223 Twist Rate for Predator Rifle

[Kopper]

I’m looking to get a dedicated predator rifle. I currently use a 22mag on yotes with good success but I’d like to extend the range. This rifle would double as a range gun. Hence why I’m leaning towards a T3 in 223 as it should be somewhat similar to my Sako big game game rifle.

Now, the the small dilemma.... I would like to be able to take a wolf with this as well so using heavier bullets (I don’t handload).

What twist do I get the rifle in? Will the 12 be enough to shoot the heavier bullets or will the 8 be too fast for the 55gr? I’m leaning towards the 8 but please tell me your thoughts.

Cheers

[Blockcaver]

8" twist will work fine with bullets down to 40 gr and up to 80 some grains in my experience in a .223.

[Jimsue]

I cant remember the web site but there is a ton of information out there on this subject. Yes the heavy bullets ( 75 gr range ) really need a 7 twist but we shoot them out of an 8 with good success.

[KodiakHntr]

A 9" will spin some of the 75's on the market.....

Don't hamstring yourself with a 12" twisted rifle. You won't have any issues with lighter bullets out of an 8" twist.

[708]

I have a Mossberg MVP Varmint with 24" and 1:9. For a cheap rifle it's a tack driver with 53gr V-Max. It did not like what I fed it in the 40gr.

[todbartell]

there's no downside to the 8 twist Tikka. Rather than going heavier, I would look at a stouter constructed bullet for wolf. Federal loads a 62gr Fusion, 60gr Nosler Partition, and Barnes does a 50gr TSX. Another option would be the Hornady 73gr ELD Match ammo, but it may fragment on impact despite its heavier weight

[Kopper]

Thanks guys. You confirmed what I had been thinking.

[cptnoblivious]

I cant remember the web site but there is a ton of information out there on this subject. Yes the heavy bullets ( 75 gr range ) really need a 7 twist but we shoot them out of an 8 with good success.

www.bergerbullets.com/twist-rate-calculator/

I've used that in the past.

[remington700]

I have a ruger american predator 223 with a 1:8 twist with the same purpose as your intentions. It stabilizes a hornady 73 grain eld match bullet going 2750 fps at the muzzle has a .398 b.c . Hopping to see what it does to a coyote but haven't got the opportunity yet.

[tipper]

Sure a 223 is enough for a tough old wolf?

[Blockcaver]

70 gr Berger VLD do very well in my 1 in 9” twist Kimber Montana .223. It won’t shoot 75 gr Hornady Amax under 3” though. A couple of wildcats with 1 in 8” twist barrels shoot the 75 Amax into tiny groups.....22-6mm Rem AI and a 22 BR.

[todbartell]

Sure a 223 is enough for a tough old wolf?

I've killed one wolf with a 223, 75y shot with a 55gr Nosler BT. A few egg beater spins and he was down. A 243/6mm+ is a bigger hammer.