I've been trying different loads for four months in a M-77 Ruger in 7x57. My rifle is an older one, made in the early '80's. Some loads did badly, and some have done reasonably well most of the time.
By reasonably well, I mean I've gotten three or four groups around or under 1.5" with a load, and then for no apparent reason I get a group around 2.5" with the same load.
The bedding was not even in the barrel channel, so I've free floated the barrel. That seemed to help some what.
Also, using a Stoney Point gauge I've found that my rifle has an exceptionally throat, almost a free bore in the chamber. My next loads to try will have the bullets seated about .2" over the recommended length shown in the reloading manuals.
Any other ideas, or any comments are welcome.
By reasonably well, I mean I've gotten three or four groups around or under 1.5" with a load, and then for no apparent reason I get a group around 2.5" with the same load.
The bedding was not even in the barrel channel, so I've free floated the barrel. That seemed to help some what.
Also, using a Stoney Point gauge I've found that my rifle has an exceptionally throat, almost a free bore in the chamber. My next loads to try will have the bullets seated about .2" over the recommended length shown in the reloading manuals.
Any other ideas, or any comments are welcome.