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January 2nd, 2024

How to Print More Durable Targets — Plus 3 Popular Designs

Printing Targets card stock heavy paper benchrest

Printing Targets card stock heavy paper benchrestMost of us have access to a printer at home or at work. That means you can print your own targets. You’ll find hundreds of free target designs online, including dozens of downloadable targets on our AccurateShooter.com Target Page. If you’re feeling creative, you can design your own target with a computer drawing program such as MS Paint.

Paper Stock Is Important
If you want your self-printed targets to show shots cleanly (and not rip when it gets windy), you should use quality paper stock. We recommend card stock — the kind of thick paper used for business cards. Card stock is available in both 65-lb and 110-lb weights in a variety of colors. We generally print black on white. But you might experiment with bright orange or yellow sheets. Forum Member ShootDots report: “They sell cardstock at Fed-Ex Kinko! I use either Orange or Yellow. That makes it easy to see the bullet holes clearly.” On some printers, with the heavier 110-lb card stock, you will need to have the paper exit through the rear for a straighter run.

Here are some Target-Printing Tips from our Forum members:

“Staples sells a 67-lb heavy stock that I have settled on. I use the light grey or light blue, either of these are easy on the eyes on bright days. I have used the 110-lb card stock as well and it works fine. It’s just a little easier to print the lighter stuff.” (JBarnwell)

“Cardstock, as mentioned, works great for showing bullet holes as it doesn’t tear or rip like the thin, lightweight 20-lb paper. I’ve never had a problem with cardstock feeding in the printer, just don’t stick too many sheets in there. If I need three targets, I load only three card stock sheets”. (MEMilanuk)

“I’ve used Staples Sticker paper. This works well and no staples are required (joke intended). It helps if you put slight tension on the lighter weight paper when mounting it on the target frame.” (Mac 86951).

Printing Targets card stock heavy paper benchrest

Here are some tips for using lighter weight paper (if you want to save money or your printer won’t work with heavier stock):

“20-lb bond works pretty well for me if I use a spray adhesive and stick the entire back of the paper’s surface to the backer board.” (Lapua40X)

“I use the regular 20-lb paper but the only time it tears is when there is no backer to support it. This can be an issue when going to a public range and the backer are all shot out. I use a large construction paper backer that I clip onto the stands.” (CPorter)

Here Are Three of Our Favorite Targets. Click to Download PDFs.

FREE Accuracy Precision Rifle Shooting Target

FREE Accuracy Precision Rifle Shooting Target FREE Accuracy Precision Rifle Shooting Target
Permalink Shooting Skills, Tech Tip No Comments »
March 25th, 2023

Make Targets Quickly on Paper with Target Stamps

ink target stamp paper rubber handle shooting bullseye

Accurateshooter targetAccurateShooter.com has a page with dozens of FREE printable targets including many sets of multi-aimpoint targets and our very popular Three Row Diamond and Circle Target with load data tables (see photo at right).

However, if you don’t have a printer, don’t want to pay for commercial targets or adhesive target stickers, then there IS an interesting option. One of our Forum members has created his own Custom TARGET STAMP. Using an INK PAD, this creates a black multi-ring bullseye on paper that matches the exact dimensions of a competition target (SEE Top Photo).

Forum member JimmyMac wanted a target that replicates a competition multi-ring bullseye. He wanted to be able to stamp this bullseye quickly and easily on blank paper. Shown below is the custom stamp he created to accomplish that task. JimmyMac posted: “I took dimensions of a 100-yard group target and had a stamp made to transfer to the paper of my choice. Not revolutionary by any stretch, but works good. I may do a UBR score target stamp next.” JimmyMac purchased the target stamper through an online vendor: “I bought mine online. I provided a template. They did the rest. Here is the stamp and the ink that goes inside.” READ FORUM Thread for more information.

ink target stamp paper rubber handle shooting bullseye
ink target stamp paper rubber handle shooting bullseye

100-Yard Benchrest Target Stamp Set at Brownells

There are other target stamps available that print an ink graphic design on paper. This can be a bullseye, a box, a diamond, or something else. Show below is a 100-yard Benchrest target stamp set on SALE now at Brownells (Sinclair Int’l) for $6.87. That’s a very good value.

ink target stamp paper rubber handle shooting targ

Target Stamp Sets on Amazon

There are a large variety of ink-using target stamps available now on Amazon. Some of these are “self-inking” for convenience, while others require a separate ink pad to function. Here are some of the many target stampers currently offered. There are many target pattern and target size options.

ink target stamp paper rubber handle shooting targ ink target stamp paper rubber handle shooting targ
ink target stamp paper rubber handle shooting targ ink target stamp paper rubber handle shooting targ
ink target stamp paper rubber handle shooting targ ink target stamp paper rubber handle shooting targ

This article is Copyright 2023 AccurateShooter.com. Republication by any other website or media violates Federal copyright law and obliges that third party to pay statutory penalties and damages.

