Group diagram: image Berger Bullets

How Many Shots Make A Valid Group?


Group diagram: image Berger Bullets
Group diagram: image Berger Bullets

Q
I have noticed that when reviewing firearms you often use 3-shot groups as a measure of accuracy, but sometimes you use 5-shot groups. Why is this?
– Andrew McAllister

A
Often the deciding factor is the number of factory rounds the distributor sends with a rifle for testing. The more parsimonious ones send only 20 rounds while the majority send 80 or more. Another factor is the type of rifle. If it is an ultralight with soda straw barrel, I figure about eight 3-shot groups spaced apart is plenty. In the field only seldom is the light gun fired three times fairly fast, whereas with a standard sporter I like to use four 5-shot groups as its measure of accuracy. If the groups are round without any fliers, I believe this to give a fair indication of a rifle’s accuracy. Modern rifles are much more accurate than those of yesteryear and factory ammo is hard to better with handloads and one inch 3-shot groups at 100 yards may not achieve the absolute potential of a rifle and load, but they give a good enough indication of their ability to land a bullet in the chest of a deer-size animal out to 400 yards. With my own hunting rifles, I check the bullet’s impact at 200 yards and adjust it if necessary. I always try and stalk within sure hitting distance. In my opinion, only an experienced marksman should take a shot at game 400 yards away, but I’m old school.

 

 

 


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Nick Harvey

The late Nick Harvey (1931-2024) was one of the world's most experienced and knowledgeable gun writers, a true legend of the business. He wrote about firearms and hunting for about 70 years, published many books and uncounted articles, and travelled the world to hunt and shoot. His reloading manuals are highly sought after, and his knowledge of the subject was unmatched. He was Sporting Shooter's Technical Editor for almost 50 years. His work lives on here as part of his legacy to us all.

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