reading a target?

[mustang_gt_350]

Ok, I have no idea if this is even somthing that you can do. But i was just wondering if you can look at your target and read what is going on with your rifle. Like for example, I just got my 308 together and took it out for the sight in yesterday. Just picking the minimum charge 40gr of imr4064 and loading up a few to get on target and test. I went to the range knowing that my barrel wasnt fully floated It is touching on the right side about 10" up from the reciever it is fully floated every where else. after sigting in i fired a group of 3. The vertical is varies about 3/4" but the horizontal is a spread of around 1 3/4" at 100yrds to the left of center. I was just wondering if you are able to read the target as in like, horizontal spread can = trigger error on my part. and vertical is caused by somthing else? any pointers will be appreciated

 

[PsychoKnight]

My experience follows what I've read over the years;

Undercharges create vertical stringing.

Overcharges create horizontal stringing.

Supposedly this is why, aside from loads specially adjusted for light plinking, the most accurate load is always just below max, or near max.

With a chrono, its sometimes shown as the load with lowest deviation, but sometimes this shows up at two different points in the range between minimum and maximum charges, but even if deviation is minimal at a lower power range than another low-deviation load that shoots hotter, the tightest groups are often with the higher charged load.

Don't ask me to explain the science behind it - I'm barely able to keep track of the cause and effect.

 

[stovepipe699]

Mustang, I hope this is what you're looking for. Vertical stringing (larger up and down) of the group is largely breath control. Snatching the trigger(flinching) and body position affect it also. Horizontal stringing is affected by flinching , body alignment, etc. If you really want to know exactly what you are doing and improve your groups, get someone who knows what they're doing to watch you when you're shooting. They can coach you and make sure you're properly applying the principles of marksmanship. 1) Firm hold of the rifle 2) Body positioned so the weapon is naturally aligned with the target. Do a test and adjust when you think you're aligned,shut your eyes, relax, wait a few seconds, and open them. Are your crosshairs still on the bullseye?) 3) Crosshairs level 4) Proper breath control 5)smooth trigger pull 6) proper follow through. Maintain firm hold and aim.You should still have the trigger squeezed to the rear. Do not release trigger until follow through is complete. Happy Shooting!

 

[mustang_gt_350]

Thanks both of you.
Stovepipe, Do you have any suggestions on books/video's/websites that have instruction on shooting technique. I know i don't have the best form shooting and i would like to improve it but I have no idea where to look.

And if anyone else has pointers on my original question chime in please.

thanks

 

[Sunray]

"...Just picking the minimum charge 40gr of imr4064 and loading up a few..." Work up the load before you worry about anything else. I'd suggest 165 grain hunting bullets. The .308 really likes them and they'll take any game.
Beginning with the starting load, load 5 rounds only. Go up by half a grain of powder, loading 5 of each keeping them separate until you get to the max load in your manual.
Then go shooting. Shoot at 100 yards, for group only, slowly and deliberately off a bench.
Change targets between strings of 5 and allow time for the barrel to cool.
When you find the best group, sight in 4" high at 100. That'll put you on target out to about 300 yards with no hold over.

 

[mustang_gt_350]

I was using 168gr nosler comp. This is going to be a paper puncher only and was my first attempt at gun building. I picked the min. load just to go out to shoot a few shots since the weather has let off here. I will be buying a new can of powder and starting the load development stage in the next few weeks after i get my new trigger.