Permalink Competition, Gear Review, Tech Tip No Comments »
November 8th, 2022

Get Official Targets: Air Rifle, Rimfire, Benchrest, F-Class, High Power, and Pistol

official shooting IBS NBRSA NRA rifle shooting targets paper bullseye benchrest

Do you need targets — not just any old targets, but the correctly-sized targets for specific shooting disciplines (such as NRA Smallbore, F-Class, and 1K Benchrest)? Well you won’t find them at your neighborhood gun store. Precise, dimensionally-correct competition targets are produced by a half-dozen specialty printers. In this article we provide links to the leading target sellers, with a chart showing “who’s got what”. Look for your particular discipline and the vendors will be specified.

Sources for Official Shooting Competition Targets:

ALCO Target Company

American Target Company

Creedmoor Sports

National Target Company

Pistoleer.com

U.S. Target Company

AccurateShooter.com offers dozens of FREE, printable targets for target practice, load development, and fun shooting. We also offer a few of the most popular NRA Bullseye targets. One or more of these printable targets should work for most training purposes. However, some readers have asked: “Where can we get the real targets… exactly like the ones used in NRA, IBS, and NBRSA shooting matches?”

Official targets NRA IBS NBRSA

All these vendors carry nearly all the NRA High Power and Smallbore targets, including the smaller F-Class targets. National Target has the F-Class and High Power targets, including 100-yard reductions of the 200, 300, and 600-yard military targets.

NRA Target IBS Hunter Rifle Target

Orrville Printing currently sells IBS targets for rimfire (50 yard) benchrest, short-range centerfire Benchrest (100, 200, 300 yards), Hunter BR Rifle (100, 200, 300 yards), plus the official 600-yard and 1000-yard IBS targets. National Target Company also has most of the IBS targets. NBRSA short-range, 600-yard, and 1000-yard benchrest targets are available directly from the NBRSA Business Office. Send an email to nbrsa@icloud.com or call (434) 993-9201.

Available Official Competition Targets
Vendor NRA High Power F-Class NRA Smallbore Air Rifle/Pistol IBS NBRSA Other
ALCO Target
Company
Yes, All No Yes Yes No No Archery, IDPA, IPSC, Police, Realistic, Shoot-N-C, Silhouette, Fun Targets, Pasters.
American Target
Company
Yes, All Yes Yes, All Yes No No USBR, Sight-in, Muzzle-Loading, Police Silhouette
Creedmoor Sports Yes, Some Yes, Some Yes, All Yes No No NMAR, Repair Centers, Police Silhouette, Sighting Targets, Shoot-N-C Grid
Domagron Targets Yes, Some No Yes, Some Yes No No NRA, Air Gun, Reactive, Fun Targets
National Target
Company
Yes, Nearly All Yes Yes, All Yes Yes* No IDPA, IPSC, FBI, Police Silhouette, Sight-in, Target Backers, Pasters
Pistoleer.com Yes Yes Yes, most and color training Yes Yes No Bianchi, FBI, IBS, IDPA, IPSC, Silhouette, Archery, Pasters
U.S. Target, Inc. Yes Yes Yes, All Yes No No Bianchi, FBI, Police Silhouette, IPSC, Realistic Silhouette, Varmint

Alco Target silhouette paper cardboard

Need Steel, Cardboard Silhouettes or specialty targets? ALCO Target Company in Duarte, California is the USA’s leading producer of the full spectrum of shooting targets including paper targets, cardboard targets, steel targets, and target stands.

Permalink Competition, Gear Review, Shooting Skills No Comments »
June 14th, 2021

BargainFinder 299: 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.

1. KYGUNCO — Savage Axis II Precision, $799.99

barnard sms action
Compares well with tactical rigs costing much more

Here’s a smart choice for PRS/NRL Factory Class. Get the Savage Axis II Precision rifle in 6.5 Creedmoor for $799.99. Add a high-quality scope and you’ll have a complete set up for well under $2K with money left over for bipod, support bags, and other accessories. If you are looking for a metal chassis varmint rifle, Sportsman’s Warehouse has the .223 Rem Axis II Precision in stock for $829.99.

2. MidwayUSA — Crimson Trace 5-Series Tactical Scope Sale

bushnell scope sale
Really amazing deals on excellent FFP optics for PRS/NRL applications

KILLER DEAL on high-quality First Focal Plane MilRad optics, ideal for PRS/NRL tactical applications. These high-tech Crimson Trace scopes are over HALF OFF now. Grab the 3-24x56mm for $699.99 (61% OFF) or the 3-18x50mm for $599.99 (62% OFF). Both feature 34mm main tubes, tons of elevation, and advanced MR1-MIL illuminated reticles. We’ve looked through these optics and they have good glass and nice controls. These scopes feature EZ Mount Leveling Indicators for quick, precise mounting. All Crimson Trace scopes come with FREE Batteries for life and a Lifetime Protection Warranty.

3. Sportsman’s WHSE — Hornady Press Kit + Ultrasonic Bundle

Hornaday Class Press Reloading Kit Ultrasonic Cleaning machine Bundle sale
Save $120 on this reloading Kit/Sonic Bundle, $519.99 Value

With the shortage of loaded ammo, millions of gun owners are getting into hand-loading. Here’s a good starter kit at a great price. This Hornady Bundle Kit combines a complete reloading set-up with a Hornady ultrasonic cleaning unit. For just $399.99 you get a single-stage press, quality powder measure, digital scale, priming tool, powder trickler, funnel, case prep tools and more. All that would easily be worth the $399.99 price. But with this deal you get all that PLUS a quality L-N-L Sonic 2L ultrasonic cleaning machine as well. This is one of the best bundles we’ve seen — act soon before it sells out.

