.22LR barrel length is it worth the extra 2"

[Brocolt]

I should know this answer but have been away from the 22LR target game for a while..
Now since I can't get my hands on a New Ruger 10/22 stainless target rifle I might have to build one. This will be a bench rest target gun.
The 2 questions are is it worth the extra 2" in barrel length between 17.5" barrel or 19.5" ?
The other issue might be if there is too much barrel length/weight wouldn't this put stress on the frame being end heavy? looking at a weighted heavy barrel

 

[krausb]

Conventional wisdom is that, for a .22 LR, there is no appreciable gain in accuracy or velocity in a barrel longer than 16 inches. 16 inches is the proverbial sweet spot for a .22. Anything longer only enhances the looks and/or balance of the gun, but both of those are subjective at best.

 

[tjhaile]

I would choose the shorter of the two:

1. No practical difference in performance.
2. Less front-heavy if you ever choose to shoot the rifle offhand.

 

[ricksplace]

Only thing I have to add is that a longer barrel is quieter. Huge difference in report between a 16" barrel and for example, my remington 513T with a 27" barrel. As an example, cci quiets from a 16" barrel sound the same as a cci sv out of the 27" barrel.

 

[Andy]

2" differences will be indistinguishable with respect to muzzle velocity and report, so you should handle both and choose the one that "fits" you best.

 

[Brocolt]

I didn't think there would be a difference in speed for the .22 just needed to confirm this. I was looking at getting a 10/22 for bench rest shooting.

I can't free hand a HB anymore I got damage to the nerve in my right forearm & lost some motor skills. Hurts to turn a screw driver, rotate my arm & writing notes, lifting anything over 15lbs & so on.
This has been going on for over 2 years now, had to give up hunting & pistol shooting. I have kept my rimfire guns as I could shoot of a bench & sandbags. looking at getting a target 10/22 or build a Ruger 77/22