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December 28th, 2022
Understanding Twist: Bullet Stabilization
by Sierra Bullets Ballistic Technician Paul Box for Sierra Bullets Blog.
Based on the questions we get on a daily basis on our 800 (Customer Support) line, twist is one of the most misunderstood subjects in the gun field. So let’s look deeper into this mystery and get a better understanding of what twist really means.
When you see the term 1:14″ (1-14) or 1:9″ twist, just exactly what does this mean? A rifle having a 1:14″ twist means the bullet will rotate one complete revolution every fourteen inches of the barrel. Naturally a 1:9″ turns one time every nine inches that it travels down the barrel. Now, here’s something that some people have trouble with. I’ve had calls from shooters thinking that a 1:14″ twist was faster than a 1:9″ because the number was higher with the 1:14″. The easiest way to remember this is the higher the number, the slower the twist rate is.
Now, the biggest misconception is that if a shooter has a .223 with a 1:8″ twist, his rifle won’t stabilize a 55gr bullet or anything lighter. So let’s look at what is required. The longer a bullet is for its diameter, the faster the twist has to be to stabilize it. In the case of the .223 with a 1:8″ twist, this was designed to stabilize 80gr bullets in this diameter. In truth the opposite is true. A 1:8″ will spin a 55gr faster than what is required in order to stabilize that length of bullet. If you have a bullet with good concentricity in its jacket, over-spinning it will not [normally] hurt its accuracy potential. [Editor’s Note: In addition, the faster twist rate will not, normally, decrease velocity significantly. That’s been confirmed by testing done by Bryan Litz’s Applied Ballistics Labs. There may be some minor speed loss.]
Many barrel-makers mark the twist rate and bore dimensions on their barrel blanks.
Think of it like tires on your truck. If you have a new set of tires put on your truck, and they balance them proper at the tire shop, you can drive down a street in town at 35 MPH and they spin perfect. You can get out on the highway and drive 65 MPH and they still spin perfect. A bullet acts the same way.
Once I loaded some 35gr HP bullets in a 22-250 Ackley with a 1:8″ twist. After putting three shots down range, the average velocity was 4584 FPS with an RPM level of 412,560. The group measured .750″ at 100 yards. This is a clear example that it is hard to over-stabilize a good bullet.
Twist-rate illustration by Erik Dahlberg courtesy FireArmsID.com. Krieger barrel photo courtesy GS Arizona.
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December 27th, 2022
Here’s a “must-read” article for .22 LR rimfire shooters. The October 2018 issue of Shooting Sports USA (SSUSA) includes a great article with data on thirty-one (31) different types of popular .22 LR rimfire ammunition. The line-up includes low-speed, standard, and Hi-Velocity types, plus choices for plinking, varminting, and target applications. Brands tested include: Aguila, American Eagle, CCI, Federal, Fiocchi, Lapua, Remington, and Winchester. The slowest ammo, CCI Quiet-22 Lead RN, clocked 727 FPS. The fastest ammo, CCI Short-Range Green Lead-Free HP, ran 1735 FPS, 2.4 times the speed of the Quiet-22.
For each ammo type, SSUSA lists the bullet weight, velocity (FPS), and average of two, 5-shot groups at fifty yards. The most accurate ammo was Lapua Center-X LRN, with a 0.37″ average 50-yard group size. Second best was Lapua X-ACT LRN at 0.42″. Ammo was tested from a bench with a Cooper Model 57-M rifle fitted with 3-9x33mm Leupold VX-2 scope. The ammo offerings were grouped into three categories: (1) Varmints/Small Game; (2) Target; and (3) Plinking. (See ammo tables below.)
Click for larger page-view.
Different types of .22 LR (Long Rifle) rimfire ammo have different applications. Subsonic ammo, typically, is best for 25m to 50m target work with precision rimfire rigs. Hi-Velocity .22 LR ammo provides a flatter trajectory for longer ranges. SSUSA explains: “The array of .22 LR loads… turns a person’s head every which way. Subsonic target loads are the key to decisive accuracy on targets, while hyper-velocity cartridges provide striking bullet expansion on small varmints. In between, standard and high-velocity .22 LRs are loaded with a variety of bullet weights and styles for everything from small-game hunting to plinking[.]” READ Full SSUSA .22 LR Rimfire Ammo Story.
Rimfire Ammo Article tip from EdLongrange.
