Cold bore is 1.5 MOA low???

[wisconsinteacher]

Hey guys, it has been a while since I have posted but I'm stumped and need some ideas. I have a 7wsm on a Tikka action with a B&C stock and Banish 30 can. It is fully floated and the actions screws are at 40 in/lb. I have been doing a lot of shooting with this rifle and I always get a cold bore shot that is 1-1.5 MOA low. After the first shot, I can put the rest of the rounds in a nice group that covers the bull's eye. Any suggestions other than zeroing for the cold bore shot for hunting? Thanks

 

[Idaho53]

Hey bud, Assuming the barrel is already fouled a bit when you make your 1st shot, the only way to have super consistent repeatable cold bore shots is to let the barrel cool to the original cold bore temperature. Once steel warms up, it moves (hence the reason for heavy bull barrels) Shooting in cold weather when can help speed up the process. This way you can eliminate other variables.

 

[SJB358]

So out of 5 shots what’s the group size WT?

May just be the load.

 

[wisconsinteacher]

5 shot group was 2" yesterday. Shots 2-5 were .75" at 100 yards.

 

[salmonchaser]

Is the cold barrel POI also low without the can?

 

[SJB358]

The first shot is always perfectly 1-1.5” low?

 

[wisconsinteacher]

Yes, it is always low. Maybe a touch right. I've never shot it without the can. I guess I could try it but I want to hunt with it on so I need to figure it out with the can attached.

 

[SJB358]

I guess just check without. At least you’ll know.

How’s the gun bedded?

 

[nhenry]

I’m actually dealing with a similar shift, though mine’s barrel or bedding related more than likely.

Yours may be due to your suppressor! When you first shoot with a can on, it has stale air on the inside, almost like a wall. You should try taking it off and see what it does with a cold bore.