View Full Version : Barrel length advice
Bill Watson
04-11-2002, 17:50
I've been reading the stuff here over and I wish I would've known about this board before. Probably would've saved me money. O well.
I just bought a Stainless Mini Ranch and a 1:10 BlackStar AccuMax II blank.
I shipped the whole mess off to Accuracy Systems Inc for pretty much the works. I'm going to keep the barrel at .750 OD.
I'm going to use it for hunting in the Adirondacks and so want it for primarily close to medium shots with 50 and 64 grain moly bullets(or thereabouts depending on performance).
Can I get some barrel length preferences?
Thanks,
Bill
cajungeo
04-11-2002, 19:44
Bill welcome, sorry I don't have any practical experience with match/ bull barrels, but I have read many tests, and articles on this subject. One thing I'm confident in, is accuracy, at medium to close range (200 yds or less) isn't affected by barrel length as it is in handling. The 20 inch barrel that Accuracy systems offers would be better for long range shooting i.e varmit, but it would be kinda awkward for me to carry around in the woods. Where as a 16 inch would be quicker for close in i.e quick runnen critters. My personal preference would be 18". a nice compromise which wouldn't limit me much on either end. That's just my personal theoretical opinion. There are some guys you will probably hear from with actual experience in this area may or may not offer a different opinion. Hope this helped ya some.
Bill Watson
04-12-2002, 04:42
Thanks for the reply.
That's about what I was thinking, It's been pretty much a tossup between 18 and 20. 22 and 24 sounds nice but I'd need a mule to carry it for me. The woods I hunt are a lot like what you got down there all undergrown but sooner or later I'll need to take a longer shot. Attractive as it sounds I just can't bring myself to go with 16. I heard 16'll get me 1.5" in 100 yards. I won't be happy with over 1 in 100 payin' all the money I am.
Then again I know there's a lot of folks that know more'n me and I ain't too cool to ask for advice.
Bill
Hey Bill -
Those are the guys in Colorado, right?
Let us know how it turns out. I'm getting ready to ship mine off for a barrel job and am still deciding on who to do it.
:D
Bill Watson
04-12-2002, 10:24
You may not want to go the way I'm already committed to.
I'm kind of kicking myself...diminishing returns is a real good way to put it. I should have a piece that'll last the rest of my life and a few generations down the line so long as Hillary is kept at bay. Remember Hillary? I'm still dealing with that embarrasment.
I just shipped my Mini yesterday and BlackStar is shipping the barrel hopefully today.
It'll be about 5 weeks before I get a finished product.
I've been talking to Carl at Accuracy. I'm pretty confident so far.
I will keep y'all informed.
Bill
Diminishing returns is what rifle accuracy is all about!:)
The question is where do you stop?
Me, I like accurate rifles, and am will to spend right up to the edge. So, I don't have problem dropping $600 for the treatment, if it works. (you should see what I put into my hunting rifles :o )
Are you doing just the barrel?
What about the gas block and trigger?
Do they glass bed the action?
Bill Watson
04-12-2002, 11:38
After it's all said and done I'll be glad I'm dumping all this cash.
1" in 100 yards is the worst I'll go. And its costing me.
After talking with Carl at Accuracy and hearing from somebody who's done business with them I'm pretty confident they'll do it right.
I'm getting pretty much the works done.
Barrel installation, MuzzleBrake, Over size Gas block(.750), Gas block bushing, Trigger job, Front night sight, Rear sight.
I'm not doing the stock now. I've got a local guy for that.
Everything just got shipped yesterday and today.
I'll let you know in about 5 weeks.
Bill
Gunrunner 12 made a comment in the 10/22 forum that .22 rimfire reaches its maximum velocity in a 16 inch barrel. Does anyone know what length is needed for 223/5.56 to reach its maximum velocity? Thanks
-Grinch
Bill Watson
04-12-2002, 14:44
There's the question I originally signed up for worded correctly.
cajungeo
04-12-2002, 16:02
Bill, here is the results of my measurements, I loaded some 55 gr BT with 28.1 gr of BLC-2 powder, which yields 3300fps out of a 26" barrel, but out of my mini with a 18" barrel, I measured 3047 fps. a loss of 253 fps. A diff in energy at 200 yds. of 847 ft-lb to 644 ft-lb. There are some other variables such as gas op versus bolt gun, Seating depth of bullet ect. that figure in.
Bill Watson
04-12-2002, 16:57
Thanks.
It took me a minute to digest that.
