Hi, guys. Newbie here. I have visited this site many times in the past to gain wisdom, but thought it might be time to actually contribute.
I have my own modest website here <http://michaelreed.info/guns.html>. I just added a series of pictures of my NEF Sportster in 17HM2 with a shortened barrel and wood laminate stocks. Comments welcome.
For those who care, this is what I did. I thought the original 22" barrel was just too long and ungainly. One internet site (Bulberry?) claimed that 16-17" was about optimum for this caliber, and after seeing others on this forum had done it, I decided to shorten the barrel. My local gunsmith quoted $80 to do the job, which is more than a new barrel costs, so I decided to do the work myself. I figured if I screwed up, I could just buy a new barrel.
First, I removed the barrel from the receiver and used two c-clamps buffered by some mail order catalogs to attach it to the wood steps at the back of my house. (I don't have a proper work bench.)
Second, I used to pipe hangars (I think they're called) to help guide the cut. Then I used a simple hacksaw to remove 5.5" off the barrel.
Third, I used a hand file to clean up most of the resulting ugly cut.
Fourth, I wanted to use my Dremel to fine tune / polish the muzzle, but the 17 caliber hole is too small for the Dremel's attachment screw. So, I used a power drill with the largest bit I had on hand to counter sink the bore. A poor man's target crown, I guess.
Fifth, with the bore now widened enough to fit the Dremel head against, I used the flat of a cutting wheel and then a stone to fine polish the muzzle.
End effect looks pretty professional, I think.
Results: Despite the gunsmith's warning, the rifle's accuracy has not suffered. It may actually have improved. Handiness and balance have definitely improved.
I'm still learning and experimenting with the shooting arts. Thanks for the insights that have been shared here.
