I had a boat paddle stocked M77 MK II in 280 and I think it had a 1 in 10 twist, but I read somewhere the newer Hawkeye's have a 1 in 9.5 twist. The new Ruger African in 280 AI has a 1 in 8.5 twist. I've also read that some rifles that have a 1 in 10 twist tend to shoot 150 grain bullets better than 140's or 160's. Garry Sitton (RIP) wrote about it years ago. The only way I could get non nickle plated cases was to buy Fed loaded ammo and then handload them. Rem and Win cases are plated, or at least they used to be.
Great cartridge, I really should get another one...