This is stuff I need to learn....Bill
Bill Watson
04-12-2002, 17:48
Reloading in general.
Opps- I just meant to desribe in other terms what Cajun was saying, thought it might make better sense.
BTW - I'd go with 18 inches.;)
cajungeo
04-12-2002, 18:04
djskit, it looks that way if its a linear thing, and not exponential. We need a third reading for a definitive answer. I'm leaning on the linear.
Bill Watson
04-12-2002, 20:13
I'd like to go 18". Be easier on this fat old man in the weeds. Any experience with accuracy? I'm scared of over 1" in 100 yard groups and want way better.
Hey Cajun
FWIW - http://www.ballisticards.com/faq.htm
Not sure who these people are...
but it looks like this is consistant with your results.
:beer:
cajungeo
04-13-2002, 12:54
Thanks djskit, I was looking for some backup, but couldn't find any. When I get my target/varmint rifle, I'm gonna get me one of these. They are way cool! http://www.allisontool.com/pathimg.html Only $18. They also custom make em for any thing you have. Check it out.
Bill Watson
04-13-2002, 14:38
Anybody know any hard to find parts places?
I saw in a post in here somewhere about mini-14 high mount rings. It had a link to brownells. I went to it and Ranch rifle see through rings were there. The sight said none in stock but they'll e-mail me when they come in. I did get the catalog #.
Thanks,
Bill
What is the length of the factory mini 14 barrel?
Bill Watson
04-13-2002, 16:08
My ranch was 181/2"
cajungeo
04-13-2002, 17:45
The thing about the high ring mounts, is you loose your cheek weld, your accuracy, and speed of target acquisition will suffer especially on moving targets i.e. running critters.
Bill Watson
04-13-2002, 18:13
My brother in law had 'em on an old 30-30. I liked 'em but would keep your advice in mind before buying any. If I can find any.
Bill Watson
04-13-2002, 19:11
I'm getting a 3 blade tactical front sight middle blade made out of Tritium. Shines at night like the stuff in your watch. I've got my 11-87 set up with fiber optic sights. Great in the gloomy ass old woods and I've been sold on lighted sighting for a long time.
You're killin' me saying high mounts're no good.
nellybell
04-13-2002, 20:41
I'm using Millett angle lock high stainless.They work good and windage is
very adj.They're holding a 6x24-40.I bet you think I'm chasin you huh,
? {bg at rugerforum.com}
Bill Watson
04-13-2002, 21:05
hey bg.
Thanks for telling me about it here. Its a great board and I'm learning a lot.
cajungeo
04-13-2002, 21:13
Sorry Bill, I didn't mean for it to seem that way, I should have added, its a personal preference thing. If you used them before, and like em, then go for it. I used them before, and didn't. I do like the idea of night sights.
Bill Watson
04-13-2002, 21:47
Thanks for telling me. That's why I'm here. I tried and liked the 2 shots I took with high mounts twenty years ago and thought they'd be good now. The guy who told you they suck shot a thousand rounds with 'em and knows better. Can't beat experience.
Bill Watson
04-14-2002, 05:55
......and further
a couple of you may have been wondering why I'm spending all this $ for the perfect mini when I'm obviously a custom rifle beginner.
Easy. I'm between women.
I'm going to do a .308, too.
cajungeo
04-14-2002, 10:40
Bill, its been my experience that your guns will be with ya a lot longer than a woman! And the most expensive gun you can buy is way, way cheaper than any woman ( maby not always as much fun though). I want to do a .308 also, but that's another day, and another forum.
Bill Watson
04-14-2002, 11:45
This mini-14 project has to be done correctly first. Might even take another between women cycles before I start the .308. I'm not quite ready for steady bitching again yet so I'll probably do the .308. Shotgun project was first. That was last cycle.
Up here in Yankeeville we have to use a shotgun with slugs for deer/bear with the exception of the Adirondacks and a little patch down by Binghamton. Rifle or shotgun there.
Although I've been in the Adirondacks more and more using a rifle, Shotgun use is prevalent with me and to me is more useful....If setup right. I set mine up right. Way more practical for me to do the shotgun first.
Ridge Runner
04-20-2002, 19:39
I have 2 custom ARS mini's, they have walther barrels on them therefore my 20" 6mm PPC shoots as fast as most 22's and some 24" due to the broach rifleing, they also pick up less fouling. I will admit the 20" is more of a pleasure to carry than the 24" mini-14.
