Following up on my 20ga. I have shot several rounds of five stand and skeet with it. It is getting broke in and easier to open. No problems or issues so far except have had a couple of reloads to hang up on the top barrel but that was an issue with the shell not the gun. Takes a little getting...
What will be your primary use of said new rifle and caliber? Distances normally shot at game, that sort of thing. Plenty of good rounds available that overlap one another so fill the void that is between the rifles that you use the most. Maybe buy two:D
Congratulations on a fine-looking buck. I have the same rifle and as you have found it will group quite well. Personally, I think the 6.5x55 is a good around cartridge for deer hunting. This deer is just the start of more success to follow.
That group looks good. The 222 has a track record of being a grouper. Had a few over the years and like most rifles they do have preferences. There are some powders that are known to do well for the 222 being BLC-2, IMR4198 or H4198. As stated, bullets of 50-53 grs have always grouped best for...
Sounds as if your scale might be off or malfunctioning. Check that first, verify your correct powder and load data. Should be in this area I would think.
Bears in WV have become an aggravation. There is so many that there is 2 per year limit but one has to come from certain countys. The season has been open during buck season. I used to buy a tag incase one walked by now I get one free with my senior citizen's license. Hasn't walked by me yet :D