Applied Ballistics (AB) has published an update to its Bullet Library, which can be accessed from all AB-enabled devices, including the AB Quantum App. The library updates are based on testing with Doppler radar. The bullet updates are based on averaging of multiple Doppler Radar tests at long range (through transonic). All of the bullets that were recently updated have been tested multiple times from various different barrels and twist rates to find the average performance. These updates to the bullet library are FREE to those who have subscribed to AB Quantum.
The AB team explained that these updates will help provide the most accurate ballistic fire solutions available. Ongoing updates are planned as AB continues testing and compiling results.
“Many of our existing bullets were modeled after just one test, but after a few years of testing out of multiple guns, we have a much better assessment of the bullets’ average performance and those models replace the originals. Rest assured, when we update a bullet model, it does NOT affect an existing gun profile. It’s only new gun profiles that get built — they’ll pull the updated performance. So [there is] no need to worry about your established data changing within an existing gun profile.”
Updates to the Applied Ballistics Bullet Library are normally made whenever:
* AB tests new bullets
* AB Accumulates more test data on existing bullets
* AB runs tests to further ranges than previous tests
Typically, changes to assessed performance are small (under 2%) representing only about 1 or 2 clicks of difference at 1000 yards. But sometimes the shift is more substantial.
Bryan Litz added: “The updates don’t always change performance a lot, some are just small tweaks. Typically you would build a new gun profile from selecting the bullet in the library to get the new performance. But if you’re using BC, you can just transcribe the new one into your existing gun profile.”
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In years past the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit Facebook page regularly released reloading “how-to” articles each week. One “Handloading Hump Day” post covered bore-cleaning, specifically the use of pull-through style bore-snakes. Visit the USAMU Facebook page for other helpful tips.
Barrel Cleaning with Bore-Snakes
Today, we’ll shift from handloading to rifle bore cleaning and maintenance, with information courtesy of the USAMU’s Custom Firearms Shop. We recently had some inquiries about bore cleaning, and this seems a good opportunity to share. After all, even the best handloads won’t yield their full potential in a poorly-cleaned and maintained rifle.
NOTE: Hoppes claims a trademark on the term “BoreSnake” (one word, no hyphen). For this article, the USAMU has used the term in hyphenated form, two words. We believe the USAMU is referring to a Hoppes Brand Boresnake, not a different bore cleaning rope.
BORE-SNAKES: MIRACLE REPLACEMENT FOR THE CLEANING ROD?
The experiences of our both firearms test specialist and this writer have given no evidence that proper use of a clean bore-snake will damage a match barrel. Of course, one does not pull the bore-snake at an angle to the crown when removing it — pull it straight out, parallel to the bore’s direction, to prevent crown wear over time.
Bore-snakes are very useful for some applications (primarily a hasty, interim wipe-down). In [my] experience they cannot replace a thorough cleaning with a proper rod and brushes. While the experiment cited here involves rimfire, it may help illustrate. Several years ago, the writer used his new, personal Anschutz to investigate the bore-snake issue. It had been fired ~350 rds with match ammo and had had 3 typical rod/brush cleanings.
Next, starting with a clean bore, the writer fired 300 more rounds without cleaning in order to build up a “worst-case” fouling condition. Afterwards, the writer examined the bore with a Hawkeye bore scope. There was a uniform, grey film down the entire barrel, with some small, intermittent lead build-up at and just forward of the throat.
Some bore-cleaning rope products feature separate, detachable bronze brush and bore mop segments. This allows more usage options (e.g. mop only), and makes it easier to clean the brush elements:
A new bore-snake was then wet with solvent and pulled through the bore. The Hawkeye revealed that the grey fouling was gone, and much of the visible fouling at the throat was reduced. However, nine more passes with the bore-snake, checking after each with the Hawkeye, revealed no further improvement in cleaning. The writer then cleaned with two wet patches, observed, then one stroke of a new, wet bronze brush, and one wet patch to clean out residue.
The Hawkeye showed a significant reduction in fouling at the throat; it was virtually gone. A second pass with a wet bronze brush and a wet patch removed the remaining fouling. Scrubbing the bore further, checking to see how much fouling was removed, revealed no significant improvement. The reason for this test was to learn what’s needed to get (and keep) this Anschutz clean with minimal cleaning rod use — and thus, minimal risk of bore damage/wear. Leaving fouling in the bore promotes corrosion over time.
Obviously, this applies to a nice, smooth rimfire match barrel, using good, well lubed ammo. It doesn’t apply directly to the use of copper-jacketed bullets, which leave a stubborn fouling all their own. However, it does suggest that while the bore-snake can be helpful and a useful field-expedient, to truly clean a rifle barrel one will still need a good quality rod, bronze brush and solvents. [Editor: Add a good-fitting cleaning rod bore guide.]