RR
Bill Watson
04-21-2002, 08:27
Hey Ridgerunner,
Sounds like you did what I'm doing and, Thank God, you sound happy you did.
I bought an Accumax II blank and sent it and my stainless Ranch to Accuracy Systems Inc. in Colorado for conversion to 20", .750" O.D. along with the works.
It's killin' me waiting for my mini.
Bill
Bill Watson
05-13-2002, 18:08
I called my gunsmith today and was told I would have to wait another 10 days past what I was expecting due to the amount of business they've got.
It's killing me waiting but I figure they wouldn't be busy if their work wasn't good.
At least I'm set for turkey and I can go out for them now.
nellybell
05-13-2002, 23:08
Bill did you get yer rifle back from Co. yet? I'm lookin forward to
your comments on the work and accuracy from this weapon.I
took mine out last week.Been around a month or more since
I've shot it. I mostly use Black hills moly 62 grainers. This time I
tried some of the Black Hills V 50 grain rnds,and must admit I am
probably a new fan of em.I was able to nail coke cans in the
top and bottom easy out to around 175 yrds.I believe the Shilen
barrel is finally getting broke in.Well anyway please post when
you receive your rifle.I'd sure like to hear how it comes out.bg
[over at rugerfroum]
Bill Watson
05-14-2002, 05:09
I won't get mine for a few more weeks. I talked to Carl at Accuracy Inc yesterday and he said they've got so much work that everybody waiting for something from them got put back by about 10 days. Carl is cool.
O well, it's turkey season so I've got something to do.
I keep hearing people saying how great Black Hills ammo is. I will be trying an assortment of it but I don't know about hollow points. I may be getting into match shooting later but for now I prefer soft points for the hunting I do. I think I'll be going more towards the Winchester 50 gr. and 64 gr. moly's.
I'll be posting all my results after I get mine and take it out.
cajungeo
05-15-2002, 19:30
Bill you will probably be able to shoot well, more different kinds of ammo than we can with our stock mini's, but I think Accuracy sysem will also give you a list of recommended ammo for best accuracy? I think I read that in an article. I am thinking of going your route after I shoot out my barrel. Am anxious to see how yours turns out.
Bill Watson
05-15-2002, 20:24
Me too.
Got a little bad news today. I was looking at benchrest.com and a bunch of long range guys really don't like blackstar barrels.
'Course you don't shoot .223 rems for long range and there were guys there who thought blackstars were good but I hope I didn't crap and fall back in it.
So you know, everybody who rated barrels at benchrest that I read said Krieger barrels are the ones. I wish I'd have known about that site before I comitted but mine'll be fine.
I'll look at the Kriegers a little better before I do the .308 though.
nellybell
05-16-2002, 00:58
Bill I believe you have little to be concerned with.I'm sure if the
folks at Accuracy had a issue with the Blackstar,they would
have mentioned it by now.I'm sure your rifle will work out fine.
I know you'll be very happy to get it back.I saw in the newest
issue of Guns & Ammo an ad for "Shooting"magazine.On the
cover of the issue in the ad was a mini-14 like the one Accuracy builds.Under the rifle was the title"Make your mini a tack-driver"
The rifle looked just like the ones in Co.Anyway It will be back
home to you soon.I am going to try some of the PMC BHTP in
62 grain this weekend.I'm sure glad I put the Blackhawk ck pc
on comb.Sure makes looking into the scope with high rings a lot
nicer.bg
Bill Watson
05-16-2002, 05:03
I'm not really too concerned about blackstars not being the favorite of the guys at that site. They're shooting 1000+ yards and talking from that standpoint. I could probably mount a barrel made out of an old piece of gas line for the 100 - 400 yard range minis do.
That and getting my blackstar on sale makes me feel pretty good about it.
I just wanted George to know for what he builds.
When I build my next one it'll be for much longer ranges and I'll be a lot more concerned with those long range guy's opinions.
Bill
cajungeo
05-16-2002, 19:19
Bill, your sweet mini will be back in your arms soon. She will look sweet, and shoot sweeter. There are always some opinionated people that will say what you have is crap, and what they have is the best. I've had people tell me penzoil motor oil is crap, they would never use it. I've had 3 cars I've used nothing, but penzoil in them, and traded them off with over 200,000 miles each. They still ran smooth, and burned no oil, only the seat covers were crap. So don't pay too much attention to those dudes, I see it on the golf course all the time, some duffer slicing 45 degrees into the next fairway, cussing out his clubs for his own shortcomings. Fear not, for all is well that ends well.
nellybell
05-16-2002, 23:19
Yea 1000 yrds is a ways.I made the mistake of stopping
by a Barrett 50cal. booth.I got to tell ya,I'm really thinking
of getting one if I can find a decent price.Probably used.
