Looking for your thoughts on this situation:
Recently took my rifle to a gunsmith to be stripped of DuraCoat and replaced with CeraKote. Also had the Smith mount a new Scope while he had the rifle (Steiner Tactical 3-12x56, Badger Ordnance Uni Mount).
Took my rifle out to the range today for the first time, and for the first 40 rounds I was shooting 5-8 inch groups all over the place. Then the groups got tighter and more responsive to corrections in the turrets. After about 50-60 rounds I was shooting 3/4 inch groups consistently and completed a successful tracking drill with the scope. After 140 rounds I feel my rifle is zeroed and consistently shooting 1/2 to 3/4 inch groups at 100 yards.
I would like to hear your thoughts as to what was going on with the rifle. The only two things I can come up with is: 1. Scope needed to settle in (Don't even know if that is possible, 2. The Smith didn't tighten the barrel all the way, and by shooting it the barrel fixed itself (Don't know if this is possible either).
Honestly, myself and the Range Officer were left scratching our heads. Any help would be appreciated.
Recently took my rifle to a gunsmith to be stripped of DuraCoat and replaced with CeraKote. Also had the Smith mount a new Scope while he had the rifle (Steiner Tactical 3-12x56, Badger Ordnance Uni Mount).
Took my rifle out to the range today for the first time, and for the first 40 rounds I was shooting 5-8 inch groups all over the place. Then the groups got tighter and more responsive to corrections in the turrets. After about 50-60 rounds I was shooting 3/4 inch groups consistently and completed a successful tracking drill with the scope. After 140 rounds I feel my rifle is zeroed and consistently shooting 1/2 to 3/4 inch groups at 100 yards.
I would like to hear your thoughts as to what was going on with the rifle. The only two things I can come up with is: 1. Scope needed to settle in (Don't even know if that is possible, 2. The Smith didn't tighten the barrel all the way, and by shooting it the barrel fixed itself (Don't know if this is possible either).
Honestly, myself and the Range Officer were left scratching our heads. Any help would be appreciated.