Some advice please.

[amlevin]

The other day I went to the range to both see how my new stock would perform and check the load that has shown the most promise.

The rifle is a Remington 700 5-R Milspec w/24" bbl.
Stock is B&C "A-5"

Load is Lapua Brass, BR-2 Primer, 43.7 gr Varget, and 175 gr Nosler Custom Comp seated for 2.800" OAL.

Here's the best target of the day, after I got the feel of the stock and the comb adjusted.

Weather was great. Early morning, 60 degrees, ZERO wind. After shot #1 and #2, I focused on my position (bench, Caldwell Rock, SR bag), making sure that my rear bag was properly aligned and the rifle sitting naturally dead center on the target.

Needless to say I was very pleased with #3, #4, and #5 shots.

These were the last rounds of this load I had for the day so I didn't have any more to verify the results or see if I could get rid of the "fliers".

The question, should I continue with this load or are only three shots sufficient? BTW, these shots were taken at 300 yards. On my scope they missed the center of the bull by "2 clicks up and 1 click right" (scope is a NF NXS w/1/8 moa increments on turrets).

 

[Alex Wheeler]

Unless you are trying to find a load that works cold bore, I would shoot some fouwlers before the group. I would never expect the first five shots to make a great group at 300. I think it shot very well.

 

[K22]

My rule of thumb is when I get tight clustering of three shots in a five shot group as you did, I continue to test since the load seems to have potential. Also, when evaluating a particular load's capability I test from a fouled barrel (at least 3 shots).

I also do all my load testing at 100 yards to minimize the affects of shooter error. Any shooter error is magnified the greater the distance.

Make sure you take your time, don't rush the testing and try to concentrate on all the fundamentals especially trigger pull and follow through. Make sure that the rifle is not canted and level for each shot.