At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every 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. Bullets.com — Norma Tac-22 Rimfire Ammo, $2.50 per Box
This Norma .22 ammo is good stuff — no doubt about that. This Editor bought 1500 rounds of Tac-22 when it was on sale for $3.50/box, and now it is even cheaper. In all honesty, we don’t think you can find better rimfire ammo at anywhere near this $2.50 per 50ct box price. This is basically liquidation pricing, because Bullets.com is closing its doors for good at the end of September. This ammo is good for pistol plinking, and rifle fun shooting and rimfire cross training. NOTE: Many other products are still available at Bullets.com at crazy-low liquidation prices.
2. Natchez — Big Savings on Nikon Optics (Scopes, LRFs, Binocs)
Need a scope or LRF for hunting season? Here’s a chance to save hundreds on a quality Nikon optic. Natchez Shooters Supply is offering exclusive deals on both new and refurbished Nikon riflescopes, rangefinders, and binoculars including camo finish hunting scopes for hunters. There are some truly excellent bargains, plus you can get $5 Flat Rate Shipping with Code 180910 (through 9/12/18). Here are some of the best deals on Nikon scopes at Natchez right now:
3. ARMorALLY.com — Nosler RDF Bullets, $24-$29 per 100
Nosler’s line of RDF (Reduced Drag Factor) bullets have high BCs for their weight. Precision shooters are reporting outstanding accuracy. Given their high performance and consistency, RDF bullets represent a superior value. At ARMorAlly you can get Nosler RDFs for under $29 per 100 for popular 6mm and 6.5 mm sizes. That’s up to $25 less per box than some other premium brands. And the .22-Caliber RDFs are even cheaper. ARMorAlly also has great pricing on Nosler Ballistic Tip, Custom Competition, Accubond, ABLR, and Lead Free bullets. All Nosler Bullets HERE.
4. Precision Reloading — All Lee Products on Sale
Now through September 14, 2018, Precision Reloading has discounted all Lee Precision Products in stock. Lee has a reputation as a budget brand, but many of Lee’s products really stand on their own merits. For example the Lee Collet dies are popular with many hand-loaders because they produce very straight ammo with consistent neck tension. And this Editor uses a Lee Decapping Die and Lee pistol dies. Here are some of the recommend Lee products on sale now:
If you need large quantities of pistol or rifle ammo, it makes sense to get a progressive press. This auto-indexing, 5-station press will give you one loaded round for every complete cycle of the loading handle. We’ve used this Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Progressive press and can confirm that it works well. We actually prefer the rotary powder measure to the sliding powder system on Dillon progressives. We find it much easier to change load weights with the Hornady system (which uses inserts), and it is more precise with certain types of powder. Right now you can save $113.00 with the $378.99 sale. Plus press purchasers qualify for 500 free bullets through the Hornady Rebate Program.
6. CDNN — Colt Competition AR15 Kit, $499.99
The Colt Kit does NOT include barrel, bolt carrier group, charging handle, or magazine.
This affordable Colt AR15 Kit includes upper, complete lower, handguard, and Magpul stock. To this, add your choice of barrel and optic. We like this option because the barrel is so important to accuracy and overall performance. This Colt package costs $499.99. Add a match-grade, finish-chambered barrel from Criterion or Krieger, plus bolt carrier group, and you’re in business. The Magpul PRS stock features a quick-adjustable cheek-piece and butt-plate — allowing you to easily adapt head position and LOP for your discipline of the day. The straight-toe PRS stock works great in a rear bag. This is a good platform for a PRS Gas Gun Division rifle.
7. Smith & Wesson SD9VE 9mm, $239.99 with Code M8Y
The two-tone Smith & Wesson SD9VE 9mm pistol features contrasting stainless-steel slide and barrel. Weighing just 22.7 oz, this DAO pistol ships with two 16-round magazines, offering plenty of fire-power. Overall length is 7.2″ with a 4″-long barrel. Both front and rear sights are drift-adjustable. This is a nice medium-sized pistol that shoots well. The Smith & Wesson SD9VE is on sale now at Brownells for just $249.99 (plus $10 FFL fee). SAVE MORE: During check-out at Brownells.com, you can use code “M8Y” to receive $20 Off and get FREE delivery. That lowers your net cost to just $239.99 shipped to your FFL.
