I've seen this danced around but not really stated. The twist rate on the S&W barrels is set for the 158 grain LSWC. My beat up model 12 will place 3 rounds in a sub 1" group at 20 yards. The faster twist rate on the Colt barrel provides more stabilization at slower speeds. It is theoretically possible to get the same accuracy from a S&W barrel by pushing the bullet faster. That's not desirable for the PPC game as it adds recoil.