New Barrel Project

Idaho53 · Nov 26, 2023

Morning everyone. Wanted to share my 1st barrel swap out project I did myself.

Here are the details:
Bergara B-14 HMR rifle (all factory) in 300 PRC
New McGowen SS barrel with RemAge style barrel nut; 300 PRC SS, 26", 1:9
Manson Go Gauge and No Go
Wheeler Action Wrench
Homemade barrel vise

I got the new barrel Friday and installed it Friday night. Worked up some loads and was pleased with the initial grouping (one hole 3-shot group). Heading back out today for more load development. For comparison, this is my 1st McGowen barrel (have Bartlein and PacNor tubes on other guns), and the quality of work has been great from McGowen. I will post more updates soon..

JD338 · Nov 26, 2023

Very nice. Congratulations on your new barrel and install. I think your load development is done!

JD338

DrMike · Nov 26, 2023

It does indeed appear to be fine workmanship. And the initial report of accuracy is a real confidence builder.

Blkram · Nov 26, 2023

Definitely looks promising!
With an initial group like that, I would almost be tempted to stop right there as it may be very difficult to improve on, at least accuracy wise!
Load and velocity?

And I can only hope that my LH Rem 700 in 358 Win with a McGowen barrel 22" SS 1:12 barrel shoots so well!
Just waiting for a Boyd's AA Claro stock for it...

Idaho53 · Nov 26, 2023

Blkram said:
Definitely looks promising!
With an initial group like that, I would almost be tempted to stop right there as it may be very difficult to improve on, at least accuracy wise!
Load and velocity?

And I can only hope that my LH Rem 700 in 358 Win with a McGowen barrel 22" SS 1:12 barrel shoots so well!
Just waiting for a Boyd's AA Claro stock for it...

Good point! Loading 212 ELD-X behind 78 grains of H1000. Just adjusting seating depths and want to shoot it over my chrony to get a good amount speeds recorded. Plus, I want to make sure the load's accuracy is repeatable before loading a full box. Went out this morning but couldn't hold still in the 11 degree weather...going back out later today.

Blkram · Nov 26, 2023

Idaho53 said:
Good point! Loading 212 ELD-X behind 78 grains of H1000. Just adjusting seating depths and want to shoot it over my chrony to get a good amount speeds recorded. Plus, I want to make sure the load's accuracy is repeatable before loading a full box. Went out this morning but couldn't hold still in the 11 degree weather...going back out later today.

Yes...being able to achieve consistent results is important...not to mention the confidence it will inspire and grin on the chin!
How many people can brag about their rifle's Minute of Mosquito accuracy in their moose rifle!

D21ALASKA · Nov 26, 2023

Yup, I'd call that load developed. Strong work.

xphunter · Nov 26, 2023

Looks like a great project

Idaho53 · Jan 19, 2024

Hello everyone, wanted to give an update on my barrel project. Got her fine tuned with 225 ELD-M (2850 fps) and she is shooting good. Paper target is 100 yards and steel in 3 shot group at 350 yards. It was -4 degrees when I went shooting...H1000 powder seemed to be stable (ES of 8-10 fps). So far, this barrel has been a real shooter. Planning to shoot it at 500 yards and behind this weekend. Hope you all have a great weekend.

JD338 · Jan 19, 2024

Nice!
That is one sweet shooting rig. Way to go and excellent shooting.

JD338

DrMike · Jan 19, 2024

That load/rifle is definitely delivering for you. Excellent work on your part.

RL338 · Jan 19, 2024

Looks like you have quite the winner on your hands. Good job on the range at -4*

Joec7651 · Jan 19, 2024

It’s not often you get a barrel spun up that shoots that well. They did a great job. Impressive marksmanship as well, great shooting, especially with initial loads. You‘re making me impatient for the 308 Win barrel they are doing for me.

SJB358 · Feb 13, 2024

Nice shooting! Man, that is a truly accurate rifle!

cloverleaf · Feb 14, 2024

Wow! Nice work- and a little luck perhaps? Enjoy! CL

Idaho53 · Feb 25, 2024

Morning everyone. Finally had some time and good weather to get this rifle on my 1000 yard target. I was happy with the results. Here is a video of my four shot group.