I always hated to see guys buying pre threaded/chambered barrels because they tended to have the full shank on them. It kind of destroys the idea of a custom. For a hunting rifle in 30-06 length or shorter calibers I was taught to leave 7/8" of the shank before the taper and then whatever length the threaded tenion beyond that. I was also taught to cut off an inch from both ends of the barrel blank.
ETA: The 7/8" is purely for looks. And I should clarify max 30-06 length. Now a heavier hard kicking caliber can use a longer shank to help add weight as would a target or longer range rifle. But 7/8" looks good on a standard hunting rifle.
Last edited by sbrmike; 12/03/10.
