Precision Guncrafters
Ask The Gunsmith
Ask The Gunsmith
Please fill out the form below to ask your question. The email, city, etc. are optional, but if your question requires a more detailed answer, or if I need additional information to answer your question, it will help to formulate better answers. Any general interest questions will be published below, with the corresponding answer. I will not publish any email address or other personal information.
I try to answer general interest questions through my Website. However, on questions specific to obscure models, I will answer these questions to the email address you supply. Recently, people have been supplying incomplete email addresses, so in those cases--there will be no answer. If you really want an answer, I need a complete (and correct) email address. I do not sell, or in any way pass your email address on to others.
Recent Question: Craig from Michigan recently asked why his rifle would not hold zero.
Answer:
I have found over the years that the most frequent cause for rifles not to stay zeroed has to do with the scope mounting system. Either the rings or mounts were not properly installed, or the rings or mounts were not up to the job. If you have a magnum caliber, always use steel (not aluminum) rings. Always degrease all clamping surfaces. Yes, even the scope body where the rings will grip. And, use medium LokTite on the fasteners where appropriate.
Next on the most likely list is the user/rifle interface. To hit the same point on the target, your eye has to be at the same point relative to the scope each time. Most red dots are the exception, however this applies to all conventional scopes. If your rings are too high for the cheek weld on your stock, this requirement is nearly impossible. Next for the interface is the trigger, and the way it is pulled (or jerked by the user). If you are fighting a long, creepy trigger pull, it is difficult for the best shooters to stay accurate. If you have developed a jerk, go back to practicing with a good .22 until the jerk is gone. Don't be afraid to use a coach to watch your trigger pull. If the stock doesn't fit you and your scope; modify or change stocks.
Once in awhile, I do run across a defective scope. But that is rare. And, only twice in the last 10+ years I have found a loose stock. I have also seen on a factory-installed muzzle brake, the bullet was striking the end of the muzzle brake. There are some other rare causes that are internal to the action that can cause accuracy issues, but most people are not skilled enough to detect these small deviations.