[Shooter 2.5]

I'm afraid you don't know what the problem is. Please read my posts again for an explanation of the heat problem.

[blackbart.223]

"I'm afraid you don't know what the problem is. Please read my posts again for an explanation of the heat problem."

Any weapon will drift when the barrel gets hot. I have had good results with my Mini 14 so I can't complain.

PS I just got my hands on a mint condition Smith and Wesson model 29 .44 magnum and pumped a few rounds through it today.

Second amendment dittos.

Bart.

[Smokin' Joe]

For starters, you are out at pretty extreme range for .223 anyway. 480 yards, 1/3 mile. Way beyond the 300 yard max for larger targets the military talks about. Most varmints won't keep their heads up for more than two or three shots at that range, so as a practical matter, I don't understand the problem. The barrel will cool while you are waiting for them to stick their heads up again.

If you want more range, I'd suggest a heavier caliber, anyway. At least .308. You are pushing the practical limits of the .223 cartridge at this range. Ambitious, though, I must give you credit.

I had a 24X on my mini, but the scope wouldn't hold zero even in slow fire, so I junked it and went back to iron sights for shots within 300 yards or so. As long as I can consistently hit dinner-plate sized targets in that envelope I'm happy (standing shot, with the forearm braced in the sling for the close stuff, sitting for the far end.)