I recently put money down on a Model 14 in .308 Win. Though the rifle is intended for deer hunting, I do get a little thrilled at the range, and thought a slightly heavier barrel might be a nice upgrade. So, while the stock barrel on the Model 14 is 22" most of the aftermarket heavy sporter barrels that I have seen all run 26".

Is there a good reason why?

Is anyone aware of a 22 or 24" heavy sporter, light varmint? Or do I need to special order this?

TIA