Browning rifles

[Shwane]

I find that very hard to believe

I get this alot. Its a fairly common practice. You dont have to pay 4k to get that MOA at 500 meters. Although it helps the mid level shooter to achieve this, its not necessary. I shot long guns for a living. A little work on a rifle, 500 bucks or so, consistent hand loads, breath control and trigger discipline, and of course, elevation, temperature, wind direction, go along way. Each shot let your barrel cool for a few minutes, use a bi-pod or bench rest, a little dope on your scope and there you have it. Usually before I've fired 20 rounds I can get this grouping. Not everyone can do it. Your right, your average white tail rifle factory trimmed doesnt stand a chance in hell, but with the above factors in play its absolutely possible and happens regularly.
Heres my set up:
I tuned my barrel which involves trying varying amounts of pressure against it at different points. Aka, shimming. I had it bluprinted, making all the parts that make up the action square and true to the bore. Had the trigger lightened up. You can get a factory Browning down to 18 ounces safley. A little experimenting with rounds and grains that work best. That's about it. It's not impossible.

Most sniper rifles wont hold that unless they've got that same work done to them and usually more

Milatary grade sniper rifles have a little more work done to them. All of the above plus cryo treatments to the barrels and hand lapping them also. A good sniper can make shot groups at 1150 meters that can be covered with your hand. Ive seen this first hand.