I have a 1st year rem700 ks that shoots 21/2" Horizontal groups my other ks's shoot under 1".. Thanks for your advice.

Hold the rifle sideways.

Actually, look for sideways pressure point or differential centering of the barrel in the forearm of the stock. Pressure or uneven cooling may cause stock to hit the side of the barrel. As barrel heats up, it also can warp.

the barrel is completely free floated with about 1/8" clerance all round.. would glass bedding the 1st few inches help?

If the shots move randomly from one side to the other it is likely caused by action movement in the stock. First check guard screw tension in case they are not secure.If that isn't the problem, full length glass bedding of the action will usually stop that cold. Whether you also chose to do the first couple of inches of the barrel in front of the action is another possibility to help stabilize movement.

Horizontal grouping can be a loose windage screw on the rear scope base (Redfield type). Make sure they are really tight.

If the scope and gun are in good shape, get yourself a good set of wind flags and learn how to use them if you do not already know how.

thanks for the answeres, i have checked the action screws- they were tight., the rifle has conetrol rings & bases but i will check their tightness, i don't shoot in the wind and always shoot 3 or more rifles to be sure the problem is not my shooting. if the rings are not loose the rifle is off to john lewis to be bedded...thanks again.