Pre-64 barrel screwa

[Tom C]

I have the good fortune to be the owner of a Winchester mdl 70 (pre 64) 30.06. It is a fine hunting rifle and, with factory loads (168 gr Win Supreme) it holds 1.25" groups at 100 yds and, before you ask, this is without the barrel screw installed. So here comes my question. Is this "extra" screw a reflection of the fad of the time or did/does it help with rifles that a 3" inch stringers? Are there any articles dealing with this(I've looked but not worn my fingers out looking) ?

[GunCat]

Back in the day having the barrel tight with the action was considered a good thing. It may or may not affect the gun’s accuracy (for better or worse). You’ll have to work with your particular gun to learn its preference.

Here is just one article on the subject