Short barrels?

[Bob C]

I've purchased two Contender barrels around 8" in length. One is a .22 Hornet, one is a 30/30.

I believe the .22 Hornet will probably do OK with H-110 or 4227.

I plan to try 4227 or 4198 in the 30/30, and will try heavier bullets to get better burning in the short barrel.

Anyone have any experience with barrels of this length in these or similar calibers?

[Deaf Smith]

Shorties they are called but mine are 6.5" in length and not in traditional rifle calibers. I have no idea how a 8" 30-30 will act. My 30-30 is a super 14 and I don't own a hornet. sorry I could'nt be more help. I do like the pistol caliber shorties I like to shoot them and how they look I intend to buy more of them as funds allow.

[Bob C]

So far, I've had OK results with both of the barrels.

The .22 Hornet is giving around 2250 fps with a 40 grain bullet and H-110, and staying under an inch at 50 yards.

The .30-30 is doing around 1500 fps with a 170 grain bullet and H-4198, and is holding around an inch, also at 50 yards.

Both have a significant muzzle blast, as could be expected.

[coltfan]

I'm currently shooting a 14" 7-30 waters but really want to try the 7-30 in a 10" barrel. The 14 feels too muzzle heavy. I find myself carrying my .44 mag Colt Anaconda more frequently just because it balances better than the Contender. The Contender tends to be a wee bit more accurate from the bench and is much quieter when cocking the hammer (No cylinder to rotate) yet the .44 gets the nod more often when its time to head for the woods.

By the way Bob, where about in S.E. PA are you located. I'm in the Allentown area.

[Bob C]

Hi Coltfan,

The balance on the short barrelled guns is pretty nice, and they sure are handy even with a scope. I still like my 14" barrels.

I currently don't have a 10", but I'm sure time will correct that!

My son , like you, prefers the 10" barrels.

And on the by the way, I'm south of you in the Limerick area.