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October 13th, 2013
 Get Official Targets, Target Centers, Pasters, Pit Supplies, and Training Targets
Looking for training targets, competition targets, or fun targets? Well Creedmoor Sports has what you need for NRA smallbore and centerfire competition (including target pasters). Creedmoor has the official targets for most popular NRA disciplines along with the “Target Repair Centers” (Bullseye overlays that save money compared to full-size targets). In stock now are official F-Class targets, High Power rifle targets, smallbore targets, pistol targets, and air rifle targets. Creedmoor also now carries Birchwood Casey Shoot-N-C targets and Hi-Viz Orange Target Spots®. When practicing with scoped rifles, we use the 1″ Target Spots at 200 yards, and the 3″ Target Spots at 600.
October 12th, 2013
 We have good news and bad news for California gun owners and hunters. The good news is that California Governor Jerry Brown vetoed SB 374. The bad news is that Gov. Brown also signed AB 711 which bans the use of lead-containing ammunition for hunting. Gov. Brown surprised many people with his veto of SB 374, a sweeping ban on virtually all semi-automatic centerfire rifles with any kind of detachable magazine. Had it become law, SB 374 would have banned the sale and transfer of hundreds of rifle types, including many classic hunting rifles with 3- or 4-round flush-mount detachable magazines. In addition, SB 374 would have banned historic military rifles such as the M1 Garand, and M1 Carbine, which are prized by collectors and widely used in vintage rifle events and CMP shooting matches.
In his Veto Message, Gov. Brown stated:
I am returning Senate Bill 374 without my signature.
The State of California already has some of the strictest gun laws in the country, including bans on military-style assault rifles and high-capacity ammunition magazines.
While the author’s intent is to strengthen these restrictions, this bill goes much farther by banning any semi-automatic rifle with a detachable magazine. This ban covers low-capacity rifles that are commonly used for hunting, firearms training, and marksmanship practice, as well as some historical and collectible firearms. Moreover, hundreds of thousands of current gun owners would have to register their rifles as assault weapons and would be banned from selling or transferring them in the future.
I don’t believe that this bill’s blanket ban on semi-automatic rifles would reduce criminal activity or enhance public safety enough to warrant this infringement on gun owners’ rights.
Governor Brown Signs Eleven Bills Targeting Gun Owners
In addition to vetoing the expanded “assault weapons” ban, Brown vetoed six other bills relating to firearms: SB299, SB475, SB567, SB755, AB169, and AB180. Again, that sounds good. However, at the same time, Gov. Brown signed eleven other bills that will affect California gun owners:
SB 171 – Patient threats must be reported by psychotherapists to police within one day.
SB 363 – New penalties for storing loading guns where they may be improperly accessed.
SB 683 – Requires long gun owners to obtain safety certificates.
AB 48 – Bans magazine conversion kits increasing capacity.
AB 170 – Disallows organizational permits for “assault weapons”, and .50 BMG.
AB 231 – Criminalizes leaving a gun where child might use it without permission.
AB 500 – Imposes further rules on gun storage; expands DOJ background check times.
AB 558 – FFLs must provide Record of Sale to gun buyers.
AB 539 – Permits disallowed persons to temporarily transfer guns to FFL.
AB 711 – Bans lead ammunition for all hunting activities.
AB 1131 – 5-year gun prohibition for people who have revealed threat to psychiatrist.
Bill Banning Use of Lead-Containing Ammunition for Hunting
AB 711, the lead ammunition ban, will create real problems for California hunters as it is “phased in” over the next few years. There are no lead-free bullets readily available for many cartridge/caliber types. Critics of AB 711 have called this “a ban on hunting disguised as an ammunition ban”.
Summary of Key Provisions of AB 711:
Existing California law requires that nonlead centerfire rifle and pistol ammunition be used when taking big game with a rifle or pistol, as defined by the Department of Fish and Wildlife’s hunting regulations, and when taking coyote, within specified deer hunting zones, but excluding specific counties and areas.
This bill would instead require, as soon as is practicable, but by no later than July 1, 2019, the use of nonlead ammunition for the taking of all wildlife, including game mammals, game birds, nongame birds, and nongame mammals, with any firearm. The bill would require the commission to certify, by regulation, nonlead ammunition for these purposes. The bill would require that these requirements be fully implemented statewide by no later than July 1, 2019.
October 12th, 2013
Harris swivel-model bipods allow you to adjust the cant of your rifle. This is useful if you are shooting on side-sloping ground. But what if you want to traverse from side to side, say to switch from one critter to another during a prairie dog safari? Well normally you would have to pick up the entire rifle and reposition it to the left or to the right. Now you have an option. The Upriser Arms Bipod Swivel Mount allows you to traverse your rifle left to right, without moving the bipod legs.
