Semi Auto barrel length

[bananaman]

I am wanting to start shooting centerfire pistol steel plates at the club I belong to. What is the minimum barrel length I can get away with? I don't wish to handicap myself. Any feedback would be appreciated! Bob

 

[Protocall_Design]

If using a red dot sight, 4" or longer. For iron sights, 5" or more for the longer sight radius.

 

[Big Cholla]

IMHO, That is the wrong question to be asking. I think you should be asking what is the maximum length barrel I could get away with? Sight radius is very important on the target range. Quick draw is usually not a factor. The muzzle velocity gained is not much of a factor. If this handgun is to be a combination range and self defense gun, then you should look at the requirement of your self defense situation and weigh the factors determining the optimum design between the two primary uses of this handgun and make your choice in barrel length as a compromise.

 

[gnappi]

I'm not trying to give you a hard time, but it sounds as if you're looking for an answer to reinforce a decision you already made? If not mea Culpa.

You asked... "What is the minimum barrel length I can get away with"

It sounds to me like you want more than a match / Steel / range gun? Maybe for carry also?

That said, IMO for steel longer is better. I think an all steel gun with a longer sight radius goes hand in hand with more weight for quick follow up shots.

Some say too much weight makes for an over swing on horizontally placed plates, I never felt this.

 

[elpac3]

generally most of the shooting games have barrel length rules - I would be inclined to check them and see if they specify a minimum barrel length. Most will specify max length.

If none is specified you should be able to go as short as you want

 

[H Richard]

For accuracy and recoil absorption the longer the better. You will see mostly 5" and 6" barrels for steel plates. In competition, the holsters are cut out along the front, and literally pull straight up and out, unlike a normal holster where you have to lift up before pushing out to POA.

 

[Biggfoot44]

At a Club Match ?

Whatever you have , and enjoy shooting , and shoot reasonably well