I have a model 16 in .243 with a 24" magnum contour barrel.



The thing is phenomenally accurate but weighs ten pounds. Also, the .243 is a bit light for the mule deer and elk in my area. - I thought that the mule deer were big until I saw a bull elk, one day.

I would like to have a switch barrel in the same contour so that it will fit the stock well, but in a larger caliber and only 20" long so I can stand to haul it around in these mountains.

Can't decide yet between .260, .308 and .338 Federal. Comments on which would work best with a shorter barrel will be appreciated.

Do any of the manufacturers offer short, magnum contour barrels? - Or should I buy a new hacksaw blade and a barrel crowner do-dad from Brownell's, and use them on a 24" magnum contour barrel?

If I can order the barrel already short, that would save me the cost of the barrel crowner do-dad.