Update on My DIY Varmint Rifle

Hey guys,
Last April I started a thread on my plans to build a 221 Remington Fireball from a Stevens bolt action in 270 Win. Custom Bolt Action Rifle Build I wanted to give y'all an update. If you don't wanna read the whole thread, here's the brief version. I bought 3 Stevens' (a pre-accutrigger Savage bolt action) 270's from Academy for $180 apiece. One was given to our pastor. Second one was converted to 221 Fireball for prairie dog hunting. Barrel was made by McGowen and was prefit/prechambered for the Fireball. Originally thought I'd have a gunsmith change out the barrels, but decided to do it myself instead. Picked up a Savage barrel nut wrench in a gun trade. Rented the headspace gauges for $10 Headspace Gauge Rental. From Midway, I bought a Remington/Savage action wrench Wheeler Action Wrench and a 223 Rem bolt head Savage 223 Rem Bolt Head. Project went well w/o any major problems. Found lots of VERY helpful videos on YouTube. Still using factory Stevens stock. Attached an old Simmons 6.5-20X 44 Mag scope. Using 221 Fireball loads I worked up for a different gun, I shot these groups today (during a light rain in between thunderstorms). It was also windy. I'm not yet done w/ stock work as I've only opened up the forend enough to fit the barrel in the stock. Given more time, I'll free float it. Nevertheless, I'm VERY encouraged w/ the results so far. Everything functioned fine.

First two shots were at 25 yards and aren't shown. Next two were one hole at 50 yards. Target was bobbing back and forth in the wind on #5 at 100 yards. The last three shots are promising. I think I'm going to enjoy this gun. These results have me thinking about more Savage DIY projects.