Wanting to stay with a single-shot rifle to use in both our 200m 'steel' target match (off-hand) and in our 600yd F-Class shooting, was pleased to see Ruger offer the No.1V (26" varmint weight barrel) in .223R with an 8" twist to allow one to shoot the 'standard' 80/77gr long-range bullets (and lighter for shorter distances). However, as Charles (bohemianway) warned me, Ruger was saying the barrels were a 9" twist and not the 8" that was being listed by the retailers. I further checked with Lipsey's, the distributor for the Ruger No.1 and was told they would check with Ruger see what was "the truth", as they had ordered an 8" twist and assumed that is what they got. Ruger confirmed that the barrels are a 9" twist. However, they have agreed to rebarrel with a new 26" varmint-weight barrel in an 8" twist. Was given an RMA and an estimated 2-3wk turn-around for the new barrel. If it all works out, then I'll be pleased and will be happy with both Ruger's and Lipsey's response. Nice when folks step up and take responsibility for their actions. Especially these days when it is never "our fault". Will report back after the fact and see how it goes. And, thanks to Charles for letting me know about this. I would likely have wasted several weeks trying to figure out why my 80/77gr loads would not work in the 9" twist.

Thanks, Stu. In talking to Ruger their first suggestion was that I shoot 75gr Hornady bullets. My response was that I wanted what I paid for. Zero argument on their part. I want the ability to shoot the latest & greatest Berger, Sierra, Hornady or whomever's match bullets. So an 8" twist (or faster) is needed. If it doesn't shoot with the proper twist I'm thinking that 1V-weight barrel might just be perfect for a 32-40 rebore. Will keep you posted.