RWS 34 Barrel length / Strength

[Achilles_13]

Hi All

I'm thinking about buying a new rws 34 .22 classic, but out here we can get the rws 34 in different barrel lengths : a " regular version " and a compact version which has a barrel about 3.93 inches shorter. (note: these do not include the " professional compact" line.) I personally prefer a shorter rifle ( love the hw97k I already have) but I was wondering what implications the shorter barrel might have ?

I read that the velocity would not be impacted since top speed is reached in the first 10 inches of the barrel, accuracy should not be a problem since the hw has a barrel that is even 4 inches shorter than the compact version.

I wonder if the added cocking effort of the shorter would make the barrel bend quicker or something like that ? Longevity is my main interest here... 
Also I would like to ask if anyone would be able to give me some measurements on the stock ? ( length,how wide is the fore-end, how long is it from butt-plate to the pistol grip)

Thank you very much in advance, all input is appreciated !

Kind regards

Achilles

[Yogi]

A longer barrel should offer 20-30 fps more.  At least Diana.de says so for their N-Tec models.  They are based on the 34.
For hunting and quick sighting, the shorter barrel will be very helpful.
You are correct that the shorter barrel will make cocking more difficult.  Barrel strength should be a non issue.  If anything, the longer lever of the longer barrel should be more at risk.

Enjoy,
-Y

Clean the barrel and shoot it.  Worry about tuning later...

[anuthabubba]

Longer barrels can be beneficial on large volume expanding gas types of powerplants. It has been emperically proven that shorter barrels are less restrictive on pellet velocity with springer powerplants.