1:8 vs 1:8.4 twist for 280ai

[Castmaster]

The bullets I plan on shooting mostly are the 175 gr Berger Elite Hunter and the 168gr Berger VLD and I am wondering if 1:8 or 1:8.4 twist would be better. I also would like to have the flexibility to shoot a broad range of bullets like the 145gr Barnes LRX up to the 195gr Berger EOL Hunter, the rifle will have a 24inch barrel.

 

[WeiserBucks]

195s need an 8 twist, 8 or 8.4 will be fine for the others you mentioned.

 

[Ucsdryder]

I’d go 1-8. I’d rather be a little too fast than too slow but I don’t think it’ll matter.

 

[Mag_7s]

You will be fine with the 1/8.4 all the way up to the 195s. The 195s "recommend" a twist of 1/8. I follow the manufacturer's recommendations but have heard they are a little conservative with that number. However, I would error on the side of caution and rather have a bullet a little over spun than under. Length of barrel doesn't doesn't effect twist ratio.

 

[Mag_7s]

I think the 280ai is a fantastic cartridge but in my opinion if I wanted to shoot 195s I'd likely opt for a 7prc.

 

[Castmaster]

I think the 280ai is a fantastic cartridge but in my opinion if I wanted to shoot 195s I'd likely opt for a 7prc.

I don’t plan on shooting 195s on a regular basis but I would like to play with some loads and see how they shoot, I plan on sticking with the 175 to 180grs.