Barrel break in is an interesting topic. We've done a lot of testing and can tell you that it absolutely matters. The gray zone is what approach/procedure to use and how many rounds. We’ve worked with Proof and we tend to agree with their recommendation. Use this sequence for initial barrel break in and prior to an accuracy test.
1. Shoot 3 shots, then clean
2. Shoot 3 shots, then clean again
3. Shoot 5 shots, then clean again
Step 1 has already been completed by us before we ship out your rifle. So you are on to step 2.
From here, we've found that you can generally shoot normally, cleaning only as needed. We have noticed that accuracy tends to continue to improve through the first 80 rounds. Proof doesn't assess accuracy until 80 rounds. We would say contact us if the rifle is not grouping after 40 shots.
Proof lists known cleaning products and they are all perfectly acceptable (). For those who favor milder cleaners something like ThoroughClean and ThoroughFlush work well.
No, the rails are designed to fit the same pin locations that are in a fixed location on the action body.
8-40 screws should be torqued to 20-25 in/lbs.
6-48 screws should be torqued to 12-17 in/lbs.
We recomend using a purple or blue thread locker.
Typically 45-50 in/lbs, but you should reference the bottom metal manufacturer's instructions.
We offer rails for sale in both 0moa and 20 moa that can purchased direct from Stiller. For direct mount rings you will need Savage round rings with 8-40 screws for all Stiller Shiner TX models. Older Predator models may use 6-48 screws, these can be identified by measuring the existing screw diameter or the minor diameter of the threads in the action. The dimensions should be as followed in the range of plus or minus .010"
6-48 screw outer diameter - .135"
6-48 thread minor diameter - .120"
8-40 screw outer diameter - .140"
8-40 thread minor diameter - .160"