My first Savage was a 12 BVSS in 223. Yes, it's a 9 twist. The best shooting factory ammo I found was American Eagle Tipped Varmint 50 gr.
Federal has since changed that load, reducing the velocity and I can't attest to how accurate it is compared to last years. The 69 gr SMK loaded Australian Outback does indeed shoot well, and you can find it pretty cheap at Cabelas when it's on sale.