I've talked to John Brutt over at the Fifty Cal Shooting Club.
He and many others were at the hearings here in Cal,in
regards to the commies up in Sacramento trying to outlaw
the big gun.After a huge phone,fax,and mail blitz by pro
gunners the bill died.Thats how I hooked up with the Fifties.
I can't hardly see a 1000 yrds anymore so I don't know if
I'll jump or not....bg
Bill Watson
05-17-2002, 05:04
Had to say it, didn't you?
Now I gotta go around not able to get .50's out of my mind for days. I just got over thinking about 'em. Being a hunter makes me realize there's nothing I can do with the damn things except dump a load o' cash. I'd maybe like to start match shooting someday but I'm not there yet.
I feel for you guys out west, can't do this and can't do that.
C'mon Gray, leave me alone and go chase a crook.
'Course NY state has a hillarhoid on it's backside. I still can't believe she got in and, further, can't believe people here still support her after hearing about the crap she pulls.
Takes a village, my ass.
Of course I voted for her opponent, Lazio and am embarrassed to have her representing me in the senate. I can't wait 'til she runs for president so she gets the hell outta here. She'll lose and still be out of NY, what a great thought.
Bill
Bill Watson
05-20-2002, 06:39
OK, subject change. I can't talk about people who know better than me how I should live my life without being miserable all day. If you believe all that politically correct crap instead of listening to the good sense God gave you you'll be trying stuff you know is wrong.
Excuse me, WRONG.
I took the day off today and so I've got time to update y'all. I've been talking to some of the good long range guys over at benchrest.com. Most of what I've seen posted there is from decent, helpful folks but there are a few who are better than anybody else. Just ask 'em. Then ask yourself why you're talking to fools. I've been assured that Blackstars are the same as other top quality barrels accuracywise, no better, no worse. I figured as much and since Blackstars are made of the new 17-4 stainless and supposed to last much longer I feel a lot better. I hate sounding like a commercial but Blackstars are on sale now. I got mine shipped for $260.00.
I've got a lot to learn before I start any long range projects. These boards are a great educational tool for me and I'll keep posting anything new that I learn along the way here.
Bill
cajungeo
05-20-2002, 17:49
Bill, Thanks for the web address i.e Benchrest. I put it my favorite pile for later use, when I get my new .308.
Bill Watson
05-20-2002, 19:32
No problem.
After looking at posts there I'm not sure about .308's any more.
It'd be nice if all the decisions I make were like this.
Here's another one I got from a guy at benchrest.
http://www.longrangehunting.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi
Bill
cajungeo
05-20-2002, 20:28
Thanks again Bill. There is so much to learn, and so little time.
Bill Watson
05-21-2002, 05:05
I jumped into the mini project a little too soon. I should have learned more before committing the 2 grand this has cost me. As it turns out I went the right way but I'm finding this out after the fact. What a lesson. It could have easily gone the other way and I'd have been screwed. Thanks to everybody here for what I did pick up before I spent my cash. I will be doing way more research before I do a long range project. I don't want to be surprised with a piece of crap after investing so there's always enough time. I'll post whatever I learn that's relevant.
Bill
nellybell
05-22-2002, 01:47
Bill,I knew if I just kinda dropped the 50 cal.thing on ya,
you might get a lil rush.Man I got to say those things are
awesome.As far as those that have to show their a$$
to someone who is new to a sport or hobby and happens
to ck out a new site,well it just sorta puts a dent in an other-
wise decent site.I figure 99.9% of folks at gun sites are pretty
cool,but the other % is like starting out late for work and
finding out the tire went flat the nite before.I'm sure you know
what I'm sayin,a pain in the ole keyster.The mini has cost you
a small fortune,however it is being done right,will be a fine
shooter,and a one of a kind.When I put mine together I was
guessin and prayin it would shoot a lot better that factory.It
does,but I also spendt a lot of dough in asprins and tums,
worrying it would come out all whack.It will be the last I do.
I learned a few things,the most important makin sure the
gunsmith knows what he doing and watch out that he or
they don't stick it to price-wise.This I found out the hard
way on mine when I had the muzzle brake installed on the
Shilen barrel.Oh well nough rant.By the way,are you gettin
a little anxious? Can you hear the click of the mag seating
in the receiver? Hear the op-rod fly closed? Man I'm sorry
I shouldn't do this to ya.I ain't right and I'm being a jerk.
