The standard barrel length varies depending on the cartridge in question. For example a .30-06, .270 Win., etc are usually 22 inches. The magnums (7mm Rem, .300 Win, etc) are typically 24 inches. I was just wondering what the extra 2 inches meant in terms of performance, accuracy, velocity, etc.

The reason I ask is that I see alot of guys complain about the 24" barrel on the mags. It occurred to me that taking the barrel down to 22.5-23" and re-crowning it might not hurt performance at all.

So whats with this barrel length stuff anyway??