I have a 308 Garand I built from a barreled receiver using a criterion 308 barrel. (Tim installed the barrel and reparked the receiver). I shot it the other night for the first time, It shot well, and was very accurate. But it was short stroking (atleast I assume, I had empty chambers 2-3 times per clip) with PPU M80 and my Handloads 42.1gr H4895 under a 150gr FMJ. Federal XM80 worked flawlessly but I only had 20 of those. Criterion states the gas port size is .086". The gas plug was a little loose I noticed after I got it home. Not like falling out, and it was all the way in but I could turn it with my fingers. I remember just finger tightening it when I built it because I had to get a 1/4" socket extension to tighten it down. I forgot about it before I shot it.
I hear .086" is a bit small. My question is should I open up the gas port or assume the issue was due to the loose gas plug? is .086" too small anyways? If I were to open it up can I do this at home with a hand drill in a gun vice or do I really need a drill press. (I don't have one).
Thanks Guys,
Justin