22/250 Handi-Rifle Problems

[Pawildman]

My buddy got a new 22/250 Handi-Rifle with SS heavy barrel, and topped it with a Nikon 3x9 scope. The first time he shot it, he was getting sub-inch groups @ 100 yds using Win, factory ammo. We ttok it out the other day, and it wouldn't come close to repeatig itself. Not close. 2" to 3" groups, and then started 2-grouping. We checked everything we could. Mounts were tight, bore was being cleaned with a boresnake between groups, etc., etc. No, we did not let it cool as much as we should have between shots, but I don't think that was the problem, due to the 2-grouping thing, but I could be wrong.
Anyone out there with these guns had the same thing, and how did you fix it, if you did? Thanks for any help----------

[longrifle1000]

I guess my first step would be to change the scope and see what happens. If everything else was the same, wind, ammo, shooting style, scope mounts still tight, that would be my next move. Good luck

[James B]

First off, Make sure to always rest the gun close to the hinge. Make sure the action is closing tight. Try changing the tension on the forearm screw. Some guys slip a rubber O ring over the forend screw to dampen the vibration of the forend. Always pull the trigger the same way every time. They have a transfer bar. If you shoot reloads, be sure that they are not to long. The handi has a short chamber and throat.

For more info check the NEF centerfire site at www.graybeardoutdoors.com.

[Zeak]

The Handi,s tend to shoot better with alittle bit of fouled barrel than a clean one. I have several barrels for a Handi some shoot ok, but have a 7mm08 that still am playing with accuracy. They are what you would call a tinkers gun, but with alittle paience!!!!!, you can get them to shoot. Zeak

[fornra@yahoo.com]

My son'in'law bought one in 223 and it wouldn't group worth a darn, so he sent it back to the factory. When it came back it was no better so our dealer let him excange the rifle for another and it wouldn't shoot well either. He finally traded it off and bought a Ruger 77 in 223 and he has been happy with this rifle. I have saw many handi rifles in larger calibers than 223 that shoot great. I thought it may have something to do with the rifleing twist rate or something.

[Pro-Line]

Try what James said with the O-ring. Just take the fore-arm off and slip an o-ring over the screw (inside the forearm) before you replace it.

Make sure it is thick enough to provide the forearm and barrel to separate. It did wonders with mine...that, the trigger job, and the right ammo made mine a sub MOA rifle.