Since asking for personal opinions on barrel length (and not asking for all the replies one what round you "should" use) I, myself would go with the 22 inch.
I find 2 inches "extra" barrel unnoticeable in handling between 20 and 22 inch but if I were to push the 358 out to longer ranges the small amount of extra velocity gotten with the 22 inch barrel would get my nod for ME and MY use. 2 cents.
I, also, would study my down range velocities and keep shots under whatever yardage I still had 1800 fps plus (minimum) for bullet performance with bullets of choice. I personally feel "safer" with 2000.
What any round will or will not do has more to do with the shooter than energy for the most part but bullet performance is mandatory for constant knock downs (IMHO).
There is "always another round that someone else thinks is superior". We all build and shoot what we like or else we would all be shooting the most powerful round out there....after all they "kill better".
No offense intended to a single poster but dayummmm fellas. The guy asked about barrel choices for a 358 win (and I have to wonder how many have taken game WITH one, whom replied).
The "books" don't tell the entire story, don't include one's preferences in all things that go bang and KE is not the holy grail by itself. ...........IMO from 50 years of shooting.
God Bless
Steve ( and those that actually answered my question on barrel length) I thank you for your information and your comments regarding the original question.
For those that misunderstood my comments, I believe I stated that the intent was NOT to take 600 yard shots "
The primary goal of this rifle is a solid 300 yd (or better with practice) rifle that will hold it's umph out to those ranges. " but rather to stick to 300 yards and less.
The purpose of the 358 is to fill a niche in my arsenal that already contains center-fire calibers from .17 up to 300 Win Mag. It is also to give me a bit more thump one only one end of the rifle. An extra 200 fps won't make the difference and why get a caliber that everyone else thinks is the cat's meow?
The 358 is a good cartridge within the parameters I've laid out. My question, as Steve692 stated, had only to do with barrel length, not what the barrel was drilled for.
I again would like to thank those that took the time to answer my original question. My action is off getting a 22" barrel screwed on.
Steve692, I don't know what part of the hoosier state you're from, but I do miss my time up there!
