|
|
June 9th, 2009
Capitalizing on the strong consumer interest in AR15-style rifles, Remington Arms recently introduced its 597-VTR, a semi-automatic 22LR with AR-style ergonomics. Inside the matte black, slab-sided “upper” is the venerable Remington 597 receiver, updated with a nickel-Teflon® plated bolt, hammer and sear. On the outside, the 597-VTR features a AR-15 pistol grip, and AR collapsible stock, and a round AR-style float tube/handguard. On top of the receiver is a 1913 Picatinny-spec scope rail. Street price for the new rifle is about $450.00, complete with compact 10-round magazine. A standard Remington 597, without the tactical goodies and black paint, costs under $200.00.
Good for 3-Gun Cross-Training and Tactical Rimfire
While we snicker a bit at an older rimfire design tarted up in new tactical clothing, the 597-VTR makes sense for some users. Three-gun competitors should like this rifle. Most multi-gun match shooters use ARs for the rifle stages. With the 597-VTR, they can cross-train using inexpensive 22LR ammo, while maintaining the same basic ergonomics. For 3-gun shooters, who engage targets from a wide variety of shooting positions (often behind barriers), the collapsible stock has utility. It will allow the shooter to make his rifle more compact when practicing CQB or house-clearing stages.
With mods, the 597-VTR should also work well for the tactical rimfire discipline. The Picatinny rail makes it easy to swap over good optics from your centerfire gun. The tubular forearm should provide a strong mount for a bipod. However, for the tactical rimfire game, which is shot mostly prone, we don’t like the collapsible stock at all. Junk it. The LOP is too short, the bottom of the stock is terrible with sandbags, and the cheek weld is wrong. Tactical rimfire shooters would be wise to replace the collapsible stock with an upgraded design with longer length of pull and a proper cheekpiece. (The 597-VTR will accept most AR15 stocks). And, in reality, with a bedding job, a basic 597 in a laminated stock (see below) would probably work just as well.
Share the post "Remington Offers AR-Styled 597 VTR Rimfire"
June 9th, 2009
 You may have already heard this news, but we wanted to repeat it for our readers. Czech ammo-maker Sellier & Bellot was acquired in April by Companhia Brasileira de Cartuchos (CBC) a Brazilian enterprise. CBC produces civilian and military ammunition in calibers up to 30mm, and CBC sells a small line of sporting arms. CBC also owns U.S.-based MagTech Ammunition and Metallwerk Elisenhutte GmbH (MEN) of Germany.
Founded in 1825, Sellier & Bellot has been a world leader in ammo production for over 180 years. It produces a very wide range of cartridge types, including pistol ammo, hunting ammo, and a large selection of both modern and “classic” military cartridges. CBC states that Sellier & Bellot will continue under current management, delivering Sellier & Bellot branded ammo through its current sales channels.
Share the post "Brazilian Ammo-Maker Acquires Sellier & Bellot"
June 9th, 2009
Gary Anderson, Director of Civilian Marksmanship (DCM), has authored an excellent primer on the use of plug gauges to score targets. Anderson reviews the different types and sizes of gauges and explains the sometimes confusing rules for there use. CLICK HERE to read the whole article in the First Shot, the CMP Online Magazine.
 Anderson writes: “A frequently asked question at CMP concerns what are the correct gauges to use for scoring different targets and where can they be obtained. This is not a simple question to answer. There are inward gauges and outward gauges for most 10 meter and 50 foot targets and when each must be used varies from target to target. There are actually three different smallbore or .22 caliber inward gauges. And in High Power rifle matches governed by NRA Rules, the gauge used depends upon the caliber of the rifle being fired at each target. Moreover, ISSF and USA Shooting Rules give legal gauge dimensions in millimeters and NRA Rules use inches, while National Three-Position Air Rifle Council gives both. With so many rulebook variations, it is not difficult to understand why questions about scoring gauges are commonplace.
Scoring Gauge
A scoring gauge is a precision metal instrument with a spindle sized to fit into the shot hole and a flange or “measuring diameter” turned to a precise size that is specified in a competition rulebook. The gauge, which is often called a “plug,” is inserted into a doubtful shot hole. The scorer then examines or “reads” the edge of the flange to determine whether the doubtful shot is “in” (receives the higher value) or “out” (receives the lower value). A magnifying glass is usually used to aid the scorer in accurately reading where the edge of the flange lies. Scoring gauges come with various types of handles that are used to gently hold the gauge while inserting it in a doubtful shot hole. Scoring gauges available in the USA vary in cost from $4.00 to $15.00.
 Inward or Outward Gauges
A first step in sorting out this question requires an understanding of the difference between inward and outward gauges. An inward gauge is read on the inside or side of the gauge that is closest to the target center. An outward gauge is read on the outside or side of the gauge that is away from the target center.