8. Midsouth — New Lyman Reloading Presses on Sale
Midsouth Shooters Supply is running a big sale right on Lyman’s impressive new Brass Smith line of reloading presses. There are three models, each offering great performance and value for its class. You can save quite a bit of cash with this Midsouth Lyman Press sale. If you haven’t tried orange yet, we think you’ll be impressed. The little C-Frame is a steal at $69.99. And the new 8-station Lyman Turret press ($192.99 on sale) is very impressive — with more stations than the competition, a handier priming system, and extra strength.
9. Amazon — Jialitte Scope Bubble Level, $11.99
If you shoot long range, you need a scope level. This nicely designed Jialitte Scope Bubble Level is fully CNC-machined to close tolerances for a good fit. It features a 30mm milled inside diameter, plus an inner insert ring so it will also fit 1″-diameter main tubes — that dual-diameter versatility is a nice feature. We also like the way the unit is nicely radiused, and has a low profile in the middle. User reviews have been very positive. You could easily pay $35.00 or more for a 30mm scope level. Purchasers have praised this product — almost all verified buyers have rated this five stars.
10. Amazon — Two Rolls of 3″ Neon Target Stickers, $14.95
We like these bright, Neon 3″ target stickers. They are big enough to see easily at 600 yards, giving you a 1/2 MOA target center at that distance. For $14.95 at Amazon.com, you get 250 3″-diameter self-adhesive centers (125 targets per roll) that stick to almost any surface The high-contrast fluorescent red/orange color provides an excellent HI-VIZ aiming point, along with good contrast for bullet holes that fall 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. NOTE: These stickers may qualify for FREE Shipping with combined orders over $25.00.
Our New Zealand friends who created the advanced, computer-controlled AMP Annealing system have a remarkable upgrade available. The new AMP MATE is a clever, automated case-handling device that loads and retrieves your brass cartridges during the AMP induction annealing process. The AMP MATE installs right on top of a basic AMP Annealer, and takes all the manual labor out of the process. Once you set up the AMP MATE for your specific cartridge type, and adjust the AMP’s “brain” for your brass, then the AMP MATE takes over. Simply load your brass into the hopper, hit the start button and your brass comes out perfectly annealed. See how this works in this video:
The system essentially works automatically — feeding and retrieving cartridge brass. During initial set-up, you many need adjust the carriage system geometry and cycling rate. These functions are covered in the AMP MATE video. If you have other questions regarding how to set up and use the AMP MATE, email the manufacturer: info [at] ampannealing.com .
Annealing Made Perfect (AMP) Basics
If you’re not familiar with the AMP (Annealing Made Perfect) induction annealing system, here’s a video that explains how the system works. Basically, a micro-processor controls an electrical coil. As electricity flows into the coil, the process of induction transfers heat to the cartridge brass. With exact control over the flow of electricity, this anneals the brass precisely each time. Specific profiles can be created for your brand of cartridge brass — with the exact duration and amount of heat for ideal results.
SAVAGE Service Program — 30% Off for Those Who Serve Savage Arms now has a Service Program with discounted pricing for all active duty, veteran and retired military, first responders, and law enforcement personnel. Savage is offering 30% off Savage firearms to those who serve in the military and who “protect and serve” our communities.
The Savage Service Program offers qualified personnel the opportunity to directly purchase firearms at 30 percent off Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) which will be shipped to their preferred Savage dealer for delivery. Official program dates are September 1, 2018 through December 31, 2018. Eligible participants may purchase two firearms per calendar year under this Savage program.
Qualifying customers must submit a Program Order Form, supply a copy of their preferred ship-to FFL, and provide a copy of their law enforcement or military credentials. Limit of two firearms per calendar year under this program. Discounts not applicable on special order (custom) firearms. For more information, visit https://www.savagearms.com/savage-service-program.
Savage Tip from EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions
Barrel nut system allows “Pre-Fit” barrel installation on a Remington action. CLICK photo to zoom.