SO, WHAT ABOUT BORE SNAKES FOR BARREL BREAK-IN?
The goal of barrel break-in is to fire each shot through a clean barrel, preventing copper buildup and allowing the bullets their best chance at burnishing sharp edges. Thus, it seems this purpose would be best served by one’s usual rods, brushes and rod guides.
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It’s nearly Easter and the 2025 outdoor season is well underway. Do you have a good first-aid kit in your vehicle to deal with possible injuries to family members of all ages? For just $20.00 you can get an excellent kit from Be Smart/TRI, the #1 maker of First Aid Kits in the USA.
TRI’s Be Smart Get Prepared First Aid Kit has 201 items inside a sturdy case with shoulder strap and carry handle. There is also a handy, detachable mini pouch with key essentials for first aid on-the-go. You can easily bring the mini-pouch along on a bike ride or hike.
This multi-purpose First Aid Kit includes:
• 50 – Bandages 3/4 x 3
• 30 – Bandages 3/8 x 1 1/2
• 6 – Bandages Closure
• 3 – Knuckle Bandages
• 1 – Tapes – .5 x 2.5yd Waterproof
• 10 – Cotton Tips – 2.75″”/10 Pack
• 4 – Finger Splints
• 1 – First Aid Guide
• 4 – Gauze Pad – 2 x 2 / 4 ply
• 4 – Gauze Pad – 4 x 4 / 4 ply
• 1 – Gauze Pad – 5 x 9
• 2 – Nitrile Gloves
• 1 – Instant Cold Pack – 5 x 6
To help ensure that outdoor adventures remain safe and trouble-free, the CTD Shooters’ Log has a helpful Essential Summer Survival Guide. This is worth reading before you venture away from civilization.
Here are some highlights of the article with links for MORE INFO:
First Aid Kits for Campers
You should never venture outside without a first aid kit close at hand. While exploring the outdoors, all types of accidents can occur—from cuts, scrapes, and burns to broken limbs and severe allergic reactions.
Basic Survival Skills
Basic survival skills are a necessity if you plan to spend any amount of time outdoors. These five tips, plus a how-to on what to pack in a lightweight, basic survival kit will help if you are ever stuck, lost, stranded or injured in the field.
How to Treat Burns
Fireworks, barbeques and campfires — in the summer we are frequently around fire, which increases our chance of getting burned. A first-degree burn is most likely home treatable, while a third degree burn requires immediate medical attention. Learn how to spot the differences between minor and severe burns.
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Shooting USA TV has a good show today. Shooting USA’s Wednesday Night episode features military rifle competition at Talladega Marksmanship in Alabama. Historic military battle rifles from the past century are competing — Garands, Springfields and a list of other period military battle rifles are on the firing line.
Shooting USA SHOW TIMES: This Shooting USA Episode airs Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at 9:00 PM Eastern and Pacific; 8:00 PM Central. If you miss the regular broadcast, you can stream the show online at any time on Vimeo for $0.99 per episode.
Each spring, the CMP hosts a Spring Classic Event at the Talladega Marksmanship Park. The 2025 CMP Talladega Spring Classic ran Tuesday, March 18 through Sunday, March 23, 2025. The event schedule included both rifle and pistol competition. Events included Garand/Springfield/Vintage/Modern Military, Rifle Marksmanship 101/M16 Match, Pistol Marksmanship 101/M9 Match, CMP Match Pistol 2700, CMP 80 Shot Matches, CMP EIC Service Rifle Match and more.
Competitors used electronic targets for pistol and rifle matches. Each firing point of the 500-acre facility is now equipped with a state-of-the-art, KTS electronic target and scoring monitor. Located beside the shooter, on the firing line, each monitor allows the competitor to see his/her shot value in a matter of seconds. Spectators can view the results in real time on large monitors.
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We think every handgun fan should have a nice .22 LR rimfire pistol in his/her collection. Rimfire pistols have low recoil and the cost per shot is a small fraction of the price of shooting a centerfire pistol (especially a .44 magnum or .45 ACP).
The Taurus TX22 is a nice first rimfire handgun, with very good ergonomics, above-average accuracy, and a very affordable price. Right now the TX-22 with gray frame and 4.1″ barrel is on sale at Palmetto SA for just $236.99 — a real steal. There is also a compact model TX22C with 3.6″ barrel for $249.99.
Here are some verified owner reviews:
“Fantastic ergonomics, great trigger! More than 500 rounds through this pistol without a single jam or failure to feed. Can’t recommend this pistol enough. Buy one!”
“Fantastic 22LR pistol. I have a few different plinkers and this is my favorite one — it’s accurate and reliable as hell straight out the box.”
