TC Compass Action Screw Torque
I've been dabbling with a T/C Compass in .308 recently and would appreciate some advice on action screws. I can't find much in the way of help online, and according to forums, the proper torque for this rifle from the factory is not public information.
I was shooting last week and noticed groups opening up, to the point where I called it a day - normally the gun is right around 1" @ 100yds. When I got home, I noticed that the barrel and action were rocking inside the factory plastic stock. I pulled up google, and to the best of my research, found that folks recommended 45 in/lbs for action screws for similar models. Using a FAT wrench, I set the torque on both screws and headed back to the range. After 10 shots fired, I decided to check the screws again with the FAT, and both had walked back approximately 1/4 turn. I re-cranked them to 45 in/lb, and fired one more five shot group. The zero on the rifle shifted approximately 1" up and 1" left from where it was in the first 10 shots (same ammo). At this point I decided not to waste more ammo and go back to the drawing board.
I have a couple of ideas, but would appreciate some knowledgeable insight before moving forward:
1. Increase the torque on the screws, mark with paint pen and shoot a lot. The factory stock has aluminium bosses, so I think I could do this without too much trouble, but I'm finding conflicting reports (again online) that say not to exceed ~35in/lb for a plastic stock from other manufacturers.
2. Add blue loctite. I don't anticipate needing to take the action out of the stock often, but there are mixed opinions at best as to whether this is appropriate or not.
I'd appreciate any thoughts or other resources you may offer - thanks for your time!
