SSG 69 Question

[jaybirdjtski]

Although I've been into firearms for............yikes........50 years I recently purchased my first "tactical" bolt action rifle. It is a P1 version, green stock and was a safe queen, not a mark on it and maybe 20 rds through the barrel. First time out was a disappointment and I suspect that the stock may have warped. The forearm was touching the barrel on one side so I sanded it enough to allow a sheet of paper to pass through but mainly here are the questions!

What can be done to improve the stock? Pillar bedding? And bedding tricks? Sand more space between barrel and forearm? I'm open to just about anything to turn this into a tack-driver.

Any suggestions for attaching a bipod as this early model has no accessory rail?

Are there any gunsmiths that can be recommended as knowing what to do with the SSG 69 rifles to wring out the most accuracy?

I've mostly been into hunting rifles, big game and varmints using my Sako Varmint (and that is a tack-driving machine!) and this is my initial foray into this category. I also shoot military vintage and CMP and have done smallbore position so I have decent enough technique.
Currently I have Federal GM Match in both 175 and 168 grn and figured that I'd shoot this and accumulate the brass. Any recommendations on top quality reloading dies?

Thanks in advance as I am a total newbie and I'm just trying to get a headstart and avoid mistakes!

 

[davidd]

I have yet to see a SSG that didn't shoot the FGMM ammo 1/2MOA @100m.
Are you sure its an issue with the rifle and not the sights/scope?
Mcmillan makes a stock for your rifle
http://www.mcmfamily.com/mcmillan-stocks-tactical-stock-list.php#ssg

 

[flyingbair]

I have several SSG's and they all shoot excellent. When new they came with a test target and were guaranteed to shoot a MOA at 300 meters. They have a 1:12 twist barrel and any 168 gr load will shoot. In regards to the barrel touching the stock on the left hand side, that is normal and recommend not screwing with it. Get the Steyr SSG factory scope rings, a good scope and go shoot it before you try modifying the rifle. Forget the bi-pod and use a backpack and you'll be pleased with the accuracy.

JB

 

[Falcon]

Mine touches the stock too, but focused more on the load development side of things to find it's true potential.

Here's one I'm fond of...

 

[Hopkins]

I sold Steyr rifles when your rifle was produced. Those targets included with each rifle did demonstrate its proof of accuracy. I have a M Professional that has a synthetic stock which is the problem. My rifle may as well be stocked in a trampoline for all of the consistent support it provides the rifle's barreled action. I suggest you invest in Mcmillan stock for your rifle. The SSG stocks of that period were better than the synthetic sporter stocks supplied on hunting rifles then but both are lacking in rigidity which is amplified by the size of the magazine well. The stock problems with these rifles is fairly well noted in various forums. My rifle is accurate as advertised if extreme care is employed in supporting its forearm identically for each shot.

 

[lloydx2]

Might want to take action out of the stock and make sure cleaning solvent hasnt soften stock in the action area. Hopkins nailed it. The stocks are the weak spot.

 

[hogan]

Lots of weak points to the Steyr; in light of what passes for common these days.
The magazine housings are plastic and break,
The barrels are press-fit and cannot be tweaked or gunsmithed,
The scope mount system is limited unless you find a Picatinny rail,
Bolt locking lug design,
The stock.

Had a Pro-M in .30-06 bought in 85 with set trigger. Didn't keep it very long.


You have a nice collectible early tactical-era, fine quality, imported rifle. If you have the matching Kahles scope with elevation cam, you have a very nice piece for a collection. Krico also made some fine tactical rifles in this era. If you expect the Steyr to shoot with a Remington Sendero or PSS, Winchester Heavy Varmint or Sharpshooter that has been "tuned"; you will likely be disappointed.

I would not blow $800+ on a McMillan stock. You have a relatively lightweight and durable tactical rifle; almost a sporter weight. Work on the handload and scope mount angles first. The package you have can be tweaked to perform. Aside from having a competent gunsmith cut off the barrel and tap the receiver you're going to be limited in your options to make this 80s era Steyr perform.

Hope you enjoy your rifle and take the time to find the load that really performs. With a 6x or 10x Kahles or Swarovski scope you have a fine and relatively lightweight precision carry rifle. After you work out the handload equation might pursue offhand shooting with just a sling. Practical rifle shooting is mostly a lost art as every afficionado believes these days they must have "all the right gear" to achieve precision and accuracy. An 18lb rifle will for sure be a stable bullet delivery platform, but is a crew-served weapon in terms of weight and awkwardness.

Enjoy that Steyr, as-is, and accept the challenges it will make on your loading and shooting skill to make it perform!

Good luck!