I recently bought a Used Savage model 12 bench rest in 6.5x284. After it arrived I cleaned it and started to set up some test cartridges. I normally set my COAL at .003-.005 off the lands. For this i am using Hornady 140 grain ELDx. The closest I could get was about .3 from the lamds and the bullet is so far out, it won’t stay in the case which is a definite no go. I am thinking this barrel is shot out, but I have no experience with this cartridge or this rifle.

I am am looking for thoughts and recommendations on this. Is this normal, is it safe if if I go with recommended COAL, if barrel is shot out barrel recommendations.


thanks in advance.