Question about barrel length in 7 mag.
I have a 21 inch barrel on an Encore in 7 mag in order to have a short tree stand gun. Knowing there is a loss in velocity in the shorter barrel but will that effect the accuracy? It is a bull barrel. But groups are 2" at 100 yards with Hornady SST 162 Grain. Have sub MOA groups with same ammo with other 7 mag rifles. Is 21" not enough time for rifling to stablize the bullet? Or is the powder burning out the end of the barrel having an effect on the bullet? What would be the best way to improve the accuracy? Would shooting a lighter load help?