“This gun is very accurate… a fantastic training gun. Reliability is excellent. I would recommend this handgun to a friend.”
“Total fun shooting. It is reliable and comfortable. The kit comes with a [handy loader] for the magazines.”
“Perfect for teaching the kids, new shooters, and having fun. It cycles all sorts of ammo with no issues.”
“Really great shooting gun. It even ate through the cheap ammo with no problems.”
Taurus TX22 Competition — Optics-Ready
In addition to the basic, budget-priced TX22 pistol, Taurus offers an impressive Comp model set up for optics. The Taurus TX22 Competition model is built on the same full-size polymer receiver as the basic Taurus TX22 but has a newly engineered slide and barrel assembly designed to work with red dot optics.
The Taurus TX 22 Competition features a “skeletonized” slide with a cutout between the ejection port to just behind the front sight. The mounting system allows the use of the following (but not limited to) sight models: Trijicon RMR, C-More STS 2, Vortex Venom, Doctor Noblex, Burris Fast Fire, Sightmark Mini, Holosun HS507C, Leupold Delta Point Pro.
Tips for Pistol Shoppers
When initially shopping for a pistol, it’s wise to try a variety of guns from multiple manufacturers. You’ll want to try polymer vs. metal frame, iron sights vs. optics. And try to test-fire the pistols on the type of targets you’ll be using for competition and/or fun shooting.
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The Hornady Handbook of Cartridge Reloading is now available in App form. Like the print and eBook versions of the Reloading Handbook, the new Hornady Reloading Guide App provides comprehensive reloading information. It covers rifle cartridges from the 17 Hornet to the 50 BMG and handgun cartridges from the 22 Hornet to the 500 S&W. This is a convenient mobile App, that works with both iOS (Apple) and Android devices. There are versions for both smartphones and tablets (iPads and Android). With this App you can access load data at the range, making it easier to do efficient load development at the range.
Hornady Reloading App Features:
Velocity and powder charts
An impressive lineup of powders
Find reliable loads by cartridge and bullet weight
Information on bullet design and shooting application
Very comprehensive load data from .17 Cal up to .50 Cal
Download FREE APP — Apple and Android compatible
The Hornady Reloading App is FREE to download. The App includes more than 200 calibers with a variety of loads featuring Hornady bullets, such as the A-Tip Match, ELD-X, and ELD® Match line.
Subscription Options
The iOS and Android download pages explain that fees may be required for detailed information: “Derived from extensive testing by Hornady Manufacturing Company, this App includes reloading data for over 200 cartridges and 300 bullets. [Hornady reports] only data that proved safe in our research. Users have the ability to purchase data for individual cartridges, purchase the whole current edition of the handbook, or subscribe and receive the entire handbook plus more. Subscription provides access to all handbook data on your mobile device and real updates for all new data without waiting for the new handbook publication to be produced.”
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CBS News reports: “Gov. Jared Polis on [4/10/25] signed into law what may be the toughest gun control regulations in state history. Under the new law, it is [now] illegal to buy, sell, and make most semi-automatic firearms [rifle, shotguns, and pistols] without background checks and training.”
The law imposes tough new requirements: “Individuals would need to pass a background check and receive an eligibility card from their county sheriff, who could deny it if he or she believed the person was a danger. Those eligible for training would need to pass a 12-hour safety course certified by Colorado Parks and Wildlife unless they have completed hunters’ training, and then it would be 4 hours. Their names would then go into a state database[.]” (CBS News)
The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) condemns the signing of SB 25-003 into law by Colorado Gov. Jared Polis. Under Colorado’s SB 25-003, sales of semiautomatic firearms capable of accepting a detachable magazine are banned unless those purchasing the firearms are vetted by a local sheriff and complete a firearm certification course. Sheriff approval to apply for a permit-to-purchase is based on subjective criteria. This type of regulation was expressly rejected by the U.S. Supreme Court in the 2022 Bruen decision that struck down New York’s unconstitutional concealed-carry permitting law.
“This law is unconstitutional on its face. It is a gun control group-spurred attack on the Second Amendment rights of those who follow the law”, said Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF’s Senior V.P. and General Counsel. Colorado’s SB 25-003 makes Second Amendment rights in Colorado only permissible with a state-approved permission slip. Along with banning ARs and other semi-auto rifles, SB 25-003 also bans the sale of semiautomatic shotguns and pistols that can accept detachable magazines, unless lawful purchasers obtain similar approval from county sheriffs and obtain a permit-to-purchase.
County sheriffs can deny an application if they have a “reasonable belief that documented previous behavior by the application makes it likely the applicant will present a danger to themself or others.” Sheriffs could also revoke purchasing permissions under the same standard. The criteria for the required training course is yet to be established.