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December 14th, 2022
For load development, some guys shoot 3-shot groups. Other guys shoot 5-shot groups, or even 10-shot strings. But for testing its projectiles, Sierra Bullets takes it to another level entirely. A while back Sierra was testing its .30-Caliber 175gr HPBT MatchKing in the Sierra underground tunnel. The results appear above — a FIVE HUNDRED Round group!
500 Shots Form 0.82 MOA Group at 300m (328 yards)
Sierra’s trigger-pullers sent five full boxes of bullets down-range at a single target. The photo above shows the result of 500 shots taken in a 300 meter test tunnel. The raw group size, edge to edge of the farthest shots, is about 3.13 inches, as shown on the calipers’ metal linear scale. Subtract a .308″ nominal bullet diameter* to get the 2.823″ on the digital readout. So you’re seeing a 2.823″ group at 300 meters (328 yards). One MOA at this distance is 3.435″ so this 500-round group is 2.823 divided by 3.435 or 0.82 MOA (0.8218 MOA to be precise).
This 500-round group was shoot as part of a pressure/velocity test for a commercial customer. The cartridge was .308 Winchester, loaded at 2.800″. The powder was Reloder 15. A 26″ barrel was shot from a return to battery rest. The gun was cleaned every 125 rounds and two foulers shot.
What do you think — could you beat this group from a bench for 500 rounds?
One Facebook poster joked: “500-round group? Everyone knows anything less than 1000-round groups are a waste of time and statistically irrelevant.”
Sierra’s 300 Meter Testing Tunnel
Ever wonder how (and where) Sierra tests its bullets? The answer is underground, in a 300-meter test tunnel located under Sierra’s factory in Sedalia, Missouri. The photo above shows the construction of the tunnel back in May, 1990. Like most bullet manufacturers, Sierra does live-fire bullet testing of its projectiles. Sierra’s 300-meter test range is the longest, manufacturer-owned underground bullet test facility in the world. In years past, Sierra offered free visits to the test tunnel as part of a factory tour.
* Normally, to get an exact group size, you should subtract the TRUE bullet hole size, which is usually smaller than the nominal bullet diameter. E.g. a .308 bullet hole may show on paper as .298 or so. But here, for simplicity, we are subtracting .308″ because we do not have the original target to measure.
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December 12th, 2022
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. Graf & Sons — Peterson Brass In Stock
⏺ Very high-quality brass for popular cartridge types
If you need hard-to-find cartridge brass, check out the Peterson Brass at Grafs.com. At Graf’s you’ll find a big selection of Peterson brass IN STOCK now. Yes Graf’s even has the very popular cartridge types such as 6mmBR, 6mm Dasher, 6mm Creedmoor, and 6.5-284 (neck up to .284 Win). Graf’s also carries 500-piece Peterson bulk boxes. If you need a lot of brass, those Peterson bulk packs offer the lowest unit price for quality brass.
2. Amazon — Plano 52″ Wheeled Gun Case, $145.93
⏺ Outstanding wheeled case with anti-rust interior
With modern competition rifles costing $4000 or more (with optics) you NEED a top-quality transport case. A really good heavy-duty case for the price is Plano’s All Weather Gun Case with Rustrictor. This TSA-approved wheeled rifle case has strong materials and rugged hinges for protection during travel or storage. At 52″ overall this case can fit larger F-Class and ELR rifles. The Plano All Weather Case features a watertight, dust proof Dri-Loc seal and the interior has built-in rust inhibitors. Bottom Line — this rifle case is as good as some other cases costing twice as much.
3. EuroOptic — Bushnell Optics Blowout
⏺ Major savings on Bushnell scopes, Reflex sights, and Red Dots
Did you pick up a new pistol or rifle and need a scope or sight for it? Then check out the super-bargain prices at the Bushnell Optics Closeout over at EuroOptic. You’ll find everything from Reflex sights to long range scopes. Prices have been slashed — with discounts up to 66%.
4. Amazon — Howard Leight Impact Sport Elec. Muffs, $39.00
⏺ Quality Electronic Muffs deeply discounted this week
Here’s a great deal on a quality, comfortable set of electronic ear muffs. The popular Howard Leight Impact Sport muffs have a 22 dB Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). These electronic muffs block loud impulse noises like gunfire, while allowing you to easily hear range commands. Slim and comfortable, these muffs are offered in Black, Blue, OD Green, Tan, MultiCam, Alpine (white), Smoke, Teal. Price varies by color, but basic black is on sale now for $39.00 on Amazon. NOTE: When shooting at busy ranges with many shooters nearby, we recommend running foam plugs under these muffs.
