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April 26th, 2024

Don’t Waste Money on Tacti-Cool Gear Says Larry Vickers

Training tactical tacti-cool accessories Larry Vickers AR15 Black rifle

Larry Vickers is a respected firearms trainer who has served with the U.S. Special Operations Forces (SOF). In the course of teaching classes he’s learned that many gun owners waste money on impractical gun accessories. In a well-reasoned Ammoland.com article, “Don’t Be a Tacti-Cool Fool”, Vickers examines today’s trend of over-accessorizing firearms, particularly AR-platform rifles. Vickers doesn’t mince words… he states that too many people are spending too much money on poorly-designed hardware that may be “useless” at best.

Equipment Selection Advice from Larry Vickers

Every class I teach I see and hear students talking about the realization that some things about their gear and shooting in general just doesn’t add up on the range. Everything looks good in a Brownells Catalog but a significant amount of the parts and accessories offered on the market today are: a) useless; b) poorly designed; c) of questionable value; or d) downright dangerous.

No one is better at taking fully-functional, factory-made firearms and turning them into junk than a certain segment of the American gun-buying public.

Some people really don’t apply the common sense approach of not messing with what is potentially a life-saving tool. Sadly some of those same people will get on the Internet and talk bad about how the firearm they modified no longer functions and therefore is junk. Or they will recommend to fellow shooters the same parts and modifications they have used to turn their gun into, at best, a range toy.

Training tactical tacti-cool accessories Larry Vickers AR15 Black rifle

Some of this shows up in my classes and usually by lunch on the first day the obvious flaws of the equipment at hand become apparent for everyone in the class, most of all to the owner of said equipment. It may have cost the shooter some money but in turn he learned a serious life lesson –be careful what you read on the Internet about firearms modifications and there is no substitute for shaking out your equipment at the range in a structured class.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: you’ll learn more about guns and shooting in one class than you could in a month on the Internet.

READ about guns, gear, and shooting on the Internet. LEARN about guns, gear, and shooting on the range during well-thought-out and useful training. This approach is proven and consistently produces results and shooter confidence.


In this 51-minute video Larry Vickers responds to questions about gun accessories, his favorite firearms, sensible prepping, and other topics of interest.


Larry Vickers
Master Sergeant (Retired)
U.S. Army SOF Combat Veteran
https://vickerstactical.com

Larry Vickers is a retired U.S. Army Special Operations Forces veteran with 20+ years of service. Vickers served in Panama, the Middle East (Desert Storm), Somalia, Bosnia, and other locations. During his time with Delta Force, Vickers worked on weapons R&D, and served as a combat marksmanship instructor training new operational members of Delta.

Permalink - Videos, Gear Review, Tactical, Tech Tip Post comment »
April 25th, 2024

Measure Group Sizes Precisely with Ballistic-X SmartPhone App

Ballistic-X group measure measuring plot software Android Apple iOS
Ballistic-X Apple (iOS) version shown. There is also a Ballistic-X Android App.

Here’s something all shooters need — a smartphone App that calculates bullet-hole group sizes from your own photos. The Ballistic-X App is simple to use. Take a photo of your target, set some values (such as bullet diameter and distance to target), then use the touchscreen to place circles around each hole. The App will calculate group size (in MOA or Mils), distance to point of aim, and provide all the info in an overlay. Then click “save” to record your group for posterity!

Ballistic-X group measure measuring plot software Android Apple iOS

This App works well, is relatively easy to set-up, and costs just $7.99. It is available for both Android devices and iOS (Apple) devices. There are other ways to measure group sizes from target images, such as the excellent On-Target program, which we have used for years. However On-Target requires a software installation on a Windows platform desktop or laptop. Ballistic-X is a simple, easy-to-install App with versions for both Android and iOS (Apple) Mobile devices.

Google Play app store source
Download Android App
Apple store Ios app store source
Download Apple App

The Ballistic-X App has a relatively easy-to-use interface. Of course you can choose either MOA or Milrad group values, and Inch or Metric dimensions. There are various labeling options that provide useful info for Load Development. There is even an ATZ (Adjustment To Zero) feature for adjusting your turrets.

