Lapping bolt lugs helps but it's usually one of the finishing touches on a rifle that's had a lot of work done on it. Any time I set a barrel back, re-chamber, or re-barrel, I lap the lugs, square up the receiver face, and center the receiver threads. It's a package deal and I would never just do one step.
Yes, it will change your headspace. If lapping removes .001" of lug and recess bearing surface, then your chamber just effectively got .001" deeper.
I agree with DM. Work on other areas first. Bed the receiver and float the barrel. I've never seen this not help. Have the trigger worked. Check the crown. If you're not already using them, switch to a quality scope like Leupold, and use one piece, steel base, with good steel rings.Steel Weaver type bases and rings are good.And of course make sure you're not the reason it's shooting 1.5". Have someone watch you shoot. Watch YOU, not the target. The target can't be coached. You can. 4 fundementals: Steady position, sight picture, breath control, trigger squeeze.And shoot other rifles for comparison.
ORIGINAL: Ripstop
If you have the lugs lapped on a bolt action, will the headspace change enough to have the barrel set back??
If not, will lapping the lugs have a noticeable effect on accuracy? Now shooting 1 1/2" groups at 100yds. This is acceptable but would like to tighten up by 50%.
Don't have the big $$$ to spend on a complete accuracy package, but would like to start somewhere and eventually get the action totally worked.
Just wondering if it will be money well spent.
Thanks