[KT29]

After being fortunate to be able to pick up this new Winchester 1885 Low Wall in .223 the first of the year, we have been blessed with nothing but blizzards and sub-zero weather since. I did manage to brave the elements a few times to try and do somewhat of a barrel breakin. Finally a couple of days ago, we had a break in the weather and I managed to plow my way into our range. I was anxious to start some load development. After reading about the OCW method of load develpment, I thought I would also try it out as best I could.
The results of that effort are shown in the pic below. After reading and hearing alot of stories about how inaccurate the falling blocks are, I had a lot of concerns as to weather or not it was a good decision to get one. Now my test results are certainly not prove postive as to the accuracy of this rifle, but it does give me alot of encouragemnt in that it may just be a decent shooting rifle. I do have to say though, that it is a hoot to shoot, and being it is a pretty light rifle, it packs around very easy. I am hoping that after this weekend blizzard, I will still be able to get back out to the range and continue testing.

 

[Red Pepper]

I don't know who told you falling block rifles are inaccurate. My 1885 hunter is the most accurate rifle I've shot, and you shot some mighty fine groups with yours! Congratulations on a nice rifle!

 

[broom_jm]

Not only is that a beautiful gun to look at, those are some very good groups and a picture-perfect illustration of why you go up in small increments, when doing load development! Those pictures are worth many, MANY words!

 

[KT29]

Thanks for your nice replies guys. I'm more excited now then ever to get back out and do some more shooting with this rifle.

 

[209jones]

I've had a 1885 in .223 for a while, got it the year before they brought out the low wall. It does everything I've asked it to do for me. I got tired of the amount of powder I was using on the 22-250, and it shoots gophers at 250 yds quite nicely, beyond that I can't tell the difference between a gopher's head and a hun or sharpie at 20 power. So, I took the 22-250 and built a 32-40win on it, which shoots as well on targets as either of the other two out to 200yds (actually better, 10 shot vs 5 shot groups).
Now I want to build one in .338, to go huntin with.

 

[Red Pepper]

I've thought it would be nice to have one in .338 as well. I've also toyed with building a .458 Mag version - essentially the same as my .45-90, but with stronger, more available brass.