Charlie, thanks for posting that... you've concisely proved what I've suspected for years. The only reason I can see for a long barrel is that some cartridges are definately quieter in longer barrels... I won't own those cartridges anyway.
<br>
<br>Mike, I don't (and won't) own a rifel with a barrel over 22"... except if I get another 22-250 which will wear a 23 or 24" tube. All but one of my four 338 WM's have had 22" bbl's.
<br>
<br>Brad