Inward gauges give direct readings— does the inside edge of the flange touch or break the scoring ring in question? Outward gauges give indirect readings — does the outside edge of the flange remain inside the outer edge of a scoring ring that is usually two rings outside of the scoring ring value that is being evaluated? Some short-range targets and all targets used at distances of 25 yards or longer are scored with inward gauges. Outward gauges are used to score certain shots on 5-meter BB gun, 10-meter air rifle and pistol and some 50-foot smallbore rifle targets. Outward gauges typically are used on smaller rifle targets that have miniscule dots for 10-rings and scoring rings that are very close together because reading those gauges to the outside on larger scoring rings is more accurate.”
Official Gauge Specs and Sources
Anderson’s full article goes on to list the specific gauges (with dimensions) used for a variety of disciplines: 5-meter BB gun, 10-meter Air Rifle, 10-Meter Air Pistol, 50-Foot USAS 50 Smallbore Rifle, 50-Foot A-36 Smallbore Rifle, ISSF/USAS .22 Cal. Rifle & Pistol, NRA Smallbore Rifle & Pistol, CMP Rimfire Sporter (and Sporter rifle), CMP Games High Power Rifle, and CMP EIC and NRA Highpower Rifle. Anderson notes that NRA Smallbore Rifle and Pistol targets, as well as CMP Rimfire Sporter targets, must be scored with a .22 NRA Inward Gauge (.2225-.224”) for all rings. Anderson suggests using an Eagle Eye scoring device to detect and score double or multiple shot holes.
CLICK HERE for FULL ARTICLE with GAUGE SOURCES.
Text and photos © 2008 CMP, used with permission.
Share the post "CMP Article Explains Use of Scoring Gauges"
June 8th, 2009
 Remington Arms Company, Inc. through its fully owned subsidiary DA Acquisitions LLC, has entered into a purchase agreement to acquire certain assets of Dakota Arms, LLC including the Dakota, Nesika Bay Precision, Miller Arms, and Dan Walter brands. The transaction closed on June 5, 2009.
This is the latest major acquisition by Remington Arms, which acquired Bushmaster Firearms, Marlin Firearms, and DPMS in 2007. Remington Arms is owned by Cerberus Capital Management, a private holding company. The acquisition of Dakota Arms is another example of the increasing consolidation of the American gun industry. Dakota Arms had suffered from over-ambitious growth plans and its revenues failed to meet investors’ expectations as Dakota never really developed a strong customer-base for its premium hunting rifles. Dakota tried to become the “Lexus/Mercedes” of the rifle market, but the plan didn’t work. Dakota’s rifles were much more expensive than Remington or Browning products, yet lacked the accuracy and craftsmanship of the high-grade, true custom rifles. “Factory rifles at custom rifle prices” was not a good business model.
Established in 1982 and headquartered in Sturgis, South Dakota, Dakota Arms manufacturers custom and semi-custom rifles for the sporting markets. The Dakota brands include Nesika, Miller Arms and Dan Walter. Nesika Bay Precision actions (at one time) were highly respected for their engineering and build quality; Miller Arms is known for the reliability and performance of its single-shot actions and custom rifles. Dakota Arms is based in the Black Hills of South Dakota and currently employs 35 people.
“I am pleased to announce that Dakota Arms is joining Remington and the Freedom Group of companies,” stated Ted Torbeck, CEO of Remington Arms Company, Inc. and Freedom Group Inc. “Dakota Arms is an icon within the industry and its fine products exemplify quality, craftsmanship and attention to detail. Dakota is the perfect compliment to our industry-leading family of brands. We look forward to continue to develop and expand the Dakota brand and thank all its employees for their continued dedication and success of Dakota Arms.”
Share the post "Remington Acquires Dakota Arms (and Nesika Bay)"
June 8th, 2009
The latest CDNN Investments Catalog has been released. As usual there are some great deals on name-brand factory rifles. CDNN typically purchases overstocked inventory at deep discounts off normal wholesale and passes the savings on to CDNN’s customers.
CLICK HERE to download latest CDNN Catalog (.pdf file)
To see all the latest deals you’ll need to download the current CDNN 2009-2 Catalog, a 100-page .pdf (Adobe Acrobat) file. Among the many bargains, below we list three that caught our attention. In addition to firearms, CDNN’s catalog also features magazines, gun cases, optics, and many other accessories.