Notably, SB 25-003 is unnecessarily burdensome, because Colorado gun buyers must already be checked and approved for a purchase through the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).
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Coating bullets with a friction-reducing compound such as Molybdenum Disulfide (Moly) offers potential benefits, including reduced barrel heat, and being able to shoot longer strings of fire between bore cleanings. One of the effects of reduced friction can be the lessening of internal barrel pressures. This, in turn, means that coated bullets MAY run slower than naked bullets (with charges held equal).
To restore velocities, shooters running coated bullets are inclined to “bump up” the load — but you need to be cautious.
Be Careful When Increasing Loads for Coated Bullets
We caution shooters that when your start out with coated bullets in a “fresh barrel” you should NOT immediately raise the charge weight. It may take a couple dozen coated rounds before the anti-friction coating is distributed through the bore, and you really start to see the reduced pressures. Some guys will automatically add a grain or so to recommended “naked” bullet charge weights when they shoot coated bullets. That’s a risky undertaking.
We recommend that you use “naked” bullet loads for the first dozen coated rounds through a new barrel. Use a chronograph and monitor velocities. It may take up to 30 rounds before you see a reduction in velocity of 30-50 fps that indicates that your anti-friction coating is fully effective.
We have a friend who was recently testing moly-coated 6mm bullets in a 6-6.5×47. Moly had not been used in the barrel before. Our friend had added a grain to his “naked” bullet load, thinking that would compensate for the predicted lower pressures. What he found instead was that his loads were WAY too hot initially. It took 30+ moly-coated rounds through the bore before he saw his velocities drop — a sign that the pressure had lowered due to the moly. For the rounds fired before that point his pressures were too high, and he ended up tossing some expensive Lapua brass into the trash because the primer pockets had expanded excessively.
LESSON: Start low, even with coated bullets. Don’t increase your charge weights (over naked bullet loads) until you have clear evidence of lower pressure and reduced velocity.
Procedure After Barrel Cleaning
If you shoot Moly, and clean the barrel aggressively after a match, you may want to shoot a dozen coated “foulers” before starting your record string. Robert Whitley, who has used Moly in some of his rifles, tells us he liked to have 10-15 coated rounds through the bore before commencing record fire. In a “squeaky-clean” bore, you won’t get the full “benefits” of moly immediately.
To learn more about the properties of dry lubricants for bullets, read our Guide to Coating Bullets. This covers the three most popular bullet coatings: Molybdenum Disulfide (Moly), Tungsten Disulfide (WS2 or ‘Danzac’), and Hexagonal Boron Nitride (HBN). The article discusses the pros and cons of the different bullet coatings and offers step-by-step, illustrated instructions on how to coat your bullets using a tumbler.
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Pistol shooting is fun — that’s reason enough to head to an indoor range. In addition, all CCW permit holders should definitely practice regularly. For many people, indoor shooting can be done in the evening, after work, relatively close to home. Indoor ranges are most convenient for those who live near urban centers, where the biggest threats to public safety currently exist. This article talks about indoor firearms training and the proper procedures you should follow at indoor ranges.
This Video Covers Basic Gun Range Safety Rules and Etiquette
FIVE IMPORTANT SAFETY PROCEDURES for Indoor Ranges
1. Follow the Three Fundamental Rules for Safe Gun Handling
ALWAYS keep the gun pointed in a safe direction. ALWAYS keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot. ALWAYS keep the gun unloaded until ready to use.
2. Follow ALL Range Officer Instructions
ROs are the first and final authority on any range and their decisions are generally final. Arguing with a Range Officer may just get you thrown out.
3. Don’t Bother Others or Touch Their Guns
Respect other shooters’ privacy unless a safety issue arises. Do NOT engage other shooters to correct a perceived safety violation unless absolutely necessary – inform the RO instead. NEVER handle or touch another shooter’s firearm without their permission!
4. Know Your Range’s Rules
Review and understand any and all range rules and requirements/expectations. For example, what is the range’s maximum rate of fire? Are you allowed to collect your brass?
5. Know What To Do During a Cease Fire
IMMEDIATELY set down your firearm, pointed downrange, and STEP AWAY from the shooting booth (or bench). Range Officers do not want shooters trying to “secure/unload” their firearms in a cease fire situation — they want the shooters separated from their guns instantly.
BAD RANGE BEHAVIOR — Five Things NOT to Do at the Range
Here are the five worst behaviors we’ve seen at indoor ranges. These behaviors are both dangerous and inconsiderate. Any one of these behaviors can get you permanently banned from an indoor range.
1. Sweeping other individuals after loading a weapon behind the firing line is very bad. All your weapons should be empty until you reach your shooting station.