4. Midsouth — Tumbler Kit Pro with Separator/Sorter, $89.99

midsouth tumbler media separator arsenal tumbler
Ample capacity, great reviews, and good value right now

Keeping your brass clean is one of the best ways to keep your dies (and reloading presses) clean as well. If you’re looking for an affordable setup to clean cartridge brass, consider the Midsouth Tumbler Kit Pro. You get everything needed to dry-tumble your brass and then remove the media. Get the combo kit now for a very low $89.99, including Vibratory Tumbler, Media Separator (with bucket), Media, and Brass Polish. The Tumbler Kit Pro will handle 600-1000 handgun cases, or 250-450 rifle cases (depending on size). Nearly all verified purchaser reviews have been five stars.

5. MidwayUSA — Stable Table Portable Shooting Bench, $178.39

caldwell shooting bench stable table midwayusa sale
Hard to beat bench at this price; swivel seat, 60-lb total weight

The Caldwell® Stable Table, a 60-lb tripod-style bench, offers a 34″L x 23″W top surface with a bench seat that adjusts from 16″ to 22″ in height. The polymer top has two integrated carry handles. These handles double as anchors for two gun-holding forks that can be used when cleaning your rifle. Leg adjustments keep the table and seat parallel even on uneven ground. The overall unit breaks down into seven pieces using a quick-release pin system. Maximum weight capacity is 350 pounds. This bench has earned 80% 5-star reviews from actual purchasers.

6. Sportsman’s WHSE — GET $50 Coupon with $200 Purchase

browning summer rebate rifles X-Bolt 2021
Get a $50 Store Coupon with $200 single-item purchase

Here’s a great “Father’s Day Bounceback” promo good through June 20, 2021. Through the 20th if you spend $200 at Sportsman’s Warehouse, you’ll qualify for a $50.00 COUPON. The flyer says: “You read that right, now through June 20 get a $50 coupon when you spend $200 or more on a single purchase. We’ll send you a code to use online between July 5-18, 2021.” Remember to get the $50 coupon, the $200 (or more) must be on a single purchase — you can’t add up multiple items.

7. Browning — Summer Rebate, Save up to $50 on Guns

browning summer rebate rifles X-Bolt 2021
Great Price on versatile self-Loader for plinking or NRL22

Get up to $50 back when you buy an eligible new Browning firearm at retail between May 28 and July 5, 2021. This applies to NEW guns purchased from a Browning Dealer. You get $50 Off Citori shotguns, $25 Off X-Bolt rifles (and A5 or Maxus II shotguns), and $10 Off Browning pistols. To submit your rebate request, visit Rebates.browning.com.

8. MidwayUSA — Viktos 1911 Tactical Boots — $99.00 (Save $80)

viktos tactical hunting boot footwear half price 2021
Strong yet light boots with good ankle support — big savings

These Viktos Boots can serve many functions — hiking, work, pretty much any outdoor activity. The combination of leather and nylon offers good protection with lighter weight than an all-leather boot. We liked this $99 deal so much this Editor bought a pair. These same Viktos boots sell elsewhere for $180.00.

9. Amazon — Motion-Sensor LED Interior Light, $13.99

gun safe light vault cabinet motion sensor light motion sensing LED magnet lamp
Activates when door opens, Rechargeable, 3 LED Light Levels

Here’s a great accessory for your Gun Safe or closet. This rechargeable LED Lamp turns itself on when you open the door, and off when you close the door. Select three brightness levels: 10LED, 20LED, 30LED. With the supplied 3M adhesive magnetic strip you can easily attach the light to the inner walls of your gun safe. And then quickly remove the unit for charging with a standard USB cord (no batteries to replace!). It works, it’s handy, and it’s inexpensive — just $13.99 on Amazon (plus you may see a $2.00 off coupon). These motion-sensor LED lamps can also be used in garages or stairwells.

10. Amazon — Howard Leight MAX Earplugs, $9.50/50 Pairs

accurateshooter.com review Max-1 Howard Leight ear plugs

20 Pairs
50 Pairs

Best NRR (33 dB), Very Comfortable, Great Value

These Howard Leight NRR 33 Max Plugs are your Editor’s favorite foam earplugs. Between shooting, motorcycling, and mowing lawns, I probably have Max plugs in my ears 2-3 days a week. This is a very good price for a bulk pack of 50 pairs. NRR 33 is the best Noise Reduction Rating you’ll find for plugs alone. And if you act soon, you can get free shipping to boot.

Permalink Gear Review, Handguns, Hot Deals, Optics, Reloading No Comments »
May 18th, 2020

Bargain Finder 243: 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.

1. Graf & Sons — Huge 25% Off Sightron Optics Sale — All Scopes

graf and sons sightron scope optics sale 25% off discount

If you’re looking for a high-magnification zoom optic for matches and long-range shooting, here is one of the best Optics Sales of the year. Now at Graf’s get 25% off the entire inventory of Sightron optics — riflescopes as well as spotting scopes, red dot sights, and binoculars. There are some truly great deals here. For example, the 10-50x60mm SIII for $817.49, or a 3-16x42mm S-TAC for just $292.49. There are over 150 items discounted 25% — you should really check out this sale.

