Thanks for all the info. I've been shooting a ML the last few years but haven't spent much time at it until this year. I'm careful on seating the bullet so it's seated on but not crushing the pellets. I use a good, solid bench. I agree the 1X scope is a handicap for tight groups at longer ranges. Until this year you could not use a scope with magnification on a ML in Wisconsin. I think the next time I shoot my Optima I'm going to make sure the flash hole is clean and try the Winchester W209 primer and see if that helps. Now that it's legal, I think I may get a scope with some magnification. I'm a brand new member and I already received good information. Thanks guys!