chambered221 wrote: |
SSL, How much deviation are you seeing at 300-500?
Is it enough for me to be concerned with shooting at deer? |
It all depends on the rifle and caliber in my experience. Heavier bolt-actions don't seem to be as affected as my Ruger #1s. This is also probably an effect of the two piece stocks and forearm hangers on the Rugers. Typically, I see roughly 3" difference at 300 yards between sandbag and bipod groups with my bolt guns and around 4" with the Rugers. Don't misunderstand...the group
sizes vary very little. It is the point of impact that moves...and generally upwards. That's why if I am going to use bipods I re-zero with them rather than relying on the zero from bags. That's one reason that I usually just take the bare rifle and use a day-pack or rolled up jacket for a rest in the field anymore. Try it out...you may not have the same issues and may like the bipod...only experimentation will tell.
As to your later post about cushioning the bipod, that might be worth investigating. You might also try wrapping the springs with oversize pipe-cleaners (hobby stores have them in various colors) to dampen the spring vibrations too.