single shot rifles accuracy

Doyle said:
The other issue is headspace. A single-shot is different from a bolt action in the way it headspaces. In a bolt action, the base of the cartridge is held tight to the bolt with the claw extractor. The headspace is the distance between the cartridge shoulder and the end of the chamber. Very simple.

In a single-shot, you've got that same shoulder-to-chamber space but you've also got another variable. That being the distance between the primer/cartridge face and the receiver face. That extra distance can vary SIGNIFICANTLY from gun to gun.
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This is a difference created by improperly sized cases. Sure, there's not much you can do with factory ammo but if a reloader has this issue, it's one of improper practices not one based on the differences between actions.

"Headspace" is defined exactly the same way for both actions, breach to shoulder datum. Properly sized cases will be within 0.002 at most of the chamber dimension for either action.

In regards to accuracy, I have a 15" Encore Pro Hunter chambered in 7mm-08 with a Burris 2-7x scope. It shoots an inch or under pretty easily at 100 and it's clear to me that a major portion of that group size is my own incompetence. Shooting a handgun for groups is no easy task, even with bags.
 
"Headspace" is defined exactly the same way for both actions, breach to shoulder datum
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You are correct, but the machining differences between the breech face and the barrel hinge on single-shots exacerbate that breech-to-shoulder length variation.

As to your 15" Encore 7mm-08 - I wish I could get mine to group like that. I've only had it out once but I suspect my problem is in the scope or the mount rather than the gun itself.
 
"Any" is a strong word. You might find an H&R break action that's as accurate as the average bolt action, but the hinged barrel and forearm mounting limit its ultimate accuracy potential.

Even if your buddy has the most accurate H&R ever made, there are lots of bolt action rifles that can outshoot it.
 
I tried a friends of mine 17 HMR New England. This thing shot off the chart- amazing. The single shot was a disadvantage on a "busy" hill side when you are shooting rabbits by the hundred mind you.
 
As to your 15" Encore 7mm-08 - I wish I could get mine to group like that. I've only had it out once but I suspect my problem is in the scope or the mount rather than the gun itself.
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I really believe that the "secret" is in Lee collet neck dies and Redding body dies. I'm no reloading guru and other than an RCBS Chargemaster, I don't use any expensive equipment or special techniques, yet I have no trouble getting any rifle I've yet tried to shoot an inch or under, usually well under. With no real effort either, beyond working up to max load.
 
I have a single shot CVA optima Elite 45-70 I picked up new dirt cheap a couple weeks ago. It's the only single shot firearm I've ever owned. I haven't shot it much but so far I'm averaging 3"-4" groups at 100 yards with the stock sights. I'm slightly dissapointed, but the rifle was really cheap and I'm sure after I try different bullet weights and powder and I get used to the rifle the groups will tighten up a little. My 1895 on the otherhand shoots 2"-3" at 100 yards consistantly with a Williams peep sight.
 
Don't underestimate what a good peep sight will do for a rifle. If I had tried them 20 years ago, I probably only have one or 2 scoped rifles now rather than
a dozen... I'm also switching at lest one of my scoped rifles to peeps...

I'm not familiar with CVA rifles but they do have a good reputation. Try a peep on it before you give up on it's accuracy.

Tony
 
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