Video Shows How Traversing Bipod Mount Works, with Locking Plunger Knob:
 This rugged, machined-aluminum bipod mount lets you swing your aim point from side to side without having to reposition the bipod. The rubber-padded Upriser Arms Bipod Mount accepts any bipod that attaches to a forward sling swivel stud. There is also a version that fits on tactical rails.
It is easy to engage or disengage traversing capability via the plunger knob on the front of the unit. When you pull down on the plunger (and twist to lock in “down” position), the rifle can swing smoothly on an internal, precision-bearing pivot. To go back to non-traverse mode, simply center the fore-arm and then twist and release the knob so the plunger pops up, securing the bipod in the “dead-center” position. Note: This unit adds approximately 1¼” to bipod height.
This $69.99 bipod mount comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee when purchased through Brownells or Sinclair Int’l. User feedback has been positive. One purchaser wrote: “I take this [traversing bipod mount] on all my hunts and it has impressed me immensely. The part is built strong and has improved my shooting. It is really smooth, easy to use, and helps me stay on scope when my game is on the move instead of having a shaky swivel or having to move the whole bipod. I have recommended this product to all of my friends[.] — Adam, Missoula, MT
October 12th, 2013
When we first ran this story 18 months ago, it proved immensely popular with our readers. In case you missed it the first time around, check out what can be done with a factory Savage 110 BA at extreme long range — 1760 yards. Shooter Mark Dalzell did a great job with the video, which features multiple camera views so you can see the shooter and the target at the same time. Enjoy!
This video by Mark Dalzell demonstrates the long-range capabilities of the Savage 110 BA chambered in .338 Lapua Magnum. Mark took his “BadAss” rig out to the southwest Nevada desert just north of Jean Dry Lakes. He placed a 2’x3′ target way, way out there — a full mile (1760 yards) away. At that range, flight time to target was 3.75 seconds! Sighting with a Nightforce 5-22x50mm NXS scope, Mark needed a few shots to get on target, but eventually made multiple hits, using 67 MOA of elevation and 2.25 MOA left windage. You can view the hits starting at 1:56 time-mark on the video. (Mark had a second camera set up closer to the target — this displays frame in frame in the video, and if you watch carefully you can see the strikes.) The ammo was HSM 250gr HPBT match with a 3.600″ COAL. The shooting was done at 8:13 in the morning, with clear conditions, very light winds. Temp was 57°, humidity 24.5, Density Altitude 3666. Video soundtrack is La Grange by ZZ Top.
PLAY BUTTON
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LISTEN TO MARK TALK about One Mile Shooting:
CLICK Play Button to hear Mark Dalzell TALK about his .338 LM Savage 110 BA and how he scored hits at 1760 yards. |
Good Shooting Mark. That’s darn good for a factory rifle. You also had the elevation dialed in real close before the firing started! That shows a good knowledge of your ammo’s long-range ballistics. We also noticed how effective that muzzle brake was. Recoil looked about the same as an un-braked .308 Win.
October 11th, 2013
 Need powder but can’t find your favorite Alliant, Hodgdon, or IMR propellant? Then consider using Norma powders. These are available now from Midsouth Shooters Supply. Norma 203B is very, very close to Alliant Reloder 15, and is made by the same manufacturer (Bofors). That makes it a great choice for the 6mmBR and 6mm Dasher. Norma 204 has a burn rate similar to H4350 (though you need to modify the charge weight). Norma MRP has a burn rate similar to Alliant Reloder 22 (a little bit slower than H4831sc on Hodgdon’s Chart). For those of you shooting the 30BR or small cartridges with light bullets, consider Norma 200. It has a burn rate very similar to IMR 4198 and H4198.
Midsouth Shooters Supply currently has large quantities of Norma Powder in stock, in both 1-pound and 8-pound sizes. You’ll find Norma 200, 202, 203B, 204, MRP (8-lb only), and URP (1-lb) only. As we said, if your powder supplies are dwindling, you may want to pick up some of these quality Norma propellants. Midsouth’s prices are very reasonable. Here are Midsouth’s Norma powder inventories as of 2:00 pm ET on October 11, 2013.
