Michael, I suspect the size, weight and wall thickness of the barrel has a lot to do with barrel rests shooting so well. How much have you played with sporter weight barrels and forearm bedding?
I have had very little success with barrel rest and sporter weight barrels, finding forestock rest, full contact bedding (either wood to metal or epoxy) and a slight gap between the forend and action to achieve the best groups. Matter of fact, I try to rest the forearm very much as I would for shooting offhand. I remember struggling with one particular High Wall .30-40 until I arrived at this combination.
I'll bet there is a slight gap between the forend and action of the 44 1/2, that is, if you can unscrew the barrel. I have very little experience with heavy barreled target rifles.
Shawn, If you are going to make the forend from a block, you are in for a challenge. Let me know, I can help. I'm flattered you enjoy the Winchester, as I'm sure Terry is, who concieved, initiated and commisioned the '73. Without a doubt, one of the most challenging and rewarding projects of my career. Terry was a dream client; Knowlegable researcher, rare parts locater, encouraging, faithful with my mortgage cycle and willing to support the artistic and well as the functional aspects of the project.
Thanks Terry!
(BTW, I helped Jerry Fisher a bit with tools and knowledge when he stocked the Swartley engraved M-73. Helped convince him he did not want a cheekpiece!)
