FAQ

Q: How do I reduce recoil?

A:
a) Fit a muzzle brake.
b) Fit a moderator.
c) Make your rifle heavier.

Q: What are the benefits of a moderator?

A:
a) By reducing noise it enables the shooter to be more aware of his surroundings after the shot. This allows him to identify any other opportunuties, hazards or listen for wounded animals in the undergrowth.
b) Moderators can help with accuracy
c) They help reduce felt recoil.
d) The extra weight on the end of the muzzle helps to lessen muzzle flip allowing for either a rapid follow up shot or recovery after the shot (hopefully seeing bullet strike) or identifying which direction your quarry has gone.
e) It is very difficult for your quarry to identify your location though sound when hunting with a moderator.

One very important thing to remember with moderators is DO NOT STORE THE RIFLE WITH THE MODERATOR FITTED. If left on the corrosive gases and condensation that remain in the barrel after shooting will corrode the barrel.

Q: How do I break in my barrel?

A:
From new the rifle barrel must be treated with care. Initially you should "shoot one, clean one" for the first 20-30 rounds. Then, every 5 shots for the next 50 rounds. Finially, clean the barrel after every time you shoot.

Q: Is it worth me handloading?

A:
This is a very hard question to answer as there are a number of things that need to be taken into account.
a) Are you doing it to save money? If you are doing it to save money then unless you are a target shooter and are going to shoot a few hundred rounds each time you shoot it will take you a long while to save money bearing in mind the start up layout and the continuing cost of Brass, Heads, Powder, Primers etc
b) Are you doing it because you like the engineering aspect? If you are doing it because you enjoy the engineering side then you will get a lot of satisfaction out of reloading.
c) Is your rifle accurate i.e. Bedded, synthetic stock, blue printed action etc? If your rifle is not accurate to start with then there is no point in hand loading until you have got your rifle sorted out.
d) Are you capable of better accuracy? If you are not capable of shooting groups then look at attending a training course
Once you and your rifle have been looked at then the only other thing outside the shooters control other than the weather is the ammunition. However by hand loading you will no longer have that excuse, you have been warned. Hand loading will squeeze every last bit of accuracy out of the rifle.