223 AI barrel length?

[hend238]

Hey Guys. What would be the optimum barrel length for efficiency and to extract peak velocity from a 223 AI using heavier bullets in the 60 to 75 grain weight? I don't care about gun handling at this point. Thanks.

 

[Why not?]

Mine is 22" and gets a bit over 3000 with the 75 gr AMax.

Ted

 

[Sask_Hunter]

Both mine have 22" but are lighter. I'd go 24" on a heavy varmint rifle.

 

[lejarretnoir]

I'm using 26" on my heavy varmint and can get 80grs Sierra's up to 2950fps.
52grs bullets will hit 3400fps or more in that barrel. The AI case really favours the lighter bullets best for top velocity.

 

[dan belisle]

There is an actual formula to figure out the most efficient barrel length for any given case and bore. I can't recall the gent's name who invented it off the top of my head but a Google search should turn it up. I believe the Powley computer had this calculation in it too, but it's been years since I used mine. - dan