New GA Precision rifle

[Itsalongshot]

Hi all. Just had my first custom rifle built. GA Precision did the build for me. It's based on there Templar action, has a 26 inch bartlein barrel #7GAP contour, badger thruster brake, badger dbm bottom metal, Mcmillian htg stock in dessert camo and the rifle is finished in OD green cerokote. Its chambered in 7mm WSM. The build only took 7 months although they told me it would be at least 12.

I took the gun out for the first time to do the barrel break in procedure recommended by them. I used factory ammo as I have not had time to start load development. With winchester 150gr power points I got 1.4" 5 shot 100 yard groups. With federal 160gr accubonds I got 1.5" 5 shot 100 yard groups. I know it's factory ammo but I was expecting better results should I be concerned at this point or is it reasonable for good hand loads to get it down to the .5 moa guarantee.

I plan on using 162gr amax and 168gr Berger hunting VLD as some as I get some time and I can find powder and primers somewhere.

 

[Itsalongshot]

Another pic

 

[Itsalongshot]

One more

 

[jcvibby]

Wow awesome rifle. You'll be just fine with custom match grade ammo it will shrink right Down!
Probably well under .5 moa.

The ammo you were using is horrible to say the least.

 

[etisll40]

ttt

 

[Itsalongshot]

Last picture.

Thank you for the response. I was hopping it was nothing to worry about.

 

[Mike 338]

I believe GAP used Black Hills Gold Ammo for testing. I don't see it offered in your caliber so you'll probably have to work up some handloads. Until you do that, I'd not worry about group size.

 

[etisll40]

I agree, it's just a matter of when it's a tack driver. Give it a hug! She's a beauty.

 

[captacademy]

7WSM is a great choice. Very nice rifle! You should be fine with quality handloads.

 

[Skyking]

Nice gun. Have one looks just like it. I would use the Berger180 vlds. Shoot the higher BC bullet, don't cut yourself short. Of the three GAP 7wsm we have they all shoot 64-65.5g of H1000 CCI-BR2 primers, win brass.

Here is pictures and video of it.

http://www.longrangehunting.com/forums/f19/ga-precision-7wsm-1400-yards-video-59910/#post415501

 

[Itsalongshot]

Thanks Skyking. That's a very nice rifle, I came across your video when I was trying to decide who to have build mine. I wil give the 180s a try. I managed to get some H1000 and RE22 but I can't find bench rest or match grade primers anywhere right now. All I can find in federal champion and winchester primers. Not the best time to just be getting into reloading.

 

[redgun]

Nice gun. Have one looks just like it. I would use the Berger180 vlds. Shoot the higher BC bullet, don't cut yourself short. Of the three GAP 7wsm we have they all shoot 64-65.5g of H1000 CCI-BR2 primers, win brass.

My non-GAP 7WSM likes 66.0 gr of H-1000.

 

[Kurt]

Thanks Skyking. That's a very nice rifle, I came across your video when I was trying to decide who to have build mine. I wil give the 180s a try. I managed to get some H1000 and RE22 but I can't find bench rest or match grade primers anywhere right now. All I can find in federal champion and winchester primers. Not the best time to just be getting into reloading.

those two primers you can find will serve you well

 

[Itsalongshot]

I finally got out and tried my first ladder test, even though I didn't shoot any groups I no longer have any concerns about the accuracy potential of this rifle. I loaded up 168gr Berger Hunting VLD with H1000, .010 of the lands. My starting load of 64.5gr shot a .449" 3 shot group at 200 yards and these were just meant to be my followers/sighters.

Unfortunately I don't have easy access to a range over 200 yards so I did my ladder test at 200 yards. Winds were light 2-3 mph right to left.

My first test is the one with the orange sticker I shot from 64.5 to 68gr. My second test I think I pulled a few shots. I shot that one from 68 to 64.5gr. I cleaned the rifle before each test and shot a fouling shot before I began. I am not sure if this test was helpful at this distance, i am having trouble seeing a clear node.

All of the loads should no pressure signs. I haven't received my chronograph yet so I don't have any velocities to post.