How to Use Ballistic-X App

1. Select Photo Source — Choose Camera to take new photo or get image from Photo Library.

Ballistic-X group measure measuring plot software Android Apple iOS

2. Set Reference Values — Select Bullet Diameter and enter Distance to Target.

3. Establish Scale on Image — Mark two points on target photo to set scale.
For example, if the target has a 1″-square grid lines, mark two points on grid for 1″ distance.

4. Mark Point Of Aim — Put the central X on the aim point.

5. Designate Shot Locations — Place the green circles around each shot.

Ballistic-X group measure measuring plot software Android Apple iOS

6. Finalize Data Display — Position Overlay, select size/color options, and export file.

Ballistic-X group measure measuring plot software Android Apple iOS

Android Options — Range Buddy FREE App
Along with Ballistic-X, there is another Mobile App, Range Buddy, that also measures shot groups. Range Buddy is currently offered for Android devices only. It is FREE, but has adverts. Range Buddy isn’t bad, but users complained about the program crashing, and there are compatibility issues with newer phones. We recommend you pay $7.99 and stick with Ballistic-X.

Ballistic-X group measure measuring plot software Android Apple iOS

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April 25th, 2024

Get Major Savings with Brownells Discount Codes — Up to 15%

Brownells discount code savings bargain

If you’ve been thinking about a big purchase at Brownells, here are some money-saving codes. Brownells is currently offering 10% Off a $150+ purchase, 15% Off Bullet buys, 15% Off Select Optics, 15% Off AR15 parts, and $10 Off a $100 purchase. It’s simple to get these discounts — there are no buyers’ clubs to join, no forms to fill out. Just use the appropriate Discount Code during online check-out.

Listed below are the Codes to use. Simply use the appropriate Code for your purchase at Brownells.com. NOTE: Most of these codes have no listed expiration date, so Brownells could terminate them at any time. And the first three codes expire on April 30, 2024. Accordingly, we recommend you do your shopping soon. Also if the highest value code no longer works, try a lesser value CODE.

Brownells discount code savings bargain

Coupon Code: April120 — $120 Off $1000
Expiration date: 4/30/2024

Coupon Code: April50 — $50 Off $500
Expiration date: 4/30/2024

Coupon Code: April20 — $20 Off $200
Expiration date: 4/30/2024

Coupon Code: AR15 — 15% off AR Parts
Expiration date: Unknown

Coupon Code: BULLET15 — 15% off Bullets
Expiration date: Unknown

Coupon Code: OPTICS15 — 15% off Select Optics
Expiration date: Unknown

Coupon Code: TA10 — 10% off $150+
Expiration date: Unknown

Coupon Code: TTB10 — 10% off $150+
Expiration date: Unknown

Coupon Code: WLS10 — 10% off $150+
Expiration date: Unknown

Coupon Code: TRIGGERED — 10% off $150+
Expiration date: Unknown

Coupon Code: GIFT10 — $10 OFF $100
Expiration date: Unknown

Coupon Code: SMSAVE — $10 OFF $100
Expiration date: Unknown

NOTE: None of the above codes include FREE or Discounted Shipping. But check when you purchase to see if free (or discounted) shipping is offered for your particular item(s). Depending on the weight/size of the item, this might be a better deal than saving $10-$20.

Brownells discount code savings bargain

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April 24th, 2024

NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Texas May 16-19, 2024

nra annual meeting dallas texas tx hutchison convention

The 2024 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits will take place at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center on May 17-19, 2024 in Dallas, Texas. That’s just three weeks away. The Exhibit Hall is open all three days and will showcase over 14 acres of the latest guns and gear from the most popular companies in the Industry. From entertainment to special events, it’s all happening in Dallas. GET More info here: https://NRAAM.org.