[But I just couldn't resist...bg]
Bill Watson
05-22-2002, 04:59
OK BG, You're a good guy but you asked for it. It ain't funny all decent people can't do this but if you'll go to www.fire-balls.com (http://www.fire-balls.com), click on the shortcut "rapid fire devices" on the left hand side and once at TAC Triggers click on the blue word "video" you'll see a toy I really have no use for and probably won't get. But I could. Nobody's a dog like I'm a dog.
nellybell
05-22-2002, 17:55
Ah,bill.Well I guess I deserved that.That is an awesome vid.
I wonder what barrel life with one of those is? I have learned
one thing.Not to tease prospective owners of custom mini's
who live in N.Y. I live,well survive,in the PRoK and woke up
to this.What goes around comes around,huh? ck it out...bg
http://www.usnewswire.com/topnews/first/0521-147.html
Bill Watson
05-22-2002, 18:41
Well, I got halfway through the second paragraph of that one before running to the head puking. Damn shame they can't deal with the bad guys and leave us be. I was stationed at Treasure Island in the bay and then at NTC down in dago with an apartment on Abbott St in Ocean Beach. That was great and something I'll never forget but if I decide to move again I think I'd hafta skip California. If it's not murdering bastards it's self serving politicos. Like here but just a little more so. Keep a stiff upper lip there Bg, political correctness is artificial and nothing unnatural can stand the test of time. If only we can outlive this nonsense.
nellybell
05-27-2002, 20:07
Jeez Bill I got this weird box in the mail today.UPS man says
it's for me.I look at the label,says" Accuracy Sys Inc,Co
ship to; B.Watson,N.Y N.Y c/o BG,Southern Ca"! Now
what the heck do ya think this is? The box is kinda
long,like a bat or tube or maybe even a gun might fit
inside.Kinda heavy too.Sorta smells like gun-oil,but I'm
not sure.Well I guess I'll just put it over in the corner
until ole Bill gets ahold of me and lets me know what
I can do with it or where I can put it....
Sorry Bill I know I shouldn't do stuff like this,but I just
finished a couple of burgers,chips and beer with some
buddies and thought."Um,Maybe I ought to give Bill a
holler,see what he's up to..." I know yer as giddy as
a feller that just found out that electin Hillary really
was only a dream,waiting for that bad-a$$ mini to show.
I 'm sure it will git there real soon.I got sick of the Winter
Camo job on my stock,so I stripped it and shot it with
some of that automotive splatter paint you see in trunks.
It's base is grey with white and black.It came out pretty
nice and gives me a semi-rough finish which works great
for gripping and such.[At least that's what my ole eyes
and about 5 Bud Lites are seein...]
Well,I hope you had a decent holiday and didn't get
into too much trouble.Sun's been out and been having
nice days out here on the left coast.Only thing is my
week-ends and holidays have turned into "Honey-do"
days.You know,Honey do this,Honey do that...Oh boy...
Later,bg
[Oh,by the way I really have had some nice shots with
Black Hills V-max moly 50 grainer's.I still like the moly
62's but those V-max's are hard to beat at least for
my ole mini...]
Bill Watson
05-28-2002, 16:15
Carl told me last week that it should ship this week. I'm expecting it next week.
killin' me.
Bill Watson
05-31-2002, 17:37
I called Carl today and he said it shipped today.
hoopdedoo. I broke out a couple venison steaks.
He said everything came out real well and took a couple shots to check the mechanicals but that I'd have to do the accuracy checks. O No, I'm gonna hafta shoot it? Thousands of times? OK, if I have to.
I asked him how the 17-4 stainless was to work with and he said it's real tough on tools and he was going to have to add a surcharge when I sent him another one. Blackstar's literature as Rick Stouse puts it says 17-4 is tougher to work with but didn't say it was a toolkiller. From what Carl said today I believe he deserves a surcharge. Gotta say though, it makes me better believe Rick when he claims these barrels last 3 or 4 times as long as others.
Next week. Wednesday?
nellybell
05-31-2002, 21:09
That be good news,Bill.Having worked with stainless panels
for Great Dane Trailers,I can atest to the fact thru a HUGE
pile of wasted drill bits,that stainless is TOUGH.I'm looking
forward to your report on getting this bad boy zeroed and
ready for some serious shootin.Of course if your're having
trouble with the zero process,I'll take it off yer hands and
get it straight for ya.I figure it'll take around a year to get
it done,however....bg
Bill Watson
06-01-2002, 07:35
please read the following response loudly
HA
Bill Watson
06-05-2002, 16:56
wednesday my butt.
musta got shipped by way of borneo.
