I use a Stevens model 200 in .223 for my walking gun for predator hunting. I have been having a tough time finding a round that groups fairly well with this gun. The gun has a 1:9 rifeling to it, so what is the best weight class of bullet for that twist rate? I have been trying rounds 50 gr and lighter, i'm guessing this is part of my problem.

Thanks
Tom

I would try various 55gr bullets, then work either up or down from there. 55gr is the "standard" weight for a 223, much as a 130gr bullet is the "standard for a 270.

On the Stevens 200 the twist rate may not have alot to do with it. I've seen many of these rifles at our local gun shop. Most have the barrel off center in the stock and have barrel/stock forearm contact on one side of the barrel or other. Having the rifle bedded in the stock will center the barrel relieving the uneven stock pressure on the barrel. This has corrected many of these rifles accuracy problems. I mean it is a Savage without the accutrigger. The rifles are inherently accurate.

With 1-9 rifling twist rate,go with 55 to 62 gr bullets for best results. As to bedding,see if it'll group with slightly heavier bullets before changing bedding or freefloating barrel.

Have you tried the dollar bill test on your free foated barrel?
Check your muzzle crown.
Do you know the scope and mounts are tight and functioning as they should?
How about the tightness of your action screws.
Reload!

I think you will find a heavier bullet may do better with that 9" twist......

How are you doing pawildman? I havn't heard from you in a while. Neil

Thanks for all of the replies guys. I was leaning towards trying the heavier ammo to see if it would stabilize a little better.

Thanks fornra for all the hints and they have all been checked before.

Thanks again guys

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