2. Turning the handgun sideways while trying to clear a malfunction or insert/remove a magazine. This will point the muzzle at a fellow shooter. Or, after shooting a gun, the shooter fails to clear the weapon and then places the gun somewhere near the shooting station with the muzzle in an unsafe position.
3. Reacting unpredictably when firing a high recoil handgun. We’ve seen people take a second shot by accident with the muzzle way off target.
4. Not obeying range commands — in particular continuing to shoot during called cease-fires.
5. Poorly aimed shooting that hits target frames or carriers, causing ricochets.
Double-Up on Hearing Protection When Shooting Indoors
When shooting indoors we recommend quality muffs with earplugs underneath, offering double protection. When inside an enclosed range, with other shooters blasting away right next to you, you really need effective hearing protection. But you also need to hear range commands and be able to communicate. That’s why we recommend electronic muffs with plugs underneath.
For indoor pistol shooting, we like the Howard Leight Impact Pro Muffs. These offer an impressive 30 dB Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). In addition, the electronic functionality allows you to hear all range commands clearly. These muffs are a good value. These are available for $76.99 at Palmetto SA. Howard Leight also makes good protective safety eyewear with ANSI Z87.1-2010 (High Impact) rating. These milspec, wrap-around Genesis safety glasses can be purchased for $16.63 on Amazon (#ad).
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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’s — Crimson Trace Scope Sale with Free Fix It Sticks kit
⏺️ » Good quality optics with bonus tools
Crimson Trace makes quality scopes and red dot optics. Right now you can get a Fix-It-Sticks Multi-Kit for free when you order a Crimson Trace optic from Grafs.com. Choose a Crimson Trace Brushline scope or Crimson Trace Red Dot Reflex sight and get a Fix-It-Sticks kit worth $49.00 for free.
⏺️ » Sophisticated wrist-mounted GPS with ballistics display
If you shoot long range or at multiple distances, you’ll want quick access to a modern ballistics software. And when your in the backcountry, it’s great to have a GPS. This compact, wearable unit boasts a modern GPS system PLUS Applied Ballistics software. The Garmin Foretrex-901 Ballistic Edition GPS navigator features an easy-to-read monochromatic display, multi-band GNSS, and advanced navigation sensors. This wrist-carried device also provides ballistics solutions with integtrated Applied Ballistics software.
3. Amazon — Real Avid Collapsible Rifle Support Stand, $44.99
⏺️ » Handy compact support for rifle maintenance and parts installation
Here’s a handy rifle stand/gun vise that folds up for easy transport. The Real Avid Speed Stand features front and rear padded supports for your rifle with base tubes that adjust from 10″ to 16″. This Speed Stand folds down flat into a compact format for easy transport and storage. Its portability (and modest cost) make the Speed Stand a good alternative to a large, heavy gun vise.
⏺️ » Good budget Laser Rangefinder for hunting and PRS/NRL matches
Hunters and tactical shooters definitely should have a durable laser rangefinder. Right now you can get the Vortex Crossfire HD 1400 Laser Rangefinder LRF-CF1400 at significant savings — just $199.00 ($91 off the regular price). This compact LRF has a max range of 1400 yards and is easy to use. The LRF-CR1400 rangefinder has HD optics with good resolution/sharpness, good light transmission, and minimal chromatic aberration. NOTE: If you are need to range small objects at 800 yards and beyond, you may want a more advanced rangefinder, but this is a good choice for PRS/NRL and most hunting duties.
⏺️ » Major savings on good NRR26 electronic ear muffs
Looking for a new set of electronic muffs that won’t break the bank? Consider the Walker’s Ultimate Alpha Quad 360 Muff now on sale for just $39.99. These muffs boast independent volume controls for each ear and four hi-gain omnidirectional microphones. These Alpha Quad 360 muffs have a good 26dB NRR (noise reduction rating) — better than most electronic muffs. Owners report these muffs work well and are comfortable. This is a great deal — these same muffs sell elsewhere for $79.99, double what you’ll pay now at MidwayUSA.
6. Amazon — Caldwell Flash Bang Hit Indicator, $27.99
⏺️ » Rugged, reliable system works great to show hits
Shooting steel can be frustrating if you can’t see or hear your hits. Solve that problem with the Caldwell Flash Bang hit indicator system which attaches to the side of a target. When a bullet hits the steel, bright green LED lights flash instantly. This instantly confirm impacts even at extremely long ranges (way beyond 1000 yards). The Flash Bang Hit Indicators features 10 ultra-bright green LED lights that are visible even in bright daylight. This unit has a claimed battery life of 30,000 impacts.
