10-20-2017, 06:20 PM
Keef Wrote:I have a 100yrd range in my side yard woods.(where I normally shoot) With the peanuts coming out the the fields today I'll be able to do some 800yrd shooting. Not something I've done before. I have some 10inch steel plates and some large shoot n see targets. Looking for ideas to minimize the walking and driving across field to check targets and things that will make the day more productive. Will be using a 16" 6.5 and 3-18x scope. I've been thinking about making a board to hang skeet on.
Keef:
If possible, set up your shooting position with the sun behind you. If you are shooting prone, make triple sure that you have done something to keep dust and crap from obscuring your ability to see through your scope immediately following the shot. Put a tarp down or water the area thoroughly. The idea is for you to spot your trace through your rifle optic. The Grendel is a very slow cartridge and it is very possible to watch the trace through your optic given a solid position and if the sun is out and behind you.
Now, I know this will be a hassle but trust me on this one. Make a solid frame that allows for a target backer that is about 4 X 4 feet. Make sure the target is high enough that you can see it from your firing position. Face the target with white or very light beige or tan paper. You can put your large Shoot-N-See in the middle of it but I doubt you will see any holes so it will be more of an aiming point for you. Put the frame down range. If you want to be able to see the bullet holes (probably), put it at 300 yards. Past 300 yards and I am pretty sure you won't see any holes. You can probably get your zero without having to walk to the target if it is at 300.
Locating the steel in an open spot where you can see dirt kick up given a miss is a decent option. It is tricky to spot like that but it is better than seeing nothing when you miss. I would paint the steel white because when your bullet hits it, it will chip off some of the white paint leaving a dark scar that may be seen at 800 if you have good light, little mirage, and a decent scope. Hanging the steel so it moves when you hit it may be the only way you know you hit it at 800. Unless the steel is thin enough that you can hear it.
Put your come up on the carbine and get into a very firm and solid position. Dope your wind, take your shot. When you shoot at your steel target, look for your bullet trace and or splash. If you don't see anything in five shots, you will have to head down range to inspect. Might as well drag your paper target along in case you need to get a zero on paper again.
I know it is somewhat a PITA but might as well go through it because that way you will not have to waste time or money getting a zero you can trust.
LR55