I have a couple mk2 Ruger pistols, but neither are threaded. I want to get one to use with my suppressor. I want a mk4 just for ease of disassembly. They make a tactical model that’s threaded with a 4.5” barrel. Silencerco has an exclusive model with a 3” barrel. I have seen one that was cut to 2” as well. I know that generally barrel length does not affect accuracy in a rifle, only velocity. Is it safe to assume that the same applies to pistols? Theoretically speaking, could I expect the same accuracy out of a 2 inch barrel as I would get out of the 4 inch barrel, all other things equal? Would 2” be enough to stabilize the 22lr?

I have no idea based on theory nor any practical experience. it feels completely too short to me for general purpose accuracy... And I sure would be nervous hanging a suppressor off that. BUT there are factory guns close to that length like the Beretta 21a and the Sp101. Both are just a bit over 2" so it can't be completely useless in that range of sizes.

Although it’s generally accepted that reasonable variations in barrel length do not affect precision with centerfire rifles, I have seen some opinions expressed that it does in rifles chambered for 22 Long Rifle. I don’t know how widely that’s accepted, but the thought is that although a 16-18 inch barrel will produce highest velocities for the cartridge, longer barrels may allow the bullets to “settle down” more in the bore. Regardless of all that, I don’t imagine that it has any applicability to pistol length barrels, but …?

The old lore of barrel length affecting accuracy is predominantly related to the days iron sights not optics were the standard. With an iron sighted gun sight radius ( distance between the sights) definitely factored in to how easily it was to shoot the gun accurately ( out of say a machine rest no discernible difference would be seen ) if you intend to use a red dot or other optic,barrel length will not matter at all.

I had my Ruger MKIII chopped to 4" and threaded a long time ago. I went with that length specifically to keep bulk 22LR subsonic. I can't speak to the short Rugers, but I have a threaded Beretta 21A that's right at 2.5". That pistol hasn't had any issues with two different suppressors on it.

The short Ruger pistols do intrigue me, but not enough to convince me to buy another one. If I was cutting/threading mine today I'd probably go in the 3-3.5" range.

I have a spare Buckmark barrel that will get a chop job soon. I need to install and measure to verify, but 2.5” - 3” threaded 1/2x28 is my goal…with an Aeris mounted, it should be about the same length as a 5.5” with compensator. I’m digging fun projects like this!

I own a 2" Ruger MK II topped with a Trijicon RMR. While mostly used for informal plinking, no appreciable difference in accuracy is detected over a 4" - 6" barreled pistol. CCI standard velocity 40 grain solids consistently ring the gong at 50 yards with no evidence of bullet tumbling. I have not had an opportunity to fire across a chronograph though I suspect it loses ~200 fps. over a 4" barrel. With a suppressor attached, reliably is 100%. With the can removed, standard velocity reliability drops to less than 50%. Most high velocity ammo I have tested will cycle unsuppressed though I did have a few intermittent hiccups with some brands of ammunition. It should be noted that suppressed fire in conjunction with the short barrel results in accelerated fouling of the action. More frequent cleaning is a necessity. Should I decide to have another Ruger MK-Series pistol cut, I would likely opt for a 2.5" - 3" barrel. The overall length with suppressor would remain at a minimum while eliminating any reliability concerns during unsuppressed fire.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: hjs157,

Thanks for all the info!
Thanks hjs157…. I found a used pistol cut like yours that I was considering. It seems like a good deal, but I was concerned about accuracy and reliability!! I think I’ll wait for a deal on one with a slightly longer barrel!