DarkSpeedWorks wrote:
Depends. Concealment is one. Maneuverability, especially in tight spaces is another (like a clearing a building). Shorter overall length when using a suppressor often a reason. It looks like the rifles used by real action guys use is another. Good info, thanks.
But why would a civilian who is purchasing a rifle for personal use (such as home defense, sport, or hunting) need to worry about concealment and clearing a building?
I wouldn't be too worried about "concealment" but maneuverability is key. Clearing a building would just be a vague term to describe making sure no one is in your home and getting around corners (i.e. looking around a corner with your firearm ready) is easier with a shorter barrel.
One thing that movies get very wrong is the volume, if you had to fire a shorter barreled rifle (or handgun, or really any firearm) in your house with no ear protection you would likely be in pain from the noise level. And the shorter barrel rifles are WAY louder.