Got 2 Ruger M77 bolt guns in 223. One is a compact with a 16.5 inch barrel, the other is a 20 inch UL. The shorty is tough on the ears, while the 20 is one of my favorite rifles.
Had an 18.5 inch 260 Model 7. Noise and barrel jump was terrible. Sold it and replaced it with a 700 with a 24 inch barrel. So much better, but I do prefer a 22 inch barrel so I may have it chopped.
To me, 20 is about right for a 223, 22 is perfect for most standard 308 or 30-06 based rounds, and 24 for magnums. I've got a few longer ones in the safe, but they just aren't as handy and don't get hunted very much.
