? on Bore/Groove/Twist for 357 mag.

[muzzleblast]

I am planning to rebarrel a S&W M-19 with a custom 8" barrel. Before spending any $$$ on it, I thought it wise to consult the brain trust here to get bore/groove/twist recommendations. I plan to use it for 50-100 yard shooting with 158 - 175 grain cast bullets. To throw out some numbers, I am thinking .355 bore with .358 groove (4 land) with 1:15 twist. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

[Groo]

Groo here
First question ... Why? Is there something wrong? To short worn out etc.
How does it shoot now?
I would suggest a faster twist than s&w standard to shoot the heaver bullets[like colt]
For real fun how about a Python barrel [ a Smote].
My Python would hit man sized targets at 300yds with a good load...

[9.3X62AL]

I like the twist rate, but you'll need more rifling "grip" than you'll be getting with lands standing .015" tall. Most rifling profiles in 38 Special/357 Magnum caliber run .357" x .349" or thereabouts (Ruger, S&W) or .355" x .347" (Colt) with land width rough half that of groove width. .004" land height is largely standard, and I consider it a 'minimum' for lead boolit work.

[muzzleblast]

9.3X62AL,

Thank you very much. Insighful answers, like yours, is what makes "Cast Boolits" a useful site... ...and not just another "chat room."


P.S. - Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, Chips and Salsa each rate highy with me!