Well gents, I have decided to keep the arisaka. I'll be honest this is the most cantankerous rifle I've ever had the displeasure of working with.
cast bullet groups were anywhere from 8" to 15". What I determined is that my powder charges were to high 15 to 18 grains. Once I got to 13 grains of imr 4227 using the Lyman bullet 266469 as cast with gas check, seated way out I found my accuracy. Several 5 shot groups went into 1.5" at 100 yards.
my hope is people who shoot these rifles will not lose heart and that it is possible to get good groups with the Type 38.
I have been shooting military rifles since the 1980's with cast but this one has been by far the most challenging.
