I removed the stock and noticed the lug seems to be factory bedded and also, a thin bit of material behind the lug. I was able to slide a dollar bill back just so far but, not all the way back to the lug. Is this part of the design or should it be floated all the way back to the lug? I don't want to remove something that's there for accuracy reasons, been there done that before . I haven't even shot this thing yet so I thought I'd better ask first if anyone is even familiar with this model or has one. I really like the build and feel of this gun I hope I can get at least moa with handloads it likes. I sure appreciate any and all info I can get. I've checked several forums about the floating with no luck so far but, these were only made 1996-1999 Thanks! This is the 30-06 model

". I haven't even shot this thing yet so. . . "
Were it my rifle, I wouldn't start fixing things until I knew it was broken.
Clean the bore, then work up some handloads, if you're a reloader. Or, test several factory loads, if you don't reload.
At that point, you'll have some basis for deciding whether the rifle needs any tuning or not.

Im of the same thoughtsas CVC. I haev one I bought new also. And like his is a very accurate rifle. Ive never done anything to it except clean it. Ive tore it down but never really looked for anything like what youre talking. I'd take the advice of the the other two replies and see how it shoots before you do anything with it. By the way mine really likes my handloads of 165grain slugs and Varget or IMR 4350.

Go shoot it a little. The definition of "free floated" sometimes includes bedding under the chamber, sometimes not.

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MikeG

To answer the bedding part of the question - it is a common bedding technique to leave a little material under the first inch or two of the barrel. Wouldn't worry about it.

But I am with the other guys - shoot before tinkering!!

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IDShooter

"Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect." - Mark Twain

I have a few factory 150 gr. loads plus, I'll measure to the lands and try a few 150gr. Sierra GK. and 168gr. Hornady A-Max. I have some H4350 and H4831sc I'll try also. Thanks very much for all the advice!