Quick Answer
Barrel length impact on accuracy for the .375 Ruger is minimal when it comes to the cartridge's performance in Africa, as the cartridge is designed for long-range hunting and the rifle's accuracy is more dependent on the barrel's quality and the shooter's technique.
Effects of Barrel Length on .375 Ruger Accuracy
The .375 Ruger cartridge has a relatively short cartridge length, which allows for more flexibility in terms of barrel length without significantly affecting accuracy. For example, a 20-inch barrel can be just as accurate as a 24-inch barrel, provided the barrel is well-made and the rifling is consistent. In fact, a 20-inch barrel can be beneficial for hunting in dense African thickets, as it allows for easier maneuverability and quicker follow-up shots.
Barrel Length Considerations for Africa Hunting
When hunting in Africa, a shorter barrel length can be advantageous in terms of portability and ease of use in dense vegetation. However, the shooter must be willing to sacrifice a bit of velocity and range, as a shorter barrel can result in slightly lower muzzle energy and range. For most African hunting, a barrel length of 20-22 inches is sufficient, as it provides a good balance between portability and accuracy.
Real-world Examples and Recommendations
In real-world examples, many hunters have successfully used rifles with 20-inch barrels chambered in .375 Ruger for African hunting. For instance, the Ruger No. 1H rifle, which is a popular choice for African hunting, is often chambered in .375 Ruger and features a 20-inch barrel. These rifles have been proven to be accurate and reliable in the field, and their shorter barrel length makes them well-suited for dense African hunting conditions.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.