I just received my new Model 12 LRPV chambered in .223 with a 1:7 twist. So yesterday I decided to see how long of cartridge with a 80 gr SMK would chamber. So I made up a dummy round to 2.50 and it wouldn't chamber so I reduced it to 2.45 no go so I reduced it again to 2.40 and finally all the way to 2.30. The bolt would close but wouldn't eject without force. Finally I went to 2.26 and the bolt would close but the bullet still had a ring on it from being in the throat. A factory round at 2.20 functioned fine. I bought the gun to shoot heavy bullets so this wasn't going to work. So I checked the twist with a cleaning rod and it came out to a 1:12 twist. The barrel is marked .223 and a 7 and I called Savage with the serial number and it called for a 1:7 twist. So $95 shipping later it's making it's way back to Savage. It must have been built on a Monday. I like the gun and I can't wait to get it back and out shooting.