Disregard, I found my answer.

No longer than 26 inches.

Interesting on the rules. So the CZ 452 Ultra Lux, with it's 28-inch barrel, cannot be used? While I haven't seen one at my club, I think they're being used.

I was disappointed when I learned of the barrel length rule. I know where a Ultra Lux is sitting and it fits me well. I didn't want to show up to a match and get disqualified.

David, the rules do state the 26" barrel length in Hunter rifle. That being said I will say that I have shot in approved and registered matches in 19 different states over the last 15+ years and never seen anyone disqualified over that rule. In fact the only place I have seen a rifle jig used is at the nationals, and there the biggest offenders seem to be centerline of the bore to stock, depth of stock and weight issues.
I have seen the CZ Ultra Lux used in several matches, and not challenged.
Perhaps we as shooters should raise this rule question to the NRA for change as I do not think the ultra lux is the only rifle out there with a barrel longer than 26" for a standard manufacturer length.

Mary

Innocent,

I don't doubt you for one instant but I am hoping to make it to Nationals this year and I know with my crappy luck I would get protested.

I believe you are correct and the barrel length should be increased. At the very least it should be discussed.

I may buy this CZ Ultra-Lux anyway.

David, you will not be disappointed with the Ultra Lux, they are great rifles.

Mary

I can say for sure that if there are very many custom rifles that would have longer barrels if the 26" rule were changed for hunter rifles. One of the benefits of having a separate gun for standard versus hunter is getting to have a longer barrel to hang the weight farther out there. I would be willing to bet a rule change would be shot down for that reason alone, not to mention that there have been enough changes protested lately that I'm pretty happy with leaving the rules alone for a while.

Jason,

You are most likely correct; still I wish the rule concerning barrel length was such that the CZ Ultra-Lux was legal. I really like how that rifle fits me.