Understanding Common Hiccups
Feeding and Extraction Problems
One of the most frequently reported problems encountered with the Winchester XPR 350 Legend is related to its feeding and extraction. These issues can manifest in several frustrating ways, disrupting your shooting experience and potentially hindering your ability to make a clean shot. Feeding problems can include failures to feed, where the cartridge doesn’t smoothly chamber into the barrel. You might experience this as the bolt jamming, preventing the rifle from closing completely. The cartridge may get caught on the feed ramp or the magazine lips. Extraction issues, conversely, arise when the spent cartridge casing fails to be removed from the chamber after firing. The most common result is stovepiping, where the empty casing stands upright, partially ejected, and stuck in the action, or the failure to extract (FTE) where the case remains in the chamber. These malfunctions can be caused by a combination of factors, which we will look closer at.
Magazines play a crucial role in the reliability of any repeating firearm. The XPR’s magazine design, as well as its construction, has been linked to feeding and extraction issues. Problems often arise from the magazine’s follower design (the part that pushes the cartridges up), the strength of the magazine spring, and the overall fit within the rifle’s action. A weak spring, for example, might not provide enough force to reliably push the cartridges into the chamber, leading to failures to feed. Alternatively, the feed lips of the magazine might not be properly shaped or positioned, causing the cartridges to nose-dive or jam. It’s also important to inspect the lips to ensure they are not out of shape.
The bolt assembly itself, including the ejector (the part that pushes the spent casing out) and the extractor (the part that grabs the casing rim), can also be a source of problems. A damaged ejector or a weak extractor spring can fail to properly eject the spent casing. The extractor may also not grip the rim tightly enough, leading to extraction failures. Additionally, the bolt’s movement within the receiver must be smooth and consistent for reliable cycling.
Another factor that can contribute to these issues is ammunition. Variations in the rim thickness of different brands of ammunition can influence the extractor’s ability to grip the casing. Additionally, the overall quality of the ammunition, including the case dimensions and neck sizing, can impact feeding and extraction.
To address these feeding and extraction problems, start by carefully examining your magazines. Check for any damage, wear, or deformation in the feed lips, follower, and spring. Consider replacing the magazine with a new one or upgrading to an aftermarket magazine that is better designed for the 350 Legend. Clean and lightly lubricate the magazine after inspection. Next, thoroughly clean and lubricate your rifle’s action, paying close attention to the bolt, ejector, and extractor. Ensure that the bolt cycles smoothly and easily. You can also experiment with different brands and types of ammunition. Sometimes, switching to a higher-quality, known brand of ammunition can resolve feeding issues. If you’ve tried all these steps and the problems persist, consulting a qualified gunsmith is always the best course of action, as the problem might be more complex than initially thought.
Achieving Accuracy
While the XPR is generally regarded as an accurate rifle, some owners have reported accuracy concerns. Inconsistent groupings or a tendency to shoot off-center are among the potential issues.
Barrel quality plays a key role in accuracy. The manufacturing tolerances, the crown of the barrel, and overall construction can all impact the rifle’s ability to group shots tightly. A poorly made barrel may not be able to consistently send bullets downrange with the desired precision. Ammunition selection is equally important. The 350 Legend, with its relatively flat trajectory, works best with ammunition designed for that cartridge and the specific barrel twist rate of the XPR. Using ammunition that isn’t the right weight, or loaded to the right specifications, can hurt your accuracy. It’s crucial to find the ammunition your rifle likes best.
Scope mounting and zeroing can also significantly affect accuracy. Ensure that the scope rings are properly mounted and tightened to the correct torque specifications. The scope itself must be securely attached to the rings. Once the scope is mounted, properly zero it at the desired range. Any misalignment or improper adjustment can lead to inaccurate shots. Shooting technique is another often-overlooked factor. Proper trigger control, breathing techniques, and stable shooting positions are all essential for achieving good accuracy. Even a slight movement or inconsistency can throw off the shot.
To improve accuracy, begin by thoroughly cleaning your rifle’s barrel to remove any fouling. Consider experimenting with different brands and bullet weights of ammunition. This will help you determine which ammunition provides the best accuracy with your XPR. Make sure your scope is securely mounted and correctly zeroed. Practice proper shooting techniques and focus on consistent trigger pulls. If you still experience accuracy issues, consider having a gunsmith check the rifle’s barrel and action for any manufacturing defects or other potential problems.
The Trigger: A Critical Component
The XPR’s factory trigger has been cited as a potential area of concern for some shooters. A heavy or inconsistent trigger pull can negatively impact accuracy and overall shooting enjoyment.
