Rifles Being Tied Down - Evolving Our Methods - Pt. 1

Published on August 16, 2019
Duration: 12:41

This video details the use of a Ransom Rest for eliminating the human element in rifle accuracy testing. The presenters discuss the setup, protocol development, and initial results using a 6.5 Creedmoor rifle. They highlight the importance of repeatable groups and the challenges of settling the rifle in the rest, exploring adjustments and ammunition types to achieve consistent performance.

Quick Summary

The Ransom Rest is a specialized shooting device that removes human error from rifle accuracy testing by securely holding the firearm and using a remote trigger. This allows for the assessment of the rifle's inherent precision, independent of shooter skill. Initial tests with a 6.5 Creedmoor rifle showed promising results, with groups tightening to approximately 3/4 MOA.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Rifle Accuracy Testing
  2. 00:09Introducing the Ransom Rest
  3. 00:20Ransom International Master Series Mega 2 Rest
  4. 00:34The Goal: Remove Human Element
  5. 01:04A New Era for Testing
  6. 01:27NeoMag Sponsor Segment
  7. 02:04Rifle Build Breakdown
  8. 02:16Ballistic Advantage Barrel & Muzzle Brake
  9. 02:28Magpul PRS Stock & Geissele Trigger
  10. 02:38Optic Setup: Vortex Razor HD SHV
  11. 02:56Testing Protocol Discussion
  12. 03:09Lancer Magazines
  13. 03:16Minimizing Rest Movement
  14. 03:40Initial Group Results
  15. 03:58Virtual KC Target
  16. 04:12Loading and Firing Sequence
  17. 04:23Remote Trigger Operation
  18. 04:43Ensuring Repeatable Shots
  19. 05:03Loading Next Magazine
  20. 05:10Developing the 'Burping Series' Protocol
  21. 05:13Seven-Shot Groups with Throwaways
  22. 05:38Addressing Movement in the Rest
  23. 06:09Observing Group Consistency
  24. 06:12Removing Ratchet Straps
  25. 06:24Chasing Anomalies
  26. 06:31Angle and Torquing Concerns
  27. 06:57Contacting Ransom Rest Support
  28. 07:09CEO Michael's Advice on Clamps
  29. 07:25Re-Securing the Rifle
  30. 07:36First Round Chambering Anomaly
  31. 08:08Observing the First Round Effect
  32. 08:15Remarkable Accuracy Achieved
  33. 08:31Sub-MOA Performance
  34. 08:41Switching to Handloads
  35. 08:44Ben's Handload Details
  36. 09:01Handload vs. Factory Ammo Comparison
  37. 09:15Velocity Comparison
  38. 09:28Testing Sellier & Bellot FMJ
  39. 09:59Rifle Heating Up
  40. 10:10Hornady American Gunner Ammunition
  41. 10:28Overall Rifle Performance Summary
  42. 10:37Switching to Ben's Rifle
  43. 10:40Lancer LTR 6.5 Creedmoor
  44. 10:50Day Cut Short by Rain
  45. 11:06Initial Thoughts on the Rest
  46. 11:13Improving Rest Mounting
  47. 11:21More Rigid Mounting Solutions
  48. 11:27Ransom Rest's Suggested Solutions
  49. 11:42Hope for Removing Human Element
  50. 11:46Addressing Past Criticism
  51. 12:00The Journey Continues
  52. 12:06Excitement for Future Testing
  53. 12:11Long-Range Potential
  54. 12:15Consistency and Human Element
  55. 12:22Leaning Favorably Towards the Rest
  56. 12:28Outro and Thanks

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Ransom Rest and how does it improve rifle accuracy testing?

A Ransom Rest, like the Master Series Mega 2, is a specialized shooting rest designed to eliminate human error from accuracy tests. It securely clamps the rifle and uses a remote trigger, allowing for repeatable shots to assess the firearm's inherent precision.

What are the key components of the rifle tested in the video?

The rifle features a Sharps Brothers AR-10 receiver set, a 24-inch Ballistic Advantage barrel, a Zero Delta muzzle brake, Magpul PRS stock, Geissele National Match trigger, and a Vortex Razor HD SHV optic, chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor.

What ammunition was used, and what were the initial accuracy results?

Initial testing used Hornady ELD Match 140-grain ammunition. After settling shots, groups were around 1.6 inches for three shots and 0.9 inches for five shots, with one shot removed bringing it down to 0.6 inches.

What challenges were encountered when using the Ransom Rest?

Challenges included ensuring the rifle was properly settled in the rest, potential movement from securing straps, and the impact of barrel heat on accuracy. Loose clamps on the rest itself were also identified as a problem.

How does handloading potentially improve rifle accuracy with a Ransom Rest?

Handloads, like those tested with 41 grains of IMR 4350 powder, can offer improved accuracy by allowing for precise control over powder charges and seating depth, potentially tightening groups compared to factory ammunition.

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