Share the post "Rifle and Barreled Action Bargains at CDNN"
June 7th, 2009
 For high-schoolers, summer vacation is right around the corner. If you have a junior shooter in the family, here’s a great opportunity. The NRA’s Training Department will conduct Junior Pistol and Smallbore Rifle Camps this summer at Camp Perry, Ohio. The camps are open to intermediate-level pistol or smallbore rifle shooters ages 12 to 18. But get your application in soon — both camps are filling up.
| Pistol Camp | Rifle Camp |
The NRA Junior Pistol Camp will be held July 14-17, 2009. The NRA Junior Smallbore Rifle Camp, which provides instruction in 3-position and 4-position smallbore rifle shooting, will be held July 25-30, 2009. Each camp costs $175.00 for advanced registration (must be received before June 15, 2009) or $200.00 for standard registration (paperwork received after June 15, 2009). Space is limited. First-time campers are eligible for tuition and travel reimbursements up to $500.00 per individual and up to a total of $5000.00 for the entire camp.
Taught by NRA Certified Coaches, both camps provide expert instruction in the fundamentals of shooting while providing a safe, enjoyable learning experience. “These camps are an excellent way for young rifle and pistol shooters to hone their current skills while learning new methods and techniques to improve their competitive shooting abilities,” said Bill Poole, Director of NRA’s Education and Training Division.
Log on to the NRA website for registration paperwork, or call Chris Thacker (703) 267-1481 for more information.
Share the post "NRA Junior Pistol and Smallbore Rifle Camps at Camp Perry"
June 7th, 2009
Most factory “short” bolt actions are designed to fit a .308 Winchester-sized cartridge. Such actions are longer and heavier than they really need to be when used with the smaller varmint cartridges. CZ-USA offers a very compact action that better suits small cartridges. The CZ 527 model has a true micro-length Mauser style action with controlled round feed and 3- or 5-round detachable magazine. Most 527 models sold in the USA feature a crisp, single set trigger. CZ offers various versions of the 527 chambered in .17 Remington, .221 Fireball, .22 Hornet, .222 Remington, .223 Remington, .204 Ruger, and 7.62×39.
Forum member Raidman owns multiple CZ and recommends them: “The CZ 527 American is a great choice in .221 Fireball for a walking varmint gun. They are inexpensive, great shooters and have a superb set trigger that is fully adjustable in both positions. I have 6 in different calibers and all shoot great.”
MORE REVIEWS: 527 Varminter | 527 Varmint Kevlar (good photos, accuracy tests)
Award-winning Rifles Starting at $530.00
For centerfire shooters, CZ’s Model 527 has won more awards in the “light rifle” category in Europe than any other rifle…ever. Shown below are some of the variations of the model 527. The “street prices” of model 527s start at about $530.00 for basic models with synthetic stocks, and approach $800.00 for the desirable Varmint Kevlar model ($955.00 MSRP).
The CZ 527 Varmint (wood) model is chambered in .17 Remington, .223 Rem, or .204 Ruger. It features a 24″ heavy barrel, 5-round magazine, and an American-style Turkish walnut stock.
The CZ 527 Carbine is a great “carry-around” varminter, with back-up iron sights, and a 5-round detachable mag. Offered with a handsome Turkish walnut stock, it is chambered in .223 Rem or 7.62×39. Compact, lightweight, and versatile, this is a great multi-purpose “ranch rifle” for predator control.
Share the post "CZ 527 for Varminters — When Smaller is Better"
June 6th, 2009
Vince Bottomley and his team of writers and photographers have released the June issue of Target Shooter online magazine. This third monthly edition is the most impressive so far. You’ll find a full 118 pages of articles, match reports, gear reviews, and shooting info. There are many interesting feature articles in this June issue, including a great story by Laurie Holland on Savage precision rifles.
There is also Vince Bottomley’s regular column featuring updates on Benchrest events and gear. Vince provided a “spy shot” of the new rear bag from Sebastian Lambang (maker of SEB coaxial rests). In this design the “ears” are integrated into the main bag body. As Vince notes: “Seb has always been an [innovative] thinker.” The rear bag design is “radical” compared to most current designs, but it has an elegant simplicity that we like.
Target Shooter is designed like a conventional magazine, with large, half-page and full-page ads. Believe it or not, we actually like perusing through the ads, because they illustrate many cool products not commonly seen in North America, such as RPA Precision rifles. It’s fascinating to see the high-end products marketed in the UK but not sold on the other side of the Atlantic.
We think the Target Shooter staff is doing a great job with their new magazine and we strongly recommend you log on to www.Targetshooter.co.uk and check it out. You can either browse Target Shooter online in a flip-page format, or download each monthly edition as a .zip archive for later reading.
Share the post "June Issue of Target Shooter Magazine"
June 6th, 2009
 Rise of the Machines? Well the latest Terminator movie, Terminator Salvation, was recently released, but we don’t think we’ll be facing a world dominated by evil robots anytime soon. Nonetheless, programmed automated milling machines are getting smarter and more capable than ever.
