I sort of think the rifle should shoot at least 1.5 inches with hand loads after serious development. I tried 12-15 different projectiles, 4-5 proplants, two brands of cases, 3 different primers. I shoot maybe 4000 thousand rounds a year from center fire rifles. I'm not a bench rest shooter but I have a half dozen rifles that will shoot MOA whith the rights loads and me at the trigger.

I appreciate the posts and advice. I think this is my last factory rifle.

Is it worth putting $800-900 into a new barrel? I'm leaning towards a 280 Rem Improved if I do.

I'll let every one know what I end up doing.