ihmsa forums

Gents,

Have ordered a Freedom Arms model 2008 in 44 magnum. Will use almost exclusively for IHMSA and target. Initially liked the 10" barrel, but the 15" length seems to provides more velocity and better accuracy due to tamer recoil. If I reload I will stick with straight wall cartridges, hence the 44 Mag.
Appreciate your input on 10" vs 15" barrel length. I'll try silhouette sights, but may need to get a scope.
Thanks Gents.

A 15” barrel makes it an Unlimited gun.

Steve W.

Stick with the 10" barrel. You can shoot the gun in a lot more categories and you won't be competing against the Unlimited guns like the XP-100 and the TC Contender.

I had a 15" 2008 in 7 BR. It was a beautiful gun. Built like a bank vault. Opt for the opening lever too. Really makes it easy to open the gun.
Did you consider a 2008 in 357SM. Straightwall like you want but won't recoil like a 44 mag. If you wanted to shoot the gun in multiple classes then I would suggest the 10" tube. If you only planned to shoot in the Unlimited categories then the 15" would be the way to go.
I think you could (?) be competitive with a 44mag in the unlimited categories but the more efficient calibers used today in unlimited guns would have an edge over your 44 mag. Not saying that a 2008 in 44 mag can't hold its own just little more work involved with the higher recoil of the mag.
Don't know if FA makes the 2008 in 357SM but I would highly recommend that over the 44 Mag. Shoots flatter and with 180 grain or 200 grain bullets would handle any hard set ram.
Regardless of what you get, you will enjoy the gun. Just remember the opening lever option.

Thanks Gents. I can still change the caliber.