AR-15s are among the most popular firearms today. They are versatile, accurate, and easy to use. One of the most common questions people ask when shopping for an AR-15 is, “What is the difference between a 16-inch and a 20-inch barrel?” The answer is simple: bullet trajectory.
Barrel Length and Bullet Trajectory
The AR-15 rifle is available with a variety of different barrel lengths, ranging from 7 inches up to 24 inches. So what’s the difference? Does a longer barrel mean more accuracy? Or does a shorter barrel result in less recoil? Let’s take a look at the science behind it.
Spin Time
The longer the barrel, the more accurate the shot. This is because the longer barrel gives the bullet more time to spin, which makes it more stable in flight. The result is a straighter, more accurate shot. The downside of a longer barrel is that it is heavier and more challenging to maneuver in tight spaces.
The shorter the barrel, the less stable the bullet will be in flight. This results in a less accurate shot. However, the shorter barrel is lighter and easier to maneuver in close quarters.
Bullet Weight
When it comes to accuracy, it depends on the type of ammunition you’re using. For example, if you’re using a heavier bullet like the 77-grain Sierra Matchking, a longer barrel will result in better accuracy. That’s because a more extended barrel gives the shot more time to spin, which results in more excellent stability and, therefore, better precision.
However, a shorter barrel will give you better accuracy if you use lighter bullets like the 55-grain FMJ. That’s because lighter bullets are less affected by the spinning action and, therefore, can maintain their trajectory better.
Recoil
In terms of recoil, a shorter barrel will generally result in more recoil than a longer barrel. That’s because there’s less weight out front to counterbalance the kickback from firing the gun. So if you’re looking for a rifle that’s easy to handle and has minimal recoil, you’ll want to go with a longer barrel.
Final Word
The decision of which barrel length to choose depends on your specific needs. If you need an accurate rifle for long-range shooting, then a longer barrel is the way to go. A shorter barrel is the better option if you need a lighter rifle that is easier to handle in close quarters. You can be sure that you are getting a quality firearm that will serve you well for many years.
As you can see, there are pros and cons to both long and short barrels on an AR-15 or M4-style rifle. It depends on the ammunition you use and your preference for recoil. If you’re looking for maximum accuracy and minimum recoil, go with a longer barrel. If you’re looking for maneuverability and are willing to sacrifice recoil and distance accuracy, go with a shorter barrel. And if you’re unsure, we recommend trying out both types at your local gun range to see which one feels best for you.