advise is first rate. I have a few MGM barrels, and they are first class.

Of the three cartridge's you listed, I would pick the 270 over the other two. But then I would probably go with the 30-06. Oh that is right, I did. Tom.

salukipv1 · 08-23-2008, 07:40 PM

all 3 are solid choices.

for cheap/available ammo, I'd lean to the .243 and the .270
I don't find .2506 ammo everywhere....

Knockown power.....I give it to the .270...

accuracy....all 3 I think can be super accurate, my .270 is awesome with 130grs.

But I'm guessing the .243 could beat all 3, but it wouldn't be by much I don't believe.

I think the .270 wins in your contest....

stubblejumper · 08-23-2008, 09:30 PM

My choice would be the 25-06,flatter shooting than the 270,and plenty of power for deer sized game.

#40Fan · 08-23-2008, 11:36 PM

First thing I would ask myself is what do I plan to use this gun for?

craiggers · 08-24-2008, 12:21 AM

whitetail in northern wi

Paul L Mohr · 08-24-2008, 08:45 AM

350 yards I would be looking at the 270 myself for large game if you are worried about "knock down power" which really doesn't exist by the way. But the 270 will probably retain the most energy at that distance. That's a pretty long shot on a deer.

Paul

Dryridge · 08-26-2008, 08:59 AM

25-06 stainless 26" fluted pro hunter barrel. No need for porting.
I have taken whitetails with everything from a 22rimfire to a 300mag and most popular calibers in between, including all you listed. IMO the 25-06 is the best whitetail caliber you listed. The only other one I would look at would be either a 7mm-08 or a .260 they are very accurate and bullet selection is very broad for the 7mm caliber.

But of the 3 I wouldn't hesitate. 25-06. I have the .243 and my son has the 25-06 barrels. I have other 25-06's or I would have one on mine.

Scott Gags · 08-26-2008, 09:54 AM

They are 3 good calibers for the task at hand. I would look at the rifles you currently have and make sure there is some separation from your current lineup.