2. CDNN Sports — Remington 770 Rifle with Scope, $249.99

remington 770 discount hunting rifle .243 win winchester

Looking for a first hunting rifle for a family member, with the Remington heritage? Check out this Rem 770 package with 3-9X40mm scope. As this is our Deals of the Week #243, we looked for a .243 Winchester. We found both Standard and Youth model .243 Wins are just $249.99. Other Rem 770 scoped rifle packages are available from CDNN for just $249.99 in all these popular chamberings: .270 Win, .30-06, 7mm Rem Mag, .30-06, and .300 Win Mag. All these rifles come with a pre-mounted 3-9x40mm riflescope. The Rem 770 features an ergonomic stock with raised cheekpiece and textured grip and forearm.

3. Amazon — 42″ Double Long Gun Case Backpack, $63.71

Savior Tactical Double Rifle case pistol pack backpack

The Savior Tactical Double Rifle case will hold TWO rifles, plus a large pistol. This case has nice thick padding, plenty of pockets, AND comfortable shoulder straps so you can carry it like a backpack. Shown above is the 42″x12″ Flat Dark Earth (Tan) version, $63.71 on Amazon. Along with the 42″-long case, there are 36″, 46″, 51″, and 55″ models. The 55″ Savior Tactical case ($86.53 on Amazon) is big enough for most PRS rifles, even with long barrels. These gun cases also come in OD Green, Black, and Gray.

4. Amazon — Vortex 20-60x60mm Angled Spotting Scope, $399

vortex spotting scope

Whether hunting or target shooting, spotting scopes get you on target faster and easier than bare eyes or riflescope. If you need a good all-purpose spotter, check out the Vortex Diamondback 20-60x60mm angled spotting scope for $399.00. It offers great clarity and rock-solid lifetime guarantee. There’s also a straight version for just $349.95, with same 20-60X power and 60mm objective. If you need more low-light ability, the Vortex 20-60x80mm spotter is $499.00, angled or straight.

5. Brownells — Walker’s Ear and Eye Protection, 20% Off Sale

walkers brownells earmuffs muffs eye hearing protection sale electronic game ears

All shooters need quality hearing protection. We recommend safety glasses for all disciplines. Right now you can get up to 20% OFF Walker’s Ear and Eye Protection. Save on standard muffs, electronic muffs, ear-plugs, game-ear systems, and shooting glasses. There are also combo muffs/glasses packages at big discounts. You’ll find plenty of bargains — shooting glasses starting at $5.99 and muffs under $15.00.

6. Midsouth Shooters — Tipton Cleaning Rod Rack, $6.88

Tipton cleaning rod rack mount sale midsouth Shooters

Want to organize all your cleaning rods? The Tipton Cleaning Rod Rack holds up to six (6) cleaning rods of various lengths and handle types. There are molded bumpers for T-Handle rods plus hanging hooks on either end for additional accessories. Right now this rack is on sale for just $6.88, complete with mounting holes and screws.

7. Natchez — Sale on EarMuffs, Eye Protection, Targets & More

muffs targets hearing protection Natchez Kestrel

Natchez Shooters Supplies is running a big Spring Range Day Sale right now, with substantial savings on a variety of products. Earmuffs and shooting glasses are deeply discounted, and and AR500 target plate with stand is 45% off. CLICK HERE to see all 29 featured items.

8. Sportsman’s Warehouse — Nikon 1000i Rangefinder, $179.99

nikon lrf laser rangefinder 1000i prostaff sale sportsman's warehouse

Nikon’s ProStaff 1000i Laser Rangefinder boasts 6-power optics, good controls, Incline/Decline Technology, and a rugged, rainproof case. This unit offers 1000-yard ranging capability — plenty for hunting or varminting. The ProStaff 1000i offers switchable Horizontal Distance / Actual Distance display mode. At just $179.99, this Nikon LRF is a bargain. The same unit costs $200 or more elsewhere.

9. MidwayUSA — Tipton Jag Sets Brass or Nickel-Plated 25% Off

Tipton jag kit nickle-plated brass 25% off sale

If you shoot a variety of calibers, you need one of these Jag Kits, now 25% Off. You get 13 different diameter jags in a fitted case for under $15.00. That’s a steal. We like the Nickel-Plated Ultra Brass Jags (25% off price $14.09) because you don’t get “false positive” blue from your solvent interacting with the jag itself. But the regular Solid Brass Jags (25% Off price $12.74) also work great and some folks think they are more durable. We own these Jag kits and use them for everything from a .17 HMR up to a 45/70. Both kits contain 13 jags covering these calibers: .17, .20, .22, .243/6mm, .25/6.5mm, .270/7mm, .30, .338/8mm, .35/9mm, .375, .40, .44 and .45. NOTE: MidwayUSA’s product title states there are 12 Nickle-Plated Jags. However the Nickle-Plated Jag Kit photo shows thirteen (13), the description lists 13, Tipton’s Website shows 13, and that’s what we got in our Nickle-Plated Jag Kit.