Hey Bill -
Did you get a tracking number for it? UPS website is really slick how you can get a play-by-play of were your package is.
nellybell
06-05-2002, 23:28
Bill it'll get to ya probably Thur or Fri.I didn't know CO
was sending it by UPS. I would think it would of been easier
to just throw 103 octane on the fire for an instant burn,that go
thru the UPS delivery burn.I'm surprised he didn't FED EX it.
Well let us know when it comes in,and how it came out.You
did hear that the price of a stamp was going up,maybe UPS
took that to heart.[I guess you see that my relation with UPS
and it's delivery system is far from a respectful relationship.I
expect the item to be delivered in a decent time frame and
in one pc,they however have a different and disturbing agenda..
At least as far as the majority of items I've ordered in the past]
bg
Bill Watson
06-06-2002, 04:28
I haven't asked for a tracking number yet. The shipping time's not yet that much over what I expected. I'll get the number and check it out if it's not here by tomorrow.
Dreadful thought.
I like to think I'm a patient man but now I'm like a 5 year old waitin' on Christmas.
they however have a different and disturbing agenda
I was just guessing on the UPS thing -
But what the heck are you talking about??
Have they switched to black helicopters or something?:confused:
Hey Bill -
I'm especially interested in that scatter gun front sight thing that they put on these rifles. I'm debating whether or not to use that or have a regular fron sight drilled and tapped on my new heavy barrel I have not yet gotten yet.
nellybell
06-06-2002, 16:20
What I'm refering to is a number of aftermarket parts for my
truck and getting here much later than they should have and
the box's being torn up.Thanks to Jeg's and Summit Racing
these parts where replaced.Now this hasn't happened to me
but at another site,the metion of UPS and firearm parts/long
guns will bring up many a sad tale.CMP who is the Gov's
source for selling M-1 Garands and 03's use only FED EX.
There are many stories of weapons and parts being destroyed
and lost via UPS.I've not had any weapons shipped UPS,
however,when it comes to my trk and parts for it,I either pay
for FED EX or take a bottle of Tums and go UPS.With all respect
to this site,you might visit this other site.Once there look over
the guntalk forum and the Garand M-1-M-14 forums.Dick &
Gloria run it and are good folks.
http://www.jouster.com
Bill Watson
06-07-2002, 04:52
I got it.
It's mint. Looks like Carl did a real nice job.
I was a little concerned about the weight being too much for quick shots from a standing position but after playing around with it I see there's no problem.
I had Carl put a matte finish on it to keep it from being a mirror in the woods. I'm happy with that, too. It doesn't shine at all.
The recoil buffer wouldn't let the action lock open at first but now after playing around with that I got it to start locking. It still doesn't want to but it'll get better.
I like the Hogue overmolded stock but you can't bed 'em as epoxy separates the plastic. It fits real tight as is so I don't think bedding it is needed. We'll see.
I'll post results after I get to take it out.
cajungeo
06-07-2002, 14:39
Wow Bill she sounds like a beauty, can't wait for you to try it out!!! I too have a hogue stock, and love it. You can bed your hogue. I did mine. It came out great, and reduced my groups from 2.55" to 1.78", and eliminated the flyers. If you take out your trigger group, and grasp the action giving it a side to side wiggle, this is how much your action/barrel moves under recoil. A movement of .010" will move your bullet 1"at 100 yds. If you are happy with it as is, great, but if not you might consider bedding your action in the hogue stock. I bedded the fiberglass area only, not the rubber. Let us know how she shoots!
nellybell
06-07-2002, 14:42
Excellant news,Bill.Oh boy lock and load.I'm really interested in
how yer new shooter responds.Once you put some rounds
in it,it will lock back just fine.Well it sounds like you're very
pleased with the results.Now off to the range.I'm glad it
panned out for ya.bg
Bill Watson
06-07-2002, 16:39
agony.
I tried every trick of escape I've learned in 48 years. No escape.
My mom moved back from Florida and I'm moving her.
All weekend.
I'm snivelin'.
cajungeo
06-07-2002, 19:51
Life gets in a man's way sometimes.
