I would expect 1" groups from what you have said.
I have shot many better than 1" groups with my 44US models, but I was using 12-16 power scope, Federal 711B ammo and a Buds Bull bag.
I would expect 1" groups from what you have said.I put a scope on my 144LS so I could attempt more precision shooting to possibly determine if the barrel as is performs acceptably. I do not really know what to expect. I shot at 50 yds with CCI Std Velocity ammo and I would say that my 5 shot groups were mostly around 1". I know there are lots of variables but does this seem to be similar to what one would expect with a good barrel. To LarDaBear I appreciate your concern about who should get your extra barrel. Your friend of 50 years deserves it before this yahoo from Colorado. Besides I am not ready yet to admit it needs a new barrel.