Quick Answer
To achieve better accuracy with your .357 Magnum lever gun, start by ensuring a proper sight-in and adjusting the trigger pull weight. Use a chronograph to measure the velocity of your ammunition and adjust your lever gun's sights accordingly. Regularly clean and maintain your rifle.
Setting the Sights
When setting the sights on your .357 Magnum lever gun, you’ll want to ensure the rear sight is properly aligned with the front sight post. To do this, use a shooting bench or a solid rest to hold the rifle steady. Aim at a target 100-150 yards away and adjust the rear sight until the bullet strikes the center of the target.
Optimizing the Trigger
A light, consistent trigger pull is essential for accurate shooting. On most lever guns, the trigger pull weight can be adjusted by removing the trigger and adjusting the trigger screw. For a .357 Magnum, a trigger pull weight of 2.5-3.5 pounds is ideal. Be sure to test the trigger pull weight after making any adjustments to ensure it’s consistent and light.
Choosing the Right Ammunition
When choosing ammunition for your .357 Magnum lever gun, look for loads that produce velocities between 1,500-1,600 feet per second. These loads will typically produce a flatter trajectory and more accurate shooting. Some popular .357 Magnum cartridges include the Speer Gold Dot and the Hornady Critical Defense. Be sure to test different loads to find the one that works best for your rifle.
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