Can a 452 Scout be as accurate as a 452 American?

[rcmark]

I know it depends to some extent on the 'luck of the draw' on the specific gun you get but
in general can a 16" barrel be as accurate as a 22" barrel (at 100 yards - with a scope)?

CZ 452 Scout, .22 LR Barrel Length 16.22 in
CZ 452 American, .22 LR Barrel Length 22.52 in

Thanks for any opinions!

[bobanddog]

Certainly.  Shorter barrels are often 'stiffer' by comparison to longer barrels.  CZ actually makes a few models besides the scout with 16" barrels, threaded for use with sound suppressors for hunting/varmint control.  They just don't import many into the U.S. (Check out Bumblefalconer's rabbit hunting thread in the hunting section to see a 16" barreled CZ 'Style' in action).

Where the longer barrel has an advantage is when using iron sights, as it increases sight radius.  When using a scope it doesn't matter. Some of us prefer the handling and balance of a longer barreled gun as well, particularly when shooting off-hand (not from a rest); but that's up to the individual shooter.

[Ruber]

Generally speaking, out of the box, scoped, cci's... Yes, that has been my experience.

Getting into bedding, match ammo, etc., the American will pull ahead.

But for a scoped field/varmint gun, I love the scout.

[Striper Sniper]

Yes

[mutedblade]

All of these guns are capable of incredible accuracy.  You may shoot an adult sized stock better than the shorter scout version.  That being said, I quite enjoy my daughters Scout.  Insanely accurate and easy to handle in the woods.  What will you be using it for?  The shorter barrel will most likely produce greater velocity so it will get the round on target quicker, so I say that the 16" scout would be the better shooter but without a 452 American to compare to, I can't be certain.  Hope this helps.