Hey scooter71, I do agree that the M7 rifles in general are outstanding for a large portion of my hunting. Got a safe full of them and they all shoot very well for me. They easily keep 3-shot groups under 1MOA with the correct Load, when my concentration is up. Some of them will shoot in the 4s, but the trigger-yanker(me) is the limiting factor with my rifles. Due to their light weight, a wiggle created by breathing or a heartbeat can open a group, where as the mass of a larger rifle will help constrain those movements.
As to your other questions: What was the longest shot/kill you made with the SEVEN?? Not sure, but in any case, I do not brag about the distance of shots I take. Suffice it to say, the 308Win M7s have the ability to kill Deer or smaller critters out as far as you "practice" shooting if you are using the proper bullet.
Calculating the "Drop Rate" by use of an External Ballistics Table and relying on it for bullet placement, without actually shooting, is a sure formula for failure. But it will provide a good starting point for your practice sessions. Just get a good Load your rifle shoots well, using a bullet capable of proper expansion at the distance you desire, practice at that distance and you will do fine. I know a few people who can keep bullets from 308Win rifles on Deer size targets out at 1000yds, but they do not actually shoot Deer at those distances.
Pros and Cons of this model? Normally very accurate right out of the box. It might need a bit of trigger adjustment, but that is a minor issue. The rigidity of the short barrel promotes accuracy. Just be sure to limit your shots to 2-3 at a time so you do not over-heat the barrel resulting in accelerated throat errosion.
I'd encourage you to use Dual Dovetail scope mounts, especially if you will be mounting a scope with a good bit of mass. I went to the Leupold Dual Dovetails because of scope-slippage in the old "Redfield Style" mounts and they corrected that problem. But, the next rifle I scope will be done with the Burris "Signature" Dual Dovetail mounts. These rings (with their plastic inserts) are the best mount concept to come along since Dual Dovetail.
Anybody else feel like this is the most perfect deer rifle made? In some situations, it is about as good as it gets. But, I do like a bit heavier rifle for hunting a bean or cotton field. You will see what I'm talking about in your groups once you begin practicing at 300yds and beyond.
What is the longest shot you would attempt to make with it, form a steady rest? Answered above.
Effective range on deer? Answered above.
Enjoy your fine new rifle. Take care of it and it will take care of you.
Good hunting and clean 1-shot kills, Hot Core
