These Barrel Specs OK?

[Phil3]

I intend on ordering a Criterion (or Shilen) pre-fit barrel for a build on a Savage Target Action. Please comment on the specs I intend to use. Not 100% sure what I have is optimal. This is for 6mmBR, being shot 75% of the time at 100 yards, and 25% mostly at 200, maybe some at 300. All off a bench using bipod and sometimes a mechanical rest.

Barrel Length: 26"
Barrel Contour: Bull, 1.004" at muzzle. Varmint is .815" at muzzle.
Barrel Twist: 1:8

From what I have read, 1:8 works well with 107s but can work well with lightweight bullets, perhaps like 70s. Since most of my shooting is just at 100, I am not sure if I should opt for 1:9, 1:10, or even 1:14 (that seems too slow?).

Thank you.

Phil

 

[djporter]

I intend on ordering a Criterion (or Shilen) pre-fit barrel for a build on a Savage Target Action. Please comment on the specs I intend to use. Not 100% sure what I have is optimal. This is for 6mmBR, being shot 75% of the time at 100 yards, and 25% mostly at 200, maybe some at 300. All off a bench using bipod and sometimes a mechanical rest.

Barrel Length: 26"
Barrel Contour: Bull, 1.004" at muzzle. Varmint is .815" at muzzle.
Barrel Twist: 1:8

From what I have read, 1:8 works well with 107s but can work well with lightweight bullets, perhaps like 70s. Since most of my shooting is just at 100, I am not sure if I should opt for 1:9, 1:10, or even 1:14 (that seems too slow?).

Thank you.

Phil

From what you have listed, I would go with the Bull barrel & 1-10 twist. 90 or 95 gr. bullets are good at 300, less recoil and barrel twist.

 

[Dan Hall]

definitely order a 1-8 twist. It will handle your 107 Sierra match kings as well as the ever popular 105 & 108 grain Bergers and it will also handle the lighter bullets without a problem. Also order a Shilen Select match instead of the Criterion. The select match is a true match grade barrel, better barrel than Criterion.

 

[Phil3]

I am the OP, and wanted to note that the freebore on the Criterion barrel is .093". Apparently, regardless of what the twist is. Is that amount of freebore OK with twist and bullets that are best for 100 , 200, and very rarely 300 yard shooting? I guess my concern is shooting lightweight bullets that have a substantial jump over long freebore before they get to the lands.

Phil

 

[cmillard]

don't shy from criterion!!!! very good barrel!!