The 204 has great barrel life. It actually has one of the best as far as a fast bullet is concerned. It fairs much better than a 22-250 does. Not to say that a 250 is bad, but the 204 uses about 10-12 grains less powder, and gets a lot of its speed from its efficient design. Therefore with less powder, less barrel wear. About the only thing any better is like a 22 hornet or something along those lines.