243 short barreled build

[beefiness]

Haven't logged in here in forever, even though I probably end up on threads researching stuff 12 times a day. I'm in the Navy and just got stationed in Guam....again. looking to tear down my Savage 12bvss and build into a 243 short barrel (18") when I'm home on leave stateside next hunting season. So it's time to start ordering parts. I'm looking to punch paper and punch out critters and deer at no greater than 500yds, obviously not deer at that range. more like <150yds on deer. Im looking at getting a manners T4 folder pillar bedded with cdi bottom metal. I'd really like an 18" barrel for maneuverability and more than likely running my yhm phantom can on it sometimes. Why im here is I'm curious for some opinions on barrel twist rate. I've done some searching for stabilizing ~100-105gr bullets out of a 18" tube. most of what I found is 1:7 to 1:8 twist. what are your opinions on what type of twist I should consider. looking at getting a pre-chambered barrel from McGowan, seen alot of very good reviews. Thanks for your time and input.

 

[kswaterfowl]

I have a shilen prefit with an 8 twist on savage, and its shot everything from 58gr-105gr. It really shines with 105gr bergers.

 

[beefiness]

What barrel length do you have?

 

[tt66]

Unless you plan on shooting the 115 gr class, I would go with the 1-8". I am shooting a factory Rem 1-9.125" twist, cut to 16.5, and it shoots the 105 Amax's.

 

[kswaterfowl]

Mine is a 26" barrel, but you shouldn't have any problems with the 105's out of an 18" barrel. Especially if you are planning on getting an 8 twist or faster.

 

[beefiness]

Thanks bruddas, sounds like 1:8 is the way to go. Now if i could just find some damn powder..

 

[SUIScide]

Unless you plan on shooting the 115 gr class, I would go with the 1-8". I am shooting a factory Rem 1-9.125" twist, cut to 16.5, and it shoots the 105 Amax's.

What powder do you use with those 105's (and where did you find them!)? What MV do you get? And what's the muzzle blast like? Just curious. I wonder if a 6 x 45 would be pretty close to a 243 with that barrel length.

 

[nashlaw]

I run a 1/8 twist at 20". Loves the 105g Hornady BTHPs. Might do well with the Amaxes not but no luck finding those....at affordable prices, anyway.

Deer should be no problem waaaaay out there with your .243.

 

[LoanHarvey]

What powder do you use with those 105's (and where did you find them!)? What MV do you get? And what's the muzzle blast like? Just curious. I wonder if a 6 x 45 would be pretty close to a 243 with that barrel length.

I found H4350 shoots the 105's real well. Also H1000 is a good choice too.

 

[varmint slayer]

45.5 grains of H1000 in Winchester brass or 42grains of H4530 in Winchester brass have worked for me with 105 Hornadys.

 

[nashlaw]

42.0g of H4350 is a good starting point and usually the end point in load development for the 105s. I have worked up loads with IMR4350 and gotten excellent results. Don't remember the exact chg wt, but close to the Hodgdon wt.

Muzzle blast has not been an issue.