Hi all,

I'm planning on building a .444 Marlin and want to know what twist rate would be best. Most barrels seem to be offered in a 1 in 38" twist. I intend to use 300+ grain bullets and feel this rate of twist is too slow. The other twist rate I see offered is 1 in 20".

Any input on proper rate and who offers it would be appreciated.

-Mike

Mike, I built a bolt action 444 marlin on a P14 action. I used a Shilen barrel with a 1:20 twist and love it. It shoots the 300 grain bullet better than I can, at least 1 inch at 100 yards. I plan on making some heavier bullets for it but am in the middle of a new career and have little time right now for such. I found an outfit in Indiana or such that makes 360 grain spitzer bullets but have not ordered any yet. That was two years ago and am not even sure if he still makes them. the outfit was LaFranc or something like that. Good luck on your venture and let us know what you decide and how it turns out. Smokey

Smokey,

Thanks for the input. I thought the 1 in 20" would be better. What barrel length and conour did you use? I still haven't decided. Since this is essentially a short to medium range cartridge I'm leaning toward a Manlicher stock and 20" barrel.

That spitzer sounds interesting. I saw that Beartooth offers some heavy cast GC bullets up to 405 grains. Those would be real fun to try.

-Mike

Mike,

I don't remember what the length is and it is in storage right now. Somewhere around 22 or 24 inches. I ordered a barrel blank from Shilen and we spent hours on the milling machine and file to make a tapered octagon. Good luck on your project. Smokey

The 1/38" twist was adopted without change from that used in the original .44 magnums, and is way too slow!! The 1/20" choice is much better, even for the lighter bullets.