22-250 twist rate

[Outlaws]

So I am getting close to ordering a Cooper rifle, but I want to know about long range with the 22-250.

Their stock twist is 1 in 14". A custom twist is $200, and its hard to justify that unless its worth it.

Is it?

I don't know a whole lot about .22-250 but 1 in 14" seems kind of slow for 400-500 yard shooting.

 

[taylorce1]

1-14 twist rate is good if you are using 55 grain bullets and under. If you want to go up higher in bullet weight you will want a faster twist rate something like a 1-9 works good with everything 55 grains and heavier. The slow twist rate doesn't allow the heavier bullets to stabilize, AR's use a 1-9 or 1-7 twist becase they are made to use 62 grain or heavier bullets. I think since you are spending the money for a Cooper an extra $200 is worth it for a twist rate that will get you into heavier bullets for those long range shots for varminting and target shooting. I think something between the 1-14 and 1-9 would serve you well.

 

[rbernie]

Twist rate is impacted by bullet velocity as well as bullet weight (length, actually). Since the 22-250 pushes bullets faster than a 223, it can use a slower twist for the same bullet weight (length) than the 223.

Most 22-250's are sold with a 1:12" or 1:14" because it's presumed they'll be used for varmint guns and will only be shooting 45gr-55gr frangible bullets. If you intend to do just that, then 1:14" may be just the ticket. If you're looking to use heavier bullets (both in weight and construction) then perhaps a 1:12" or 1:0" would be in order.

Why not call Cooper and talk to them about this? I'm sure that they have a fair bit of experience in these sorts of decisions.