Ruger Precision Rifle, thermal shift , Inaccuracy, common problem?

[axis007]

I was gifted this I think “first Gen?” Ruger Precision Rifle, (Cal .308) I am trying trying to zero this scope. After 10-20 shots , the rifle wanders . Some of the shot seems same direction but progressively worse, say 5 o’clock position but in 1 “ increments. The barrel is hot to the touch, was there a known defect or is there a common problem with the barrel possibly overheating loosening accuracy? I went everywhere online searching for the answer.

 

[spife7980]

You gotta test. If you let it cool, does it go back?
10-20 in a row is a whole lot for any barrel to maintain accuracy

 

[TRG65]

I had a 308 RPR. It did pretty well with 168 ammo but not as well with 175. It was a first gen also. I used it for PRS in both 6.5x47 and in 308 for a few years. It held zero. I sold it a few years ago to move onto other things.