Short barrel is more accurate (ATF hates this)

Published on May 11, 2024
Duration: 2:59

This guide details a DIY approach to shortening a rifle barrel and assessing its impact on accuracy, as demonstrated by Polenar Tactical. It covers the process from a crude hacksaw cut to professional recrowning, highlighting the surprising accuracy improvements due to increased barrel rigidity. The video emphasizes the importance of proper gunsmithing for optimal results.

Quick Summary

Shortening a rifle barrel can enhance accuracy by increasing rigidity, but a professional muzzle crown is critical. Polenar Tactical demonstrated that while a crude DIY cut might show some accuracy, professional recrowning significantly improves performance, turning a 2.9 MOA group into a 1.3 MOA group with specific ammunition.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Experiment Premise
  2. 00:11Baseline Accuracy Tests
  3. 00:31Initial Accuracy Results
  4. 00:39DIY Barrel Cutting
  5. 01:03First Shots with Crude Cut
  6. 01:36Crudely Cut Barrel Accuracy Surprise
  7. 01:47Professional Muzzle Crown
  8. 01:52Post-Gunsmith Accuracy Testing
  9. 02:29Final Results & Discussion

Frequently Asked Questions

How does shortening a rifle barrel affect accuracy?

Shortening a rifle barrel can increase its rigidity, potentially improving accuracy. However, a proper muzzle crown is essential; a crude cut without professional finishing may yield surprising results but is not ideal for consistent precision or safety.

What is the difference between a crudely cut barrel and a professionally crowned barrel?

A crudely cut barrel is often uneven and lacks a proper crown, which can destabilize the bullet. A professionally crowned barrel has a precisely angled and finished muzzle, ensuring a clean exit for the projectile and maximizing accuracy.

What ammunition was used in the Polenar Tactical barrel shortening test?

The test utilized Sellier & Bellot .223 REM ammunition in 55gr FMJ, 69gr HPBT, and 77gr HPBT weights to evaluate accuracy across different barrel configurations and bullet types.

Can a DIY barrel cut improve accuracy?

While a DIY hacksaw cut might surprisingly yield decent groups due to increased barrel rigidity, it's not recommended for optimal accuracy or safety. Professional recrowning by a gunsmith is crucial for consistent performance and firearm integrity.

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