Finally went to the range to test this "free float" set up in hopes for better and more consistent groups. Also to see if the "problem" of gas block touching the factory handguard had any effects on accuracy.
I posted the modifications in previous posts.
Setup:
- rifle, bipod, rear rest, modified handguard, modified grip, 10 round ATRS mags and 1 Magpul 5 rounder
- milspec Stag 10 trigger about 5lb pull
- Hornady Steel Match ammo 55gr
- 50 meters and 100 meters (the app is in yards)
- I shot 51 rounds at 50m, gave it 5 minutes to cool down, then 12 shots at 100m
- I waited 5 seconds between each shot. And 30 seconds between each group.
Scope:
- Vector Optics 1-8X24 with a horseshoe reticle and 2 MOA center dot
Results: (groups highlighted in blue are with a "cold" barrel)
50 meters top sheet
- group A: a 3 shot group
- group 1: first 5 shot group
- rest of the groups are shot in sequence
50 meters bottom sheet (after 5 minutes of cool down)
- group A: a 3 shot group
- group 1: first 5 shot group
- rest of the groups are shot in sequence
100 meters ( after 5 minutes of cool down)
- all 3 shot groups
Summary:
- 3 shot groups will be consistent between 1 and 1.5 MOA
- 5 shot groups will be consistent between 1.5 and 2 MOA
- once the barrel is warm the groups open up quickly, as expected of a lightweight barrel
- Based on my findings and ability, I believe the rifle with factory handguard can be accurate, but not consistent (I was getting some good groupings but there were always a "flyer" no matter how hard I tried). I believe free-floating the gas block improves consistency, and perhaps accuracy as well
- I believe with a lighter match trigger and higher power scope, the groups can be even better
- Wolverine did a great job with the concept of a lightweight, simple, accurate, and affordable NR modern hunting rifle. Maybe a slimmer profile gas block for future rifles, and a longer handguard (13"?) would make it even better
