New guy in Idaho

[JDHN]

Hello, all!

I have been shooting rifles here for probably 15 years, mostly metallic silhouettes. BPCR and lever action in accordance with NRA rules, along with some rimfire games based on BPCR rules, and we recently stated a fun match using M1 Carbines (the antithesis of precision rifles). Long range experience consists of the 500-meter rams in the BPCR competition, and the scaled-down rams at 200 yards with .22LR. Our local range has 200-yard capacity on a regular basis, and once a month we open the 500-meter BPCR range to modern rifles.

Being recently retired, I am expanding into other rifle types. I recently bought an M1A, and then a Ruger Precision Rifle in 6.5 Creedmoor. I don’t hunt big game, and I am not aware of any precision rifle competition around here, so these are just “playing around” rifles.

I came to this forum for information about my M1A, and for information about optics for my Ruger. With Hornady Match ammunition I get groups (or patterns!) of 3” - 4” at 100 yards with the M1A, which is pretty disappointing. My focus right now is figuring out how to get it to shoot.

I am looking forward to participating in this forum, and hopefully learning from it!

 

[CriticallyStressed]

Welcome! What part of Idaho? I’m up in Coeur d’Alene.

As for the M1A, is it a standard model or a match grade one? My ‘Loaded’ model shot about 3 MOA with irons and standard ball ammunition (perhaps 2 with FGMM). I did a gas cylinder shim and Sadlak spring guide and that helped considerably. Now it’s closer to 1.5. I imagine a good bedding job would help as well.

 

[JDHN]

I am in Boise. I travelled to and from Sandpoint for a while, but Cd’A was just a drive through place. Pretty country, though.

The M1A is the “Loaded” model, with the fancy adjustable stock and stainless barrel. I don’t see the stainless option on the Springfield Armory web site now.