The factory trigger design can influence the feel and pull weight. Some owners may find the trigger pull to be too heavy, making it difficult to maintain a steady aim. The consistency of the trigger pull is also important. A trigger that varies in weight or has a gritty feel can lead to inconsistent shot placement.
Upgrading or replacing the factory trigger is a common solution. There are many aftermarket trigger options available that offer a lighter, crisper, and more consistent pull. Replacing the trigger is relatively straightforward, although it’s best to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional help if you’re not comfortable doing so. Some shooters also benefit from trigger work by a gunsmith. Gunsmiths can refine the factory trigger, improving its pull weight and consistency. Adjusting the factory trigger, if possible and safe, can also potentially improve its performance. However, caution is advised, and proper knowledge of firearm mechanics is essential before attempting any trigger adjustments.
More on Magazine Mayhem
As mentioned earlier, the magazines used in the XPR chambered for the 350 Legend are often at the heart of feeding and extraction issues. The magazine itself is a critical component that impacts the overall reliability of the rifle.
A common problem is that the magazine lips can be inconsistent, leading to failures to feed. The angle at which the cartridge is presented to the chamber can also vary. Over time, the magazine’s spring can weaken, which causes the cartridge to fail to feed. The follower can also wear down, resulting in less-than-reliable feeding.
To troubleshoot, start by inspecting the magazine itself. Check for dents, cracks, or other damage. Clean the magazine thoroughly and ensure that the follower moves freely. Then, try different brands of 350 Legend ammunition. Certain brands may function better with the magazine. Some users have found success with aftermarket magazines. These magazines are specifically designed for the 350 Legend and may offer improved reliability and feeding characteristics.
Bolt and Ejection Issues
The bolt and its associated components (ejector and extractor) play a vital role in cycling the spent cartridge and preparing the rifle for the next shot. Problems within these components can stop the rifle from performing reliably.
A common issue is a failure to extract, where the spent case remains in the chamber. The extractor may have a weak spring, or the extractor claw might be worn or damaged. This prevents a firm grip on the case rim. Ejection issues can also arise from a worn ejector.
If you experience bolt issues, disassemble the bolt and inspect the components. Replace any worn or damaged parts, such as the extractor, extractor spring, or ejector. Ensure that the bolt moves smoothly within the receiver. Lubricate the bolt, and ensure that the rifle is properly cleaned and maintained.
Preventing Problems: Best Practices
A little preventative maintenance can go a long way in mitigating problems with your Winchester XPR.
Maintaining proper cleaning and lubrication is crucial for ensuring smooth operation. After each shooting session, thoroughly clean your rifle, paying particular attention to the barrel, bolt, and action. Use the appropriate cleaning solvents and lubricants. A clean, well-lubricated rifle is less prone to malfunctions.
Selecting the right ammunition is another important factor. Use high-quality ammunition from reputable manufacturers. Experiment with different brands and bullet weights to determine which performs best in your rifle. Avoiding certain brands or bullet types can sometimes help resolve issues.
Proper shooting technique can also minimize problems. Maintain a solid shooting position and focus on consistent trigger pulls. A clean, consistent shooting technique can reduce the likelihood of malfunctions.
Making the Right Choice
Is the Winchester XPR in 350 Legend right for you? It’s a question that requires careful consideration. While it’s an affordable and generally reliable rifle, it’s not without its potential issues.
When considering the purchase of the Winchester XPR in 350 Legend, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. If you are on a budget, the XPR offers excellent value. Its accuracy and lightweight design make it a suitable choice for hunting. However, be aware of the potential issues with feeding, extraction, and trigger pull, and be prepared to troubleshoot or make modifications if necessary.
Before making a decision, research extensively. Read online reviews, watch videos, and talk to other XPR owners. If possible, try the rifle out before committing to a purchase. Consider other rifles chambered in 350 Legend, such as the Ruger American Rifle or the Savage Axis. These alternatives might offer fewer issues or better performance, depending on your needs.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to purchase the Winchester XPR in 350 Legend is a personal one. Carefully evaluate your budget, intended use, and tolerance for potential troubleshooting. By doing your homework and understanding the potential issues, you can make an informed decision and enjoy the shooting experience.
Important Note: This article provides information about potential issues with the Winchester XPR 350 Legend. It is not a substitute for professional gunsmithing or advice. Always consult a qualified gunsmith for any necessary repairs or modifications. Handle firearms safely and responsibly.
