I have a factory standard taper .270 (24") and it shoots just over MOA with little trouble. It spits most factory loaded stuff into 1.5" and I just started tinkering with some handloads and it is getting better. I have no doubt it is capable of MOA accurracy, it is just a matter of finding the right load for it. I thought about a 26" Fox Ridge .270 barrel but the whole reason I went with an Encore besides its versatility was how well it handles. I don't want to mess that up with a heavier barrel, the 24" standard taper barrel is pretty dang beefy compared to bolt gun barrels. Again this is just my preference. Good luck with your choice.