10. Amazon — Two Rolls of 3″ Neon Target Stickers, $12.99

Red Orange Neon 3

We like these bright, Neon 3″ target stickers. These are big enough to see at 600 yards, providing a 1/2 MOA target center at that distance. For $12.99 at Amazon.com, you get 250 3″-diameter self-adhesive circles (125 targets per roll). The high-contrast fluorescent red/orange color provides an excellent HI-VIZ aiming point, along with good contrast for bullet holes within the 3″ circle. To help line up your reticle cross-hairs, the target centers feature black markers at 3, 6, 9, and 12 0’Clock.

Permalink Bullets, Brass, Ammo, Gear Review, Handguns, Hot Deals, Optics No Comments »
May 11th, 2020

Bargain Finder 242: 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.

1. Cabela’s — Thompson/Center Compass Rifle, $239.97

thompson center

Hunting season will be here in a few more months. If you need a new hunting rifle check out the Thompson/Center Compass in .270 Win or .30-06 Springfield. On sale now for just $239.97, these T/C rifles feature Free-floated 5R barrel, 3-lug bolt, lightweight synthetic stock with aluminum pillars, adjustable trigger, and 3-position safety. A detachable, rotary magazine is also included. NOTE: Cabela’s also has this rifle in .22-250 Rem for $259.97, still a great deal.

2. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper, $199.95

frankford arsenal intellidropper

There are many good digital powder scale/dispensers on the market. But one of the best new-generation machines is the Frankford Arsenal Intellidroper. This offers excellent controls, good drop speed and +/- 0.10 grain accuracy, plus an easy-to-use Mobile App. Right now on Amazon you can get the advanced Intellidropper for under $200! If you’re looking for a new “smart” digital powder dispenser with advanced features, this is an excellent deal. Intellidropper Review HERE.

3. Bruno Shooters Supply — Huge Primer Sale

primer sale

As primers have outstanding long-term shelf life, it makes sense to purchase primers in quantity when they are available at attractive prices. Right now Bruno Shooters Supply is running a huge PRIMER SALE featuring every brand and style in stock. Here’s a great opportunity to get a good supply of primers at attractive prices.

4. Camera Land — Konus 20-60x100mm Spotting Scope, $179.99

konus konaspot spotting scpe

Spotting scopes are vital tools for shooters. But they can be pricey, especially those with large front objective lenses. Enter the Konus KonuSpot-100 20-60x100mm. The big 100mm objective gathers more light — good for low-light shooting and observing. For the money, this is a surprisingly good spotter (though don’t expect it to compare with a high-end Kowa, Swaro, or Zeiss). And if you order now you can get a camera adapter, carry case, lens cleaning cloth, and smartphone adapter at no extra charge.

5. Midsouth — RCBS Partner Press Reloading Kit, $223.86

rcbs sale

With the stay-at-home orders, many shooters are using their new free time to get started in reloading. For novice reloaders, it makes sense to start with a kit that has most of the tools you need. The very affordable RCBS Partner Press Reloading Kit comes with Press, Powder Scale, Powder Funnel, Loading Block, Lube Tray, Neck Brushes, Dubur Tool, Load Manual and more. These Partner Presses work well for loading at the range, or use the compact Partner as a second press for depriming or bullet seating.

6. 5.11 Tactical Gear — 20% Off Site-Wide

5.11 tactical gear sale

5.11 is one of the top manufacturers of tactical gear. You’ll see 5.11 pants, bags, and shoes on the firing line at matches. And many first responders use 5.11 gear. Right now 5.11 Tactical is running a 20% off EVERYTHING SALE. That’s right — everything on 511tactical.com is on sale! What’s more, there is free shipping on orders over $35. Plus if you use Code ‘TOGETHER’ at checkout, you can get a free keychain multi-tool.

7. Sportsman’s Warehouse — All Howard Leight Products on Sale

howard leight sale

Need to upgrade your eye protection and/or hearing protection? Do your current muffs suffer from busted electronics or worn-out ear cups? Well here’s a great opportunity to save big on ear and eye protection. Right now there’s a great Howard Leight SALE at Sportsman’s Warehouse. Get All Howard Leight brand Safety Eyewear and Hearing Protection products at 20% OFF.

8. Palmetto State Armory — Springfield M1A Sale + Promo

m1a springfield

The Springfield M1A has an historic military heritage and is fun to shoot. If you’ve been looking to add an M1A to your collection, check out PSA’s Springfield M1A sale. Many M1A models are significantly discounted. Plus, with Springfield’s current Gear Up Promotion you get two FREE magazines PLUS a scope mount. With the discounts and the free gear, we figure you can get over $600 in value.

9. Amazon — Real Avid Chamber Boss, $29.99

ar 15 bore brush

Cleaning AR-platform rifle chambers can be a pain, especially when it comes to removing the carbon. We found the Real Avid Chamber Boss is very effective on those dirty AR chambers and internals. The Chamber Boss includes a carbon scraper specifically designed for the AR chamber extension. This kit also include a chamber brush, and 5 special star-chamber cleaning pads. All these components fit right into the Chamber Boss’s handle, making transport simple and easy.

