New Build 20 Prac

[rca13]

Hello everyone,
This is the first forum I have joined so I apologize if I'm bringing up any old discussions, I just couldn't find what i was looking for. I am working on building a P-dog gun for my wife and daughter and thought the 20 prac would be a nice rifle for the job. I ordered a barrel from McGowen (looks really nice) and i Got it in last Friday. Its 26" long 1:10 twist and I'll be putting it on a Marlin X7 that was chambered in .223. I have 2 questions that I haven't been able to find answers for. First off, what weight of bullets shoot well out of 10" twist? I know I'll have to do some load development but I'm wanting to use this as a coyote gun as well and wanted to use some heavier bullets. The second question is, when I headspace do I have to buy the guages or can I use a 223 case that I have sized down to 20 cal? Thanks in advance.

Ryan

 

[Phil]

Welcome Ryan,

That twist will shoot 32-40gr easily,and heavier.

Phil.

 

[LitLBoy]

Try some IMR8208 powder you will like the results w/ 39sbk's

 

[rca13]

Thanks for the replies. I have been reading through this site and most people like a 24" barrel, did I go wrong with a 26"? I figured the extra 2" might get some more speed and accuracy?

 

[Phil]

She will like the added length...... 8)

 

[rca13]

She will like the added length...... 8)

HAHAHA awesome thanks guys.

 

[rich44]

rca13

I have a 10 twist 204R that will shoot up to the 50gr Bergers just fine and really likes the 39gr SBK's.
You could use a sized case I prefer using gauges but have used the sized case method with my Savages

 

[Tim Singleton]

Pretty handy tool
http://www.bergerbullets.com/litz/TwistRuleAlt.php

Mine loves 39gr blitz king and h4895
Run them about 3800 fps happy happy happy

 

[rca13]

Pretty handy tool
http://www.bergerbullets.com/litz/TwistRuleAlt.php

Mine loves 39gr blitz king and h4895
Run them about 3800 fps happy happy happy

Thanks for the link it is handy... Great answers everyone thanks for your time.

 

[MrMajestic]

I just built a 28" 8.5tw .20-.223AI. Same only different. As was stated previously, 39 grain Blitz Kings and H4895 should make it purr.

 

[GrocMax]

Once you get it running, you will be shooting it more than them

These days with powder shortages, pretty much any powder that works in a 223 will work fine.

 

[Tim Singleton]

Just realized i didn't make a comment on your second question.
While you can use a piece of brass with a layer of scotch tape.
IMO it is not ideal. It's awfully hard to keep the barrel from turning as you tighten the nut the brass will compress allowing the barrel to tighten on down. You think everything is great then a round won't chamber and you have to start all over again.
A steel go gauge is 25 - 30 bucks or so and well worth it

 

[GrocMax]

yeah a std 223 go gauge works well, loose to barely snug on the go gauge, tight on the go gauge with thin piece of cellophane or teflon tape or saran wrap is usually more consistent than a fired or resized case. Really no need for a no-go. Field gauge is useless and too long for any setup work.