7. Amazon — Gamo Varmint Air Rifle, $109.99
⏺️ » Really inexpensive starter air rifle
Air guns have low noise and minimal recoil, so they are fun for initial training and short-range plinking. In addition, air rifles can be purchased without an FFL in most jurisdictions. One very inexpensive option is the Gamo Varmint Air Rifle, now on sale for just $109.99. This air rifle shoots a .177 PBA Platinum alloy pellet at 1250 fps, making is suitable for plinking and pest control. This air rifle even ships with a 4x32mm scope included in the $109.99 price.
8. Amazon — Car Battery Jump Starter, $69.99 with 30% Off
⏺️ » Portable Car Battery Jump Starter — Check 30% Off box
When you head out to the range or the backcountry stay prepared with the NEBO 1500A Portable Car Battery Jump Starter. With 1500 peak amps, the NEBO 1500A can help jump-start your 12-volt car, truck, or SUV battery. In addition, this unit has USB ports so it can also charge cellphones and tablets. This even boasts a flashlight for night work. NOTE: This is priced at $99.99 currently on Amazon. But if you click the special coupon box you’ll get an additional 30% off, lowering the net cost to $69.99 before tax. Shipping is currently FREE.
9. Amazon — Front and Rear Sandbags Set, $8.99
⏺️ » Very inexpensive bags for varminters or hunting rifle sight-in
This bargain-priced set of polyester Front and Rear Sandbags includes two python-patterned, unfilled camouflage shooting rest bags. The front bag is 8×7×4 inches, while the rear bag is 5×4×5 inches. These can work for varminters and the bags can support a hunting rifle during the sighting-in process. The same 2-bag set is also available in Black for $8.99 and Army Green for $8.79. NOTE: These bags ship UNFILLED, so you have to fill them with sand or bean bag filler.
As an Amazon affiliate, this site can earn revenues through sales commissions.
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Do you know how gun primers are made — how the explosive elements are applied into those tiny cups? Find out by watching this video filmed at a Federal ammunition factory. It starts out with empty primer cups loaded, 1000 at a time, into trays using vibration (0:05 time-mark). While much of the process is automated, there is still a significant role played by production workers who apply a green, paste-like charging compound to the inside of hundreds of primer cups.
At the 0:17-second time-mark you can see the factory worker “charging” the primers with the priming compound. After the cups are filled, then the plate of cups “mates up with a plate of anvils” (0:40 time-mark). Then the primers are unloaded from trays and inspected.
Primer “Mysteries and Misconceptions” Article
There is an excellent article about primers on the Shooting Times website. This authoritative Shooting Times article explains the fine points of primer design and construction. The author reveals some little-known facts about primers and corrects common misconceptions. Here are some highlights:
Size Matters
Useful Trivia — even though Small Rifle and Small Pistol primer pockets share the same depth specification, Large Rifle and Large Pistol primers do not. The standard pocket for a Large Pistol primer is somewhat shallower than its Large Rifle counterpart, specifically, 0.008 to 0.009 inch less.
Magnum Primers
There are two ways to make a Magnum primer — either use more of the standard chemical mix to provide a longer-burning flame or change the mix to one with more aggressive burn characteristics. Prior to 1989, CCI used the first option in Magnum Rifle primers. After that, we switched to a mix optimized for spherical propellants that produced a 24% increase in flame temperature and a 16% boost in gas volume.
Foiled Again
Most component primers have a little disk of paper between the anvil and the priming mix. It is called “foil paper” not because it’s made of foil but because it replaces the true metal foil used to seal early percussion caps. The reason this little disk exists is strictly a manufacturing convenience. Wet primer pellets are smaller than the inside diameter of the cup when inserted and must be compacted to achieve their proper diameter and height. Without the foil paper, the wet mix would stick to the compaction pins and jam up the assembly process.
If you are looking to compete in NRL22 or PRS rimfire tactical matches, there is a new, turnkey solution that combines the legendary Anschutz 54 rimfire action with the excellent MDT ACC chassis. Called the Anschutz Model 1710, this new competition-ready rifle is capable of winning matches right out of the box. Creedmoor Sports recently received the first set of model 1710s in the USA. At our request, Creedmoor’s Brent Books and Wayne Dayberry field-tested a new model 1710. After confirming the elevation click values for various yardages, Brent put the Anschutz through its paces, showing its superb accuracy. FYI, this 1710 came with an impressive factory test target — 10 shots at 50 meters, all in a dime-sized circle.
Shooting at the CMP Talladega Marksmanship range, Brent ran a sequence of shots, hitting steel at 100, 150, 200, 250 and 300 yards without a miss. You can see this 5-shot sequence, all in one continuous take (no edits), in the video below. As Brent observed, “it definitely shoots”. Then, later, Brent cranked in more elevation (21.1 MILs) and hit steel at 435 yards. Watch this all in the video — it’s impressive!
