Of course this is according to the rifle, but sometimes that extra 2 inches helps in the balance of the rifle itself. Sometimes that little bit extra just gives it the perfect "feel" for off hand shots. Of course going the other way is better for other rifles. But that extra 2 inches also has another added benefit other than just the forward speed. It gives it that extra little bump in speed of twist as well. Little more time in the barrel for spin up so to speak. That means more stability over distance.