4.40" vs 3.44" Screw Spacing: Pros and Cons

[Phil3]

I just got a Savage target action (RB/LP, .473" bolt face) that has 4.40" spacing. A friend recently got one in 223 (RB/RP). Got me thinking, any pros or cons to either screw arrangement? Looks like stock selection is easier with the 4.40", but anything else?

Phil

[Randy]

The pro is that the front screw is now positioned in the heavy part of the action instead of right behind the barrel threads in the thin portion of the action

[1.618]

The pro is that the front screw is now positioned in the heavy part of the action instead of right behind the barrel threads in the thin portion of the action

Randy - I guess you're referring to the 3.44" screw spacing being better in this respect...am I right?

(I'm still waiting for my 12F-Class rifle to arrive, which I guess has the 4.40" spacing...)