Quick Answer
Barrel twist rate does matter for .17 Remington ammunition, as it affects bullet stability and accuracy. A higher twist rate is necessary for longer, heavier bullets, but a standard rate may be sufficient for lighter bullets.
Twist Rate Considerations
When choosing a barrel twist rate for .17 Remington ammunition, consider the bullet weight and design. Heavier bullets, such as the 20-grain ELDX or 25-grain TSX, require a higher twist rate to maintain stability and accuracy. A minimum of 1:8" to 1:9" is recommended for these heavier bullets.
Accuracy and Stability
A barrel twist rate that is too low for the bullet weight can result in keyholing or tumbling, leading to reduced accuracy and group size. Conversely, a twist rate that is too high can cause over-stabilization, resulting in excessive bullet instability and decreased accuracy. In .17 Remington rifles, a standard 1:9" twist rate is often sufficient for lighter bullets, such as the 15-grain Varmint HV or 17-grain TSX.
Field Experience and Recommendations
In practice, many hunters and varmint shooters have reported excellent results with standard 1:9" twist rates in .17 Remington rifles. For example, a Winchester Model 70 .17 Remington with a 1:9" twist rate has been known to produce excellent accuracy and consistency with lighter bullets. However, when using heavier bullets, a higher twist rate is necessary to achieve optimal accuracy and stability.
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