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NORMA 200 – 1 POUND
Item: 079-0660
Status: In Stock
Price: $25.84 |
NORMA 200 – 8 POUND
Item: 079-0662
Status: In Stock
Price: $192.34 |
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NORMA 202 – 1 POUND
Item: 079-0668
Status: In Stock
Price: $25.84 |
NORMA 202 – 8 POUND
Item: 079-0670
Status: In Stock
Price: $192.34 |
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NORMA 203B – 1 POUND
Item: 079-0672
Status: In Stock
Price: $25.84 |
NORMA 203B – 8 POUND
Item: 079-0674
Status: In Stock
Price: $192.34 |
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NORMA 204 – 1 POUND
Item: 079-0676
Status: In Stock
Price: $25.84 |
NORMA 204 – 8 POUND
Item: 079-0678
Status: In Stock
Price: $192.34 |
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NORMA MRP – 1 POUND
Item: 079-0680
Status: Out of Stock
Price: $25.84 |
NORMA MRP – 8 POUND
Item: 079-0682
Status: In Stock
Price: $192.34 |
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NORMA URP – 1 POUND
Item: 079-0688
Status: In Stock
Price: $25.84 |
NORMA URP – 8 POUND
Item: 079-0690
Status: Out of Stock
Price: $192.34 |
WARNING: If you do try Norma powders in place of other propellants, do NOT substitute loads without consulting established load manuals. Even though powders many have similar listed burn rates, you should never assume that load recipes will be the same at all. When trying a new powder, check manufacturers’ load data tables, and always start low and work up slowly.
October 11th, 2013
Would you like a handgun safe that opens instantly when you wave your hand over it? Science fiction? No, with modern RFID technology, this is now a reality. The Gun Box, a sleek, metal-boded handgun safe, employs the latest technology to offer instant access with high security. The basic RF Gun Box opens in response to a personalized RFID chip in a wristband or ring. The Biometric Gun Box offers both Fingerprint-scan and RFID (radio) opening. The premier-level Gun Box has both RFID and Biometric access PLUS a built-in, battery-powered GPS transmitter that tracks the unit’s location if the Gun Box is ever “lifted” by a thief. The top-of-the line model’s internal accelerometer even allows the Gun Box to notify the owner if it is moved, tilted, or opened.
Watch the Video to See How the Gun Box Works (this is pretty amazing).
We like it when an inventor comes up with a “better mousetrap”, or in this case, a better handgun safe. Ryan Hyde, the Utah-based inventor of the Gun Box, is seeking “crowd-funding” donations to move his innovative product to the next level (full production). The Gun Box is seeking $100,000 via its Indiegogo Campaign with funding options ranging from $10 to $390. You can pre-order a Gun Box, or just donate some cash in return for a T-shirt or other swag.
A next-generation gun safe, The Gun Box has many unique features:
- RFID and/or fingerprint access (no traditional key or passcode).
- Alert notifications when Gun Box is opened, moved, or tampered.
- Strong, die-cast aluminum alloy shell 0.15 to .20 inches thick
(3-5 times thicker than most).
- Long-life internal batteries (plus AC power).
- Power-Only (no data transfer) USB Ports
- Fully enclosed internal hinges.
- Pry-resistant lap joint.
- Kensington lock port for security cable.
- GPS tracking.
October 10th, 2013
 Need reading material on the cheap? How about sixty-nine (69) YEARS of Gun Digest articles for just $59.99. That’s not a misprint. Gun Digest is now offering a 3-disc DVD set containing sixty-nine years of Gun Digest archives — over 3000 articles in all. This massive Gun Digest digital collection includes all 69 Annual Editions of Gun Digest, complete with gun values, firearm reviews, collecting tips, and buying guides. You get 69 years of gun history in one spot. As one buyer notes: “You could never find these old issues anywhere else and you get the 2012 and 2013 digest in the set as an additional incentive.”
The Gun Digest 3-DVD set includes each Annual Edition of Gun Digest by Year (1944-2013) in PDF Format. This collection includes Test Fire gun reviews, articles on shooting, hunting, gun collecting, gunsmithing, optics and more. Here’s a sample: Elmer Keith’s classic article on the .44 Magnum
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Three Discs VS. Sixteen Feet of Shelf Space
This DVD collection is a treasure trove, as another purchaser of the 3-DVD set explains: “You can occasionally find older editions of this iconic tome, used of course, but nowhere will you get all 69 issues from the start of publication through the 2013 edition in digital form. They are all here… for your reference and enjoyment.” By contrast, 69 years worth of “the print version would require 16 feet or so of shelving.”
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October 10th, 2013
Shooters who reload at the range, during the course of benchrest matches, or during load development sessions, can benefit from having a portable scale to weigh charges. Even if you throw charges, using click values, a scale allows you to double-check the accuracy of your throws. In addition, having a scale handy lets you weigh and sort components during load development.
Many reloaders prefer “old-fashioned” balance beam scales for range use. They are relatively inexpensive and simple to use. With a beam scale, unlike electronic scales, you don’t have to worry about weak batteries or finding AC power. The problem when using any scale at an outdoor range is wind. Wind can cause powder to blow out of the pan and even a light breeze can actually cause a beam scale to perform erratically.
