So, next up is a 35-30/30 project. I have read several good threads in the archives that have been helpful in making this decision. Based on what I have been reading, hand-loading in an SB2 rifle can deliver up to the bottom edge (where recoil would back me off anyway) of 375 Win performance and can more comfortably exceed factory 35 Rem performance. I see this as rounding out my rifle portfolio (for the time being) with my sporterized Swedish Mauser as my "long" range rifle, the 35-30/30 Handi and Marlin 336 30-30 Texan as my 200 - 100 yard rifles, and my 45LC/454 Handi as my short range Thumper.
I plan on this one being a real simple woods rifle, open sights or Williams peep sight, BC stock or a straight grip and Schnabel forend from Gunstocks. I will send a 30-30 barrel to JES for the rebore but I have two questions that I am hoping you might be able to answer:
First I am unsure about twist rate. 35 Rem and 35 Whelen tend to be 1:16 as far as I can tell, but with a 22" barrel and an interest in shooting heavier (more than 250 gr), probably cast, bullets, I am thinking 1:14 would be better. Is that tight enough in your considered opinion or would 1:12 be more the thing? With open sights, this will be 150 yards rifle maybe 200, so loaded to Handi level velocities and staying at 300 gr and under 1:14 just seems right.
Second, I don't understand grooves. Jesse offers 3, 4 or 5 groove rifling. I don't know what to ask for. Your explanation would be helpful.