REMAGE Project Report by Bill, Rifleshooter.com Editor
Installing a new barrel on your Remington 700 (especially without a lathe) may seem like a daunting task, but thanks to companies like McGowen Precision Barrels, there are easier alternatives. By adopting a Savage-style barrel nut on a 1 1/16″ thread for a Remington 700 receiver, pre-chambered (aka “pre-fit”) barrels can be easily swapped with just a few hand tools. This system is sometimes called a REMAGE conversion (for “REMington savAGE”). With simple tools a “Pre-fit” 6mmBR-chambered barrel was installed on the author’s Remington action — no machining or lathe-work required.
The existing barrel is simply removed from the action (normally the hardest part) and the new barrel is screwed on with the Go Gauge in place. After headspace is verified with the Go Gauge, the barrel nut is tightened against the action and you are off to the range. It takes all of the machine work out of the barreling process.
Note: Because barrel nut has a slightly larger diameter, some stocks may require minor inletting. Also, if you are shooting fired brass from another rifle with the same chambering, you should FL-size the brass before loading it for your new pre-fit barrel. And always check the set-up with a dummy round loaded to normal cartridge length BEFORE you head to the range. With Pre-Fits, the freebore should be adequate for your cartridge, but always check and adjust your seating depth as needed.
Bill has been a serious shooter for over 20 years. A former Marine Corps Sergeant, he’s competed and placed in High Power Rifle, ISPC, USPSA, IDPA, 3-Gun, F-Class, and precision rifle disciplines. In addition to being an NRA-certified firearms instructor and range officer, Bill has hunted big game in North America, South America, and Africa. Bill writes extensively about gunsmithing, precision rifles, and the shooting sports on his blog, Rifleshooter.com.
A new video series featuring NFL legend Brett Favre and USA Shooting competitors is now available on GetZone.com. This series showcases the best aspects of our sport — the dedication and hard work of young shooters, including paralympian marksmen. Host Brett Favre talks with Olympic and Paralympic competitors about their challenges and achievements. In each episode, Favre and the featured athletes conduct shooting drills and share tips and tactics.
Episode 1 — Brett Favre talks with two-time Olympic shotgun bronze medalist Corey Cogdell-Unrein. She explains that more financial support is needed: “I’ve watched so many of my teammates struggle, and scratch, and fight to pay just their training expenses, and go in debt financially to pursue this sport. I’ve thought, how good could we be if we had the funding that we needed?”
Episode 2 — In the second episode, Marco De La Rosa details his journey from service in the U.S. Marine Corps to competing for the USA as a Paralympian pistol shooter: “I traveled everywhere to find myself — then I found this — I found shooting,” said De La Rosa. “I didn’t get into this for myself. I’m representing the Corps, and the Army guys, and everybody at the VA. That’s what I’m about, I represent America,” he added.
Episode 3 — In the third episode, Brett Favre interviews Paralympic Rifle shooter McKenna Dahl, who explained: “Shooting gives me a purpose and a passion for life that I don’t think I ever would have found if it weren’t for the sport. It’s an honor to be able to go out and wear the American Flag on your shoulder. I wouldn’t be where I am in life today if it weren’t for the sport and… this country, and I’m really thankful for that.” [Editor: Compare this young woman’s ethics and dedication to a certain ex-NFL quarterback who is now being glorified by Nike for kneeling during the National Anthem. She honors the country, while he dishonors it. Yet he gets paid millions by Nike.]
NOTE: We’re proud to report that McMillan Firearms stepped up as one of the first major sponsors for the series, and will be featured in an upcoming episode of “USA Shooting Presented by 4Outdoors”.
One recent trend in F-TR competition is the use of low-profile, benchrest-type stocks shot with a light hand-hold and little or no face contact. For this method of F-TR shooting to work, you need the right equipment, and practice a “minimalist” shooting technique. One of the pioneers in this style of F-TR shooting is action-maker John Pierce of Pierce Engineering. Above you can see John shooting one of his F-TR rifles at the 2015 Canadian F-Class Championships. Note the straight-line stock and see how the adjustable bipod is set quite low to the ground (in fact the bipod’s arms are almost straight out).