5. Creedmoor Sports — TRX-925 Precision Scale, $299.95
⏺ Excellent scale for precision handloaders
Still using a basic scale to trickle up your powder charges with? Consider upgrading to the new Creedmoor TRX-925 Precision Reloading Scale. This premium scale is less than half the price of a top-end force restoration scale. Yet the new TRX-925 offers precision offered only by a few scales on the market. With a 925 grain max capacity, this scale boasts laboratory-grade electronics, optimized strain gauges, and gold-anodized static-free powder pan. The TRX-925 comes standard with three precise calibration weights (2g, 10g, 50g). User reviews of this new Creedmoor scale have been very positive. The TRX-925 is a top choice if you want a very high-quality scale, but cannot afford a force restoration unit.
6. Natchez — RCBS ChargeMaster, $309.99
⏺ Solid scale/dispenser with detachable scale section
The RCBS ChargeMaster has been one of the most consistent workhorses in the reloading world. The ChargeMaster Combo features the ChargeMaster 1500 Scale and ChargeMaster Dispenser, mated to form a very reliable combination of dispensing speed and accuracy. Unlike other powder dispensers, with this ChargeMaster you can detach the scale and use it separately. This ChargeMaster is on sale now at Natchez at a significant discount.
7. Midsouth — Aguila .22 LR Ammo 500 Rds, $34.99
⏺ Great price on good, high-velocity rimfire ammo
This Aguila bulk pack .22 LR ammo has impressed purchasers though the price works out to just $3.50 for 50 rounds — a true bargain. This high-velocity ammo delivers 1255 fps with copper-plated 40gr bullets. Actual buyer reports have been very positive: “Great .22 ammo. Good velocity and clean burning”; “Very accurate and consistent in my Ruger 10/22″; “Great price and functions well in my Buckmark”.
8. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Hand Deprimer, $34.99
⏺ Deprime fired cartridge brass anywhere — no press needed
Decapping brass can be a tedious, time-consuming, and messy chore. Simplify the task (and avoid messing up your reloading area) with the Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Hand Deprimer Tool. This device lets you remove spent primers anywhere — no press needed and all the mess (cups/anvils/residue) stays in the capture chamber. You can deprime cases while watching TV. This tool features a universal collet that works with all case types, along with a removable spent primer catch tube. With good leverage, this tool is easy on the hands too.
9. KYGUNCO — MXP12 Pump Shotgun w/ Accessories, $145.68
⏺ Insanely low price for a 12 gauge defensive shotgun
Have you wanted a home defense or tactical shotgun but didn’t have the budget? Right now you can get a good 12ga pump shotgun for under $150.00! We found a fantastic deal on the Emperor Firearms MXP12 12Ga 18.5″ Pump Shotgun. Despite the ultra-low price, user reviews have been quite positive. This shotgun package even includes a tactical light and shell holder — all for under $150.
10. Amazon — Assorted Funny Gun Shirts
⏺ Good gifts for friends who enjoy shooting sports
Need modestly-priced gifts for your shooting buddies (both guys and gals)? Consider getting a gun-themed T-shirt. Amazon has a wide selection of Humorous Gun T-Shirts. With quirky prints and sassy sayings these fun and gun-friendly shirts are sure to be a hit under the tree.
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December 12th, 2022
SUMMARY: Powder can have a very long shelf life. You need to watch for changes in smell and color. A reddish tinge, almost like rust on the powder, is a bad sign, as is a foul odor, not to be confused with a normal chemical smell. Either of these signs indicate it is time to dispose of your powder by means other than shooting.
Ever wondered about the stability of the propellants in your reloading room? There are some important things you should know about powder storage, to ensure consistent powder performance and safety. Western Powders (which has been acquired by Hodgdon) published an informative Q & A series entitled Dear Labby: Questions for our Ballistics Lab . Here are some excerpts that pertain to powder storage and shelf life. Worried that your powder may be too old? Western’s experts explain how to check your propellants for warning signs.
Proper Powder Storage
Q: I live in southern Arizona where it is very hot. I am told powders will become unstable if stored in an area not air-conditioned. My wife says no powder or primers in the house. Can powder be stored in a refrigerator? What about using a fireproof safe? I would appreciate your ideas. — M.C.
Lab Answer: SAAMI guidelines are pretty clear on issues of storage. They recommend storing smokeless powder in containers that will not allow pressure to build if the powder is ignited — ruling out gun safes and refrigerators.
