Accuracy Quote by Jeff Cooper
“We thought everybody knew by now that barrel length has almost nothing to do with accuracy. I believe the myth of the superior accuracy of a long rifle dates from colonial days, when the only way to extend sight radius was to make the barrel as long as possible. It is interesting how long it takes a myth to die.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Art of the Rifle, Jeff Cooper, 1970
Long barrels are mistakenly believed to improve accuracy, but sight radius, not barrel length, matters; myths persist long after evidence disproves them.
In simple terms: Barrel length doesn’t equal accuracy; sight radius does.
Key Takeaway
Focus on sight radius, not barrel length, for better accuracy.
Themes
myths
accuracy
firearms
Mood
skeptical
informative
Type
educational
technical
When to use this quote
- target shooting
- hunting
- military training
- firearm design
Key Concepts
ballistics
perception
history
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do shooters cling to outdated myths?
- How can education change long-held misconceptions?
A Different Perspective
Long barrels add weight and reduce maneuverability without improving precision.
