223 Bull Barrel Range Report

[SM Bob]

First time out with the 223 bull barrel Handi. I fired about 200 rounds for reloads with various bullets and IMR 4895. First thing
I noticed is that the trigger definitely needs work. It breaks pretty clean, but it is way too stiff. The brass I was using is various 5.56
military that I used when I had my Mini 14. I can see that I am going to have to get some commercial 223, probably Winchester,
so that I can get better consistency. I was shooting Winchester 50 gr sp's, 55 gr sp's, & 64 gr pp's. The best 100 yard group with
these was the 55 gr sp's at around 2.5 inches. I also shot some Remington 55 gr hp's that grouped around 2.25 inches. I really like the 6-24X42MM mil dot Tasco scope. Pretty good optics for the money. A little dim on the higher power settings, but all in all not that bad.
I was pretty happy with the way the rifle shot today considering it was the first time out, the heavy trigger, and the hodgepodge of
brass that I was using. Once I get the trigger lightened up and some better brass I have a feeling this cool little rifle is going to be a
real shooter.

                                                                 Robert

[mitchell]

you will defiantly need some new brass my friend. winny brass has worked fine for me in my 223 .

even with a fast twist don't be afraid to go light in that barrel i have had just as good luck with 40's and 45's as i have with the 55's




an yeah the scope rocks for the price

[SM Bob]

Mitchell,
Yea, I figured that I would have to get new brass. I had these rounds loaded up and thought I would just run them down the tube
just for break in. I wasn't expecting any great groups today, but I was pleased with the way this rifle worked. I'm ordering some new
brass and bullets in a couple of weeks.

                                                            Robert

[MSP Ret]

Mitchell is correct SM Bob, most here have had their best accuracy with 55 grain and under bullets in the H&R/NEF .223's, myself included.....<><....

[SM Bob]

MSP Ret,
Yea, that's the route I'm going. I'm ordering some Hornady 50 gr V Max and Sierra 52 gr BTHP Match King's. I have heard some good things about Varget. I'm going to give it a try. IMR 4895 has always worked well for me in 223 though.

                                                         Robert

[PHATINJUN]

Sounds like you got the makings of a keeper. Mine shoots .75 all day long and would do better with someone else behind the scope I think. I've shot many 2 holes touching but can't quite get the third yet.Kurt