Barrel Length Question

[The Hermit]

I just picked up a 338.06 Cooper - Jackson Hunter that is resting in a Cooper Excalibur stock. It is a heavy rifle especially with the Swaro Z6 mounted. So, I want to lighten it up a little and plan to have the barrel and bolt fluted (six straight flutes). It has a 24" barrel so I'm also considering having it shortened to 20, 21. or 22 inches.

Rationale - lose a bit of weight, better looking, and faster pointing.
I know I'll lose a little velocity but don't really care that much about a few fps and I've never shot at an animal at more than 250 yards so long distance accuracy isn't a huge consideration for me.

Would doing this be a huge mistake? Looking for advise and guidance. Thanks

 

[bearhunter]

Leave it alone, sell it and purchase a 338 Federal instead.

There's likely a very good reason that rifle wears a 24 inch bbl.

The 338-06 really shines with 225 grain bullets, especially at 2600+fps.

I suspect you're planning on using lighter bullets as well??? If so, get a 338 Federal and you will get about the same velocities with 200 grain or less bullets as you would with the 338-06.

 

[guntech]

I tested my custom 338-06 with 24 inch barrel and cut it to 22 inches and tested again.. both times it shot under 3/4" and the velocity difference was about 10 feet per second. It is a very efficient case and performs well with a 22 inch barrel. Easy to push 2700 with a 225 grain. I felt 2800 was a little too hot.