Barrel length and velocity

[shomstead]

I am still trying to decide on what to buy for a hunting/back up revolver.
While researching the .460 and .454 I came across this article:

http://www.gunweek.com/2002/feature0601.html

Is his article correct? If so is there any accuracy difference between
say a 5inch barrel and a 8 inch barrel?

I thought barrel lenth was part of the equation?
Any advise on accuracy between a 5 inch and 8 inch barrel at 100 yards
would be helpful in my decision as well.

[What Just Happened?]

Physics would tell me that longer barrel (up to an optimum length) would equate to higher velocities. I doubt his scientific methods, but am intrigued by his findings. I mean, he's comparing two different guns for lengths, and - for the most part - using single shots of factory ammo.

[Ugly Dwarf]

I'm sure we can all agree that higher velocity does not always equal better accuracy.

The answer to the question "Does a longer barrel = greater accuracy?" is "Maybe".

Even the question "Does a longer barrel = higher velocity" would have an answer of "Mabye", as suggested by What Just Happened in his "optimum length" comment. Others may be able to comment further on this (or correct me if I'm mistaken), but as I recall regarding internal ballistics, the optimum length of barrel is going to be cartridge specific for any given gun. As long as powder is still burning and gasses are expanding, the bullet would be accelerating in the barrel. If I understand correctly, once that stops the bullet may actually begin to decelerate from the friction in the barrel.

Regarding "accuracy", the shooter can play a major factor in this debate. I know that I personally find a better sight picture in a 6" barrel than with a 4", and thereby find my 6" .357 to be "More Accurate" (in my hands) than my old 4" of the same model. Other shooters may find that either is just fine for them. Your results may vary.

[glockman19]

I think the real question is how much more does it weigh? Do you really want to lug around a gun with a 8" barrel all day? My S&W 686 4" is great for camping but I change up to a S&W 629 5" when hunting. Not to mention I can sight a target faster with a shorter barrel.

I'd stick with the shorter 5" barrel. 6" at the longsed for the caliber (s)mention

[Ironchef]

I think some might argue that the longer barrel might endanger the path of the bullet fired from it given not everyone has a perfect grip or trigger pull?

More importantly, I would wonder at what ranges you'd be inclined to use this gun and based on that, does it really matter the length of the barrel? I often read here that 16" AR barrels are fine to a few hundred yards as any barrel is, but that a varmint barrel is needed out past 600+/- yards for optimal accuracy. Now translate that theory, figure out loads for the cartridge you're firing, and guess at what ranges you'd possibly need such accuracy with your gun, and choose based on that?

Just my two cents.

[J-cat]

With open sights, the longer the barrel the more accurate the AIM, not necessarily the firearm or the load.

With respect to velocity, there are too many variables to make a generic statement. Freedom Arms guns have very slow twist rates and minimal clearances. They operate at pressures that promote better combustion of slow burning powders. Hence the higher than expected velocity.