Found some info, barrel length & velocity
Here is a study that Chief Dave did some time ago. It has to do with barrel length and velocity, as opposed to accuracy. The general concensus is that the 22 LR has completed its powder burn at about 16 1/2". After that there is a gradual loss of velocity due to drag.
"Chief Says : I can answer that EASY.
Here are my " ancient" test notes from when I cut down Ruger
10-22 and 77-22 barrels.
High velocity , Standard velocity == Remington 22LR.
Length,HV&SV in fps
30" 1199 1090
28" 1211 1099
26" 1226 1105
24" 1238 1121
22" 1247 1131
20" 1256 1140
18" 1265 1153
16" 1277 1161
14" 1262 1149
12" 1245 1141
Easy to see that highest velocity came from the 16 " barrel length
anything higher or lower resulted in loss in fps.
About the only real advantages for a longer barrel are 1, longer sight radius when using open sights 2, velocity reduction to keep a marginally fast ammo from going supersonic 3, noise reduction 4, balance 5, just because you like the looks of a longer barrel. Item 2 is about the only thing that may help accuracy.
Good luck. sawdust (I forget where this was posted, sorry, David)