CLICK HERE to Read SAAMI Guidelines for Powder Storage (PDF)
In their original containers, the lifespan of smokeless powders is quite long, even in hot, arid climates. In fact the lifespan is typically longer than the average handloader would need to store them. Stored safely in a garage or outbuilding, your powder should last years. If you see the powder developing a reddish tint, or giving off a foul odor, it is time to discard it.
Clumps in Powder Container
Q: I ordered some of your Accurate 1680 powder back about in December. I just now opened it … and it is full of clumps. My knowledge tells me that means moisture. Am I wrong? I just now broke the seal and it has been stored in a ammo can with desiccant packs around it and a dehumidifier running 14-16 hours a day. I can’t imagine this being my fault, if this does indicate moisture. I don’t know if the pink part on the label is suppose to be red or not, but it is definitely pink, so if it was red I am wondering if I was shipped an old container? I hope that this isn’t bad and I am stuck with it…
Lab Answer: All powder contains a certain amount of moisture. When the powder is stored or during shipping, it can go through temperature cycles. During the cycling, the moisture can be pulled to the surface and cause clumping. Clumping can also be caused by static electricity if too dry or the powder has limited graphite content. You can break up the clumps before metering and they shouldn’t be a problem. This will not affect the powder performance, so your product is fine. Accurate 1680 labels are designed in Pink. As a side note, specification for testing powder is at 70° F and 60% humidity.
Shelf Life and Packaging Dates
Q: Does powder ever get to old to use and what identifying marks does your company put on the canister for when it is made, You have helped me out a while ago when I asked about keeping my cowboy shooting under 950 fps and it works great less stress on the hand and the recoil is very minimum. — R.B.
Lab Answer: On one pound bottles, the number is on the corner in a silver box. If the powder was poured today, it would read 012815 followed by a lot number. The whole number would look something like 012815749. Eight pound bottles have a sticker on the bottom with an obvious date code. The lot number appears above the date.
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December 11th, 2022
 The 30BR is an amazing little cartridge. However, 30BR shooters do have to neck-up 6mmBR brass and then deal with some issues that can arise from the expansion process. One of our Forum members was concerned about the donut that can form at the new (expanded) neck-shoulder junction. Respected bullet-maker Randy Robinett offers tips on how to deal with the “dreaded donut”.
The Forum member was concerned about thinning the brass if he turned his 30BR necks after expansion: “Everything I have found on 30BR case-forming says to simply turn off the bulge at the base of the neck caused by the old 6BR shoulder. I expanded my first case and measured the neck at 0.329″ except on the donut, where it measures 0.335″. Looking inside the case… reveals a groove inside the case under the donut. Now, it is a fact that when I turn that neck and remove the donut, the groove is still going to be there on the inside? That means there is now a thin-spot ring at the base of the neck that is .005 thinner than the rest of the neck. Has anyone experienced a neck cracking on this ring?”
Randy Robinett, who runs BIB Bullet Co., is one of the “founding fathers” of the 30BR who help prove and popularize the 30 BR for benchrest score shooting. Randy offers this advice on 30BR case-forming:
While the thinner neck-base was one of our original concerns, unless one cuts too deeply INTO the shoulder, it is not a problem. For my original 30BR chamber, thirty (30) cases were used to fire 6,400 rounds through the barrel. The cases were never annealed, yet there were ZERO case failures, neck separations, or splits. The case-necks were turned for a loaded-round neck diameter of .328″, and, from the beginning, sized with a .324″ neck-bushing.
The best method for avoiding the ‘bulge’ is to fire-form prior to neck-turning (several methods are successfully employed). Cutting too deeply into the shoulder can result in case-neck separations. I have witnessed this, but, with several barrels and thousands to shots fired, have not [personally] experienced it. The last registered BR event fired using that original barrel produced a 500-27x score and a second-place finish. [That’s] not bad for 6K plus shots, at something over 200 firings per case.
Check out the 30BR Cartridge Guide on AccurateShooter.com
You’ll find more information on 30BR Case-forming in our 30 BR Cartridge Guide. Here’s a short excerpt from that page — some tips provided by benchrest for score and HBR shooter Al Nyhus:
30BR Case-Forming Procedure by Al Nyhus
The 30BR cartridge is formed by necking-up 6BR or 7BR brass. You can do this in multiple stages or in one pass. You can use either an expander mandrel (like Joe Entrekin does), or a tapered button in a regular dies. Personally, I use a Redding tapered expander button, part number 16307. This expands the necks from 6mm to .30 cal in one pass. It works well as long as you lube the mandrel and the inside of the necks. I’ve also used the Sinclair expander body with a succession of larger mandrels, but this is a lot more work and the necks stay straighter with the Redding tapered button. This button can be used in any Redding die that has a large enough inside diameter to accept the BR case without any case-to-die contact.
