Model 70 twist rate 223

[opto55]

I just picked up Winchester model 70 in 223 . The gun was manufactured in 1989 according to the serial number. Any ideas on the twist rate as that will determine what bullet weight I try.
Thanks

 

[KodiakHntr]

In 1989, probably a 1:14.

 

[Suther]

Cleaning rod and a piece of tape will tell you...

 

[Lodi]

Winchester produced the M70 Heavy Barrel Varmint in 1-9" and the M70 in 1-12". I think I got my info in the early 1980's but don't know it's date of origin.

 

[KodiakHntr]

Winchester produced the M70 Heavy Barrel Varmint in 1-9" and the M70 in 1-12". I think I got my info in the early 1980's but don't know it's date of origin.

The googler says that the 1:9 wasn’t offered until 1992. No clue if it is accurate info though, as I’m not much of a Winchester guy.

As far as bullet choices…. You’ll likely spin a Hornady 65 soft point, but you’ll prolly not stabilize a Barnes 53 TSX. Bullet length matters, weight not as much. That said, you’ll probably not find any love with anything heavier than a 65, depending on your elevation.
In a 1:14 223 AI I could barrrrrely stabilize the 53 TSX, and it was lackluster in performance. The 45 tsx however drove straight line holes through everything.

 

[boxhitch]

50 - 55 gr was the standard

 

[Falconflyer]

55 grain should be fine but heavier might not be.