Charlie-NY
07-24-2022, 01:02 PM
My brother is a relatively new shooter and was looking for his first centerfire rifle. He was primarily interested in shooting paper off the bench. I suggested that he buy a 112 BVSS in .223. Light recoil and cheap ammo were two considerations.
The military ammo shot OK but it sure wasn't something to write home about. I decided to load up a few 50 Z-Max bullets that I have in good supply. Groups shrank immediately. When I checked the actual twist rate with a tight patched jag and a cleaning rod, I came up with a consistent 8.5" twist. I decided to load up a few Sierra 69gr and 77gr SMK bullets. Everything was loaded .012" off the rifling where previous reloads indicated that the rifle preferred.
On the next trip to the range we set up at 200yds. Three different loads shot under .8" @ the 200yd line. I've got to admit; I never expected the bone-stock Savage to shoot that well. Accuracy with this rifle is impressive. We'll be taking it out to 400yds in a few days.
The military ammo shot OK but it sure wasn't something to write home about. I decided to load up a few 50 Z-Max bullets that I have in good supply. Groups shrank immediately. When I checked the actual twist rate with a tight patched jag and a cleaning rod, I came up with a consistent 8.5" twist. I decided to load up a few Sierra 69gr and 77gr SMK bullets. Everything was loaded .012" off the rifling where previous reloads indicated that the rifle preferred.
On the next trip to the range we set up at 200yds. Three different loads shot under .8" @ the 200yd line. I've got to admit; I never expected the bone-stock Savage to shoot that well. Accuracy with this rifle is impressive. We'll be taking it out to 400yds in a few days.