UPDATE:
Still well below my expectations. I was able to use the rifle and take a mule deer and spike whitetail, the groups were "good enough" for that BUT this rifle refuses to shoot well consistently.
The rifle still throws weird groups beyond 2-3 shots that are not acceptable and often 2".
After 200+ rounds, dozens of test trips to my range, trying 4831SC & H1000.. charge ladders, jump testing, bedding, etc, etc. I'm beginning to think the barrel has issues. I think this because it will drive tacks, BUT only going slow! Slow as in a 160gr at 2740 fps.
In starting over on testing, again, I learned it will put 5 in a 1/2" (ragged hole) but only on the slow end of the ladders. My 708 can do this
… didn't build a 280AI to do what my 708 already does.
The barrel is a 22" 1:8 varmint barrel and it will hit 2900fps with the 160s without pressure. The load I hunted with ran 2900, so it has good speed.
Every time I try to speed it up, it starts spraying and double grouping. I would be satisfied with 2850. BTW the SDs are great, 10-16. Using Peterson brass and Nosler 160 Accubonds (on my 4th box attempting to tune
)
My expectations are realistic, 5 shot groups in .750" or even consistently 1" will do for my hunting distances, but not going to accept 1.5". I own 2 Shilens in 308 and 708, both are capable of this. This barrel is my first from McCowen.
At this point I'm considering just ordering another Shilen vs continuing to pour money into powder and lead. At some point I have to ask myself "how much time and money do I keep dumping into components?"
What is the definition of insanity?
Thoughts?
let's see if this holds up.
