I built a 223 off of an old 7mm Mag i had given to me. The rifle in question has a 1-12 twist Criterion stainless varmint contour barrel "properly broke in", Recoil lug from Northland, a Vortex Crossfire scope, Ultimate Varmint stock, I loaded some test ammo today using Varget powder from 25 to 26.5 grains in .5 grain incriments on top of 40 grain v-max bullets, all rounds were loaded .03 off the lands. The best group I could get at 100 yards was 1 3/4". I used some 50 grain V-Maxes my buddy gave me and they shot quite a bit better. If anyone shoots a 1-12 twist 223 and you have any loads that work for you im open to any advice. Ive read on here that 52 grain bullets work well with the 1-12 twist but didnt see what powder they were using. I like the speed of the 40's but if i cant hit anything its kinda useless lol. Thanks in advance for any advice