Thread: Accuracy problem with new browning bar 7mm08

I have a couple of BAR's myself (a Mark II lightweight in 308 and a Shorttrac in 7mm WSM). Both of mine shoot very well (about 1 MOA or slightly less with loads they like - closer to 2" with loads they don't). I think the core point re making sure the scope is tight etc has been well covered but a few suggestions:

- make sure the stock bolt is tightly done up. This can affect accuracy quite badly if it is even slightly loose;

- not sure of your experience with crappy semi auto triggers. Although mine aren't that bad you need to put a lot more thought/effort into carefully taking aim and then following through with the trigger pull - it is not like breaking a 'mouse's thermometer' with a good crisp bolt action trigger;

- both of mine were fine, but I have heard of people having issues with BAR crowns;

- makesure you let the bolt run free into battery/close for the first shot (don't let it close slowly);

- hold the rifle firmly with both hands. Mine do not like bipods at all;

- try some more ammo combo's/different bullet weights etc.

I would actually be a little encouraged with 2" groups for factory ammo - I am sure with everything tight/the above checked and a few different bullet weights to try you will get close to an inch.

Be realistic - I know there are lots of people on google that report bolt action accuracy and 1/4" groups with their BAR's (!) - reality away from the keyboard is probably different. A few are possibly capable of close to this but most probably are not...

At the end of the day they are a semi auto designed for a purpose (quick follow up shots in side 250 - maybe 300 yards max). Even 2 inch groups are adequate for that purpose. My personal view is that if your hunting style regularly has you shooting over that range you may as well revert to bolt action - i.e. with careful/slow deliberate shots required to ensure regular hits at that range there is no or little benefit with a semi auto...