JARACAL

Hi guys,

I have inherited a .303 from my dad, who got it from his dad etc. So has been in the family for probably around 80 odd years. It was manufactured in 1917 - so over a 100 years old.

At some stage my late dad did mount a scope on this - but he really did not really shoot this regularly which make me think it might be a little bit tired. I have taken it to the range a couple of times, but it is really shooting like a shotgun with probably about 6inch groups with PMP 174gn, and only marginally better with Winchester X.

Seeing that I have gotten all my other rifles to group at around 1inch with proper load development, this is really annoying me. I am thinking of getting some .303 dies and start load development on this rifle, but I think I need somebody to first have a look at this to see if it is shot out, or if things still looks reasonable (crown/barrel etc).

Does anyone know a a good gunsmith in the Randburg, Fourways, Roodepoort or Krugersdorp area that I can approach? Or do you guys think I should just retire the gun?

Regards

Apart from having the barrel and crown checked, also check on the scope mounts (screws, clamps, rings - everything) and then read up on reloading for 303. It is slightly difficult due to varying sizes in chamber measurements and barrel diameter. The bolt with rear locking lugs shortens case life because the case stretches near the web on firing. This is overcome by fireforming cases in your particular rifle.

Good luck!

Oh - before I forget - try PPU 180gr. I have recommended it to several 303 owners and they all got good results.

Try Ritchie Gunsmith in Roodepoort. Tel: 011 672 4228

Thanks - I will give them a shout...