Rate of twist/fitting bullet weight

[terjeness]

A friend of mine has a Browing in in 7mm-08, and wonders how heavy of a bullet he can shoot with a 1:9.5 twist and keep it stable? Anybody that knows?

 

[barnesuser28]

I have a 1:9.25 twist 7mm-08 and I can stabilize the 162 grain A-Max if I keep the velocity high enough.

 

[DanGuy48]

My understanding of this is that he should be giving more weight (pun intended) to the length of the bullet. For example, a given twist could be better for a solid than a lead core, even though the weights are the same.

 

[barnesuser28]

+1^ the 162 grain A-Max is a lllooonnnggg bullet.

 

[Aussie Hunter Steve]

I've had no trouble stabilising the 175gr Core-Lokt in 2 rifles but these bullets are not overly long for their weight, which sometimes seems to influence stability.
Select the desired bullet, load a few and try them.

 

[Joe King]

Depends on the bullet profile, 175gr partition no problem, 180gr vld probably but it's on the edge, if he can get over 2500fps it should be doable

Barrel Twist Calculator

 

[J E Custom]

The 1 in 9.5 twist should handle everything up to 175 with no problems 180s may be marginal
and could use a 1 in 9 or 1 in 8.5 twist.

The 7/08 is at its best with 120, 130 and 150 grain bullets because of velocity potential
(They will shoot heaver bullets very well but may not perform on game at lower velocities).

J E CUSTOM

 

[terjeness]

A hearty "thank you!" to all your constructive responses! It is very good to be able to use this easy vehicle of sharing helpful info. I'm looking up the ballistics and stability data in Brian Litz's book and you all make sense.
My friend - as I have - will benefit from your help,
terjeness

 

[Joe King]

Bullet Data

 

[terjeness]

Thank you, Joe!