MikeMcC said:Besides the builder recommendation, I would also like opinions on whether or not I really need to spend the premium dollars for a custom built .22 centerfire rifle to get the 1/4" 100 yard accuracy I seek or are there factory rifles that will shoot as good with developed hand-loads?
FWIW- A 0.2500" group Aggregate ( five 5 shot groups averaged) in Registered BR Competition usually will get you in the upper third of the field at worst....and in some cases a win. This is shooting against seasoned competitors with the most accurate short range rifles in the world using the worlds most accurate cartridge and components, sophisticated rest equipment, and a sea of wind monitoring flags.
Now, anyone still want to claim their factory rifle shoots 1/4" all the time?
Seasoned competitors can shoot groups in the 0.0's on occasion, but it is an anomaly.....we don't claim our rifles are 0.0" 100 yard accurate. The funny thing that happens with the guy who wins the "small group" award is that they never finish in the running.......they achieved that group because they were at the ragged edge of their "tune".....and next match (1/2 hr later) with changing conditions their "tune" goes away...usually causing big groups.
So, I ask, how is it possible for Joe Schmo to get 1/4" groups everytime he takes ol' Betsy out (without using any means to monitor conditions), when dyed-in-the-wool BR competitors can't do the same?
You're choice of an Atlas is a good one, and the 22/250 will work for what you intend to do especially if you shoot often and learn wind/mirage effects.....an occasional 1/4" group is possible.....1/4" moa all day long.....No.