Saluki91
FNG
- Joined
- Feb 13, 2026
- Messages
- 14
Cut to the chase:
I understand that the Miller Twist Rate Formula isn't reliable with flat base bullets. I have some 170gr Norma Tipstrikes that I'd like to shoot out of a .308WIN with a 1:12.5" barrel. Is there another source that will help me determine if this bullet will reliably stabilize in my barrel, or is it simply a matter of trial and error?
The Long Story:
Several years ago, I was fortunate enough to inherit my Grandfather's Kleinguenther K15 chambered in .308WIN. This was one of his most prized possessions - purchased as he neared retirement to hunt elk and mule deer. Unfortunately, his health deteriorated quickly and those hunts never happened. I did some reading, and "learned" that the Voere barrel on this rifle was 1:10". File that bit of "knowledge" under "It's on the internet... it must be true."
Armed with that misinformation, I went about watching for sales and bargins, stocking up on bullets that would be appropriate for mule deer and elk. Fast-forward to this month, when for grins and giggles, I tested the barrel twist for myself. <<Cue the Price is Right tuba/trombone riff>>. It is actually 1:12.5". Lesson learned, and many impolite words uttered!
So... I was left with a largely useless stash of bullets (Accubond, ELDM, Speer Impact, etc.), as they will not stabilize in my barrel.
There are a few exceptions. Berger's twist rate stability calculator tells me that my 180gr Norma Oryx are fine, as are some 165gr Sierra Game Kings. But the rest... as useful as the proverbial mammeries on a boar.
I guess I could sell/trade these bullets... or buy a 300WSM. One sounds a lot more fun than the other!
I understand that the Miller Twist Rate Formula isn't reliable with flat base bullets. I have some 170gr Norma Tipstrikes that I'd like to shoot out of a .308WIN with a 1:12.5" barrel. Is there another source that will help me determine if this bullet will reliably stabilize in my barrel, or is it simply a matter of trial and error?
The Long Story:
Several years ago, I was fortunate enough to inherit my Grandfather's Kleinguenther K15 chambered in .308WIN. This was one of his most prized possessions - purchased as he neared retirement to hunt elk and mule deer. Unfortunately, his health deteriorated quickly and those hunts never happened. I did some reading, and "learned" that the Voere barrel on this rifle was 1:10". File that bit of "knowledge" under "It's on the internet... it must be true."
Armed with that misinformation, I went about watching for sales and bargins, stocking up on bullets that would be appropriate for mule deer and elk. Fast-forward to this month, when for grins and giggles, I tested the barrel twist for myself. <<Cue the Price is Right tuba/trombone riff>>. It is actually 1:12.5". Lesson learned, and many impolite words uttered!
So... I was left with a largely useless stash of bullets (Accubond, ELDM, Speer Impact, etc.), as they will not stabilize in my barrel.
There are a few exceptions. Berger's twist rate stability calculator tells me that my 180gr Norma Oryx are fine, as are some 165gr Sierra Game Kings. But the rest... as useful as the proverbial mammeries on a boar.
I guess I could sell/trade these bullets... or buy a 300WSM. One sounds a lot more fun than the other!
