Hi Fontainebleu,

I would never think of the 9.3x74R as a Bench Rest rifle but as John has indicated the scope can make a difference to the regulation outcome.

In a previous post I mentioned that Merkel now fit their smaller caliber rifles with Recknagel bases so that the strain on the metal is relieved / compensated for during regulation. Now to be a real pain, as John said 40mm is not that good at 100meters but where each of the bullets land is also very important. Does the Right barrel shoot 20mm to the left and visa versa for the Left barrel (Crossing) and or one barrel shooting higher than the other.

Don't forget that the 'Claw' mounts were installed 'After' the regulation and by that fact of machining of the rib 'Stress' is created in the metal, this is nothing to do with the Gunsmiths ability it's Physics.

I would suggest that the rifle is "Tested" at 100 meters with both Open Sights and then the Scope. Mark each shot and from which barrel it was fired and the round used to get that result as you have been given different Ammo & Reloads info so now is the time to do a thorough test.

If all goes to plan and what you have been told by the owner is correct that's fine but if it seems like there is a problem and the Owner and he starts 'Tip Toeing' around your taking to much time or using to much ammo I would suggest that there may be more to the story and I would 'Walk Away'

I am sorry to be negative but there is a lot of doubles that just don't perform irrespective of what you do.

Good Luck and Cheers for Now,

Jeff Gray

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