» Exhibitor List | » MAPS and Directions for Visiting Dallas, TX

Scheduled Events at 2024 NRA Annual Meetings and Exhibits

nra annual meeting dallas texas tx hutchison conventionMay 16 — NRA Foundation Banquet and Auction
May 16-18 — NRA Voter Verification
May 16-19 — NRA Wall of Guns (with Giveaways)
May 17 — NRA Foundation Nat’l Firearms Law Seminar
May 17 — NRA Clubs and Associations Workshop
May 17 — Co-Ed Women’s Leadership Forum Gala
May 18 — NRA Annual Meeting of Members
May 18 — Hunters’ Leadership Forum Reception
May 19 — National Prayer Breakfast
DATE TBD — NRA Leadership Forum

nra annual meeting dallas texas tx hutchison convention nra annual meeting dallas texas tx hutchison convention

NRA Convention Exhibitor Floor Plan (Find Company Locations)

Hundreds of leading firearms, ammo, optics, and accessories makers will showcase their products at the NRA convention. CLICK HERE to visit the Floor Plan map page. There you can find booth number for your favorite exhibitors.

nra annual meeting dallas texas tx hutchison convention

nra annual meeting dallas texas tx hutchison convention

MAP for Hutchison Convention Center Area in Dallas

Permalink Gunsmithing, News Post comment »
April 24th, 2024

Pistols at Perry — Registration INFO for 2024 Nat’l Pistol Matches

Camp perry bullseye pistol championship

Camp perry bullseye pistol championshipThe CMP has opened Registration for the 2024 National Matches at Camp Perry, Ohio. CLICK HERE for Pistol Games Matches INFO Page.

In 2024, the CMP Pistol Matches at Camp Perry will include Air Pistol Nat’l Championships, Small Arms Firing School, M9 EIC Match, Rimfire Pistol Matches, Centerfire Pistol Matches, Revolver EIC Match, .45 Pistol Matches, National Trophy Matches, GSSF Glock Nat’l Challenge, Military/Police Pistol Match, and 1911 As-Issued Match.

Since the turn of the 20th century*, Camp Perry has hosted major marksmanship events. While the rifle competitions get the most coverage, the National Matches also include bullseye pistol competition. Bullseye pistol shooting can bring nearly a thousand competitors to Camp Perry each summer, as part of the CMP National Championships. For these Camp Perry pistol matches, targets are set at 25 and 50 yards. The shooting position is standing, with most events firing one-handed in slow fire, timed fire, and rapid-fire.

Since their inception over a century ago, the National Matches have become a major shooting sports festival with over 4,500 annual participants. Held at the Camp Perry Nat’l Guard Training Base, the National Matches now include both indoor and outdoor events. Adult and junior athletes are welcome.

2024 Camp Perry Pistol Schedule | Pistol Online Registration | Pistol Registration Form PDF

CLICK HERE for CMP National Pistol Matches INFO PAGE »

Camp Perry Pistol bullseye

Camp Perry Bullseye Pistol Competition
Camp Perry is synonymous with the oldest and most prestigious annual trophy matches in our nation’s history. And in a venue renowned for service rifle matches, the sport of precision pistol is no less important, no less challenging, and no less respected. The National Trophy Pistol Matches is all about traditional handgunning — the stance, the intense concentration, and of course, the one-handed grip. It’s all unmistakable as the game of Bullseye Pistol. Every year there are no fewer than 24 separate match trophies for the top Bullseye Pistol shooters, both military and civilian. And the very best will claim National Match Trophies and receive the President’s 100 Tab.

This video shows .45 ACP centerfire pistol competitors at Camp Perry

NTT National Trophy Team Pistol Match Camp Perry Gold Cup
Civilians and military shooters competed together at the 2019 NTT Pistol Match.


* The first National Matches at Camp Perry were held in 1907. SEE: A Short History of Perry and the National Championships by Hap Rocketto.
This content is Copyright 2024 AccurateShooter.com. No reproduction on any other website is authorized. Use of this content without payment of licensing fees is a violation of Federal law.

Permalink Competition, Handguns, News Post comment »
April 24th, 2024

Vihtavuori Returns as Title Sponsor for the 2024 V2 Finale

V2 finale point series f-class f-tr f-open match competition

Vihtavuori Powders, a leading choice of competitive target shooters and long-range hunters, returns as the title sponsor of the F-Class Points Series V2 Finale. The 2024 V2 Finale will be held May 23-26, 2024 and at the Bayou Rifles Juliff Range in Rosharan, Texas.

