The first three shots are always high.

[rdl65]

I have an Encore .223 heavy barrel that always shoots high out of a clean barrel. The first shot is always 2.5 inches high. The second and third sots are 1 inch high. After the first three shots it is dead on at 100yds. Anyone have remedy for this or do I just have to aim low.

This is a target with first four shots.

this is the next three shot group.

and this is the next 5 shot group. It shoots better the more you shoot it.

 

[statelineRUT]

If it was me I would only carry that rifle in the field after I have fired at lest three shots down the tube. Your barrel does not like being clean. Also if you are running any lube down the barrel after cleaning that can effect your POI as well. I always use just solvent when going to shoot after a cleaning and oil lightly when I put it away.

 

[mr.big]

thats pretty common,,I never trust a CLEAN bbl

 

[Model70Man]

thats pretty common,,I never trust a CLEAN bbl

DITTO THAT!!!

All of my rifles I take in the field have dirty barrels.

 

[B Strong]

I also don't trust a first shot. I always shoot mine 1 time to verify zero and hunt without cleaning till the season ends. Muzzle gun is done the same way. I do shoot my front stuffer after each day , just can't trust not having a fresh load in it.

 

[Whelen Man]

My Savage muzzleloader is that way also. About three inches high for the first shot and then lower. I only use it after firing a few shots first after cleaning. Other rifles I always shoot before hunting also to verify zero and they're hunted with while the bore is fouled.

 

[Kimberman]

One of my Kimbers will not shoot worth a crap out of a clean barrel, but put about 4-5 rounds down the tube and the next 3 shot group turns into a 1/2 inch. Shoot it dirty, it likes it!