Barrel length

[yamoon]

Hello
While waiting for my Mannlicher carbine to be delivered, I decided to measure the barrel length on my 2 Mauser 98 sporting rifles both are 8x57. I was surprised to find one to be 19 5/8 to the face of the action. The barrel is part octagon with machined rib & ramp, it appears original. I realize the customer could order many extras, but was it common to order such a short barrel. No wonder this rifle points so well.
Thanks Mike

[mike ford]

Mike,
The conventional method of measuring barrel length is from the muzzle to the bolt face. The distance from the face of the action ring to the bolt face is in the neighborhood of 3/4" . This added to your 19 5/8 " is 21 3/8"which is pretty close to the common barrel length 22". Even shorter barrels are not that uncommon.
Mike

[yamoon]

Remeasured the barrel using cleaning rod to the bolt face, measures 20 1/8 inches. The barrel slugs .321, but I cannot get it to group with 165 gr 321 bullets. I am going to see if .323 will slide into fired brass, if it does, I’ll try .323.
Mike