comparing .223 and .22-250 handi

[azmark]

Other than the chamber, is there any difference between the .223 and the 22-250 handi-rifles?  Is accuracy different between the two?  Barrel twist rate?

[McLernon]

The ususal twist for the 223 is 1:12 but I think Handi's come 1:9. The 22-250 has a 1:14 twist. The 22-250 is much faster and flatter shooting than a 223. Really no comparison.

Mc

[azmark]

So does that mean that the 22-250 will accurately shoot a heavier bullet, or do they generally shoot the same size bullets anyway?

[McLernon]

Theoretically the tighter twist will stabilize a heavier bullet but I personally like the 50 gr. in my 22-250. I have a 1:12 223 which I shoot 40 and 55 gr bullets. The 1:14 should stabilize a 55 gr. bullet but I found at low temperatures that I get key-holing. The 22-250 has a real whallop to it. A ground hog 'winged' by the 22-250 is usually dead because at the higher velocities the Nosler BT's are so frangible.

On the down side , the 22-250 has more recoil so it is better to have it in a heavier gun.. JMO.

Mc