I want to buy a new .223 for target shooting, maybe an occasional varmint. I already have a Savage model 12 BVSS in .243 which I really like, so I'd like to get another one in .223. This will be strictly a bench rifle, so weight is no real issue and I prefer the heavy barrel. Tonight I went over to the gun shop after work and they had a Savage model 12 VLP (Low profile varminter). Other than the stock I couldn't really see any difference between that and the BVSS, correct? But what caught my attention was the twist rate. This one was 1:7, while the BVSS is 1:9. My Remington 700 SPS in .223 is 1:12. I shoot mostly varmint bullets like Hornady V-max 50 or 55 grain and Midsouth's Varmint Nightmare...basically the cheap, bulk type bullets. All I want is something accurate that I can have fun with out to 300 yards; I'm not expecting to go farther than that with those light bullets. Which twist rate would work best with the bullets I use? After seeing the 1:7 I was hesitant until I did more research.

Also, do you guys think the Accu-stock is worth anything over the laminate models? I had wanted a stainless model 12 with the Accu-stock but it seems they don't offer one yet, only the blued model FCV

The .223 is one of those calibers that one just won't do. I have had a couple in the past but am down to one. A .223AI but am looking for its polar opposite as a companion. My current Savage single shot model is a 1 in 14 twist, 24" fluted varmint but I am in the market for a 20" heavy barrel 1 in 9 twist bolt action repeater. Something that closely relates to the AR in performance.

Based on your request the 1 in 7 twist would surely be ideal for a true bench rest gun designed to punch paper but a 1 in 9 to 1 in 12 are the most versatile. My old 1 in 9 BVSS grouped 55 grainers as good as my 1 in 14. The 55 grainers are right in the middle of the pack so it stands to reason that they can be shot with most of the twists.

I would decide if I had a preference towards heavier or lighter bullets first then locate a gun that suited that preference. Check out
http://ershawbarrels.com/
They are offering a custom build for very reasonable pricing and you can pick your barrel contour, length, caliber, twist, etc...

Another good deal, IMO, is the Howa varmint barreled action. Their .223 is offered in a 1 in 12 twist, 20" or 24" barrel, blued or stainless for a very reasonable price. Then you can stock it as you wish.

Savage offers a bunch of excellent models in 223 that would be perfect for what your looking for and all of the other top brands are usually more expensive for no better performance.

Good luck.

My Win model 70 in .223 is 1 in 9. I shoot the cheap winchester bulk packed and this is probably my most accurate rifle with jacketed bullets. It will not shoot cast bullets--same bullets my .222 and 22-250 will shoot( I don't know the twist rate of those two). If it were me I would look at the CZ I think much better fit and finish than the Savage.

1 & 7 is going to give you the ability to shoot the heavier bullets. BTW, no other rifle holds a candle next to Savages out of the box accuracy period. And we a few tweaks nothing ever will! Remington's 1:12 is a bad joke just getting older! The CZ is a good looking rifle but it performs better as a tire iron compared to the Savage. In any event the Savage does need a few tweaks on the accu-trigger to smooth it out and the stock is so-so but the bottom line is on the paper!

that 1:7 will shoot 52 gn SMK's just fine. The very lightly constructed 40 and 45 gn offerings may not hold up at higher velocities with the fast twist.

My friend has a Colt with a 1:7 and it shoots 52 and 53 gn SMK's into tiny one hole groups @ 100 yards.

The 69 gn SMK will really buck the wind out to 300 yards; they don't do too bad out to 600 yds either, but 80 gn SMK's are the way to go @ 600 yds. The 80's must be loaded longer than std magazine length; the others upt to 77 gn SMK's will do fine @ 2.260" OAL.

ETA: A lot of those Savage 223's have a long throat. Don't worry if you can't seat near the lands.

quote:

Originally posted by rowdyredneck:
Also, do you guys think the Accu-stock is worth anything over the laminate models? I had wanted a stainless model 12 with the Accu-stock but it seems they don't offer one yet, only the blued model FCV

Yes - YES!!! I do like that Design, but do not have one. It is a very simple answer to what other Manufacturers have wrestled with for many years.

I know what you mean about a Firearms Company not making exactly the Model you want. I've gone through it a lot. However, they might make one for you if you call them (413)568-7001.

My 12-BV-SS-s with 1:9 twist is and absolute tack driver with the very bullets you use. It has also done great things with bullets up to 75 grains. I do believe that Sea Fire has had similar results. roger

The new Savages are great guns! The LRPV in .223 with the 7 twist will shoot,55s to 90g VLDs!And I must add 600yards is nothing for the 90VLDs.. And it has right bolt left port, Great for prone or bench.. Good luck!