Beat the Breezes with a Wind Box for your Scale
Forum member Boyd Allen has come up with a smart solution for reloaders who use scales outdoors — a windproof scale enclosure, aka “Wind Box”. This is something that can easily be built at home with common tools. Boyd explains: “Many guys have good set-ups for loading at the range, with clamping mounts for powder measure and press. But they lack a good enclosure for a scale. This is vitally important with beam scales because they have a lot of surface area to catch the wind. With much wind at all, the beam can oscillate to the point that is not really very usable. While a low-profile electronic scale may be less wind-sensitive, breezes DO affect weight read-outs on digital scales. And of course you always have the issue of blowing powder particles.”
Boyd Allen has used his Wind Box successfully for many seasons. He explains: “Some time ago, I got this idea, and was fortunate enough to have a friend, Ed Hellam, who liked the idea well enough to build us both one. He did a fine job, but since this was the prototype there was at least one lesson to learn. The original viewing pane was Plexiglass, and I discovered that it would hold enough static charge to throw the scale off 0.1 grains, so another friend, Bob Smith, modified my Wind Box, replacing the Plexiglass with a tempered glass faceplate. Thank you Ed and Bob….
The essence of the idea is to have a scale set up in a box with a clear cover that can be opened and closed. On one side the trickler handle/control emerges through a ‘just big enough’ hole. You raise the cover, add a sub-target-weight thrown charge to the pan, and then close the cover. With the cover secure, the set-up is protected from the wind, and you can now trickle up to your desired charge. It works very well. The scale in the photo is an old Ohaus that I picked up. It is actually more sensitive than my RCBS 10-10 and works fine. You can adapt this Wind Box design to any beam scale, or portable electronic scale. Simply adjust the dimensions to fit your particular scale and trickler.”
October 10th, 2013
Some folks think of laminated stocks as modestly-priced, “low-tech” alternatives for varmint and hunting rifles. In fact, for shooting disciplines that do not demand ultra-light weight, good laminated stocks give up nothing in performance to the most sophisticated composite stocks. And with laminates, it is relatively easy to fine-tune fit and ergonomics to suit the individual shooter. Available in a wide choice of colors, laminated stocks can also be very handsome.
In our Shooters’ Forum, you’ll find a thread showcasing laminated stocks. It’s worth viewing. There are many interesting designs, and a wide variety of rifles ranging from “walking varminters” to long-range prone rifles. CLICK HERE to View Laminated Stock Forum Thread
GRS Laminated Stock from Norway (Imported by Kelbly’s)
FalconPilot’s Shehane Tracker in Sierra Laminate with Clearcoat
20 Practical Varminter (UK Custom posted by PNSE)
Prone Rifle by Carl Bernosky (posted by 1Shot)
F-Class (Special) by Alex Sitman (posted by J. DeKort)
 Veteran’s Team Rifle #2 by Doan Trevor (posted by GermanS1)
October 9th, 2013
 “Shoot Like a Champion”. Bryan Litz, author of Applied Ballistics for Long-Range Shooting, says he often sees notes like this tucked in shooter’s gear (or taped to an ammo box) at matches. What “marksmanship mantras” do you use? Do you have a favorite quote that you keep in mind during competition?
On the Applied Ballistics Facebook Page, Bryan invites other shooters to post the motivating words (and little reminders) they use in competition. Here are some of the best responses:
“Shoot 10s and No One Can Catch You…” — James Crofts
“You Can’t Miss Fast Enough to Win.” — G. Smith
“Forget the last shot. Shoot what you see!” — P. Kelley
“Breathe, relax, you’ve got this, just don’t [mess] up.” — S. Wolf
“It ain’t over ’til the fat lady sings.” — J. McEwen
“Keep calm and shoot V-Bull.” — R. Fortier
“Be still and know that I am God[.]” (PS 46:10) — D.J. Meyer
“Work Hard, Stay Humble.” — J. Snyder
“Shoot with your mind.” — K. Skarphedinsson
“The flags are lying.” — R. Cumbus
“Relax and Breathe.” — T. Fox
“Zero Excuses.” — M. Johnson
“SLOW DOWN!” — T. Shelton
“Aim Small.” — K. Buster
“Don’t Forget the Ammo!” (Taped on Gun Case) — Anonymous
PARTING SHOT: It’s not really a mantra, but Rick Jensen said his favorite quote was by gunsmith Stick Starks: “Them boys drove a long ways to suck”. Rick adds: “I don’t want to be that guy”, i.e. the subject of that remark.
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