Quoted: 4. I know that shorter barrels equal decreased accuracy at longer ranges, but for 300 yards and less shooting, does the shorter barrel make that much difference?
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No they dont. They equal decreased velocity at all distances.... since their muzzle velocity will be less.
The quality of the barrel, and ammunition, has MUCH more effect over accuracy then anything else.
There are 10.5" Noveske barrels that hold 1" @ 100yds. There are 16" DPMS bulls that I have seen hold .5MOA. Quality of the bore and chamber has a much greater effect.
Most rack grade AR's shoot better than 95% of AR shooters, anyway.... especially using anything other than handloads.
You could make an argument.... on the short barrels affecting accuracy, in two ways:
1. Since your muzzle velocity is lower.... your bullet will go subsonic at a shorter distance. This will affect accuracy when breaking into the subsonic range with most bullets.
2. A slower bullet will be affected by high winds more... since the force of the wind has more time to affect the bullet POI.
These are negligible.... and especially negligible at 300yds or less. Using a quality barrel, quality loads, and the ability to read wind will have a MUCH greater effect on general "accuracy" potential.