Ruger .22WMR Rifle Barrel Length: 20" vs. 24" - Expert Advice

Question
Hi Rod: Me again. I'm making a decision between two Ruger.22WMR bolt action rifles. One has a 20 inch barrel and the other a 24". Is there any advantage to the 24" in this rimfire cal.? This is my last purchase because my wife will kill me if I get any more and I recently bought her a .22 revolver! I've ordered a Rem. 597 semi in .17HMR. Love my Rem.700 BDL in .223 and my Rem.700 ADL in .243 is growing on me. I figure I better do this now in case Kerry gets elected. Thanks...........Glenn

Answer
Howdy Glenn,

Sorry for the late response. I forgot to put myself out on vacation!

Unless there's some reason you'd just prefer a shorter bbl, then I'd go with the 24". It'll increase the velocity somewhat and improve accuracy at the outside ranges of the cartridge. If you were shooting a semi-auto I'd probably advise the shorter bbl just for ease of use. Hope you're doing well! Vote Bush! -Rod-