winchester model 88 accuracy

[mudbug]

I have a model 88 in 308 and was wondering if there was any way to help the accuracy of this type of rifle. Is there any way to lighten this trigger? The best I can get is about 1.5" to 2" at a 100yrds.
Any info would be great.
Is this the kind of accuracy you guys are getting with a 88?
I have only used factory ammo but have tried several different kinds.

 

[John Y Cannuck]

For an unmodified 88 that's about typical accuracy IMO.
The trigger mechanism on an 88 is a gunsmith proposition, if you intend on getting it lighter, and even then, I think you'll be disappointed.
It responds well to being kept very clean, and lubed however.
The rifle may respond to bedding, I've not tried it with mine yet.
Mine is the rifle version, and not the carbine. If you have the carbine, try shooting it with the barrel band removed. If it shoots better, you can get an improvement by reducing the pressure the band puts on your barrel.
By filing the inside of the band, or relieving the wood.
If you have the rifle version, like mine, check the float on the barrel. Mine needed a bit of sanding to get full clearance.

 

[Pudelpointer]

I have an older 88 that shoots very well, though it tends to be a bit picky about loads. I presently shoot 165 interlocks with 44 grains of Varget, WLR and WW cases. Consistently runs 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch.

One thing a did find with mine was that every once in a while i need to take the action out of the stock and give it a good clean and make sure the wood stays sealed up with true-oil. If there is any crap in there (sand, twigs, etc.) or the wood is able to soak up moisture, then your accuracy will likely go to pot.

John has it right when it comes to the trigger though, job for a gunsmith only (preferably one that has worked on 88's before) as they can be a ##### to get back together if you do not take them apart the right way.

 

[Spitzer]

I would bed it first, I know mine isn't very accurate and I blame the bedding, it's horrid. Wood to metal isn't the best marriage IMO.

 

[Huntsman]

I had a cheap Bushnell 4x Sportsman on mine, plus I used a Harris bipod.
Shooting reloads using Imperial brass, 42grs Varget, 165g Rem CL bullet and Win primer I put on a light crimp and was punching 1" groups at 100yds. That's the best I've ever gotten, since then I replaced he scope with an Elite 3200 3-10x40.