10. Amazon — Ninety 3″ Stick-on Splatter Targets, $7.99

splatter targets

Here’s a great set of stick-on (adhesive) splatter targets. Shots appear as bright neon yellow halos — providing easy-to-see instant feedback. The $7.99 target packs include 10 sheets of black circles, 3″ in diameter, for shooting out to 300 yards and beyond. In addition, each sheet includes 8 smaller red center bulls plus 22 stick-on black dots. You can shoot the entire target sheet, or peel off one or more circles to stick on a target backer. These also work great indoors with pistols.

Permalink Bullets, Brass, Ammo, Gear Review, Hot Deals, Optics, Reloading 1 Comment »
March 25th, 2020

Six Shooting and Safety Tips for New Handgun Owners

Birchwood Casey Target Spots neon day-glow
OK this is no novice. But even champion pistol shooter Jessie Harrison, Captain of Team Taurus, had to start with the basics. Jessie says that safety should always be your number one priority.

Due to concerns about the Coronovirus pandemic, many Americans are purchasing firearms for self-defense. A large percentage of these purchasers are first-time gun buyers. It is vital that “newbie” gun owners learn proper safety procedures. In addition, even long-time gun owners should probably review the basic rules of gun safety. Here are six tips for shooting safely and accurately with handguns. These pointers will help you advance your skills and be more assured with your pistols and revolvers.

1. Make Sure Safety Is Number One

Whether you own one gun or one hundred, gun safety must always be your main priority. In this video, Smith & Wesson Team Captain Julie Golob covers the basics of gun safety.

2. Start with a .22 LR Handgun

Pistol Shooting Tips Target Mentor safety training

We strongly recommend that new pistol shooters start off with a .22 LR rimfire handgun. The .22 LR cartridge is accurate but has very low recoil, less “bark” than a centerfire, and very little smoke and muzzle flash. New shooters won’t have to fight muzzle flip, and won’t develop a flinch from the sharp recoil and muzzle blast common to larger calibers. With the .22 LR, the trainee can focus on sight alignment, breathing, and trigger pull. When he or she has mastered those skills, move on to a .38 Special or 9mm Luger (9x19mm).

What gun to use? We recommend the 10-shot Smith & Wesson Model 617. Shooting single action, slow-fire, this is ideal for training. Shown above is the 4″-barrel Model 617version which balances well. There is also a 6″-barrel version. It has a longer sight radius, but is a little nose-heavy. Both are great choices. They are extremely accurate and they boast a very clean, precise trigger.

browning buck mark buckmark stainless udx rimfire .22 LR pistol

If you prefer a semi-auto .22 LR pistol, we recommend the Browning Buck Mark series. Buck Marks are very accurate and very reliable. This rimfire pistol is available in a variety of models starting at under $350.00. Like the S&W Model 617, a good Buck Mark will serve you for a lifetime.

3. Shoot Outdoors If You Can

Pistol Shooting Tips Target Mentor safety training

We recommend that new pistol shooters begin their training at an outdoor range. There are many reasons. First, you can stay away from persons who may have a health problem, and you will be breathing fresh air. Second, the light is better outdoors. Third, sound dissipates better outdoors. The sound of gunfire echoes and bounces off walls indoors. Fourth, an outdoor range is a more comfortable environment. In addition, “stay at home” executive orders may have closed urban ranges. If you can make it to an outdoor range (which is still open in your area), you should have a good experience. Just be considerate with others and exercise “social distancing” — stay at least six feet from others.

4. Use Quality Targets with Multiple Aim Points

Birchwood Casey Target Spots neon day-glow

Birchwood Casey Target Spots neon day-glowIt’s common for new pistoleros to start shooting at cans or clay birds at a public range. That can be fun, but it’s better to start with proper targets, placed at eye level, at 7-10 yards. We like to use targets with large, brightly colored circles. Focus on putting 5 shots in a circle. We recommend targets that have multiple bullseyes or aiming points — that way you don’t have to constantly change your target. There are also special paper targets that can help you diagnose common shooting problems, such as anticipating recoil. EZ2C makes very good targets with bright, red-orange aim points. You can also use the bright orange Birchwood Casey stick-on Target Dots (right). These come in a variety of diameters. We like the 2″ dot at 10 yards.

5. Find a Good Mentor and Watch Some Videos First

Pistol Shooting Tips Target Mentor safety training
Photo courtesy AV Firearms Training.

Too many new pistol shooters try to move right to rapid fire drills. It’s better to start slow, practicing the basics, under the guidance of a good mentor. If you belong to a club, ask if there are certified instructors who will help out. This Editor learn pistol shooting from a seasoned bullseye shooter, who got me started with a .22 LR revolver and very close targets. Over the course of a few range sessions we progressed to farther targets and faster pace. But the fundamentals were never forgotten. When starting your pistol training, it’s wise to view some instructional videos. Top Shot Champion Chris Cheng hosts an excellent Handgun 101 Series produced by the NSSF. We’ve linked one of these Handgun 101 videos for Tip #6.

6. SLOW DOWN — This Is Not a Race

When you learned to ride a bicycle, you started slow — maybe even with training wheels. The same principle applies to pistol shooting. When you get started with handguns, we recommend you shoot slowly and deliberately. Start with the handgun unloaded — just work on your sight alignment and breathing. With snap caps in place, try some dry-firing drills. Then progress to live fire. But be deliberate and slow. With the target at 20 feet, see if you can get three successive shot-holes to touch. Believe it or not, many common pistols are capable of this kind of accuracy (but you won’t see many shooters at indoor ranges who pursue that kind of precision). Once you master your form and accuracy, then you can work on your speed.

