New 638 doesn't shoot to POA

[fatcat55]

This is my first post but I have followed the forum for some time.

Just got a brand new model 638. The gun shoots high and a bit to the left with both 158 grain sjhp and 130 grain solid point.

It shoots the same for myself and a friend. Both of us are decent shots with a good bit of short barrel shooting experience.

If I want to hit the center of the target at approx 5 yards I can aim at 4 o'clock and pretty much hit dead center.

I have to bury the front sight to get close at 10 yards or more and aim at 4 o'clock as well

First fixed sight gun I ever owned that did not shoot pretty close to point of aim and i don't know what-if anything- to do to fix it.

I used to shoot an early 80's Charter Arms that was dead on accurate out to 25+ yards so this is somewhat disappointing.

Any help is appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[Hapworth]

What kind of loads were you using, double or single action, free hand or from a rest?

Determining if it's a shooter or firearm issue starts with match quality loads and firing single action from a rest...

 

[MaxS]

Sounds like you got a lemon - I'll take it off your hands for you

Just kidding (about the lemon part). The 638 is my favorite gun.

 

[kaaskop49]

What kind of loads were you using, double or single action, free hand or from a rest?

Determining if it's a shooter or firearm issue starts with match quality loads and firing single action from a rest...

What he said. Have you examined it to see whether the barrel is properly aligned or is it canted slightly to the side? Same for the front sight, although it is an integral part of the barrel. I know another shooter has tried your 638, but your results are the greatest concern. Are you following through on the trigger, riding it down with your finger until it comes to a rest? This simple action helped me greatly. Are you using the "power crease," the first joint or are you shooting with the pad of the finger (proper term, someone?) which is more sensitive.

It's hard to provide a diagnosis "over the phone." Is there an instructor in your area who can examine your gun and your technique in person? This would be more valuable than my (educated) guesses.

BTW, welcome to the Forum! Always great to have new members, especially those who shoot the 638. I adore mine. It's a great gun; give yourself and it more time to arrive at a satisfactory conclusion.

Kaaskop49
Shield 5103

 

[rockquarry]

A J-frame .38 Special should shoot pretty close to the sights at 25 yards with factory or equivalent 158 grain standard pressure loads and a reasonably firm two-handed hold. If you're doing everything right, single- action or double-action should make little difference.

Bullets will usually strike about 4-8" higher shooting with one hand. Point-of-impact from rest shooting will be different again.

You might try additional ammos; may make a difference in the point of impact and shoot all groups at 25 yards. Shooting closer is unnecessary except to check point-of-impact once you are satisfied with everything at 25 yards. Good luck-

 

[Double-O-Dave]

Hi Fatcat55:

Welcome to the Forum. I would echo what Kasskop49 said in his post (#2). Are you using standard velocity ammo? The 638 should be regulated for 158 gr. standard velocity ammo. A Model 638-1 is part of my EDC - the back-up is a Model 38-0. I have both equipped with CT 409 Lasergrips. If you have a set of laser grips available, you might try mounting those to your revolver and sighting them in. The laser dot in relationship to the front sight could be telling. In the case of all of my J-frame revolvers, the laser dot is just above the front sight on my targets.

Good luck,

Dave

 

[fatcat55]

Thanks for all the responses and the welcome.

Gun was shot single action using both hands, firm grip- no rest. Pad of first finger joint on trigger.

Main ammo was Monarch 158 gr sjhp- so not premium ammo. The other ammo was 130 gr WWB. Paper target was basically ~5 yards but other targets (cans, pine cones, ammo box) were at ranges from 10-25 yards.

I don't see a problem with the barrel or the sights but will give it a closer look.

I will see if I can find some target grade ammo and follow the other suggestions.

I am sure the gun is accurate enough for self defense/CC but I bought it for carrying while fishing,hiking or working around the farm and I like to shoot at longer distances.

Again, thanks for all the help and I will report if I find a cause/cure.