My new match rifle

It will perform 100% dependent on ammo......regular mil-spec may print no better than 1-1/2 MOA which is what it was spec'd for. To get better groups, you'll need handloads..what else is new. Also, the stock, battle trigger can be improved greatly. If the stock is NOT rock-solid/super tight, your groups will suffer. Make sure the gas plug stays tight..they can come loose and open up groups badly.
Ask me how I know!
https://www.milsurps.com/images/impo...04/LRB22-1.jpg
Original Configuration
Latest Configuration:
https://www.milsurps.com/images/impo...2/LRBTFL-1.jpg
USGI Stock, couple of other mods too.

I was using handloads and I generally don't use factory ammo. With my M1 I've learned to tighten the gas plug so I do that as well. The trigger is NM spec and breaks real nice. Stock is tight. My problems are all me and I don't believe it is the gun or ammo. This will be a continuing saga I'm sure and will play out over the course of the season.

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Originally Posted by drshame

It will perform 100% dependent on ammo......

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No kidding! Using USGI, Remington 150 grain Core-Lok, Federal Premium and others I had a 3 inch+ grouping! Using match grade 168 grain BTHP hand loaded by a friend brought it down to one ragged hole. Years ago I had a few boxes of an Israeli 150 grain soft point that grouped at one inch. I bought it at a gun show and it was in a plain brown box with a paper sticker. I have no idea what the brand was. All I know is it was dirt cheap but the best factory load for my S/A M1A.

A friend of mine has a S/A Inc. M1A "White Feather" and it shoots like crap. The best we could get out of it was 4 inch groups. We tried everything from 150 grain to 175 grain, factory, hand loads, surplus ammo, you name it. We checked the scope mount, scope, rings, everything! I haven't seen him since he retired but I know he was going to send it off to Springfield Armory. His SOCOM II grouped better than his White Feather!

My handloads are W-W brass, WLR primers, Hornady 155gr Amax on the short line and Hornady 168gr match or Nosler CC 168gr match the rest of the way all backed by H4895.