At the risk of getting flamed on this forum I would send that Leupold back and see what the results are. I’m willing to bet it doesn’t have a clean bill of health. I’ve had numerous Leupolds that needed “fixing”. For a dialing scope I prefer other brands.
Which Vortex rings? Did you lap them...
Sounds like a scope or scope mount issue. Once you zero a rifle it shouldn’t just shift point of impact from driving a few hours in a vehicle or even from a fall.
The bear will probably be back in the area soon.
I’m curious about your comments regarding the cold bore shot. How far off was it? How did you zero the rifle initially? The cold bore shot is what I personally would recommend zeroing off.
There are some who say fluting can cause POI changes as the barrel heats up and some people say it causes inconsistencies in a barrels strength.
I have personally shot a barrel and developed a load. Then pulled the barrel and had it fluted. Screwed it back on and it shot exactly the same if...
If you’re looking to save a bunch of weight a short shank and smaller contour is where to start if you are rebarreling or building a rifle.
If you are trying to reduce the weight of your current barrel fluting is a good option or shortening the barrel.
I like the look of a fluted barrel so most...