How to Measure the Length of a Pistol Barrel

Measuring the length of a pistol barrel means taking a precise measurement along the top of the weapon. A revolver has a different method of measurement than a semi-automatic pistol. Each of them requires the use of a simple ruler. A hard ruler is better than a tape measure as it is easily placed onto the barrel surface for the measurement.

Things You'll Need

  • Ruler
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Instructions

    • 1

      Open the revolver's chamber and make sure the pistol is unloaded. Place the safety to on. Hold the ruler on the top of the pistol barrel.

    • 2

      Measure from the front face of the cylinder to the end of the barrel. The front of the cylinder is where the barrel begins. Do not include the cylinder itself as part of the barrel measurement.

    • 3

      Open the barrel on a semi-automatic pistol. Make sure it is unloaded and the safety on.

    • 4

      Look into the chamber and find where the barrel ends coming into the chamber. This is typically where the bullet shell is ejected. Take the measurement from this point to the end of the barrel.