Don’t be concerned about how straight the necks are before firing them the first time. When you whap them with around 50,000 psi, they will straighten out just fine! I recommend not seating the bullets into the lands for the first firing, provided there is an adequate light crush-fit of the case in the chamber. The Lapua cases will shorten from approx. 1.550″ to around 1.520″ after being necked up to 30-caliber I trim to 1.500″ with the (suggested) 1.520 length chambers. I don’t deburr the flash holes or uniform the primer pockets until after the first firing. I use a Ron Hoehn flash hole deburring tool that indexes on the primer pocket, not through the case mouth. — Al Nyhus
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December 8th, 2022
Do you know what the inside of a rifle chamber (and throat zone) really looks like? Do you understand the concept of headspace and why it’s important? If not, you should read the Brownells GunTech article Gauging Success – Minimum Headspace and Maximum COL. This article explains the basics of headspace and shows how to measure headspace (and length to lands) in your barrels with precision. The article also explains how to adjust your full-length sizing dies to “bump the shoulder” as needed.
Why is headspace important? The article explains: “Controlling headspace and setting proper C.O.L. also represent improved safety and reduced cost of handloading. Excessive headspace can cause case head separation and gases in excess of 60,000 PSI escaping from a rifle’s chamber. Too little headspace can result in a chamber forced bullet crimp and a bullet that becomes an obstruction more than a properly secured projectile. Excessive C.O.L. can result in a rifling-bound bullet, a condition that could result in spikes of excessive pressure.” [Editor’s NOTE: It is common for competitive benchrest shooters to seat bullets into the rifling. This can be done safely if you reduce your loads accordingly. With some bullets we often see best accuracy .010″ (or more) into the lands. However, this can generate more pressure than the same bullet seated .010″ away from initial lands contact. As with all reloading, start low and work up gradually.]
How is headspace specified? Most cartridges used within the United States are defined within ANSI/SAAMI Z299.3-4. Brownells explains: “In the case of the .243 Winchester, as an example, there are pressure specifications, cartridge drawings and, as pictured above, chamber drawings. Armed with a chamber drawing, each manufacturer producing a firearm for the .243 Winchester knows the proper standard dimension to cut chambers and set headspace. Notice there are two headspace reference dimensions for the chamber. The upper is a place in the chamber where the shoulder is .400″ in diameter; the “datum” or “basic” line. The lower is the 1.630″~1.640″ minimum – maximum dimension from the breech face (bolt face) to that point in the chamber that measures .400″.”
The actual headspace of any firearm is the distance from the breech face to the point in the chamber that is intended to prevent forward motion of a cartridge.
 Finding Cartridge Length to Lands with OAL Gauge
Using a comparator on a set of calipers, you can quickly determine cartridge base-to-ogive length. This is the measurement from the base of the case to the forward-most full diameter section of the bullet, typically called the ogive. Shown here, that ogive is 0.243″ diameter.
The next step is using a modified (threaded) case with a Hornady OAL tool to determine Length-to-Lands (LTL) in your rifle’s chamber. During this measurement process, the modified case, with a bullet in its neck, is inserted in the chamber. Go slow, take your time. Here are 5 tips that will help you get repeatable and reliable LTL measurements:
1. Start with a clean chamber and clean barrel throat.
2. Make sure the modified case is fully screwed down and seated on the OAL Gauge. It can sometimes unscrew a bit during repeated measurements.
3. Insert the modified case slowly and gently, but ensure the shoulder of the modified case is fully seated on the end of the chamber.
4. Push the gray plastic rod GENTLY. It is common for the bullet to be tilted a bit. You want to allow the bullet to self-center in the throat BEFORE you apply much pressure. Then tap a couple times and push until you feel resistance. Do NOT push too hard — that will jam the bullet in the lands.
5. Repeat the measurement at least 3 more times. If you follow our instructions, you should, typically, get a repeatable measurement, within 0.0015″ or so, 3 out of 4 times.
