444 marlin with FTX bullet

goldfacade · September 18, 2009, 08:55 PM

Posted this in the rifle section also, posted it here as the FTX is a component that if worth it I will reload.

I am thinking of trying some 265gr LeverEvolution ammo in my 444. Its an older model with the micro-groove 1-38" twist. I have heard that there are accuracy problems with this ammo with this twist rate, has anyone had any experiences to share?

It shoots the 240gr Remington Express very well, 1 1/2" all day long, hot or cold barrel. I will most likely use this load again this year, but I have some open spaces that stretch out to ~250yds. I let game pass at that distance with this load as it looses to much energy at that distance. Just wondering if the $45 dollar a box ammo would be worth it?

Thanks in advance,
Tom

**Unclenick** · September 19, 2009, 01:02 AM

I would need to know the length of that particular bullet to answer your question with a reasonable certainty. You can call Hornady's toll free number on Monday and as the length? Plug it into my stability and twist calculator which you can download in Excel/Calc format from my file repository here.

flinch444 · September 19, 2009, 10:28 AM

I have never tried the leverevolution ammo, but in my opinion, at 45 bucks a box, its not worth it.

Im not a rich guy, so i refuse to pay that much for ammo.
The last time I bought factory rounds for the 444 was quite a few years ago, the 265gr Hornady light mags were about 20 bucks, and its a very good round, probably the best for factory ammo. This is what I would use if I didnt reload.
I think the only difference between these and the leverevolution bullets, is a plastic tip. I wouldnt expect any added performance to justify over twice the cost.

September 18, 2009, 08:55 PM	#1
goldfacade Member Join Date: July 22, 2008 Location: Central, FL Posts: 90	444 marlin with FTX bullet Posted this in the rifle section also, posted it here as the FTX is a component that if worth it I will reload. I am thinking of trying some 265gr LeverEvolution ammo in my 444. Its an older model with the micro-groove 1-38" twist. I have heard that there are accuracy problems with this ammo with this twist rate, has anyone had any experiences to share? It shoots the 240gr Remington Express very well, 1 1/2" all day long, hot or cold barrel. I will most likely use this load again this year, but I have some open spaces that stretch out to ~250yds. I let game pass at that distance with this load as it looses to much energy at that distance. Just wondering if the $45 dollar a box ammo would be worth it? Thanks in advance, Tom

September 19, 2009, 01:02 AM	#2
Unclenick Staff Join Date: March 4, 2005 Location: Ohio Posts: 21,063	I would need to know the length of that particular bullet to answer your question with a reasonable certainty. You can call Hornady's toll free number on Monday and as the length? Plug it into my stability and twist calculator which you can download in Excel/Calc format from my file repository here. __________________ Gunsite Orange Hat Family Member CMP Certified GSM Master Instructor NRA Certified Rifle Instructor NRA Benefactor Member and Golden Eagle

September 19, 2009, 10:28 AM	#3
flinch444 Member Join Date: August 2, 2007 Location: North Idaho Posts: 27	I have never tried the leverevolution ammo, but in my opinion, at 45 bucks a box, its not worth it. Im not a rich guy, so i refuse to pay that much for ammo. The last time I bought factory rounds for the 444 was quite a few years ago, the 265gr Hornady light mags were about 20 bucks, and its a very good round, probably the best for factory ammo. This is what I would use if I didnt reload. I think the only difference between these and the leverevolution bullets, is a plastic tip. I wouldnt expect any added performance to justify over twice the cost.