1873 bbl length 18" vs 20"

[SPQR476]

Greetings,
    I'm looking at picking up my first '73.  It will be in .44 WCF, as I already shoot and reload that cal, though I'm torn between 18" and 20" bbl lengths.  I hate to be the new guy with 50 questions, but I tried the "search" first.

Does 10+1 of .44WCF feed just as reliably from an 18" tube as the 20" tube?

Any other considerations for barrel length?

I intend to use this mainly for boondocking around and plinking, but I'll probably shoot some CAS events.  Are there any drawbacks to one of the slicked-up models from Longhunter, PGW, or Cody with respect to a general use/woods/hunting rifle?

I don't want a gun that's good for nothing but competing, but a I want a reasonably competitive rifle, if that makes sense.  I've been a USPSA and 3 gun guy since my teens, and I might give this cowboy thing a try.

Thanks,
D

[Lefty Dude]

I own two 73 19" Carbines in 44WCF. My Cimarron 73/44WCF is for CAS/SASS it competition action short-stroked, lightened springs and runs very fast with my Black Powdered loads. With this piece I only shoot Black Powder.

The second 73 19" Navy Arms carbine in 44WCF is my long range side match Rifle. This Rifle uses Smokless Powder loads. This Rifle is stock except for the lightened Lever & carrier springs.

With the moderm smokless powders we have now a 20" will keep up with a 24" barrel out to 300 Yds.

If I were in the market for a new 73, I would select to 20" short Rifle with the 1/2 octagon- 1/2 round barrel.

I really like the balance of the 19" 73 SRC's full round barrels. I have shot the 20" Short Rifle 1/2 octagon/round and it has a nice balance shooting, standing/off hand.

[wildman1]

The PGW short stroke links are excellent. The technical support you get from them is also excellent. You also can revert your rifle back to its original condition by putting the original parts back in. WM

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[SPQR476]

So no feeding issues from the shorter tubes on the 18" guns?