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December 7th, 2022
CCI is now producing Catalyst lead-free primers and Catalyst-primed CCI and Speer ammunition at the CCI factory in Lewiston, Idaho. The proprietary Catalyst lead-free primer was first developed in 2016 by Federal Ammunition, a CCI/Speer partner company. The advanced lead-free Catalyst primers are being used in CCI- and Speer-brand pistol ammo, and may eventually be sold separately for the reloading market.
Writing for the MagLife Blog, Kat Ainsworth described Catalyst lead-free primers: “Many manufacturers use lead styphnate mixtures in the production of primers, but Federal Ammunition states the proprietary design utilized in the Catalyst is not only lead-free but outperforms those other methods. The company also says the Catalyst primers are safer to manufacture and provide a host of benefits over lead designs. For example, the Catalyst primers deliver greater compatibility with modern powders, produce less pressure from the gases generated during live fire, and don’t cause degradation in the powder they touch.
The company says these primers are extremely clean-burning which helps them perform more uniform and complete propellant combustion. Even better, the Catalyst has minimal velocity variation[.] These primers are also non-hydrophilic, meaning they don’t attract water molecules like DDNP-based mixes that are found in other brands[.]”
Catalyst Primers Promise Best-in-Class Performance
“We are extremely proud of this new production capability which continues the rollout of an incredible primer technology” said Federal/CCI/Speer President Jason Vanderbrink. “This product has proven to be the best in its class after nearly seven years of continuous production. Its consistent performance has been tested over hundreds of millions of rounds. Most notably, the product is featured in Federal’s innovative Syntech Range ammo and American Eagle Lead-Free.”
The extremely clean-burning Catalyst primer creates more uniform and complete propellant combustion, yielding minimal velocity variation and consistent bullet launch for improved accuracy. It is also non-hydrophilic, so it does not attract water molecules like DDNP-based mixes found in most lead-free primers, resulting in better reliability.
“Catalyst lead-free priming technology provides the cleanest, most consistent ignition possible. We are excited that our Lewiston plant is now set up to run Catalyst priming in our target pistol products”, said Speer and CCI’s Director of Factory Operations Mike Overberg. “The Anoka facility has proven this to be the best lead-free priming technology available. Our staff here has done a fantastic job of working across factories to extend this product into Speer and CCI Blazer ammunition products made in Lewiston, Idaho.”
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December 4th, 2022
The Rifle for Short-Range Benchrest Competition
Hardware Choices: Actions, Stocks, Barrels, Optics and More
Tech Talk by Jeff Stover
This article was prepared by past IBS President Jeff Stover based on results from the 2019 IBS 100/200 Group Nationals held August 12-17, 2019 at the Holton Gun & Bow Club in western Michigan.
Let’s examine the Top Ten rifles from the 2019 IBS Group Nationals in the 10.5-lb Light Varmint Class. We’ll focus on the most popular rifle components — the choices for Actions, Stocks, Barrels, and Scopes.
Hall of Famer Jeff Gaidos taking aim at the 2018 IBS Group Nationals. He has a low-profile carbon-fiber stock with a Leupold fixed-power scope.
For some years now, BAT has been the predominant action. This year BAT actions held nearly 100% of the Top Ten places in all the Bag Gun equipment lists. Bruce Thom’s Idaho-crafted actions, except for a couple stray actions in Heavy Bench, swept the top rankings.
Next, look at barrels. Bartlein or Krieger seem to rule with upstate New York’s venerable Hart barrels as competitive. Shooters tend to go with winners, so Wayne Campbell and Jeff Peinhardt dominate as gunsmiths for the top benchrest shooters.
In stocks there seems to be variety, but there is some commonality. The Scoville and Scarbrough stocks, both Michigan-made, are laminated wood (balsa and other wood) with carbon fiber and wrapped in carbon fiber. The Scoville stock on my 10.5-lb rifle weighs 18 ounces but is full size with a nice long fore-end. Bob Scarbrough makes a very similar product. Both are winners — it’s a choice of Ferrari or Lamborghini. The Roy Hunter and Terry Leonard stocks among these top rifles take a different route to winner’s circle. Both are wood (cedar or other), but super high-tech as they are laminated with carbon fiber. They are beautiful to boot. High-magnification Leupold, March, and Nightforce scopes rule the roost among benchrest optics.
Bullets and Powder
Bullets are important. Really important. A hot bullet gives you “Teen Aggs” and lots of trophies. An average bullet does not. Most of these are 68 grain 6mm boattails. The Peinhardt (StaMoly Precision) bullet is well represented on this list, but some top shooters make their own as you can see. Bullet jackets are likely StaMoly or J4. For powder, nearly everyone shoots Vihtavouri N133 except a few guys running LT30/32 or surplus 8208.
