Just got one on a trade,though I dont need it and will sell it,I may also keep it after I shoot it?!...I was wondering if any of you have tried the newer 12" long barrled version and if so,what velocities/bullets did you use?..looks like it could be a great weapon for up to 200 yards,esp with 200-375 gr bullets? Thanks!

Looks like no ones responded so I'll jump in. I don't have the 12" model, mines the 10 1/2" PC version and I love it. It's wearing a Burris 3x-12x with ballistiplex and hunter knobs, which are virtually useless you've got little fingers.

The hardest thing about reloading for it is finding suitable bullets. Currently Hornady makes a 240gr & 300gr XTP "MAG" and Nosler makes a 260gr & 300gr Partition HG. That's it unless I've missed anyone. Ranger Rick does cast a very nice 300gr Truncated Cone GC and I've gotten some impressive groups with it. The gain twist does a good job but it will rip a standard bullet apart at these velocities. If I remember correctly the 240's are pushing around 2200fps, the 260's are doing slightly over 2100pfs and the 300grainers are doing right around 2000fps. I'm sure the gun is capable of pushing them more but I haven't done much experimenting with it. It shoots flat and truly is a 200yd gun.

I guess you need that 12X scope for the 200 yard shot on those Ohio groundhogs.

Actually, I've taken two groundhogs with Ranger Ricks 300gr slugs, but not at that distance, they were somewhat closer. It's amazing what a lead slug will do to them. I'd like to try it out on deer this fall but I'm leaning towards one of my 500's if I don't take one with a bow. I know we're allowed 6 but even 2 is just too much meat for me.

I shoot the Remington 385 bonded core bullet from my 10" bbl 500 S&W Encore going around 1800fps...talk about a flying ashtray. The bullet stays together pretty well and expands to about an inch or a bit better, and this is a middling load yet. Its about all the recoil I can stand. I will be doing some Pa. bear hunting with that bad boy. The 460 just did not get my interest...maybe the gain twist kept me away from it. Years ago gain twist in rifles was a big interest and it went away as quick as it started.

Woody