Satan2655
06-08-2002, 14:22
Originally posted by bg's
What I'm refering to is a number of aftermarket parts for my
truck and getting here much later than they should have and
the box's being torn up.Thanks to Jeg's and Summit Racing
these parts where replaced.Now this hasn't happened to me
but at another site,the metion of UPS and firearm parts/long
guns will bring up many a sad tale.
Ahh yes. UPS bashing and I don't even need to help! :D
eek: Sorry about the doo dee's. I wrote 3 long posts (all the same), and none of them went through, hence the BS post ("Doo Dee's").
Of course my f***ed up post goes through. If this one goes through I will rewrite my original.::(
Found out my problem, posts were too long. These are my first forum posts ever.
I've been anxiously awaiting Bill's update on how his mini-14 shoots after sending it to Accuracy Sys. Inc. I just sent my new Mini-30 there after it's second range session (averaged 5 shot groups of 4 inches at 100 yards - cheap tasco scope, but tight scope mount and rings, and hogue stock - no bedding).
Although I am an avid pistol shooter, this is my first "real" rifle (my .22 lr doesn't count) and wanted it for a learner... plus I love semi-auto's. Later I will get into longer range shooting. I haven't shot my new Remington 700 stainless (laminated stock) 7mm Remington Magnum yet (don't have the heart to take it off of my parents fireplace, plus they live in another state).
ALSO, does the muzzle break enhance the mini-30's accuracy as well? Clark's Customs says it's barrel stabilizer is not effective on the mini-30.
Any other suggestions for accurizing the mini-30?:usa:
Bill Watson
06-12-2002, 14:50
I haven't shot it yet, but when I do everybody'll know.
I've been moving ma. Where'd she get all that stuff?
cajungeo
06-12-2002, 19:37
Scotty, I did the same thing. I wasn't logged in and it kicks it out, so I lost all that hunt n peck. I copy it before I submit it, so if it dosen't take, I just log in, and paste. You also have the option to edit or delete any of your posts, just click on the edit/delete button at bottom of your post.
I was going to suggest a trigger job, and bed the stock, on your thirty, but since you already sent it in I guess ASI will take care of that for ya? I don't know if a muzzle brake will help a thirty or not, but it shure has helped a lot of mini-14 owners on this forum. Another thing is to find out what ammo your mini likes. Each mini is different in what load it likes. My eyes arn't what they used to be so a scope really helps me shoot better. And last, but most important is you mentioned this is your first rifle? Not knowing your background, you might want to read some articles on basic marksmenship, for example developing a consistant cheek weld, squeezing the trigger, breath control, different shooting positions, etc. cause after all we can't take the sand bag with us on a hunt! but then you could use bipods for those long shots. Hope this helps ya.
Thanks for the advice. Although this is my first real rifle, I do practice proper grip/cheek positioning, controled breathing, slow smooth trigger pull and have tried Winchester, Remington and Federal SP's. I've shot larger riflese when I was younger, but that's before I had become a fairly proficient pistol shooter.
I told the gunsmith that on top of whatever he does, I want a trigger job, 20-21 inch barrel, and bedding. Glad to be part of the forum. Thanks again for the suggestions.
nellybell
06-13-2002, 01:16
Scotty, if ya are gonna use a scope with a bell that requires high
rings,you might want to look at putting a ck pc on the comb.I
use a scope that has 48mm objective and I had to install said
rings to keep the scope from hitting the upper barrel shroud.
I found that Blackhawk makes one that I use that fits nice
and gives me just the right height for looking down the pipe.
I use the tactical eye relief ck pc.They have others too.I kinda
wish I got one that would hold a 10 rnd mag,oh well.If you take
a look,just go to the Accs,weapons/rifle dept.I also use the
cleaning kit at the bottom.Mines from Otis.It really is sweet
little kit.bg [p.s.The ck pc looks MUCH better in real life than
the picture.Mines black.]
www.blackhawkindustries.com (http://www.blackhawkindustries.com)
Thanks for the suggestion. Because of the "limited" range of the gun, plus my dad hates scopes (but loves the red dot on my ruger 10/22), I will probably get the Leopold Vari-X III 1.5-5x20mm with illuminated reticle. I won't have to worry about the it getting in the way of the handguard. I'll get a better scope when I start using the bolt gun.:)
Finally got my scope (even though my rifle will be at ASI for 2 months) for my mini-30. Because of prices, I got the Leupold VX-II.
It was $130 less than the V-III. Anybody have experience with the VX (versus the V-II). I'm gonna use it on my 10/22 until my mini comes back.
