Barrel Droop? - scope elevation maxed out at 100yd
First off I will admit this problem is on a Marlin XS7 which is a kissin cousin to the Savage. I frequent here all the time but just don't post much (always learn alot). I have removed Savage barrels and installed Savage barrels so I am familiar with the process and have the correct tools. I have struggled with accuracy issues on the Marlin since day one and what I initally found was the recoil lug off center causing the action to tilt - once I fixed this by lightly tapping into alignment groupings improved dramatically and I have been happy with the accuracy. The problem that has persisted is getting a scope to zero and not be maxed out on adjustment - presently the scope is a Leupold VX1 and to get POI = POA at 100yd all the vertical adjustment was maxed out and it just barely got close to POA - I have used the mirror method to recenter scope and the amount of movement in the scope to distance in inches POI was low initally at 100yd is very close within 1-2". By my calculation I need around .025 shim to account for the 25" or so low at 100yd. I have a 20moa base and some shim stock to add to get me there, but here is the question. Doing some internet searching I came across the phrase "barrel droop" and it got me to thinking about the recoil lug being off center and tappping to adjust to center I referenced earlier. Does anyone have experience with barrel swaps where inadequate torque on the nut will affect the barrel tilting down in the receiver? I have thought about removing the barrel, cleaning threads well, and reinstalling would this be recommended or just torque the nut to +/- 35ft/lbs.? Or Do I just install the 20moa base and try it first?
Barrel Droop? - scope elevation maxed out at 100yd
Just recently I actually had my first experience with my barrel coming loose. I've done 11 barrel jobs and this is the 4th barrel on my current action. The result of the barrel coming loose first appear as my zero changing to 3" low. I re-zeroed and on day 1 of the South Eastern Region Precision Rifle Club Association of the finale I finished in 9th place for the day. On day 2 I dropped 25 places and couldn't hit the broadside of a barn. Way low and way inconsistent all day. I thought I had a scope issue (Vortex Gen II Razor HD 4.5-27x56). Turns out the barrel had finally come loose enough that it was 1. Drooping and shooting low 2. Loose enough to be in a different position for every shot creating inconsistency. I didn't figure it out till almost a month later when I grab the barrel and it spun on the action.
I would suggest a full reinstall on the barrel and nut. Re-headspace and re-torque. It will guarantee, you know if it's a barrel issue or scope issue. Especially if you moved the recoil lug while the barrel was attached.