Simple question really, how accurate should I expect my Marlin 336 to be at 100 yards? This would be using 8x magnification and off a Caldwell Rock w rear bag support.
My new to me 336!(1980's JM) shoots 4" to 6" "patterns", horizontal and vertical dispersion, at 100 yards off a bench. This with Federal 170 gr, Hornady 160 gr LeverRevolutuon and Hirnady 150 gr. Basically every factory load is all over the place.
I have checked all screws on the scope mount and rings, plus I swapped scopes. No change in accuracy has led me to rule out the scope or mount as the culprit.
The barrel was very, very filthy. I have cleaned with copper solvent (first patch was Smurf blue), soaked with Kroil and then many passes with #9 and a bronze brush.
The barrel is much cleaner now than when I was shooting, but the lands are still matte colored and not shiny.
I'm just wondering how much accuracy I should expect from a .30-30 lever action.