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November 26th, 2022
For centerfire ammo, you can choose from dozens of flip-top boxes, storage bins, or milsurp-style ammo cans. For rimfire ammo, there are not so many good choices. Our preferred rimfire ammo carrier is the MTM SB-200 Small-Bore Fitted Ammo Box. This flip-top plastic box holds 100 rimfire rounds in black grids on the left and right. Each side has five rows left to right, holding ten rounds per row front to back (for 50 rounds per side). In the center is a storage area that will hold another 100 rounds in factory boxes. Current price is $13.15 on Amazon.
Versatility for ALL Types of Rimfire Ammo
MTM’s SB-200 box is not just for .22 LR ammunition. This handy carrier will hold .17 HMR rounds, as well as .17 Mach 2, .22 Short, .22 Win Mag Rimfire, and of course .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR). This box is a winner — it has a low profile, holds rounds securely, and the center storage feature is smart.
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MTM Case-Gard 200 Round Smallbore Box
This is really the only product of its kind on the market. It allows you to conveniently and securely hold 200 rimfire rounds, and also segregate your ammo by brand or bullet type. These boxes fit all types of popular rimfire ammunition. The vertical clearance of the lid is sufficient to hold the longer .22 WMR Rounds, and 17 HMR (as well as .22 LR naturally). The lid fits securely so you don’t have to worry about your rimfire ammo spilling out on the way to the range.
If you don’t have one of these boxes yet, we recommend you order one or two. They cost less than $15.00 and are available in Blue or “Rust” (a brick color).
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Bottom image courtesy Mountain High Trading Company eBay store.
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November 24th, 2022
Happy Thanksgiving folks. Many major manufacturers and online vendors are offering great bargains tomorrow, Black Friday. And many of the sales have already started and last through Cyber Monday. In fact, some of the best deals at leading vendors EuroOptic and Grafs.com continue well into December.
We are spotlighting vendors worth visiting because they offer a wide range of discounts on a large inventory selection — in some cases, everything in stock is discounted 10%, 15%, 25% even 40%. For other sellers, only specific items are on sale, so we’ve identified some of the best deals. In addition to these deals Brownells is offering big Discount Code savings. Get $45 OFF a $225+ order with Code BF45OFF or 15% OFF a $600+ order with Code BFSAVE15.
Come back tomorrow, as we will add some additional Black Friday promotions not yet announced.
21st Century Innovation 20% Off 4-Day Sale
21st Century Innovation makes some of the very best tools and hardware for precision handloaders. 21st Century’s Arbor Presses, Neck-turning lathes, Concentricity Gauges, and other tools rank at the very top. And now you can get these superb products at a huge 20% discount. Virtually all 21st Century hardware (except the Hybrid Shooting Rest) will be 20% OFF for four days, November 25 through November 29. Use Code BLKFRI during check-out to save 20%.
EuroOptic — Black Friday + December Extended Nightforce Sale
Now through December 31, 2022, EuroOptic is running a major sale on Nightforce Optics. Save 10% on most regularly priced Nightforce NXS and SHV riflescopes November 18th through December 31st, 2022. CLICK HERE to access Nightforce optics on sale.
Midsouth Shooters Supply Black Friday Sale
Midsouth is one of our favorite vendors. This company respects its customers and has maintained fair pricing even during the shortages. We will update this listing with specific hot deals as soon as they are posted. Special sale items with discounted prices should be revealed at 12:01 am ET 11/25/2022.
Bruno Shooters Supply — 10% Off Sitewide, with FREE Shipping
Bruno’s Black Friday Sale is underway already and runs through November 28. Bruno’s is offering “At Least 10% Off or more” for the vast majority of Bruno’s listed products. This includes optics, Kelbly actions, powder, primers, bullets, brass, dies, presses, tumblers, and more. There are extra big discounts on Norma brass. Plus you get FREE Shipping with most orders of $100 or more. These discounts are good now through Monday, November 28, 2022 at 8:00 am. NOTE: HazMat fees still apply.
Graf & Sons — Major Sale November 23 through December 9
Graf & Sons is running Extended Black Friday sale with discounts and special offers now through Friday December 9, 2022. For example, save 26% on a Lyman Case Prep Express, or get FREE shipping on your entire order when you buy a Forster Co-Ax press. CLICK HERE for featured deals.
