Barrel twist rate?

[ErikD]

Hi guys, I've been browsing this forum for a little while, and have enjoyed a lot of the info available here. And look forward to learning more here in the future.

I have a question that isn't necessarily just for "long range hunting", but I'll ask anyway!

What have you guys found to be the optimal barrel twist rate for the 7x64/280Rem(or other simular 7mm) when using 175grain bullets?

And would it be optimal to choose a differant twist rate if using 150grain bullets?

What would be a good compromise for being able to use both these bullet weights, if there is much differance between what twist rate is recommended for each of them?

Any thoughts on the matter would be appreciated! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

Erik

 

[Fiftydriver]

I would say 1-9 for the 175 gr bullets. May be a bit more then absolutely needed but I tend to recommend an inch or so more twist then needed.

As such, I would say a 1-10 or 1-11 would be about perfect for a 150 gr bullet. I would lean toward the 1-10.

TO be honest, get the 1-9 and shoot them all!! I have yet to see a quality built rifle in any 7mm caliber with a good barrel in 1-9 twist not shoot most bullets up to the 175s well.

I also personally feel the 175 gr bullets are pretty heavy for the 280 Rem class of round. They certainly will work well but the 160-162 is a better heavy bullet choice for this class of round in my opinion.

Kirby Allen(50)

 

[ErikD]

Thank you for your input.

This rifle will be used for several things.

One use is for moose when I am handling dogs, and need to carry a lighter rifle then the 375H&H I usually use when hunting moose. And for this, I will be going with 175grain Woodleighs or Swift A-frames.

But I will also use this rifle for roedeer, and will then be using lighter bullets then the 175gr. These shots will sometimes be at "longer" ranges (say up around 300 meters).

Sounds like 1:9 is a good way to go.

/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

Erik