Members of the Michigan F-TR Team, including Bryan Litz, have used similar rigs with success. Bryan said it took a while to adapt his shooting technique to this kind of rig, but there is a pay-off. Armed with a Pierce-built F-TR rifle, Bryan won his first-ever F-TR Match. Bryan explains the technique he uses when shooting this kind of rifle:
“Coming over from sling shooting, I knew there would be unique challenges to F-TR which I wanted to learn prior to (not during) a major tournament. I learned a new shooting position which doesn’t involve drawing the right knee up. For F-TR I get more straight behind the gun rather than at an angle. I found that the rifle shoots best with very light cheek, shoulder and grip pressure, approaching free recoil. This is how Eric Stecker shot his similar rifle into second place in the SW Nationals [with high X-Count by a large margin]. I learned the rifle’s sensitivity to different bipod and rear bag supports, and found the best buttplate position to allow the rifle to track and stay on target after recoil. This set-up shot best with a mostly free-recoil approach, that means ‘hovering’ over the comb, rather than resting your head on the stock. This took some ‘getting used to’ in terms of neck and back muscle tone. These are the kind of details I think it’s important to focus on when entering a new discipline.”
Bryan’s Pierce-built F-TR rig is a tack-driver: “I can certainly vouch for this set-up! In [a 2015] mid-range State Championship in Midland, MI, I shot my Pierce rifle into first place with a 598-44X (20 shots at 300, 500 and 600). Once you get used to the positioning and way of shooting these rifles, they just pour shots through the center of the target.”
Pierce F-TR Rifles with Scoville Stocks
Shown below are three complete Pierce F-TR rifles, along with a barreled action for comparison. The carbon-fiber/composite stocks are built by Bob Scoville. These Scoville stocks are very light, yet very strong and very stiff.
If you are in the market for a new handgun of any type, you should check out a recent product summary from Shooting Illustrated magazine. The SI staffers have compiled an illustrated list of 63 new handguns released in 2018. There are big guns and small, semi-autos and revolvers. Each entry includes a photo with graphics showing the handgun’s notable features. The list includes some “pistols” that really look like rifles because they have a short stock for use as a “fore-arm brace” (wink-wink).
There is a good selection of carry pistols, small revolvers, and long-barreled target pistols. For each “handgun”, there is a descriptive paragraph plus a table listing: Caliber, Magazine Capacity, Barrel Length, OAL, Weight, and MSRP.
Here is one of our favorite new handguns, a 9mm Heckler & Koch VP9 with built-in Crimson Trace laser. We’ve owned multiple H&Ks and they have all been very accurate.
Shooting Illustrated’s Complete List of New-for-2018 Handguns:
Alchemy Custom Weaponry Brimstone
American Tactical FXH Hybrid
Arex Rex Alpha
Arex Rex Zero 1 Tactical Compact
Bersa TPR9C
Cabot Guns Gentleman’s Carry
Cabot Guns Icon Government Model
Canik TP9SA Mod 2
Century Int’l Arms C39v2 Pistol, Shockwave Brace
Century Int’l Arms Draco NAK9
Charles Daly 1911 Superior Grade
Charter Arms Bulldog pistol
Charter Arms Chic Lady Magenta
Charter Arms Undercover
Chiappa Firearms Rhino 30DS OD Green
CMMG Inc. Banshee
Colt Custom Competition Pistol
Colt Night Cobra
Coonan MOT 10 Compensated
CZ-USA P-10C Urban Grey Suppressor-Ready
CZ-USA Scorpion EVO 3 S1 Pistol, Folding Brace
Daniel Defense DDM4V7 P
European American Armory Witness P Match Pro
FN America FN 15 Pistol
Glock G19X
Glock Gen5 G26
Grand Power Q1S
Grand Power Stribog
Heckler & Koch VP9 with Crimson Trace Laserguard
Heckler & Koch VP9SK in NATO Green
Honor Defense Captain America Honor Guard
Kahr ST9
Kimber K6s CDP
Kimber KHX Pro (OR)
Kimber Micro 9 Desert Night (DN)
Les Baer Thunder Ranch 25th Ann. Ltd. Ed.
