M70 FWT Accuracy
Posted: Fri Nov 01, 2013 9:07 pm
New guy here, but not to shooting and reloading. Based on reviews and comments on various forums decided to treat myself to a FN M70 FWT in 243. Mounted a Redfield 3X9 on it and headed to the range with a selection of proven handloads. Results were absolutely dreadful. Loads that group 1 MOA +or - in my Rem 700 and 788 were all over the paper. Have tried a number of variations of bullets and powders and still no joy. I am wondering if the free floating barrel is the problem. There is a big glob of bedding compound in front of the recoil lug for about 1/4 inch, the barrel sits in it (can see the impression of the witness mark on the barrel in it)and then a lot of thin, unsupported barrel. A lot of what I have read over the years suggests that the first several inches of barrel should be bedded, and then free float the rest. Even then a lot of sources recommend a pressure pad near the foend to dampen vibration. Is what I am seeing the normal bedding process and it works for eveyone else?
Working up another batch of reloads this weekend, IMR4350 and Hornady 100gr BTSP. Have added a shim of three layers of rubber electrical tape under the barrel just behind the front swivel in hopes it will dampen any errant vibrations.
I am a realist, this is a sporter weight hunting rifle and I don't expect sub MOA groups, but under 2 MOA would be nice. Most groups now are running 3-4 MOA +, barely okay for deer in the woods but not good enough for a deer or coyote at 200-250 yards. Oddly it seems to shoot cast better than jacketed, although only by a small margin.
This is a beautiful rifle, the stock design is great, the action is the smoothest of any rifle I have ever used, and the workmanship is as good as it gets. The fact it won't shoot is giving me fits.
Has anyone else had this problem and what did you do to fix it?
Working up another batch of reloads this weekend, IMR4350 and Hornady 100gr BTSP. Have added a shim of three layers of rubber electrical tape under the barrel just behind the front swivel in hopes it will dampen any errant vibrations.
I am a realist, this is a sporter weight hunting rifle and I don't expect sub MOA groups, but under 2 MOA would be nice. Most groups now are running 3-4 MOA +, barely okay for deer in the woods but not good enough for a deer or coyote at 200-250 yards. Oddly it seems to shoot cast better than jacketed, although only by a small margin.
This is a beautiful rifle, the stock design is great, the action is the smoothest of any rifle I have ever used, and the workmanship is as good as it gets. The fact it won't shoot is giving me fits.
Has anyone else had this problem and what did you do to fix it?