I bought a new .280 NEF last week. Shot for the first time Sunday. 50 yard target, got about a 10 inch group. Upon examination I discovered the barrel has a little play at lockup, not much but just enough to let you know its loose. Do you folks agree that this may cause the very poor results with this rifle.

I contacted the shop where I purchased to get it replaced. No answer from them yet. My only recourse, if this fails is to send it back to factory.

I have a 25.06 NEF that is a very good shooter.

JR

TOO BAD,,my 223 is very tight,,but I guess one gets by 'em every now and then.I would be surprised if the dealer takes it back,,I would send it to the factory,,have 'em do a trigger job and fit another barrel while it's there,,I am thinking to get the 280 as my next NEF as I want the longer barrel,,good luck.

Handi-Rifles have a reputation for pretty good accuracy, so I would certainly suspect the barrel lock-up as the culprit. I would go with Montanahillbilly's suggestion to send it back to the factory for a new barrel and a trigger job ( they'll lighten it to 3.5 lbs. ).