Author Topic: 20 or 24 inch (Read 1196 times)

sgtt · « **on:** January 23, 2006, 02:10:28 AM »

I read somewhere that the 20" barrel was "preferred" length of barrel for a Cowboy rifle. I really like the looks of the 24". Will I be hampered if I opt for the aesthetics?

Dana C · « **Reply #1 on:** February 03, 2006, 05:24:44 AM »

I have and love 24"ers. I like the longer sight radius. If you are down to trying to trim time from your stages, most will tell you to go with the 20" rifle. I like the looks, feel and sighting of the 24" myself and own 2 Pumas in .357 and .44Mag and a Marlin in .357.
Dana

Bitterroot Bob · « **Reply #2 on:** February 04, 2006, 02:14:09 PM »

Howdy,
I started out with a 20" Marlin .44-40. Back in the olden days, we had scenarios that sometimes had 12 rifle targets. I later bought an Uberti 1873 .44-40 rifle with 24" barrel. It holds 13 rounds and is very steady for looong and small targets. Of course, we don't shoot looong and small anymore. The trend is big and close. The game is more about how fast one can manipulate the guns, than marksmanship. And, you will seldom, if ever, see a scenario with more than ten rifle targets.
If speed is what you're after, go short. In fact, any stage which calls for shooting around a barrier, or through a window, the shorter the better for safety reasons. If you have ever banged your muzzle against a widow sill, you know what I mean. The same is true for shotguns.
However, if speed isn't your game, and looking especially good and historical is, use a real rifle. You're not on horseback, after all. Same for the shotgun. Load way back of the window, then step up each time. Be sure to use BP, too.
Don't burn the curtains!

Bitterroot Bob

Cheyenne Ranger · « **Reply #3 on:** February 18, 2006, 03:19:33 AM »

I went from a 24" to a 20" because of a rotator cuff injury and resulting surgery. Did it for the weight reduction.

I can hold the 20" up and out much better so that's my reason for changing.

CR

corbanzo · « **Reply #4 on:** March 08, 2006, 06:15:29 PM »

I like the shorter for the carryability (not portability, carryability

) And I just like the looks of the shorter guns.. When used for close range and action shooting, its just a good time. But it really depends on your preferance. Will anybody chastize you for your barrel length (insert male joke here), no, its what you like.

Will52100 · « **Reply #5 on:** March 18, 2006, 05:48:18 PM »

you'll have to handlle both to make up your mind. I'm a big guy( 6' 2" with long gorilla arms) and the 20" was ungainly for me, the 24" about rite, but could have been a tad little longer. Go to your local gunshop and see what feels rite to you.