Marlin 1894 twist rate

[Readyrod]

I noticed the other night that the Marlin 1894 .44 mag has a 1:38 twist rate. Then tonight I read in a thread that a 1:38 twist rate isn't enough to stabilize heavier bullets. Is this true? If so what is the heaviest bullet it can handle?
Thanks folks.

 

[Gryffydd]

I've read that 270gr is the upper end for that twist rate. However, I do not own one, so I haven't personally tried it. I would also like to hear from people what kind of accuracy they get with the heavier bullets.

 

[achildofthesky]

.8" 3 shot group at 100 (Marlin 1894ss w 2.5x scope), 300gr Hornady XTP 19.0gr 296 (or H110) Win brass WLP primers... Works just fine.

 

[Gryffydd]

Well, that's bad news for me. Now I'll have to get one.

 

[Readyrod]

Me too!! Yee Haw

 

[DR505]

They are really great little rifles. Only shot 270 grains or lighter...gotta try achildofthesky's recipe. I've got ghost ring sights on mine...no optics.

 

[Readyrod]

Anyone else fire heavy bullets from their 1894?

 

[Heck]

I've only shot 240's out of min. Seemes to really like them.

 

[Dr.Rob]

I've fired Prvi Partizan 300 gr JSP's out of mine, but when you get into bullets that heavy overall length can be a problem. I have some 300gr XTP's my dad loaded for a Ruger Super Blackhawk that will NOT feed (read that as jam the rifle really well) at all.

 

[Griff56]

Well, I only shoot 200 grain lead for CAS, but it works just great. Mine does not like the semi
wad cutter 240 factory loads though. I pulled all the bullets left in the box and reloaded them with my 200 grain. Gave the lead bullets to a friend for his pistol.

I love that little beauty. It shoots fast, and it shoots tight groups.
Easy to carry if you are hunting. Not much good after a 100 yards though, IMHO.