I got to the range to shoot my 70 xtr 222 heavy barrel. Wasn't happy with the groups. Nothing under 1/2 inch. 1 inch and under. Any one know what the torc should be on the action screws? Barrel is free floated from the black forend to the action. The barrel touches the black forend. Any suggestions?
As most of us know, a Winchester model 70 is going to shoot its best when properly glass bedded. It will also do much better with the barrel freefloated. However, on a heavy barrel, I'd also make sure the barrel is supported by bedding under the chamber area. That much weight puts stress on the receiver. And....model 70's accuracy/precision are very influenced by stress on the receiver. After glass bedding, torquing to a certain # will not be an issue. Just tighten and go. No weird POI shift after you pull it from the stock etc. etc..
Sorry to hear your rifle did not shoot to your satisfaction. May I ask what ammo you were using? That may not be the issue, but you may want to try some different ammo as well as different bullets if you handload.
You may also want to switch to a "proven" scope, if you have one handy. Pull the bases and rings, degrease everything and blue loctite your bases and rings you intend to use on that rifle.