What is a heavy barrel for?

[johnnyHunts]

I was looking at two Savage .22 rifles today and one cost more because it was a "heavy barrel." What is that for and does it really matter with a .22 bolt action? Some one tried to tell me it was related to heat and rapid fire. Thank you.

[zrexpilot]

Ya heat, I dont think it would matter in a .22. I got my first heavy barrell a few years ago, just cause I like the way they look, dumb move, I will never own another heavy barrell. To damn heavy.

[BigJ71]

The heavier the barrel, the less oscillation....the less oscillation, the more accurate.........so the theory. There are exceptions to this rule but that's the main reason for the heavy barrels. It also slows heat build up, muzzle lift and felt recoil....all lead to a more accurate rifle.