HG, I know all factory makers have problems, but what irritated me was the way they handled it. On the first return, the gunsmith had it nearly 2 months. When it was returned, the only thing done was a crown job. I ran factory and numerous handloads through it and still got terrible results. THe second trip to the Weatherby gunsmith lasted about a month. When I got it back the only thing done was the application of some funky green bedding near the lug. It wasn't even placed entirely around the lug recess, yet alone the whole action. Still shot terrible with factory and handloads. At this point, I was disgusted and floated the barrel myself to see what would happen. Didn't help and didn't hurt. However, Weatherby refused to honor the warranty any longer because I modified the stock. They wanted me to first buy another stock before they would work on it.
At this point, I was really irritated. If the rifle didn't have sentimental value, it would have been holding up plants in the garden. So, I shipped it to a very reputable smith and had it overhauled (new barrel, fiberglass stock, and bedding). Only thing I didn't have him do was true the action because of the difficulty with all the small lugs. He could have done it, but I'm not certain it would have been worth it. Anyway, the rifle shoots better now, but not great considering the money put into it.
That's my long story. I wish I could love this rifle, but it has left a bad taste in my mouth and a hole in my pocket. For the money I have in it, a custom built Rem or Win would have saved me money and shot much better. I know they aren't all like that, but that is just my experience. The 257 Wby chambering is awesome though. I would get another rifle built around that cartridge in a heartbeat.
so i hope i dont get a lemon.
