Ruger 77 .223 Need accuracy help

[Dakota30.06]

Alright here is my problem. I have a Ruger mod. 77 chambered in .223....and I cannot get it to shoot with any consistency. I've tried everything I know to try. I tried a new Redfield scope on it,  I've tried factory Hornady loads and six different handloaded combinations. Different bullets, powders, etc.  I don't expect to cut the same hole with a sporter barrel however this gun is just scattering them over approx a 3 inch circle. Before anyone assumes I just cant shoot, I've been to the range three different days, hoping I was just having an off day. I've gotten the same results each time.


Anyone have any remedies I could try?

[drdougrx]

A few suggestions:
1.  Make sure you haven't switched the ring mounts...they are different heights..high one towards the bolt handle.
2.  try  a different scope (rules out a defect in the scope).
3. check that the stock screws are tight but not impossible to turn (the front action screw is on an angle, this one needs to be very tight) the rear action screw needs to be hand tight and the middle screw just tight enough not to loosen.
4.  check the bedding...see if the stock is pressing against the barrel.
5.  place a shim (folded business card) between the barrel and the stock about 2" from the tip.
6.  if this doesn't work, relieve the pressure point altogether.
7.  I'd replace the trigger with a timney
If none of this works and no one has a better suggestion, I seriously consider selling the rifle rather than rebarrel it (for the cost of a new gun).
Best of luck!

[hillbill]

A few suggestions:
1.  Make sure you haven't switched the ring mounts...they are different heights..high one towards the bolt handle.
2.  try  a different scope (rules out a defect in the scope).
3. check that the stock screws are tight but not impossible to turn (the front action screw is on an angle, this one needs to be very tight) the rear action screw needs to be hand tight and the middle screw just tight enough not to loosen.
4.  check the bedding...see if the stock is pressing against the barrel.
5.  place a shim (folded business card) between the barrel and the stock about 2" from the tip.
6.  if this doesn't work, relieve the pressure point altogether.
7.  I'd replace the trigger with a timney
If none of this works and no one has a better suggestion, I seriously consider selling the rifle rather than rebarrel it (for the cost of a new gun).
Best of luck!

ok he pretty much covered it! even if the trigger is ruff it shoud shoot better than that.yu might chek for unreal copper fouling.

[Dakota30.06]

Well I had another scope on it prior to the redfield, same issue. So I've ruled out the scope, rings, etc.


The trigger pull is approx 3lbs, so its pretty crisp.


The stock does seem to be pretty tight against the barrel. That almost has to be the problem, I've pretty much ruled everything else out.

[rugerfan.64]

Don't forget the bolt lug engagement.

[Omaha-BeenGlockin]

What weight bullets and what twist is the rifle?

[hillbill]

im not sure what the twist is on my stainless but it shoots good with 50 and 55 grn bullets. pretty good with 45 grns also.ive never tried heavier bullets.

[drdougrx]

That's a good point.  I have a 223 bolt gun with a 1 in 12 twist that won't shoot anything over 55gr with any accuracy.