Barrel length vs velocity

[hakx]

Is there a substantial velocity gain between an 18" carbine length barrel vice a 26" precision barrel? I am trying to forecast some .223 ballistics without the benefit of a chrony.

Can I expect +/- 80 fps, or closer to 200 fps?

 

[crazydave]

Probably closer to 250 fps difference. Usually about 30-40 fps per inch.

 

[sako6br]

I'm going to say at least 100 fps faster. Also a substantial decrease in muzzle blast which in turn reduces noise and jump.

 

[Homesteader]

I'd expect closer to 200, you might want to post this in the precision forum, if you don't get sufficient feedback. The better question would be what are you going to use it for, and what barrel length do you prefer. My bolt 223 is 20" model seven, and for what I use it, I wouldn't want the extra barrel length. If you are only shooting at the range, or long range varminting close to your transportation, maybe 26" is the way to go.

 

[Jeromey]

I just chronographed a 20" and 16.5" yesterday and there was 200 fps difference between the two.

 

[Ishodu]

The powder you are using will also be a factor.

 

[hakx]

I'd expect closer to 200, you might want to post this in the precision forum, if you don't get sufficient feedback. The better question would be what are you going to use it for, and what barrel length do you prefer. My bolt 223 is 20" model seven, and for what I use it, I wouldn't want the extra barrel length. If you are only shooting at the range, or long range varminting close to your transportation, maybe 26" is the way to go.

This rifle's sole purpose is a my favorite ridge overlooking a field maggoty with gophers. The truck parked thusly to keep the sun at bay, and the slurpee readily accessible.

 

[todbartell]

I tried the same ammo in a 24" barrel 223 Rem, and then in a 20" barrel. Both rifles were Remington 700's. Velocity difference 100 fps

 

[blargon]

I just had 3" lopped off a barrel. Will chrony the same loads I was using, to see the difference...Thinking 50fps...

 

[crazy_davey]

I tried the same ammo in a 24" barrel 223 Rem, and then in a 20" barrel. Both rifles were Remington 700's. Velocity difference 100 fps

Sounds about right to me, about 25 fps per inch. That's what I have seen anyways.

 

[Jordan Smith]

I just had 3" lopped off a barrel. Will chrony the same loads I was using, to see the difference...Thinking 50fps...

^^^ This is the only way to test the velocity loss in a given barrel. You can't compare velocities from two different barrels, since even barrels of the same length and firing the same ammo can give very different velocities.

The only way to find out the velocity loss for your barrel is to chrony the loads from the 26" barrel, then chop it down to 18" and repeat. Typically, you get 25-50fps per inch, depending on the cartridge, barrel, and powder being used. I would guess a loss of 200-250fps in this case. If you're setting up camp and shooting from near the vehicle, I would just go with a 26" barrel- it'll increase your range by giving you the ability to expand the bullet a bit farther out.