375 H&H so far...

[KDM]

Well, got 60 rounds downrange thru my CZ550 so far.  Recoil has been a non-issue...fun factor has been off-the-charts...challenge of shooting a larger bore rifle has been invigorating, to say the least.  Couldn't ask for much more, except every shot is hitting about 6" low at 50 yards!  The groups are super tight (cloverleaves off the bench), but they're tight groups that're way too low!  In order to get close to the bullseye I have to put the base of the front sight in the V notch of the rear sight.  Feels like the muzzle is pointing up in the sky.  It's to the point where I doubt a lower front sight would make any difference, as it wouldn't be low enough.

One thing I haven't done yet is check the ballistics charts (I know, I should have already).  Don't think the bullet would drop before it rises, though.  Haven't shot at 100 yards yet, either.  Scoping it would solve this issue, but the irons still need to be accurate.

I'm thinking of things I could be doing wrong.  Oftentimes, gun problems are really operator problems.  I'd hate to blame stuff on my equipment when I'm the cause.  Barring that, I suppose I could try tape across the notch in the 100 meter leaf as a troubleshooting method.  Maybe the 100 meter 'V' is too deep.  What do you guys think?

[dubber123]

I'd contact CZ and see how much shorter you can go on the front.  I have also seen alot of people pull a "fine bead" with irons, which of course will make it group a little lower.  Concentrate on holding a FULL bead each time.  If you are getting the groups you say, your shooting doesn't seem to be an issue.  I guess I got lucky with my 2, a 6.5X55, and a .416 Rigby, both were perfectly zeroed out of the box, and although both now wear scopes, I agree it's nice to know the irons are sighted in.  Let us know how you make out.

[KDM]

Thanks, dubber.  I've only been to the range with my baby twice...I agree that different sight pictures need to be tried.  So far I've only held what you called a "fine bead"...the tip of the front sight has been placed in the bottom of the rear "V".  I'll keep plugging away at it.

[dubber123]

KDM, only range testing will tell if the "full bead" thing gets you close enough or not, both mine shoot perfectly this way.  It  took me a while to change my shooting style, as my father always taught me to shoot with the fine bead.  The problem with that idea is that sometimes the bead is held a little more or less "fine" with each shot, as it's hard to keep the same amount showing each time.  With the full bead, it's either just that, full, or it's not.  For me it's alot more consistant.  Pistol shooting taught me this the most, you get someone who tries holding a fine bead, and they tend to string their shots vertically, get them to shoot with the front sight exactly flat across the rear sight, and their groups almost always improve.  I don't have a CZ in .375, but I have a Ruger #1 .375, and I really like the cartridge.  It's a classic.  Enjoy yours.

[KDM]

Thanks for the advice.  I'll give the fuller bead a try.  Another thought...since I've gotta get a laser boresighter soon anyway, I was thinking I could use that for the irons, as well.  At least I'll know better where the sights are regulated.

[KDM]

Another update...found out my front sight was a #14, which is the tallest.  CZ's interchangeable front sights range from a #1 to #14.  Called CZ today and ordered a #1, #4, #7 and #10.  They'll be here next week...let's see if I can get the irons set right.

[gwindrider1]

KDM,

There ya go!  Play with those sight heights until you can use a full bead sight picture.  It's the quickest, and most natural sight picture.  My 550 in .458, was the opposite.  Shot way high until I mounted the #14 front sight.  Now it only shoots a little high.  I may file in the rear blades to lowers it a bit more, but you are shooting well, and congrats!

Big bores are fun, aren't they?

P.S., CZ also offers a fiber optic front sight in any of the various heights, about $20.00 each.  It makes a big difference!

[KDM]

Fun is an understatement, gwindrider1!  To make use of current vernacular:  Itz tha shizzle!

As for the sight picture, I've always held a fine bead (thanks for the nomenclature, dubber).  This'll be a hard habit to break.  Just means more range time.  Shucks.
After I receive the new sights I'll hit the range and let you guys know what's going on.

As usual, thanks for the input.