Anschutz 1710 at Talladega, Drilling Steel from 100 to 435 Yards
Watch Hits at 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, and 435 Yards
With RWS 100 .22 LR ammo, Brent drills hit after hit with no misses out to 300 yards.
“This video shows a run after we confirmed our dope. Brent Books and I are shooting an NRL22 match in two weeks. Although he has extensive smallbore and airgun experience, this will be his first match of this type. I thought it would be a good/fun exercise for him to run the plates fairly quickly and also showcase the performance of this rifle system at the same time on the video.” — Wayne Dayberry
Anschutz Model 1710 — Great Accuracy Right from the Start
Report by Wayne Dayberry
The Anschutz 1710 MDT ACC rifle system is purpose-built for smallbore tactical precision rifle competition. With its capabilities we went from from bore-sight to 300 yards in just 12 shots. We started with a factory-fresh .22 LR Anschutz 1710 in an MDT ACC Ghost Gray chassis. This rifle incorporates a 20-inch heavy profile threaded stainless barrel and the 5119 two-stage trigger. After a clean, lube, and inspection, we mounted up an Element 5-25x56mm First Focal Plane optic we already had in a set of rings and headed out to the CMP Talladega Marksmanship Park. In addition to traditional target ranges, the CMP range has an unknown distance steel range with targets out to 600 yards. Due to a compressed schedule, we did not have time to follow the traditional zeroing and velocity-gathering processes, so we headed straight to the unknown distance steel range. This range has steel from 75 yards to 600 yards much like you would see in PRS and NRL type competitions.
Given the compressed timeframe, we didn’t follow the traditional steps one would normally take to do a break-in process, zero, collect data, and build out rifle dope. We were essentially doing all of that on a steel target range as we were putting the first rounds down the barrel while shooting this piece. At the same time, with a quality rifle system, and following a process, it worked out well as we were able to stretch out the capability of this rifle to 435 yards very quickly.
Anschutz 1710 Components and Specifications:
The new Anschutz model 1710 is built with premium components top to bottom. It features an Anschutz Match 54 repeater action with blued receiver, Anschutz 5119 two-stage trigger, 20″ stainless steel barrel, and MDT ACC alloy chassis with built-in rails. The chassis is adjustable for LOP and cheek height.
Receiver: Scope mount attachment with 11mm rail and drilled and tapped
Barrel Length: 20″ stainless steel heavy barrel, no iron sights
Chamber: Optimized Match Chamber
Crown: Recessed Target Crown
Muzzle Diameter: 0.90″
Trigger: New 5119 Two-Stage Trigger
Trigger Weight Range: 4 oz. to 7.5 oz. (110 to 215g)
Trigger Weight: Adjusted to 6.35 oz. (180g)
Magazine Capacity: 10
Magazine Release: Extended
Rifle Weight without scope: 10 lbs., 10 oz.
This photo shows the Anschutz 1710 fitted with bipod and suppressor. The tripod clamps via the integral forearm ARCA rail.
Testing the Anschutz 1710 on Steel — Expedited Procedure
The closest steel on the Talladega range that day was 75 yards so we started from scratch at that distance. Brent was on the rifle, so I spotted and ran ballistics. After bore-sighting at 75 yards, and confirming zero on steel with a few rounds, we went to the ballistic solver to start a profile. For the RWS R100 ammunition we were running, I entered a G1 BC of .14 and a guess at the muzzle velocity of 1080 FPS. The call of 1.1 MILs for the 100-yard steel resulted in Brent’s shot landing .2 MILs high of center on the first round; we “confirmed” 0.9 MILs. We noted the impact and moved on to 150 yards.
As I mentioned we were very short on time so the “confirmations” of our dope for our first pass were with a single shot and measuring in the reticle. That’s obviously not the normal process, but for us, it was good enough for this exercise, given the time we had. We were shooting on freshly-painted targets and getting excellent feedback to see POA / POI deviations and could easily measure this in the reticle, which helped. And we were shooting a top-of-the-line Anschutz which came with a confirmation test target showing a 10-shot group at 50 meters with all shots touching and within a circle the size of a dime. With a former NCAA All-American smallbore shooter running the gun, and this test target in hand, confidence was high.
Moving to the 150-yard target, a call of 3.7 MILs hit 0.6 high on our first round so we measured and confirmed 3.1. We trued the muzzle velocity in the solver as we went. At 200 yards I called 6.0 MILs and the first round hit was .3 high. We measured and confirmed 5.7 MILs. 9.0 mils was the call at 250 yards and we hit just a bit high. After measuring, we confirmed 8.6 MILs. At 300 yards, Brent was holding about 1 mil wind as a storm started rolling in. I called 12.5 MILs elevation and the first round impact was near the top of the plate, and after measuring we confirmed a come up of 11.7 MILs.