Here’s a remarkable video clip demonstrating state-of-the art CNC production of precision gun parts. In the video, created by STAMA America, an HK pistol gun breech is crafted from bar stock through a totally automated drilling/milling procedure. The breech is made by STAMA’s Model MC 726 MT, a unique five-axis, CNC milling/turning center. The five-axis machine is designed for continuous production of complex parts from bar stock and multiple different parts, including weapon components. CLICK HERE to play 5-minute YouTube Video.
The process shown in the 5-minute video actually takes 50 minutes to craft the breech, starting with a 60mm diameter section of 42 CrMo 4 steel. Amazingly, the 5-axis machine employs 25 separate tools in the operation!
STAMA states that its milling/turning machines “can produce even short runs of complex weapon parts in one operation with superior quality, finish and cost efficiencies. Typically, the Model MC 726 MT can result in up to 70% reductions in part processing time[.]”
Share the post "Robotic 5-Axis Milling Machine Crafts Guns"
June 5th, 2009
 Forum member Kent Reeve (Cary, NC) is best known as a High Power and long-range shooter. Kent won the 2006 NRA National Long-Range Championships, edging out John Whidden by two points. However, Kent recently set a new NRA civilian record for smallbore metric prone shooting. Scoring 1,576 out of a possible 1,600 points, Reeve broke the record at the NC Smallbore Metric Prone State Championship held May 9-10 in Creedmoor, North Carolina. Kent used Lapua’s new X-ACT rimfire ammo.
Reeve’s accomplishment attracted the attention of the mainstream media. On June 4, Reeve was profiled by the News & Observer in Raleigh, NC. In that story, Reeve revealed that he shoots rimfire matches “for the training… it’s easier to find a 100-yard range.” Reeve also explained that smallbore shooting helps improve his centerfire marksmanship because the longer barrel time of the 22LR round makes a perfect hold even more important: “The .22 [rimfire] bullet stays in the barrel about three times longer than the .308, so any shot placement error is magnified.” Reeve recently headed to Wisconsin, where he will compete for a spot on the 2011 USA Palma team. Reeve has been a USA Palma Team member in the past, and we wish him luck in the team selection matches.
Share the post "Kent Reeve Sets NRA Metric Smallbore Record"
June 5th, 2009
MidwayUSA recently released its June Promotional Flyer. There we found some super deals just right for Father’s Day (assuming of course your father likes to shoot).
MidwayUSA has knocked twenty bucks off the price of a complete, oil-finished walnut stock set for the M1 Garand. Pick up a Garand rifle from the CMP and dress it up with new Boyd’s furniture.
MidwayUSA has discounted the Tipton Gun vise down to $37.99. Though lightweight and easy to move around, this unit holds guns securely and has handy slots for cleaning implements and solvent bottles. Rubber padding protects your gun’s finish. This is a unit our Editors use on a daily basis.
Lyman makes the best trigger pull gauge you can buy. This provides a repeatable measurement from 12 pounds down to less than one ounce. There is a large, easy-to-read display, that can switch between English and metric units. This is the pull gauge our Editors use for testing.
We really like Midway’s nickel-plated spire point jags. The nickel plating eliminates the possibility of “false readings” from copper solvents. We also like the multi-caliber jag kits. These give you a complete set of jags (from .17 to .45 calibers) in a fitted flip-top plastic box. Right now MidwayUSA is offering a Combo deal for $29.99 (item 112-072). This gives you a dozen (12) nickle-plated jags, plus a collection of premium bronze bore brushes. If your dad has a diverse gun collection (with lots of different calibers), this would be a great gift.
Share the post "Father's Day Bargains at MidwayUSA"
June 4th, 2009
 Our recent story on the Anschütz Model 64-R Biathlon rifle prompted interest in the Olympic sport of biathlon, which combines cross-country skiing with rimfire rifle marksmanship. While most of the top shooters are from Europe, there are many dedicated biathletes in Canada and the USA.
In the video below, Nicki Pacas, a former Canadian National Team biathlete, talks about the “Girls with Guns” biathlon program she leads in Canmore, Alberta, Canada. Nicki’s “Girls with Guns” program has attracted many new female biathletes who enjoy the comradery and the unique challenge of skiing and shooting. Nicki explains: “I enjoy the challenge of biathlon. The best way to describe going from skiing to shooting is, say you just did a 100-meter sprint and a whole bunch of pushups and then you need to try and thread a needle. It’s really, really hard… it’s a total shift in concentration.”
With the help of top Nordic coaches, Nicki has introduced dozens of young women to the sport of biathlon. For many participants this was their first experience shooting rifles. Nicki adds: “It’s so great to see more girls participating in [biathlon]. I think because it’s a girls-only program it’s more appealing…. I think if you give girls the opportunity to have a healthy lifestyle… they’re more likely to make really positive decisions in the future.”
NOTE: You should definitely watch this professionally-produced video. Nicki is a great spokes-person for her sport.
Share the post ""Girls with Guns" Biathlon Program in Alberta, Canada"
|
