Got the .222 to the Range

[antsa]

Finally I got to start load testing for my newly acquired Sako AI .222. Been a bit of a wait for the dies from the States and other stuff on the property has been keeping me busy as well.

Loaded up 7 charges, 3 of each, using Lapua brass, CCI400 primers, AR2207 and Speer 52gr HP's (flat based). Standard COAL of 2.130". One of the loads gave a 0.2 MOA grupp at 100m. Next day I loaded up 9 rounds at this weight and shot 3 3-shot groups. Best of these was 0.48 MOA at 100m. More or less same conditions both days. Wasn't that happy with the results.

Tomorrow, if the wind's ok, I'm going to try Sierra 52gr MK HPBT with same powder as above.

The AI is not free-floated. The barrel is supported by a small "bridge" towards the front of the forestock. Is there any benefit in floating? The 461/AI has a reputation of being accurate "as is". Don't want to f**k it up.

Cheers

[Camel]

I firmly believe to get consistent results barrels must be free floated and bedded, while this might not increase the accuracy, it will increase the consistency. The stock will have no pressure on your barrel. That is still what I would call good accuracy from a standard factory rifle, not many these days, or in days gone by, that are consistent moa performers as they come from the factory.
Specially those bloody Sarko things.

[antsa]

Will work on it for a while. If I'm not happy I'll float it. If that doesn't do it then the time might be ripe to send it of to "the 20 cal man"

Eventually I'll try a lighter pill but to start with I need an accurate 50gr or greater as I do quite a lot of roo shooting for myself and the neighbours. Of course I have my .223's for that but want the .222 to be part of the gang as well.


Cheers

[MISSED]

Not to shabby

I have found that all my L or a series Sako’s shot more consistently with the ridge removed

I have very limited knowledge of the Speers has I shoot 40 VMax or 50 NBT’s

Try different seating depths

[pisco]

coming in a bit late but i have 3 l461 sakos all have been bedded and floated and all shoot bloody good