“We’re thrilled to extend our partnership with Vihtavuori for the 2024 V2 Finale event! As one of our original sponsors, their direct support has been instrumental in bringing this event to life and supporting its growth, commented Tod Hendricks, F-Class Point Series member. “Now serving as the lead sponsor, Vihtavuori’ s continued generosity ensures that events like ours can flourish, offering fresh and exhilarating experiences in the competitive shooting sports arena.”

The F-Class Points Series is a yearlong F-Class points system and leaderboard, that culminates in the V2 Finale, which pits F-Class competitors against each other in a bracket-style double elimination match. Sixty-four competitors, 32 for each class (F-Open and FT/R), are invited to the Finale based on their series ranking. Since the V2’s inaugural series in 2021, partnerships have begun in Canada, South Africa, Italy, and Australia. The 2024 Finale will be held May 23-26 at Bayou Rifles in Rosharon, TX.

CLICK HERE for V2 Finale and F-Class Points Series rules. For more information on the F-Class Points Series and V2 Finale, visit FClassPointSeries.com.

V2 finale point series f-class f-tr f-open match competition

This new-format match pits F-Class competitors against each other in a bracket-style double elimination match. The elite field (32 per class) is selected via a preceding Points series. In the past targets were placed at 1000 yards. In something unusual for an American F-Class match, in the V2 Finale all shooting will be done via PAIR FIRING, with shooters going head-to-head with alternating shots. The listed course of fire for 2024 is:

3.1. 2 CONVERTIBLE SIGHTERS AND 15 SHOTS FOR RECORD AT 1000 YARDS, PAIR FIRE
3.2. 2 CONVERTIBLE SIGHTERS AND 10 SHOTS FOR RECORD AT 1000 YARDS, PAIR FIRE
3.3. 5 SHOTS FOR RECORD AT 1000 YARDS, PAIR FIRE

V2 finale point series f-class f-tr f-open match competition

Permalink Competition, News, Reloading Post comment »
April 23rd, 2024

Tech Tuesday: Amazing Schlieren Imaging of Bullet in Flight

bullet flight video shock wave boundary layer base drag video applied ballistics

Every Tuesday an interesting technical feature is posted on the Applied Ballistics Facebook Page. For today’s 4/23/24 “Tech Tuesday”, a fascinating video of a bullet in flight was posted. This Schlieren video illustrates a 6mm 109gr Berger LRHT bullet traveling at 3163 FPS. The stunning video reveals the bullet shockwave and the turbulent wake. Check it out:

About the Schlieren Imaging Process — What It Shows

Schlieren Imaging is a way of making airflow features visible. 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.


Above is a second Schlieren imaging video. This shows a 6mm 109gr Berger LRHT bullet at ~2800 fps as fired from a 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).”

Science of Accuracy Exclusive Content for Subscribers

Applied Ballistics has a huge archive of shooting-related ballistics and technical information plus exclusive videos. You can access all this information plus great members-only podcasts by subscribing to the Science of Accuracy Academy for $9.95/month.

bullet flight video shock wave boundary layer base drag video applied ballistics

Learn more at the Applied Ballistics Science of Accuracy Academy website.

Permalink - Videos, Bullets, Brass, Ammo, Tech Tip Post comment »
April 23rd, 2024

Ten Essential Tips for Concealed Handgun Carry

Beretta CCW Ten Tips Concealed Carry Guide Instruction book

Do you often carry a concealed handgun? Then you can benefit from Beretta’s FREE 15-page e-book, Ten Essential Tips for CCW Holders. This eBook, in handy PDF format, helps gun owners select an appropriate handgun (and holster), understand legal obligations and responsibilities, and train effectively with the firearm. This short PDF eBook offers many useful tips to consider, in particular for gun owners who are contemplating the pros and cons of everyday carry for themselves.

CLICK HERE for 10 Essential Tips for CCW Holders »

As the Beretta CCW booklet says, “Carrying a concealed handgun requires a certain amount of confidence. You need to be confident in your knowledge of laws and regulations. You have to have confidence in your accuracy, and you need to trust that you can carry a gun effectively, securely and comfortably. If a gun is a burden for you to carry, you probably won’t.”

Surprising Facts About Actual Defensive Handgun Use
You may be surprised to learn when and how handguns are actually used for self-defense. Most defensive uses are at very short range and the incident only lasts a matter of seconds. You need to be prepared, and train to be proficient drawing and aiming your weapon. And remember, shooting is a last resort, when a safe retreat is not available.

