I've got an old 17Rem that I will be changing the barrel on, most likely replacing with a Douglas. They offer twist rates of 6, 9, 10, and 12. I plan on shooting 25gr bullets. What twist rate would you recommned and why?

Also, how about contour? Do I really need a heavy barrel for this small caliber?

[ 02-18-2003, 04:58: Message edited by: jethro ]

I was told to use a 1-10, 3 groove for up to 25 grain bullets. and a 1-9 if I planned on using 30 grain or bigger.

I got a 1-10 and it shoots 25 gr Bergers into nice little groups.

It's a neat little caliber.

I rebarreled my single shot L46 Sako with a #4 SS Douglas/1-10 twistIt shoots both 20 and 25gr. bullets great. Pete

Jethro:

If you are sure you will shoot only 25 grain pills, then 10 twist is fine. May I suggest a 9 twist however, in an abundance of caution. For example, Todd Kindler's 27, 29 and 30 grain boat-tails work very well in large bore 17s such as the 17 Rem. The 27 grain is a particular favorite of mine. If memory serves, it has a BC of about .234 and will do 4000 fps in a 17 Rem. It is a potent long-range combination. If you assume you will never shoot anything heavier than 25 grains you may regret the limitations down the road.

Jordan

Whoops! I meant large "capacity 17s" not "large bore 17s".

Jordan