Thread: Barrels and Accuracy

Accuracy has a degree of alchemy involved. There are rules and exceptions that prove the rule.


Some barrels with twist rates that are theoretically too slow still shoot very accurately with heavy for twist rate projectiles.

Some barrels that are fitted with open sights and a two piece wooden stock can shoot better than the muzzle breaked, carbon fibre stocked
scoped rifle next to them at the bench.

Some barrels shoot well when they haven’t been cleaned in a long time.


All things being equal, variations in accuracy still happen for myriad reasons and that is one of the things that makes the pursuit of accuracy so interesting. Also why it’s a good idea if you end up with something so accurate that the last adjustment at sighting in is one click, don’t muck around and alter that.


If you really wanted to put it down to something though, and this is assuming all things being equal.
The most likely contributor to accuracy loss will be the shooter, due to flinch from increased muzzle blast and/or recoil.

Originally Posted by longshot

Accuracy has a degree of alchemy involved.

If you really wanted to put it down to something though, and this is assuming all things being equal.
The most likely contributor to accuracy loss will be the shooter, due to flinch from increased muzzle blast and/or recoil.

Yes...the 'unknown ingredient.

I'm well aware that other variables like the shooter, the ammunition quality, rifle setup, stock fit, trigger, etc are far more important for practical accuracy than barrel length. I was just after the reason why accuracy can go south after a shorten and recrown. Tentman supplied what I think would be the correct answer.