55% of gunfights take place in 0-5 feet.
20% of gunfights take place in 5-10 feet.
20% of gunfights take place in 10-21 feet.
95% of gunfights take place in 0-21 feet. (Source: FBI)
The average man can cover 21 feet of ground in 1.5 seconds.
The average gunfight is over in 3-5 seconds.
3 to 4 shots are usually fired.
Most gunfights take place in low-light conditions.
On average, one shot in four strikes someone.

Here are two (2) sample pages from Beretta’s CCW eBook.

Beretta CCW Ten Tips Concealed Carry Guide Instruction book

Beretta CCW Ten Tips Concealed Carry Guide Instruction book

Beretta CCW Ten Tips Concealed Carry Guide Instruction book

Permalink - Articles, Handguns, Tech Tip Post comment »
April 23rd, 2024

Big Ammo Sale on April 25 — 12% Off for Ammo+ Members

target sports member sale 12%

Target Sports USA is running a big ammo sale on 4/25/24 with 12% savings. This AMMO+ sale offers AMMO+ members a major 12% discount on select ammunition. Scheduled for April 25th, this one-day event offers an additional discount to all AMMO+ Members. Plus, along with the big sale, AMMO+ members can enter to win a $30,000 Colorado Guided hunt.

target sports member sale 12%

target sports member sale 12%

To benefit from the sale you need an AMMO+ Membership with Target Sports USA. This Membership costs $99.99. Based on members’ product discounts, the average annual membership savings is $390.00. Benefits include 8% discount on ammunition, plus FREE Shipping on most orders. SEE DETAILS HERE.

target sports member sale 12%

Get an AMMO+ Membership and Participate in AMMO+ Day 2
There is still time to get an AMMO+ membership and benefit from the AMMO+ Day 2 12% Off Sale. The annual Membership offers year-round benefits, including ammunition discounts, FREE Shipping, and members-only event participation.

Permalink Bullets, Brass, Ammo, Hot Deals, News Post comment »
April 22nd, 2024

BargainFinder 448: AccurateShooter’s Deals of the Week

AccurateShooter Deals of the Week Weekly Bargain Finder Sale Discount Savings

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. Midsouth — Blem Bullets Sale, 65+ Types Up to 50% Off

lyman powder dispenser sale
Big savings on rifle bullets .22 to .416 cal, match and hunting

Here’s a great Blem Bullet Sale at Midsouth. Save up to 50% on a wide range of bullets, from .22 Cal varmint projectiles up to massive 400+ grain hunting bullets. Chose among BTHP, Polymer Tip, Aluminum Tip, and even a few unleaded types. You’ll probably find something you’ll like, with huge savings. For example, PRS competitors can get 250 6mm 90gr bullets for just $59.99 — a mere 24 cents each (37% discount). And varminters can get 55gr BTHP bullets for just 13 cents each (price $32.99 for 250).

2. Midsouth — Lyman Gen 6 Powder Dispenser, $219.99

lyman powder dispenser sale
Save $40 (15%) on popular powder scale/dispenser

Optimal accuracy and low ES/SD demands very precise (and consistent) powder charges. You’ll want a quality powder scale/dispenser such as the Gen 6 Compact Digital Powder Dispenser System. Accurate to 0.10 grain, the Lyman Gen6 dispenses various types of smokeless powder at two grains per second. This machine has an auto repeat function that drops a precise charge each time the pan is reset.

3. Natchez — Primers and Ammunition Sale

rifle primer sale
Save on CCI, Fed, & Rem primers plus rimfire and centerfire ammo

The shortage of primers is easing, with prices dropping a bit. If you need primers, check out the current Primer and Ammo Sale at Natchez. A wide range of CCI, Federal, and Remington primers are on sale, with savings of $20-$35 per 1000. In addition there are significant discounts on rimfire and centerfire ammunition. Note: This sale concludes on Tuesday 4/23/24, so don’t delay.

