Why are 25-06 barrels longer than other calibers

ken p · 03-20-2004, 08:31 AM

Looking at buying an H&R Ultra Hunter in 25-06 and the barrel for this caliber is 4 inches longer than any other caliber. Anybody know why this might be. Also, how will this affect accuracy, speed, drop, etc.

Danny45 · 03-20-2004, 10:00 AM

Usually, longer barrels result in better speed because they allow large powder capacities to burn longer, building up the gas pressure, and propelling the bullet faster. The .25-06 has a small bullet, on a large case (30-06 necked down) with a large powder capacity.

You'll also see longer barrels from the major manufacturers on magnum calibers. Usually 24 inches for them vs. 22 inches for standard calibers, and even shorter for mountain rifles and carbines for ease of carrying and manueverability. Longer barrels usually result in more cost, more weight, and have to be of a heavier contour so they don't vibrate too much when shot.

A lot of the custom rifle makers are starting to use longer barrels for the standard calibers also.

James B · 03-21-2004, 04:00 PM

Cases with quite a bit of powder and smaller bullets are best fueled by slow burning powders. The longer barrels give the slower powders more time to burn. The 22-250 and 220 swift as well as most Magnum rifles use 24 to 26 inch barrels. Most rifles would benifit by useing longer barrels. After a certain point though there is no more gain. This is a rule of thumb that does not always hold true. A gunsmith friend and I started with ten rifles with 29 inch barrels and cut them off one inch at a time and kept chronographing them. Some of them gained velocity with the shorter barrels but most lost 40-60 fps per inch of barrel removed. At about 24 inches they all were pretty close speed wise.

Pro-Line · 03-21-2004, 05:56 PM

Thats what I was thinking James. I used to have a 25-06 and couldn't believe how stinkin loud it was. That much powder will to that! LOL

It is a smokin little deer caliber, though.

ken p · 03-22-2004, 04:42 PM

Thanks guys, I ordered it know I just have to hope that the long barrel doesn't make it look funny or front heavy.

James B · 03-22-2004, 09:05 PM

My 280 NEF also has a 26 inch barrel. It helps bring out the top velocity in that great caliber as well. Let us know how it shoots as I have considered sending one of mine in for a 25-06 barrel. I have five of the NEF's So Far!!