Expected accuracy

[Scorch]

Pre-64 Model 70s were not free-floated from the factory, primarily because they ahd a barrel retainer on the bottom side of the sight base bulge. The forearm pressure point of later rifles was a cost reducing measure to avoid drilling holes and other labor. Nice thing about that barrel retainer was that it shortened the unsupported portion of the barrel and helped dampen harmonics. Bad thing about it was that it pulled on the barrel and put uneven pressure on the barrel, opening up groups in otherwise good shooters. But as others have said, with good handloads you will probably average 1.5" at 100 yds, and proper bedding may bring you down to or below 1". Either way, whether you bed it or leave it alone, classic Model 70s are fine rifles. Enjoy it.

 

[Big Pard]

submitted by misterE

7mm STW? Just wondering because a buddy of mine has been trying to sell me his rem sendero STW and I'd like to here your thoughts about it if you've got one.

That cartridge and rifle set-up is awesome. Those Remington Senderos will shoot very well on average and the 7mm STW is a superb long range performer. The only draw back is factory ammo offerings are limited but if you hand-load then that wouldn't be a problem.. I shot a friend of mines gun and ended up buying a 7mm Remington Ultra Mag due to factory ammo availability. The STW and Ultra Mag are very similar in performance which is devastating to say the least....

 

[tosainu1]

"I've now taken the rifle out to play a bit with various hand loads using H4831. Three groups were around 1.3 inches each. Several were a lot wider. I was happy before. I'm happier now, particularly since it was a bit breezy and the 1950's era scope I used came with the rifle. "

I would be ecstatic to get that level of performance(1.3 in.), especially with the scope used. I'm sure you can reduce groups further by continuing to tinker with handloads and increasing the magnification and resolution of your scope.