Alot of older rifles have longer barrels for the simple reason that people used iron sights back then and a longer sight radius made for more accurate shooting. Longer barrels do give a better balance as well, but for a hunting rifle, a shorter barrel would be more advantageous since the rifle is supposed to be light, easy to carry through brush, and isn't going to balance well anyway.

Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms... who's bringing the chips?