Decent shooting SOCOM 16

June 29, 2020, 12:05 PM

benny6

I got this rifle to bed into the McMillan. I don't typically see good results with full power 168 grain stuff, but this one did seem to shoot quite well. First three at 7 o'clock, last two at 1 o'clock. I consider 2" out of a bone stock SOCOM to be quite good; especially without any more load development and tuning of the gas system or gas lock.

I'm wondering of the scout hand guard helped or not. It's through Fulton and might be an Ultimak. I've never handled an Ultimak before so I don't know if it's the same. It's marked with FA on the front.

In my research, SOCOM's seem to shoot better with middle of the range loads with 155 grain or lighter bullets. I haven't found a good load that works very well with 168 or 175 grain bullets. Typical groups out of a bone stock SOCOM are usually around 6" or more at 100 yards. Anything under 3" is considered good. 2" is very good. Under 1.5" is outstanding.

Tony.

June 29, 2020, 12:21 PM

redlickranch

I can shoot under 3 inch groups with my Socom and use open sights. Mine is a tack driver.

Love your set up.

June 29, 2020, 12:51 PM

Slippery Pete

Every so often the stars align. Love that stock.

June 29, 2020, 04:16 PM

patw

Now there's a couple of rifles to be proud of. I kick myself for not getting one years ago.

June 29, 2020, 05:50 PM

markstempski

quote:
Originally posted by benny6:
I got this rifle to bed into the McMillan. I don't typically see good results with full power 168 grain stuff, but this one did seem to shoot quite well. First three at 7 o'clock, last two at 1 o'clock. I consider 2" out of a bone stock SOCOM to be quite good; especially without any more load development and tuning of the gas system or gas lock.

I'm wondering of the scout hand guard helped or not. It's through Fulton and might be an Ultimak. I've never handled an Ultimak before so I don't know if it's the same. It's marked with FA on the front.

In my research, SOCOM's seem to shoot better with middle of the range loads with 155 grain or lighter bullets. I haven't found a good load that works very well with 168 or 175 grain bullets. Typical groups out of a bone stock SOCOM are usually around 6" or more at 100 yards. Anything under 3" is considered good. 2" is very good. Under 1.5" is outstanding.

Tony.

Will see what my socom does with an NM trigger group. I have unitized the gas system gone with a Socom specific gas plug, sadlak piston. Was under 2 inches with my hand loads before with stock trigger group for 168 grain 42.6 grains IMR 4895. Waiting for range to open up supposed to after this weekend.