Thread: what modifications

to help with better accuracy ?

I know it comes down to the shooter - but if you can eliminate the shooter, whats left ?

1. ammo - hand load developnig
2. Crisp trigger
3. bedded stock ? ( what happens in the case of a aftermarket chassis? )
4. Good rings + base + scope
5. Aftermarket recoil lug ? I see you can get titanium ones ?
6. Custom barrell as opposed to factory ?

An thing else you can recommend or - un recommend

Rifle make and model? Every one is different

Check crown and bolt lug contact

And headspace

7) A large budget.

for reference, Im wanting to setup my tikka t3x 300WM, average 500M max shots and would like to give it the best possible base to do so without going to overboard on budget.

I already have a DPT long range chassis, EGW 20 moa rail, tier one rings. Have ordered a titanium recoil lug and a lighter trigger spring.

And before I send it to the gunsmith, Id like to make sure i get what else I need before sending it in.

In my experience, the biggest practical improvement in accuracy in the field (beyond the shooter, as you say, and not just at the range), comes from a predictable, light-enough, clean-breaking trigger.

thats the feedback im looking for striker, in my browning 308, and browning 7mmrm, they both have a much lighter trigger than my tikka. my tikka is always different, and not grouping properly!

I have alos just brought all my own reloading gear, so will develop loads also. Again I need to do this after its been to the smith.

Get a hold of Nathan Foster's book The Practical Guide to Bolt Action Rifle Accurizing and Maintenance. It goes into a lot of detail around small tweaks that can be done yourself with some care. I found it well worth buying and reading several times before working on my vanguard 270.

Most factory rifles can be improved significantly with a trigger job and bedding. I'd do that first before worrying about anything else.

Originally Posted by StrikerNZ

In my experience, the biggest practical improvement in accuracy in the field (beyond the shooter, as you say, and not just at the range), comes from a predictable, light-enough, clean-breaking trigger.

There biggest improvement is to be had with the shooter realistically. All the other things are micro improvements.
There are plenty of instances where just changing shooter has made the difference between ordinary and exceptional, and probably as many where it's made none at all to be honest.
Breathing control, ability to intuitively assess atmospheric conditions knowledge of the cartridges ballistics, perfect stock fit and familiarity and absolute faith in your equipment are the things that in my mind make the real difference

but to learn, you have to have a decent base right ?

From what I have seen you need to wear out at least one barrel before you can eliminate yourself as the biggest factor. With me good coaching has made a massive difference.

Having spent stupid amounts of money on Tikkas in the past I can tell you they shoot better than most people can shoot anyhow. Spend every spare cent you have on glass

I have what i consider as good glass, a bushnell dtr elite tactical 2.
Have never had "Lessons" - but i dont get to the range too much - This will change once all my gear arrives to start reloading!