Posted by Tom in Wyoming on February 13, 1999 at 00:15:16:
In Reply to: new to board posted by stone cold on February 12, 1999 at 21:26:59:
For the most part, handloads can indeed be worked up to shoot better than factory ammo. You may find that adjusting your bullet seating depth will pay off in smaller groups. Neck sizing only or different methods of of neck sizing, such as a bushing type die that allows you adjust bullet to neck tension, can also make noticeable improvements in group size. Bullet type and wieght, powder / primer combonations, bullet speed and a host of other fine tuning tricks can be used in handloads untill you find that magic combonation that your gun likes. Deburing flash holes and uniforming primer pockets will also help, but I think that attention to the neck area of the case, bullet seating depth and minimum bullet runout pay the biggest rewards. If you are not familiar with these techniques, post some questions or ask your gunsmith. If the gun he built is shooting 1/2" groups with factory ammo, I would bet he knows a thing or two. Bottom line is to be carefull if you are new to these things. I have a very good friend who damaged a rifle buy setting the bullet out agnist the lands and not backing the powder charge down. He took some bad advise and just didn't know any better.
I LOVE the .223! Have 4 of them. You should have no problem on coyotes at 300yds. This is another area where handloads can shine over factory loads. Choose the best bullet for the job and load it to the speed needed. Nuff said.
I won't offer you much on the scope question as there are many regular posters here that know a good deal more about them than me. But, you have to know that finer crosshairs will allow you to see a smaller aiming point and shoot a smaller group. I think I have most of the major brands. Leupold has got to get the nod in my book. I do have a KT-15 Weaver that I use on one of my service rifles to test ammo, and I am pretty happy with it. Weaver dosen't get much mention on the board and I only have the one ( got it in a trade). But unless others have had bad luck, I would say look at one if you need to cut back on the dollars.
Good luck with your new gun and welcome to the board.