Permalink - Articles, Handguns, Shooting Skills 1 Comment »
February 25th, 2020

Range Kit Essentials — 12 Handy Items for Days at the Range

Range Kit Gear shellholder safety dozen essentials

Ranges have re-opened in many places, albeit with some social distancing requirements or other health precautions. When you head to the range you’ll want to be prepared. That means collecting all the gear you’ll need at the range. It’s easy to forget small, critical items, so we’ve provided a checklist of the small “extras” you should pack before you head out to the range. In addition to rifle, rests, ammo, targets, and cleaning gear, here are a dozen essentials you should include in your range bag.

Shell-Holder — If you don’t have calipers, you can use a shell-holder to check for excessive case expansion from hot loads. If a fired case doesn’t slip into the shell-holder easily, your load is definitely TOO HOT.

Extra Earplugs — Always use ear protection when shooting. We bring a 35mm film canister with extra sets of foam earplugs.

Hex Wrench or Screwdriver for action screws — Action screws can work loose with time. Always bring the appropriate hex wrench or screwdriver whenever you go to the range.

Small Wrench for Scope Rings — Check the tension of your scope base and ring fasteners before you go. Bring along a small Torx wrench for the ring screws (or other tool that fits your fasteners).

Normal and Under-sized Jags — It is often wise to use one-caliber undersize jags when applying solvent with cotton patches. You should have a couple sizes in your range kit.

Extra Batteries — Bring extra batteries for all your electronic gear — which can include chronograph, windmeter, digital camera, GPS etc.

Small Notebook and Pen or Pencil — Use the notebook to record chron data, log group sizes, and make notes about wind and weather conditions.

Adhesive dots — Bring a few sheets of adhesive dots (sold at office supply stores). Use small white or black dots as target pasters. Use larger red or orange dots as aiming points (target centers).

Folding Chair or Camp Stool — This comes in handy if you’re spotting for another shooter, or if you reload away from the firing line.

Water Bottle — You can’t shoot well if you’re dehydrated. Bring at least two quarts of water with you and keep a bottle at the bench.

Surveyors’ Tape and Wood Stakes — You can make inexpensive wind indicators using surveyors’ tape attached to the top of wood stakes.

Small Plastic Ruler — Use this to measure your group sizes. A transparent (see-through) ruler works best. Rulers are also useful for drawing lines on targets.

This list is not intended to be exclusive. There are many other items you may wish to include. Obviously bring safety glasses, and Sharpie-type pens are always handy to mark targets. We invite our readers to add other “essentials” to the list. The important thing is to plan ahead, packing your key items before you drive to the range.

Permalink Gear Review, Tech Tip 1 Comment »
February 22nd, 2020

Show Off your “Wallet Groups” with Shoot’n Aces Cards

Bell & Carlson stocks shooting card Shoot'n Aces playing target cards

Want to show off some groups you’ve shot? Or keep a handy pack of mini-targets in your range kit? Then check out this unique product from stockmaker Bell & Carlson. Shoot’n Aces cards feature a 1-inch black square aiming box with a 1/2-inch inner square. These cards are normal poker-playing-card size, 3.5″ high x 2.5″ wide (89 × 64 mm). Shoot’n Aces cards come 56 to a pack. Carry a few extras in your wallet or a pack in your vehicle glove compartment and you’ll always have a precision target to shoot at the range. Cards can be stapled or taped to target stands.

Bell & Carlson stocks shooting card Shoot'n Aces playing target cards

Bell & Carlson stocks shooting card Shoot'n Aces playing target cardsSniper Central says these cards work well as targets: “The bold square is easy to pick up with the inner white portion making a nice aiming point. The material of the cards is the same as normal playing cards and the bullets make a very nice hole when passing through.” The sharp edges of the bullet holes makes it easy to measure group sizes with precision.

Each pack of Shoot’n Aces contains 56 premium-quality target cards. If you want some, order Bell & Carlson item SA-2006. This is a set of four (4) card-packs with 56 cards per pack (224 cards total) priced at $20.00 (i.e. $5.00 per pack).

Product Tip from EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
Permalink New Product, Shooting Skills No Comments »
August 7th, 2019

Get Official Competition Targets from the Right Sources

official shooting IBS NBRSA NRA rifle shooting targets paper bullseye benchrest

Need targets — not just any old targets, but the correctly-sized targets for specific shooting disciplines (such as NRA Smallbore, F-Class, and 1K Benchrest)? Well you won’t find them at your neighborhood Wally World store. Precise, dimensionally-correct competition targets are producted by a half-dozen specialty printers. In this article we provide links to the leading target sellers, with a chart showing “who’s got what”. Look for your particular discipline and the vendors will be specified.

