I'm thinking of buying an FAL build that's up for sale, but it's got a 17" barrel on it.  I know that with the 5.56 barrels (particularly short ones) you lose a lot of ballistic effect, due to the decreased velocity and whatnot.  I realize that a 17" barrel won't give me the velocity/accuracy of a true 21 incher, but is it still a practical length for 7.62?   I've got a lot of heavy woods in my area, but there are some wide open spaces (farmland) where i'm a bit skeptical as to whether or not the round would perform.  Basically i want a rifle capable of reaching out to man-sized targets at 500-600 rounds effectively.  Thanks for the input

You'll be fine with a 17" barrel.  The 7.62x51mm does not depend on absolute velocity like the 5.56mm does to work. There's alot more bullet there to do the job.

I personally prefer a standard 21" barrel, but the 18" is not bad either, and it's easier to handle in thick brush.

The 17" will perform just fine for your intended range out to 500-600 yards, no problem.

14.5 with a nice brake.....lol.

templar, are you from fal files?