Joe,
According to Rice the twist is 1-48. 6 groves, round bottom at .016 deep.
Rice recommends a starting point of 30 to 50 grains 3-F
a 390 ball and starting with patching of .016 - .018
So that's where I started knowing that each barrel will like what it will like.
To date I've tried all that taking the powder up to 65 grains, with pillow ticking from .018 up to .020, Blue denim at .022 and white denim at .023 plus 395 balls.
Picking up my fired patching, the white denim is holding up best and showing the best groups.
My next step will be to test different amounts of patch lube then go back and re-check the powder charge.
Then I have to see where she hits at 50-75-and 100 yards. All that before I even think about adjusting the sights.
The one thing I did not do that I normally will was lap the barrel with a tight patch and JB bore paste before shooting it. Everyone told me that is not necessary for Rice Barrels.
I have custom match grade barrels on some of my centerfire rifles and I always start with what the barrel makers recommend. If for no other reason, so I will be on the same page as the maker should problems arise down the road.
This is my first Rice barrel and I have high expectations because of having to shoot against so many of them at the monthly matches with the Dallas Muzzleloading Gun Club.
