McGowen Rifle Barrels

[shooter_john]

Hello Everyone... I know guys are always curious about new barrels/ barrel makers, and I recently tried a McGowen SS Select Match 30-06 barrel for a Savage action. The barrel is standard Savage Varmint contour, 26" 1-10" twist.
I installed it a few weeks ago and finally got it out to the range on Memorial Day (what better thing to do than shoot on Memorial Day right). It took about 6 shots to get a good zero, and then I settled in to shoot my first group, and I could not be happier with the results...

I shot this group from the prone w/ bipod and squeeze bag support, in the grass/ gravel behind the 100 yd walkway on our range at work.
The rifle is a Savage 116SS action, the McGowen barrel, B&C Duramaxx stock (bedded), Nikon BM 4.5-14x42 SFMD, and Harris bipod. The load information is written on the target obviously. I'll try and get pics of the rifle up as well.

 

[Jimro]

The only experience with McGowen barrels is the 7mm Rem Mag on my buddies. It'll drop Winchester white box ammo in a half inch group all day long.

Jimro

 

[ndking1126]

Nice shooting! Thanks for the info.

 

[shooter_john]

Update

I recently had some different powders on hand and worked up some new loads for this rifle. I had an absolutely spectacular group going and then got all excited about and blew it. Regardless, I think that load has potential! This barrel just keeps getting better and better.

 

[Slamfire]

Good Shooting!

Now lets see, how many "Experts" said the 30-06 could not shoot straight and that Hornady match bullets were garbage?

 

[shooter_john]

No kidding... We all know that the 30-06 sucks because it is a long action cartridge and the case is long and skinny instead of short and fat, thereby making it inherently inaccurate!

I have had nothing but great luck with Hornady match bullets.