Rail Gun

I have a "bench gun" as described and a new set of those slick bags. I have to get used to those bags now.I thought that a good rail gun would eliminate the biggest variable: us.

Ross I would encourage you to go for it.  What everyone said about a 3" bench stock and a 2oz trigger being max nix difference between that and a rail is true.  Not many would volunteer to build a rail gun because there are numerous variables that can help you reach cast accuracy before they think a rail gun is necessary.  That's why 99.9% of the shooters would choose a BR stock and a light trigger because its not worth the added investment.  But since you have the rig built and ready to go I think it would be a lot of fun.   

I give full homage to comments about rails not being popular.  Both designs share the same requirements of bullet to bore fit, load development, quality barrels(s), etc..  However the velocities are mostly hovering in the 2,100fps range.  There's at least one person on the forum that has done a lot of work with high velocity cast accuracy. I'm at least two years away from getting out of the 1750fps neighborhood but I believe HV may improve accuracy.  These guys aren't shooting north of 2700fps without a reason.  Maybe high velocity and cast accuracy might be a good topic for another thread.

Before everyone jumps on me, I want to be the first to say that for 99% of cast accuracy shooters a benchrest stock and a light trigger combined with match grade bullet to bore fit, handloading technique and bench practices is capable of achieving excellent accuracy. 

But if I had a rail gun in hand I'd be using it and chase down the right bullet to bore fit, the right lubricant and some slower powders.  I just don't envy you lugging it around.  I'm old.

Attached are some numbers from last years Nationals in the unrestricted class.  Look at the spread between 1st and third place in group size, the barrels, the stocks and the velocities.  Sorry for venting.  I envy Ross's appetite and courage.  Thanks, Bill.