Bill Watson
07-01-2002, 10:37
I'm back from my Adirondack vacation and I figured I'd do a little posting.
I got to do some shooting and boy, do I have some practicing to do.
I'll be going up to a friend's place who has a range, chrono and benchrests sometime this summer and I'll see if I can post some pictures afterward but for right now I'll just say how it handled in the tight woods.
There aren't any ranges that I know of up there so the first thing was finding a place where I could get some distance.
After searching for a spot for several hours I had to settle for 100 yds. between the trees which meant clearing a lane.
The first thing is that it's just too heavy to shoot freehand with any real accuracy so I bought some Bi-pod shooting sticks that extend out to sitting or standing range and shot from a chair.
I haven't shot off sticks before and think my accuracy will improve with practice. The best I could do was 1.5" groups in 100 yds. for now but I'm not worried about getting that better.
I've got some advice for anybody who decides to get a muzzle brake.
Wear earmuffs. Don't even take one shot without 'em.
It's loud and blows a lotta smoke back in your face.
I shot three kinds of ammo;
Winchester Supreme 40 Gr. silvertips.(Moly's)
Winchester Supreme 50 Gr. Silvertips.(Moly's)
Winchester Supreme 64 Gr. Power Point Plus.(Moly's)
I broke it in as per Carl's recommendation.
The barrel would get warm after 3 or 4 five shot clips shot in quick succession but not enough to cause any problems and cooled off a lot before I got back from my 100 yard strolls.
It felt good and I think it'll be fine for hunting after I get to practice more on the sticks.
nellybell
07-02-2002, 20:57
I take it this was without a scope? If it was that rifle of
your's will be a serious shooter when you scope it,if ya
scope it.That's the bad thing about heavy barrels,they're
heavy.I got to use a bi-pod with mine.I guess now ya
know why they're called muzzle brakes,or like I found
out with the one on mine, ear drum breaks.But they will
tame that jump.Not much of one,but still every little bit
helps.I'm glad you got to fire it,Bill.You waited long enough.
Sounds like a fine rifle.bg
Bill Watson
07-03-2002, 10:33
I brought 160 rounds(mixed) with me but only got to shoot about 60 because I'm an idiot.
I realized I needed but didn't bring earmuffs(idiot) after the first round.
That I needed earmuffs became obvious then but I remained an idiot and kept going. I wasn't going to let a little thing like deafness and even pain get in my way.
I did have to quit after almost 60 rounds because I was wondering if I damaged myself permanently. That and all that noise actually hurt. It's amazing how much this muzzle brake increases noise. I've got ported choke tubes for the 11-87 that aren't that bad and thought this would be about the same. I didn't pay enough attention to advice I'd gotten about this one being LOUD and paid a nasty little price. Idiot.
Well, It took me a few days to get over the ringing and get my hearing back and maybe I'm a little smarter now.
I was told to expect the recoil of about a .22 Mag. My opinion is that the felt recoil for the 40 grainers was under that, the 50's were about that and the 64's were a little over.
Deer hunting with earmuffs. That'll be something.
They'll start calling me the muff hunter. Ain't life grand?
You can hunt with semis in NY state? I just moved back to PA from NC, after not hunting for three years I'd love to take the drive up to NY if I could bring a few of the autoloaders with me.
That would be neat, I assumed that all states were like PA in that you would get a huge fine if caught using them to hunt.
Bill Watson
07-05-2002, 06:59
I've been all through NYS regs and the only things mentioned are that a rifle barrel has to be over 16" and no full auto.
I built mine to be legal according to the Fed's description.
You do know that you can't use any rifle to hunt deer in NYS anywhere but in the Adirondacks and a little patch down around Binghamton.
Thanks for the reply. I have a friend that lives about 45min. from Binhampton, in Dalton PA. I will have to check on it more but if it all looks good then I'll have to go up this season. I will have to look more in the PA books also. I assumed from listening to everyone else that the use of semis in hunting is illegal here mabey it's not I'll have to check.
Thanks again
Bill Watson
07-05-2002, 11:21
Just don't bring a pistol across state lines.
Do us a favor on your way. Run over Hillary.
Good hunting.
Bill Watson
07-06-2002, 17:33
I got another lesson today.
Stinkin' earmuffs. $320.00.
Course that's the sucker line for benchrest guys that have a need to show everybody else up. Radios in 'em and all.
I got a good pair for $30.00 and don't have to talk to anybody.
What a deal.
Gives me an idea of what I'm in for if/when I build a BR piece.
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