The initial design was a 22" barrel where the bullet tube was the same length as the barrel. As I understand, the tube was shortened to 15 rounds to comply with CA or similar laws, then the barrels were shortened so the barrel and tube were the same length. I am not sure when this occurred, but seems like it was the mid 90's. If you really want a 22" barrel, you are likely better off finding a pre-remington.