Mk3 accuracy - seems to vary wildly

[andrewM]

Some very interesting additions to the thread, if I may say,

Laverdabru, do we have a date in 1969 when button rifling was introduced as I am convinced that this modification made a significant difference to the accuracy? Re the Lee Enfield, yes, these were used as sniper rifles long after they were retired for general use but I had forgotten - or never realised - that the bore had been altered to 7.62.

Lakey, I have sometimes carefully cleaned tap-loaders by placing a rod with soft brush (non bronze as I am a little worried about scratching the bore) from the barrel end downwards. In effect, this means that the entire barrel is cleaned, with the exception of, say, 1/2 inch at the very front. I have also placed a rod through the loading-tap in open position, from the cylinder end and this avoids having to remove the tap. Is it really necessary to move the loading tap and piston?

Keith66: I have tried a period scope but there is scope creep. These spot-soldered mounts are not up to it, in my view. This is a rifle designed to be shot with open sights which, alas, are not as good as the old BSA Standard bead front sight, as Isobar observes. Nonetheless, with good visibility on a still day, I can obtain 3/4in groups at 25yds when on form (S.domes). I find this most rewarding.

It would be helpful to discover what groups other owners can produce at, say, 20 - 30 yds, and with what pellets.

Rgds to all
A

PS: I have just noticed that this thread has received over 1000 views in just over a week, which possibly suggests that there are many here with Mk3s in their collection, taking an interest in this discussion. Any more opinions?