Problems

[krshunter]

Not quite sure where to put this one so I'll start here. My buddy has a Ruger No.1 Stainless in .243. We reloaded some various bullets and powder charges and went to the range. Nothing seemed to group particularly well. 2" to 3" groups at 100yds. About the same luck with some factory loads. One particular load put two bullets about 1/4" apart and he thought he pulled the third shot so we went with that load. Loaded a bunch and went back to the range today to fine tune and nothing real good again. Tried five different groups. I tried on myself with the same results so I know it's not him.

Started with a clean barrel and the first shot in his rifle is always out in left field. After that one shot went about 3" high and on center left to right. Next shot was about 1-1/2" high on center and the third shot was in between those two on center. Next group put one about 4" high, second about 1" high and third almost touching the first. Third goup similar results again. Left to right seems nearly perfect but the shots always space like steps on a ladder for the most part. I got the exact same results. Two of the five groups have two shots within about 1/2" of each other and the other is 2-1/2" out but always in a vertical line. Everything is vertical for the most part. Does this sound like a load that the gun just doesn't like or a scope problem possibly? Any thoughts appreciated.