coyotehunter_1 wrote: |
Question on Browning “Boss System“…
Does it really work as advertised ? |
A fired cartridge sends vibrations down the barrel in very defined waves that intersect at specific distances (for example, every 8 inches)*. In theory, if the barrel's length coincides with the intersecting wave, accuracy can be increased. The Boss system was intended to increase or decrease this wave length by "tuning" the barrel, turning the Boss in or out.
Since its introduction, it hasn't proven to be a significant factor, however, some have noted marginal improvements in accuracy. As often, it has been less accurate than removing the Boss altogether, however, this has been with a limited sampling of four rifles over the past few years.
IMO, solid bedding and a floating barrel are conventional methods that are more effective and less costly.
*one of the fun experiments is to take a relatively low recoiling rifle and hang wire bent in a U shape of equal lengths over the barrel and shoot the rifle for five shots or so. The wires will disperse the length of the barrel and end up equal distance from one to another. This shows the intersecting wave length pattern. Higher recoil rifles can be used, but, something akin to the Lead Sled is needed to keep the wires from flying off under recoil. I use simple coat hanger gauge wire, cut to 12". Where the last wire ends is the ideal barrel length for accuracy with that barrel and that load, but, it may be unwise to cut the barrel at that point if shortening it more than an inch or so is indicated or if different loads and bullet weights are used. Longer sporting contour barrels are most benefitted and the shorter target weight barrels are less so. Evenso, the gained accuracy is academic for sporting purposes, although, I've shrunk groups as much as 1/3" with this proceedure, 5/100.