What will a 1 in 8 twist stabilize in .223.

[robbobsam]

Just ordered a .223 Tikka Tactical and am trying to save some time and efforts by learning from your experiences.

It has a 23.75" tube with a 1 in 8 twist.

What bullet and powder combinations work best ???

I want to shoot up to 800yds, or maybe a 1000yds if I am lucky.

Was thinking of using the 69-80+ grain bullets in either SMK's, AMax or VLD design.

Your comments would be very much appreciated.

 

[jbailey]

Re: What will a 1 in 8 twist stabilize in .223.

I had problems stabilizing a 80gr AMAX in my 8twist 20" barrel doing 2600fps. I probably could have messed with it and got it shooting, but the 75gr AMAX is easy to stabilize in 8twist and its a great shooting bullet. I would say try that bullet first or the 75gr Berger VLD - as they offer a much better BC than other options in the 70gr/77gr range. You can probably get 80gr's going in your 8twist, but you will have to move them fast to do so. No way on the 90gr.

 

[JCH]

Re: What will a 1 in 8 twist stabilize in .223.

ive never had problems getting a 75gr Amax to stabilize.

 

[SingleShot85]

Re: What will a 1 in 8 twist stabilize in .223.

Better just stick to the 68-75grs, and your best bet is to bust the 75gr Amax bullets out as fast as you can.

 

[ratton]

Re: What will a 1 in 8 twist stabilize in .223.

I shoot 77 grain Black Hills reloaded in my Tikka Tactical (20 in barrel) out to 1000yrds. Awesome combination. You are going to really enjoy your Tikka. Super accurate system. You won't be able to load more than 3 rounds of 77 grainers in the 6 round mags though.

 

[robbobsam]

Re: What will a 1 in 8 twist stabilize in .223.

What powders do you recommend with the 75 grain Amax ???

Was thinking of AA2520 or TAC.

Was a little concerned using Varget as it burns a lot hotter so barrel wear will be higher.

What do you think ???

 

[dbateman]

Re: What will a 1 in 8 twist stabilize in .223.

Try the 77SMK's they work in my 9 twist so you should be fine

 

[JCH]

Re: What will a 1 in 8 twist stabilize in .223.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: robbobsam</div><div class="ubbcode-body">What powders do you recommend with the 75 grain Amax ???

Was thinking of AA2520 or TAC.

Was a little concerned using Varget as it burns a lot hotter so barrel wear will be higher.

What do you think ???</div></div>

around 26 grains of R15

 

[Mordamer]

Re: What will a 1 in 8 twist stabilize in .223.

Use Varget. The idea that it burns hotter and will wear your barrel out is a myth. Load hot with ANY powder and you will burn your barrel up. Varget is probably going to be your best bet as far as consistency and ease of use. Very little variance in pressure with different temperatures when using Varget. So many people use it for a reason. Start around 23.5 grains with the 75 Amax and move your way up. Book max is 24-25 grains depending on the book. I shoot mine with 25 grains Varget and no pressure signs.