4. Creedmoor Sports — Radians Electronic Earplugs, $74.95

ear protection sale
Effective, compact hearing protection with ability to hear range commands

Protect your hearing and monitor range commands with the Radians Vertex Nano Electronic Earplugs now just $74.95 at Creedmoor Sports. The custom micro-circuitry has 2 mode levels for standard and enhanced amplification with < 0.02 second reaction time to protect against dangerous impulse noises. Dedicated right and left plugs are each powered by ultra-efficient batteries with 120 hours life. This is a great deal! These very same Radian electronic earplugs cost $119.99 elsewhere.

5. MidwayUSA — Vortex Gen I Diamondback Binoculars, $129.99

vortex binocular sale
Great 10×42 binocs for the money — good choice for varminters

At the range or in the field, a good pair of binoculars is very useful. Right now the 10x42mm Vortex Optics Gen I Diamondback Binoculars are $100 off at MidwayUSA — a 43% savings. These lightweight (24 oz.) binoculars offer a wide field of view and a lifetime VIP Vortex warranty. These rubber-armored binocs are a good choice for hunters and backpackers. The Diamondback series are O-ring sealed and argon-purged for true 100% weatherproofing.

6. Graf’s — Competition Electronics Chron and Timer Sale

shooting timer sale
Big savings on chronos and timers

Every serious shooter needs a good chronograph. If you’re in the market for a chrono or timer check out the Competition Electronics sale at Graf & Sons. You can get a reliable Comp. Electronics chronograph for just $120 — hundreds less than a LabRadar or Garmin. And if you compete in timed, speed-based matches, a Comp. Electronics timer will help you train more effectively.

7. Amazon — Case Prep Multitool, $14.99

brass prep tool sale
Great price on versatile tool with internal storage

Proper brass prep includes chamfering and deburring case-mouths as well as cleaning the primer pockets. For a modest $14.99 price, the TYRWEEY Case Prep Multitool (#ad) can perform all these key tasks. This tool will chamfer, deburr. and clean pockets. A very nice feature is that the tool heads can be stored INSIDE the handle when not in use. The tool has a non-slip, checkered exterior for secure handling.

8. Amazon — Tactical 4-Pistol Range Bag, $39.99

pistol range bag sale
Good price on well-made, roomy Pistol bag.

The DSLEAF Tactical Gun Range Bag (#ad) is a good, sturdy bag that holds up to 4 full-size handguns. This DSLEAF bag has 3 inner removable dividers, 2 mesh pockets, and 6 mag-holders. It can hold up to 4 pistols as well as earmuffs and shooting eyewear. There are nice zippered pockets on the side and good, thick internal padding. If you’re not a pistol guy, you can also use this bag to haul your chronograph, target cam, and other accessories.

9. Amazon — Target Stand Dual Pack, $49.97

target stand sale
Good price on pair of adjustable target stand

The Knine Outdoor Shooting Target Stand kit (#ad) allows you to set up your own elevated target in any shooting area. This kit includes 2 metal target stands, 8 ground stakes, 8 butterfly screws, plus paper clips. The base units adjust for width from 13″ to 24″ horizontal spread. This kit includes ten printed 16″x12″ shooting paper targets. NOTE, you must supply your own wood risers and cardboard target backers.

10. Amazon — 6-Pack Stackable AkroBins, $15.00

brass ammo bin sale
Good option for tool and reloading components stackable storage

Parts, brass, and bullets all need to be kept safe on the bench when you’re reloading. Akro-Mils AkroBins (#ad) are a quality option that can be placed on wall racks, shelving, or on a benchtop. These can be stacked securely. These AkroBins are sold in packs of six for $15.00, and are available in four colors: red, yellow, blue, and white. Dimensions are 4-1/8″ Wide x 5-3/8″ Deep x 3″ High.

As an Amazon affiliate, this site can earn revenues through sales commissions.

Permalink Bullets, Brass, Ammo, Gear Review, Hot Deals, Optics Post comment »
April 22nd, 2024

Air Rifle Slugs vs. Pellets — Optimizing Barrel Twist Rate

applied ballistic science accuracy air rifle pellet slug bc ballistics
This article comes from the Applied Ballistics Facebook Page

Air Rifle Slugs vs. Pellets — Twist Rate Testing

Initial radar testing shows an interesting stability trend for slugs vs. pellets: drag is minimized for pellets in slower-twist barrels, while drag of slugs is minimized for a faster twist. Also, consistency of drag/BC is best when drag is minimized (BC maximized).

