I understand that the twist rates in rifle barrels dictate the weight range of bullets you should try when working up a load. Does this also work with pistol barrels? I would think not so much cause of barrel legnth. But has anyone seen any kind of comparison in pistols.
Twist rates in pistol barrels
- Thread starter KHOOKS
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Re: Twist rates in pistol barrels
I have done a comparison in Sig P210 and S&W 952 9mm target pistols. There is a definite change in point of impact and in group size. The Sig has a 1-10" barrel and the S&W has 1-18". The same 147gr Load that is dead-on from the Sig will print 2" low and 3" to the right from the Smith. The Smith is more accurate with lighter bullet weights which makes sense. Bullseye shooters are flocking toward 1-32" 9mm barrels for 115gr shooting, as this has proven the most accurate combo thus far. Recently I found a 1-20" barrel for the Sig and will retest my ammo.
I have done a comparison in Sig P210 and S&W 952 9mm target pistols. There is a definite change in point of impact and in group size. The Sig has a 1-10" barrel and the S&W has 1-18". The same 147gr Load that is dead-on from the Sig will print 2" low and 3" to the right from the Smith. The Smith is more accurate with lighter bullet weights which makes sense. Bullseye shooters are flocking toward 1-32" 9mm barrels for 115gr shooting, as this has proven the most accurate combo thus far. Recently I found a 1-20" barrel for the Sig and will retest my ammo.
Re: Twist rates in pistol barrels
For years there has been debate whether Colt or S&W had the twist rate right in their .38 and .357 revolvers. You even had gunsmiths who specialized in putting Python barrels on S&W revolvers, as urban legend had it that the Colt twist was more accurate. I've forgotten their respective twist rates, and since Colt effectively no longer makes revolvers, it has become a moot point.
I do know that 9mm autos tend to shoot cast bullets a bit more accurately with a 1-16" twist, as opposed to the more common 1-10" twist. Some folks put an aftermarket 1-16" twist barrels in their 9 mils just because of this fact.
For years there has been debate whether Colt or S&W had the twist rate right in their .38 and .357 revolvers. You even had gunsmiths who specialized in putting Python barrels on S&W revolvers, as urban legend had it that the Colt twist was more accurate. I've forgotten their respective twist rates, and since Colt effectively no longer makes revolvers, it has become a moot point.
I do know that 9mm autos tend to shoot cast bullets a bit more accurately with a 1-16" twist, as opposed to the more common 1-10" twist. Some folks put an aftermarket 1-16" twist barrels in their 9 mils just because of this fact.
Re: Twist rates in pistol barrels
Yes, it's the same governing physical constraints.
My dad has a SEBR in 9x19 that will stabilize sized 158gr bullets at 1000fps which will not stabilize in his G17 at the same speed.
He has to shoot 147's instead from the G17 if he wants heavy SS stable rounds.
I don't know the respective twists offhand, but when looking down the barrel it's clearly apparent that they are different rates.
Generally pistol barrels can get away with much slower twist rates because the bullets tend to be more "square" IE the length and diameter are a lower aspect ratio over something like a 115 DTAC.
Yes, it's the same governing physical constraints.
My dad has a SEBR in 9x19 that will stabilize sized 158gr bullets at 1000fps which will not stabilize in his G17 at the same speed.
He has to shoot 147's instead from the G17 if he wants heavy SS stable rounds.
I don't know the respective twists offhand, but when looking down the barrel it's clearly apparent that they are different rates.
Generally pistol barrels can get away with much slower twist rates because the bullets tend to be more "square" IE the length and diameter are a lower aspect ratio over something like a 115 DTAC.