Magnum Research Mark XIX L5
MG Arms Wraithe 1911
Nigthawk Custom Custom Agent 2
Nighthawk Custom Chairman
Nighthawk Custom Lady Hawk 2.0
PTR Industries 9CT
Remington R1 1911 Ultralight Executive Pistol
Remington RP45
Roberts Defense Rogue 1911
Rock River Arms 1911 Poly 4.25″
Ruger EC9s
Ruger GP100
Ruger Security-9
SAR USA SAR 9
SIG Sauer P226 Legion SAO RX
SIG Sauer P365
Smith & Wesson M&P380 Shield EZ
Smith & Wesson M&P9 Threaded Barrel
Springfield Armory 911
Springfield Armory Saint Pistol
Springfield Armory XD-E 45
Springfield Armory XD-S Mod.2
Taurus 692
Taurus 856
Taurus 1911 Commander
Walther PPQ SC
Walther PPS M2
Shooting Illustrated notes: “Handguns are some of the hottest-selling firearms in today’s market, with concealed-carry guns leading the way as more citizens arm themselves against potential threats. However, micro-sized pistols aren’t the only new releases out for this year. Manufacturers have added dozens of new guns of many styles and designs, all built for different purposes. Is your next buy on our comprehensive list?” See all the new handguns released in 2018 in THIS FEATURE ARTICLE.
Are you feelin’ lucky? Then here is a contest you may want to enter. This new contest has not one but THREE very impressive prize packages that each include a rifle (or shotgun), premium hunting gear, plus a guided duck/quail hunt. The contest prize rifles — Steyr Scout or Steyr Pro THB 6.5 Creedmoor — provide real incentive to enter this contest. Those are nice rigs.
Steyr Arms celebrates the fall deer season with a month-long Big Buck Down contest with THREE big prize packages — one awarded every 10 days in September. All three prize packages will include a Steyr or Merkel firearm, Jagdhund and X JAGD gear, plus a two-day, two-person duck/quail hunting trip. The first two give-aways also include a 3.5-18x44mm Swarovski Z5 riflescope.
The program runs from September 1 through September 30. Those that enter by September 10 will be eligible to win all three prize packages (but you can only win once of course). Along with a firearm, and premium hunting gear, each package includes the winner’s choice of a two-day guided quail or duck hunt for two from Intercoastal Safaris, complete with meals and beachfront lodging in the Florida/Alabama Gulf Coast. CLICK HERE for PRIZES.
THREE PRIZE PACKAGES — One Package Every Ten Days
To enter the Big Buck Down! Giveaway, visit www.buckdowngiveaway.com. NOTE: You must agree to sign up for the sponsors’ e-mail newsletters. After entering the giveaway, contestants can receive additional entries by visiting sponsor websites and social media pages. There is no purchase necessary to enter. Due to legal restrictions in California, New York, Florida and Rhode Island, residents of those states are not eligible to win.
Report by Craig Arnzen, Area 419
As the PRS and other tactical/practical competitions continue to grow, a guy tends to wonder, just how good are the top competitors? And what are they actually doing (and viewing) as they complete a stage? Well, a great video from the new Long Range Precision Shooters YouTube Channel let us see what the best in the sport see through their scopes when they shoot.
This video features Dave Preston, 2015 National Champion and perennial powerhouse, shooting the PRS Skills barricade. Dave Preston is widely considered the best in the nation running this PRS stage. Dave nearly always shoots 100% with the fastest recorded time. In this video you’ll see him successfully engage all eight shots in under 43 seconds — that’s crazy fast. This includes a POV sequence (4:35 time-mark) showing the actual view through Dave’s scope as he completes the stage.
Watch this video! Dave offers excellent advice on gun-handling and body positioning for barricades. Listen to what he says and you WILL shoot better.
This video features the PRS Skills Barricade, an 8-round, 4-position stage featured at the majority of PRS matches throughout country. It’s called a “Skills Stage” as it is run the same way at every national match and gives shooters the ability to compare skill levels based on hit percentage and speed.