The net result was this — we went from mounting the optic and bore-sighting, to making solid first-round impacts from 100 yards out to 300 yards, at each 50-yard increment, in just 12 rounds! That’s efficiency!
Stretching it out to 435 Yards on Steel
Later, we went on to make solid hits at 350 yards and 435 yards. I got on the gun and put two on top of each other at 350 yards — pretty cool. This just proved this gun is an absolute hammer. The 435-yard target was a bear target, which was quite a bit larger than the 12″ steel we were shooting in the video. Not a small target by any means, but we were shooting 435 yards with a rimfire rifle as a storm rolled in. I think between us, Brent and I hit 5 of 6 (at 435 yards) which was pretty good given the sporty conditions. Next stop… the 600-yard plates at the end of this range. That’s a come-up of about 36 Mils.
Rimfire Maintenance — Tips from a Top Competitor
An NCAA All-American smallbore shooter, Brent Books knows a thing or two about rimfire rifles, and how to maintain optimal accuracy. Brent told us: “I shot on the rifle team at Jacksonville State University so 500 rounds a week was common through my Anschutz 2013. I’d clean my rifle at the end of each week before we travelled to a competition with a wet patch through the barrel, a few passes of the nylon brush (unscrewing the brush before pulling it back through), one more wet patch, and then dry patches until they came out clean. A bore guide was always used to protect my action from debris and to align the cleaning rod. After cleaning the barrel, I’d completely disassemble the bolt to clean and lube it, making sure the bolt would glide effortlessly in the action. After cleaning, I’d shoot a minimum of 50 rounds to foul the barrel with ammo I was using to compete.”
Anschutz Model 54 Action with 5119 Trigger
The Anschutz 1710 features the competition-proven Model 54 action, running a 10-round magazine. In the 1710, the safety-equipped action is fitted with an outstanding 5119 two-stage trigger that adjusts from 4 to 7.5 ounces. First released in 1954, Anschutz Match 54 action still represents a benchmark for smallbore rifles. Match rifles fitted with Model 54 actions have captured numerous World Championships and Olympic medals. These actions are smooth, consistent, and ultra-reliable, making them a great choice for multiple smallbore rifle disciplines. Anschutz boasts that this action has: “solid, extremely reliable construction [with] a functional safety that does not fail even under the most adverse conditions.”
MDT Adjustable Core Competition (ACC) Chassis
What’s so cool about the MDT ACC Chassis? MDT’s ACC chassis is optimized for NRL and PRS shooting formats, although it can be used in other disciplines. The ACC chassis design has been optimized with input from top PRS and NRL shooters. Key features include: full 17″ ARCA/RRS fore-end, flared magazine well, extended barricade stop, widened thumb shelf, adjustable cheek riser, adjustable length-of-pull, and adjustable MDT Vertical Grip Elite. This chassis is available for popular centerfire actions as well as some rimfire actions.
The ACC boasts an integrated weight management system, allowing shooters to fine tune chassis weight and balance. Weights can be added to the buttstock, the fore-end interior or fore-end exterior. This allows the shooter to increase the chassis-only weight from 4.5 lbs up to 12.3 lbs. Complete with barreled action, scope, rings, bipod, and accessories, shooters can run 20+ lbs for the full rig.
The weight can be tuned without taking the barreled action out of the chassis. Internal fore-end weights can be inserted from the front of the fore-end and screwed in place, while external M-LOK-compatible weights can be easily attached on either side of the fore-end. This ACC weight-management system allows shooters to rapidly adjust the feel and recoil characteristics of their system.
New Budget-Priced MDT LSS Gen2 Chassis for Anschutz and Other Actions
MDT also has a newer, much more affordable LSS Gen2 Chassis for Anschutz actions (and many other rimfire and centerfire actions including CZ, Howa, Savage, Remington, Ruger Tikka, and more). This MDT LSS Gen2 Chassis retails for just $429.95, and has hundreds of 5-star owner reviews.
On his Bryan Litz Ballistics Facebook page, Applied Ballistics head honcho Bryan Litz noted:
Bore-snakes are very useful for some applications (primarily a hasty, interim wipe-down). In [my] experience they cannot replace a thorough cleaning with a proper rod and brushes. While the experiment cited here involves rimfire, it may help illustrate. Several years ago, the writer used his new, personal Anschutz to investigate the bore-snake issue. It had been fired ~350 rds with match ammo and had had 3 typical rod/brush cleanings. 
Velocity and powder charts