Palmetto State Armory Black Friday Sale
If you’re in the market for an AR-type rifle or a handgun, head straight over to Palmetto State Armory (PSA). You’ll find incredibly low prices on stripped AR lowers, as well as fully assembled uppers and complete Black Rifles. In addition, PSA has a wide selection of quality pistols at very attractive prices, plus dozens of Black Friday Ammo Deals. You can CLICK HERE for all the Black Friday Specials.
Bullet Central Black Friday Sale
Bullet Central is a leading vendor for rifle accuracy fans. And right now you can get significant savings on prefit barrels (Krieger and other), airgun packages, triggers, and other products. CLICK HERE for Bullet Central Black Friday Sale items.
Area 419 — Black Nitride Friday Sale Through 11/29/2022
Area 419 is running a “Black Nitride Friday” promotion. There are major savings on a variety of great products including Hellfire muzzle brakes, Sidewinder muzzle brakes, suppressor mounts, thread protectors, and more. In addition, the outstanding Area 419 Zero Turret Reloading press is $100.00 off, marked down to $1175.00. CLICK HERE for all Area 419 sale items.
Bass Pro & Cabela’s Black Friday Sale Through November 27
You’ll find plenty of great deals at Bass Pro and Cabela’s stores and their respective web sites. Save big on firearms, ammo, and targets now through Sunday, November 27, 2022. There are also discounts on outdoor clothing, camping gear, optics and more. This Black Friday promotion also celebrates Bass Pro’s 50th year in business.
Tractor Supply Co. Black Friday Sale — Gun Safes
Tractor Supply Co. is a respected vendor with stores around the country. Right now Tractor Supply has dozens of Black Friday specials, but the deeply discounted gun safes caught our attention. You can save $200-$300 on Cannon, Liberty, and Winchester safes now through Saturday, November 26, 2022.
Springfield Armory Black Friday Sale
Springfield Armory has a storewide “Black Friday” 20% discount, running from Thursday, November 24th (Thanksgiving) through Monday, November 28th. This discount does not require a Promo Code and is automatically applied at checkout to make the purchasing process as simple and easy as possible. Recently updated, the online Springfield Armory Store has as a broad selection of products. If you want a new M1 air rifle, optic, holster, knife or other accessory, you’ll find it here. The 20% off does NOT apply to FFL sales of Springfield Armory centerfire rifles and pistols.
5.11 Tactical Store Black Friday Sale
Respected outdoor gear/clothing supplier 5.11 Tactical is running a major Black Friday Sale through Tuesday, 11/29/2022. Save 20-40% on backpacks, jackets, pants, and footwear. Other outdoor gear, including gun cases, belts, gloves, watches, and multi-tools are also on sale.
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November 22nd, 2022
Ever wondered what the air around a moving supersonic bullet really looks like? Check out this video from the Bryan Litz Ballistics Facebook page. This is a Schlieren video* of a 6mm 109gr Berger LRHT bullet at about 2800 fps as fired from Francis Colon’s PRS rifle at the Applied Ballistics Lab.
Bryan Litz notes: “You can clearly see the compression (shock) wave at the front of the bullet. A compression wave is formed when the air has to move faster than the speed of sound to get out of the way, which is certainly the case for this bullet which is moving about 2.5 times the speed of sound (Mach 2.5).
That shock wave is the ‘snap’ you hear when bullets fly past you if/when you’re downrange. Also, compressing the air into a shockwave takes energy, and that energy comes directly out of the forward velocity of your bullet and gets converted into heat and noise as the shock wave forms and dissipates.
The turbulent wake at the base of the bullet shows where/how base drag applies. The third and smallest component of drag for a supersonic bullet is skin friction drag, which is a viscous boundary layer effect, and is the least visible in this image. So as you head to the range or the hunting stand, think about the absolute violence your bullets are committing in the atmosphere, before they even reach the target!”
Subscribe to the Science of Accuracy Academy for more precision rifle and long range shooting content. LINK: TheScienceofAccuracy.com.
Science of Academy Contest
The Science of Accuracy Academy is currently running a contest for new subscribers. The winner receives a Vortex Fury HD 5000 Laser Rangefinder Binocular unit with Applied Ballistics functionality. Act soon — the deadline to enter is November 23, 2022 at 1:00 pm Eastern.
* Schlieren imaging makes air flow features visible. SEE Schlieren Photography Wikipedia page.
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