The target is a 10″ plate at 400 yards. There are four different positions, with two shots each. Most people run this stage in about 70 seconds, some in the mid-60s, the greats in the high 50s, and Dave does it in the low 40s… mighty impressive!
The Right Gear Aids Stability and Lets You Shoot Faster
Let’s also take a look at two pieces of gear that really helped Dave Preston get stable and shoot fast.
1. BARRICADE BAG — To Get Stable, Really Stable
In the video Dave is using a Solo Sac from Short Action Precision This bag was designed by USMC Solomon Mansalala, and $5 of every purchase goes to help the Marine Scout Snipers buy gear. It’s a very soft/dense bag and is popular at matches.
The other bag that sees a LOT of use, and is far and away the most used, is the patented Gamechanger Bag from Reasor Precision Solutions and Armageddon Gear.
2. MUZZLE BRAKE — To Make Your Follow-Up Faster
You’ll notice that in the video the rifle is very steady through firing, even though he is not applying a lot of pressure to the rifle. Dave is using a Hellfire Muzzle Brake from Area 419. Combined with the soft-recoiling 6mmBR cartridge he is able to spot his impacts and make adjustments, and can also make very fast follow-up shots as his rifle hasn’t bounced way off target.
More Long Range Precision Shooters Videos Coming Soon
I think this series from Long Range Precision Shooters (LRPS) will be a good one. They already have a couple more videos ready to release including one with 2018 King of 2 Miles Champion Robert Brantley. CLICK HERE for the LRPS YouTube Channel.
FREE TV — what’s not to like? Now through the second of October, DISH Network customers can watch the Outdoor Channel and Sportsman Channel for FREE. This 1-month FREE Preview lets you sample some of North America’s most popular shooting and hunting cable shows, such as Shooting USA, American Rifleman, Guns & Ammo, Jim Shockey’s Hunting Adventures, Live2Hunt, Duck Dynasty, BuckMasters and many more. NOTE: These month-long channel previews are free, but you much already have a DISH network basic subscription.
With hunting season underway, Outdoor Channel and Sportsman Channel will be available on DISH Network as a free preview now through October 2, 2018. Watch Outdoor Channel on DISH Ch. 396, and the Sportsman Channel on DISH Ch. 395. Viewers can visit www.mydish.com/preview for more information on satellite previews and packages.
Many Shooting USA episodes are available FREE on YouTube. Here’s a full episode featuring Varmint Silhouette Shooting in Texas. Definitely worth watching:
“The fall season ushers in its own joys with the changing of the season and beginning of hunting season across many states in the country and DISH allows us to promote this special time of year. DISH helps make this possible… through free preview programming of Outdoor Channel and Sportsman Channel”, says Outdoor Sportsman Group President/CEO, Jim Liberatore.
Currently, Outdoor Channel is available on DISH Network Channel 396 and Sportsman Channel is on Channel 395 – both are a part of the Outdoor Package. Outdoor Channel and Sportsman Channel’s late summer/early fall programming provides many shows of interest to hunters and target shooters. DeerWeek takes over Outdoor Channel and Sportsman Channel on September 17-23 as thoughts turn to treestands and deer hunting. Visit DeerWeek.com for the entire lineup, expert tips and much more.
About Outdoor Channel: The largest outdoor-centric programming service in the nation, Outdoor Channel was started in 1993. Dedicated to the outdoor lifestyle and conservation, Outdoor Channel (which also runs the Sportsman Channel) provides a complete spectrum of hunting, fishing, shooting and adventure entertainment. Outdoor Channel can be viewed in HD and is accessible by broadband and mobile platforms. For program times and other information, visit www.outdoorchannel.com.
About Outdoor Channel: The largest outdoor-centric programming service in the nation, Outdoor Channel was started in 1993. Dedicated to the outdoor lifestyle and conservation, Outdoor Channel (which also runs the Sportsman Channel) provides a complete spectrum of hunting, fishing, shooting and adventure entertainment. Outdoor Channel can be viewed in HD and is accessible by broadband and mobile platforms. For program times and other information, visit 
