Pellet loading

[bds_]

On a PCP, for optimal accuracy, where should the pellet be positioned in relation to the rifling after loading? For example, should both head and skirt be fully engaged by the rifling, or just the head?

My gun is a .22 Fx Whisper with LW barrel and brass barrel inlet. After visual inspection, I think there is no leade at the start of the rifling.

 

[Guest]

I suspect the answer to that question is going to depend upon so many things that nobody but you can answer it for yourself. Best thing to do would be to shoot groups both ways with the pellets you intend to use and see which works best. That may actually have something to do with differences in accuracy on magazine fed guns.

 

[Alan]

I hunt with a .25 Marauder. If I am VERY careful when hand loading pellets, they all group well. Using the single shot tray, I get one or two fliers at 50 yards. If I use the magazine, three or four are fliers. Some magazines are worse than others, but the average is about the same. 

Part of the issue is the size of the bolt probe with respect to the pellet's internal skirt size. And of course, the rifling lead design also plays a role. As a result, the variables are large enough that no one can make a proof-positive statement about any loading methodology versus any specific airgun.

 

[bds_]

Is there a disadvantage in pushing the pellet fully into the rifling, so that both the head and the skirt contact the full rifling?

 

[SDellinger]

I know it makes a difference with springers. Not sure with pcp guns.

 

[Bruce]

Aren't FX barrels smooth twist? that means no rifling in the barrel except the last couple of inches in the muzzle end.

 

[T3PRanch]

Not the older ones!

Thurmond