Show below are test data for .300 caliber 44.5 grain Slug and .300 caliber 44.8 grain Pellet, both shot from an air rifle around 800 FPS. Experienced air rifle shooters told us to expect this so it’s nice to see the measurements supporting this trend!

applied ballistic science accuracy air rifle pellet slug bc ballistics

So why is fast twist good for slugs while bad for pellets and vice versa? Air rifle pellets with a skirt are mostly drag-stabilized, not spin-stabilized. So, they don’t need much if any spin at all to fly point forward; the skirt catches the air like the fins of a rocket. As such, spinning the pellets faster only becomes a problem of dynamic stability. If I had any suggestion after looking at this data, it would be to try an even slower twist for pellets, perhaps a 1:60″ (one turn in 5 feet) or even 1:120″.

Slugs are spin-stabilized so it reasons that more spin suppresses yaw and maximizes BC, to a point. Based on these results, it appears the slug is reaching max stability/BC with the 1:22″ and the 1:18″ provides no further benefit. Again, these are just initial findings, we’re eager to explore further in the coming weeks! To view our recent Air Rifle projectile testing, with full 8-minute video, CLICK HERE.

The Science of Accuracy Air Rifle Projectile Testing Part 1 Video »

applied ballistic science accuracy air rifle pellet slug bc ballistics
applied ballistic science accuracy air rifle pellet slug bc ballistics

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April 22nd, 2024

Best Wallet Group Ever? Five Shots in 1.859″ at 1000 Yards

1000-yard record group

What’s a “Wallet Group”? It’s a singularly spectacular proof target that entitles its bearer to bragging rights. The wallet group may or may not have been shot in competition, and, by definition, it may not be repeatable. But it exists as incontrovertible proof that, at least once, the stars aligned, and the wind gods smiled on the shooter.

1000-yard record groupFive Shots in 0.178 MOA at 1000 Yards
A few years ago, Forum member and F-Class shooter Gary Wood was testing his 6.5-284 rifle at the 1000-yard range in Coalinga, California, getting ready for an upcoming long range match. In practice, Gary nailed a witnessed 1.859″ five-shot group, with four of the five shots well under an inch. Use this as proof to win those club-house arguments about whether it is possible to shoot “in the ones” at 1000 yards. Gary’s group worked out to 0.178 MOA!

Gary reports: “I was load testing with 5-shot groups. Each group was shot on a new F-Class center and pulled by Ret. Master Chief Jerry Pullens and spotted by an other long-range shooter. The second 5-shot load group looked really small … by our reckoning four out of five shots measured under an inch. I was amazed. What’s more, when I shot the group, the 4th shot blew the spindle out of the 3rd shot. My spotter saw that in his scope and Jerry Pullens told me about it afterwards”.

As measured with the OnTarget Software, using a scan of the target, Gary plotted the group size at 1.859″ total for five shots, or 0.178 MOA. Gary noted: “I had everyone sign the target which I saved and photographed.” Yes, Gary, this may be the wallet group to end all wallet groups. You should have that target framed.

1000-yard record group


Gary’s Load and 6.5-284 Rifle Specs
Gary was running a stout load of Hodgdon H4350 and CCI BR-2 primers, pushing moly-coated 142gr Sierra MKs, in Lapua 6.5-284 brass. The rifle features an F-Class, single-shot Surgeon action with a Bartlein 5R barrel chambered with a no-turn neck. Gary says “The barrel only has 70 rounds through it… yep, I think it will shoot.” Gary did all of the gunsmithing and barrel work himself.

Did Gary have any special reloading tricks? Apparently not: “Other than weighing the cases and the powder very carefully, there really were no magical reloading secrets used. The Sierra 142s were moly-coated straight from the box of 500, but they were not weighed or checked for bearing surface. The powder was dropped with a RCBS ChargeMaster then checked with an Acculab scale (to under a tenth). The Lapua cases were not neck-turned, but I did weight-sort them. The five cases for the small group weighed: 195.05, 195.03, 195.03, 195.03, 195.01.”

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