.500 S & W Twist Rate - 26" barrel

[Muddyboots]

Anybody have good recommendation for twist rate for the .500 SW in rifle barrel? I've seen 1:16, 1:18 and 1:20. This is for IN setup and I plan on 26" heavy barrel. I want the longer barrel for better weight forward and control for off hand. Not worried about velocity. Looking for balance etc. Added weight won't hurt recoil management either. Probably shooting 350 gr. XTP as primary load. Maybe occasional FTX 300 gr. load from Hornady as well. Would like reason for twist rate if you have one based upon bullet stability etc.
This rig will replace my slug setup for time being if it works out as good as I think it will.
Thanks,
Muddy

[quickdtoo]

Here are a couple links that may help.  If you're shooting factory ammo which is appears that you are since the FTX isn't available to handloaders, be aware that the ammo is made for pistol length barrels and the 26" tube may not work as good as a shorter 18"-22" barrel, just something to consider, although you can always shorten it. 

Tim

http://kwk.us/twist.html

http://accurateshooter.wordpress.com/2008/06/03/calculating-bullet-rpm-spin-rates-and-stability/

[GrampaMike]

TC does or did make a 26" barrel in 500 S&W Mag.  The TC Encore barrel number is 1510 (I think), I would have to look at the box when I get home.  It only came in blue, sorry I also cannot remember the twist rate.

[Muddyboots]

TC makes a .500 SW in the Pro-Hunter Katadhin model with 20" barrel. I want longer barrel for balance and weight forward. I suppose I could check to see what TC is using for the 20" tube and go from there. I will post up response from TC once I get one. I just like heavy weight forward barrels for off hand work and if I am going to go with the .500 SW the extra weight will help no doubt as well. Thanks for help.
Craig

[quickdtoo]

Midway lists the 20" Katahdin barrel as 1:18", FWIW.

Tim

http://www.midwayusa.com/eproductpage.exe/showproduct?saleitemid=897685

[GrampaMike]

Muddy, I checked last night.  The TC production barrel IS a 26" Heavy Blue for the Encore, the Item number IS 1510.  A call/email to TC and they should be able to tell you the twist rate.  I bought mine about 2 years ago, don't know if they still have it, but maybe Ed's contenders still has one.  Mike

[jy951]

i've got an OTT full bull 16 1/2" 500 barrel.  it ballances very well and is still  a bit muzzle heavy.  you might consider a custom barrel if you can't find a t/c barrel.