Sources for Official Shooting Competition Targets:

ALCO Target Company

American Target Company

Kruger Premium Targets

National Target Company

Pistoleer.com

U.S. Target Company

AccurateShooter.com offers dozens of FREE, printable targets for target practice, load development, and fun shooting. We also offer a few of the most popular NRA Bullseye targets. One or more of these printable targets should work for most training purposes. However, some readers have asked: “Where can we get the real targets… exactly like the ones used in NRA, IBS, and NBRSA shooting matches?”

Official targets NRA IBS NBRSA

All these vendors carry nearly all the NRA High Power and Smallbore targets, including the new, smaller F-Class targets. National Target has the F-Class and High Power targets, including 100-yard reductions of the 200, 300, and 600-yard military targets.

Kruger Targets

Germany’s Kruger Targets sells all the important NRA targets, and international (ISSF) air rifle and smallbore targets too.

NRA Target IBS Hunter Rifle Target

Orrville Printing currently sells IBS targets for rimfire (50 yard) benchrest, short-range centerfire Benchrest (100, 200, 300 yards), Hunter BR Rifle (100, 200, 300 yards), plus the official 600-yard and 1000-yard IBS targets. National Target Company also has most of the IBS targets. NBRSA short-range, 600-yard, and 1000-yard benchrest targets are available directly from the NBRSA Business Office. Call (307) 655-7415 to order for the season.

Available Official Competition Targets
Vendor NRA High Power F-Class NRA Smallbore Air Rifle/Pistol IBS NBRSA Other
ALCO Target
Company
Yes, All No Yes Yes No No Archery, IDPA, IPSC, Police, Realistic, Shoot-N-C, Silhouette, Fun Targets, Pasters.
American Target
Company
Yes, All Yes Yes, All Yes No No USBR, Sight-in, Muzzle-Loading, Police Silhouette
Kruger Premium
Targets
Yes, All Yes Yes, All Yes No No IDPA, IPSC, Animal Shapes, ISSF, Sight-in, Fun Targets
National Target
Company
Yes, Nearly All Yes Yes, All Yes Yes* No IDPA, IPSC, FBI, Police Silhouette, Sight-in, Target Backers, Pasters
Pistoleer.com Yes Yes Yes, most and color training Yes Yes No Bianchi, FBI, IBS, IDPA, IPSC, Silhouette, Archery, Pasters
U.S. Target, Inc. Yes Yes Yes, All Yes No No Bianchi, FBI, Police Silhouette, IPSC, Realistic Silhouette, Varmint

Alco Target silhouette paper cardboard

Need Steel, Cardboard Silhouettes or specialty targets? ALCO Target Company in Duarte, California is the USA’s leading producer of the full spectrum of shooting targets including paper targets, cardboard targets, steel targets, and target stands.

Permalink Bullets, Brass, Ammo, Competition No Comments »
April 12th, 2019

Pizza to Go — Complete with Shooting Targets on the Box

hunt brothers pizza target

hunt brothers pizza targetIn Tennessee, when you order a take-out pizza, you get a cardboard shooting target at no extra charge. Nashville, Tennessee-based Hunt Brothers Pizza has come up with a clever idea to promote pizza consumption among the hunting and shooting fraternity. They’ve put targets on the boxes — what a cool idea.

Hunt Brothers offers cardboard pizza boxes with five red and black bullseyes printed on the back. Now your used empty pizza boxes can do more than just take up space in the trash can. This is a pretty smart idea we think — it’s a great example of clever “dual-use” packaging. Hopefully pizza parlors in other locations nationwide will follow suit someday….

Give credit to The Firearm Blog for finding this story and publishing it first.

Permalink Hunting/Varminting, News 4 Comments »
March 12th, 2019

Download FREE St. Patrick’s Day Targets

Free downloadable pot of gold Ireland St Patricks day shamrock target NRA

St. Patrick’s Day, March 17th, is just five days away. Why not plan a trip to the range with your buddies to celebrate. Here are two free Shamrock-themed targets to add to the fun. Shoot these Shamrocks and see if you have the “luck of the Irish”.

To help celebrate this traditional day of Irish pride, parades, and green beer, the NRA has created two (2) fun targets you can download, print, and shoot. Try out these free targets. Click each Irish target photo below to open a high-rez PDF file you can download and print.

The first target features a large four-leaf clover in the middle, with 17 other smaller three-leaf shamrocks around the outside. With five black bulls-eyes in the center graphic, that gives you a total of 22 aiming points for shooting fun. For added challenge we suggest you set this target at 100 yards for rimfire rifle and 200 years for a centerfire gun.

CLICK Below for Big PDF Shamrock Target

Free downloadable pot of gold Ireland St Patricks day shamrock target NRA

The second target offers the legendary Pot of Gold at the end of the rainbow. Along with a big bullseye on the pot, there are 15 shamrocks in gold circles, plus five small gold bars with tiny bullseyes. Those smallest bulls will be a challenge even at 100 yards. You’ll need a half-MOA (or better) rifle to “clean” this target, hitting the smallest red dots.

CLICK Below for Big PDF Pot of Gold Target

Free downloadable pot of gold Ireland St Patricks day shamrock target NRA

Whether you’re Irish or not, these targets will hopefully bring you a bit of luck. Click each image above to open a high-rez PDF file that you can print out. Then, this St. Patty’s day, wear your green, grab your gear, and head to range for some fun shooting.

Permalink News, Shooting Skills No Comments »