218 Bee

[GameHauler]

I just picked up a 218 Bee barrel for my Contender and need some some load data.
I have 160, 17 Ackley brass that has been fired and has a 218 head stamp.
not sure if I could resize it or not.
Any input would be Great.

Thanks,
Mike

[stimpylu32]

GH

What is the twist rate of the barrel and how long is it ? that way I know what data to send you , I have loads that work very well in my 20" 1 in 16 twist barrel and loads that work well in a 14" 1 in 12 barrel .

As for the 17 brass , trying to bring it back to 218 Bee may be next to impossable as the cases have been moved a ton to make the 17 and will also be work hardened , you may be able to Annell them to help some , but I dought it .

Check Midsouth and Midway , Win brass for the Bee was only about $25 a 100 when I got some awhile back .

stimpy

[GameHauler]

Thanks Stimpy
I have no idea what the twist is
Its a factory 12" octagon barrel.
Maybe you can tale me.

I really did not think I could bring the brass back
thats why I was hoping I could trade it
(EDITED)

Thanks

[LaOtto222]

To measure the twist rate - Get a TIGHT fitting patch on a good cleaning rod (the kind that has a ball bearing handle). Mark the rod so you know how much it turns in the barrel as a reference point. Now push the rod (with patch) into the barrel with your mark at a good point to count the revolutions from and note how much the rod turns as it goes through the barrel. Face the barrel straight down on a board and have the barrel clean and oiled (so the patch does not drag or hang up). Since you have a 12" barrel you will get some where around 1 revolution. If you are barely short of 1 revolution you will have a 1 - 12" twist ( 12" - chamber length). If it is short of 1 revolution (about 7/8) you will have a 1 - 14" twist and if it only gets around 3/4 of a revolution you will have a 1 - 16" twist. I have an older 10" octagon 22 hornet barrel. It is a 1 - 14" twist and likes 45 grain bullets. Good Luck and Good Shooting

[Reed1911]

4227 is a great powder for the Bee, as is H1110/W296 and Lil Gun. Sent you a PM on the .17 AB brass

[stimpylu32]

GH

PM coming your way with loads . 

stimpy

[GameHauler]

Thanks everyone.
I went out Sunday and fireformed
50 7-30 Waters rounds and had a blast.
Looking forward to the Bee to improve my skills
at a reduced price as compared to the Waters.
Mike