Barrel Length Question

[danwyatt]

Hi
I just bought a Savage model 12 Palma with the intentions of doing a barrel change and using it for F-TR. 600yds primarily
I'm just wondering if there is really any advantage of a 30 over a 28?
I plan to shoot 185gr Berger hybrids and 175 SMK's
I ordered a 30" Bull, 10 twist from McGowen but am second guessing that now?
Comments welcome.....

[mudpig]

I don't have a positive answer for you but I'm thinking that the 308 doesn't have enough powder to need a 30" barrel. I think a 308 is pretty happy with 20-24 inch barrels and much more than that is unneeded. If you were shooting a magnum 30 cal. I would say go for it!

[Kadams1563]

I agree .308 24 and under.

[danwyatt]

Thanks for the comments. Do you guy's compete in F-TR
I have a model 10FCP HS Precision stock that I put a 28" on early this year, the thing shoots amazing with a standard Savage action. I'm really anxious to put this Target action to work.
Anyone know what the common barrel length used by F-TR competitors was at the NRA Nationals held in Arizona was?

[Robinhood]

You might need a 30 if you were shooting 1000 yds with a 155 bullet and 47 grains of powder. For the 185 - 190 bullets and shorter distances with say an 11 - 12 twist barrel, 26 is good.

[danwyatt]

Thanks Robinhood.... I'm really starting to lean more towards the 28" barrel.