Rossi 92 in 16, 20 or 24 inch?

My eyes are pretty good at the moment (with contacts) 29 years of age. But the doctor is starting to see some macular issues in my left eye with no leakage though. Unfortunately I'm left eye dominant
 
When the Rossi '92 was first marketed, the American Rifleman did a review in their Dope Bog section of the magazine. Interestingly enough, they tested the .357 model and the most accurate round at 100 yards was the 148 gr. .38 Spl. full wadcutter. Consistent four inch groups.
They've come a long way since then (though their QC leaves a lot to be desired)--should be able to get close to MOA at 100 (at least with a scope) with the right load.
 
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and was the test done scoped or open? I'm kind of ignorant as to what is expected at that distance with a firearm like this. I mainly shoot pistols and revolvers.
 
If you do get a rossi 92--particularly the calibers 44 and under--make sure you give it a VERY careful examination before buying if at all possible--preferably with someone who is experienced with them. The round-barrel models like mine have the mag tube held in place by ONLY the mag cap pin at the end of the barrel--a huge Achilles' heel of the design IMO. Also make sure the action can at least reliably cycle from the mag tube--though they are notoriously gritty and rough when new due to poor finishing. I know that doesn't sound like much encouragement to risk buying one--but they can be made into wonderful rifles--and I have read of shooters lucky enough to buy good ones with no issues right out of the box (I've never met one, though lol).
 
and was the test done scoped or open? I'm kind of ignorant as to what is expected at that distance with a firearm like this. I mainly shoot pistols and revolvers.
Good point--that would be fine open sight--I could only get around MOA with a scope--I should have mentioned that.
 
Pure speculation here but I would guess that a Rossi might benefit by a bit longer barrels than most other guns (balsitically) Why you may ask? because of the slower twist rate. It takes a little less energy to go down the barrel than the typical 1 in 16 twist rate.

if I am wrong you can correct me. I admit I am guessing here.
 
Pure speculation here but I would guess that a Rossi might benefit by a bit longer barrels than most other guns (balsitically) Why you may ask? because of the slower twist rate. It takes a little less energy to go down the barrel than the typical 1 in 16 twist rate.

if I am wrong you can correct me. I admit I am guessing here.
I'm no expert either--but given the relatively low velocities and inherent terminal impact limitations of the pistol cartridges from 44 mag on down at ranges much beyond 100 yds--the longer barrel lengths--while maybe adding a bit to accuracy--probably aren't going to add all that much in terms of increased effectiveness at longer ranges would be my guess.
 
There were some comments on the low noise of the carbines when shooting .38SPL. Can anyone comment on how the relative loudness of each barrel length? I assume the shorter the louder but is the difference noticeable? How about when shooting .357?
 
It is a function of bullet speed, not so much barrel length (within the ranges discussed here).
If/when it exits supersonic, then you will get that characteristic "Crack!"
Subsonic/target 38 special can be had readily on the commercial market.
Not so 357 Magnum....
 
I could be wrong but I'd wager Subsonic 38spl out of a revolver length barrel (6 inches or less) will still make your ears ring.

Figure standard 230grn 45 acp is subsonic - I damaged my hearing when I was in my teens from shooting that through my 1911 w/o hearing protection.



The added length of a 16" + rifle barrel definitely helps on what volume a shooter will hear. Is there a sweet spot in barrel length - 16" vs 20" vs 24"?
W/O a decibel meter I wouldn't know. I would guess longer the barrel the less volume.
 
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I'm with you Drobs. Now I did see one of the 92's that was actually threaded for a can. That is just awesome as a close range hog gun. I wouldn't mind that on my Henry .44mag, even if I have to take the can off to reload it.
 
MX - that would be a pain...
I wonder if one of those 45 cal square-ish Osprey suppressors, mounted or turned 1/2 turn sideways would clear the magazine tube? Probably not but might be something to check out.
 
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