With the skyrocketing prices of ammo, more shooters than ever are hand-loading pistol and rifle ammunition. But many novice reloaders tell us that it’s a bit overwhelming in the beginning. Just learning all the technical terms (e.g. ogive, meplat, ballistic coefficient, load density etc.) is difficult, and the task of selecting the right tools and gear can be daunting.
The first thing a new reloader should do is find an experienced reloading mentor. One can learn the basics much more quickly under the guidance of an experienced hand-loader who “knows the ropes”. We also recommend that newbies acquire a good basic reloading handbook — not just a list of load recipes, but a book that explains the processes.
Since the first edition was published in the 1970s, the ABCs of Reloading series has taught countless firearms owners safe/reliable methods for creating their own ammunition. ABCs of Reloading provides beginners what they need to know to get started in reloading. From basic topics such as “How does a cartridge work?” and “What components do I need?” to more advanced discussions of cartridge pressure, headspace, and chrono testing, this is a great resource for new handloaders.
In addition, the sections on advanced reloading and new powders make the new edition valuable for experienced handloaders. And long-range shooters will benefit from the sections on making ultra-consistent ammo and fine-tuning for precision accuracy. Massaro’s coverage of new reloading gear and components is another bonus (shown below is the new RCBS MatchMaster powder dispenser).
Review from purchaser of “The ABCs of Reloading”, 8th Edition:
“When I first got the itch to load my own ammunition, I was overwhelmed by the amount of information and terminology involved in this fascinating field/hobby. It was very difficult to take all the individual pieces of information that I had and form it into an understandable process. I was snowed in under a blizzard of data that I was piecing together through chat rooms and web sites. Phrases like ‘roll crimp’ and ‘headspace’ came at me in a blizzard. I could look up each phrase, understand each one as a piece, but still the whole picture was fuzzy. In essence, that is what this book will do for you — turn it all into a coherent, linear whole. The writing is very solid and clear, the illustrations are well-done and helpful, and the information is very complete. After reading this book, the entire process made sense to me, and more importantly, I was fully warned about the dos and don’ts of the reloading world. The coverage is very complete. Primers, powders, bullets, and … all necessary tools and accessories are discussed and explained. This is just a great book. It won’t make you an expert … but it will put you on the right road if you wish to become one.” — Mykal Banta
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The 6mmBR Norma cartridge has spawned many great variants in multiple calibers: 6mm Dasher, 6BRA, 22 BR, 22 Dasher, 30 BR and others. This article is about a handsome 22 BR Rem-action varmint rig.
Richard Franklin (who operated Richard’s Custom Rifles prior to his retirement), has built scores of varmint rifles, in many different calibers. One of Richard’s all-time favorite varmint rifles is a 1:14″-twist, 22 BR built on his Model 11 stock in laminated Black Walnut and fiddleback maple. Richard says the rifle is versatile and deadly accurate out to 400 yards. Richard uses a Leupold 8.5-25x50mm LRT with varmint reticle.
Richard’s 22 BR Varmint Rifle with Lilja Barrel
Richard tells us: “[Shown above] is my light walking varminter. It’s built on a blue-printed Stainless Steel Remington 700 short action and chambered as a no-turn 22 BR for Lapua brass. The bolt handle is a Dave Kiff replacement and I’ve fitted a Jewel BR trigger with bottom safety. The barrel is a Lilja, 1:14″ #6 contour with a muzzle diameter of .750″. I shoot the 40gr V-Max bullets in the rifle at 4000 FPS. It’s tough on hogs if you don’t try them too far. 400 yards is about the max with it.
Accuracy is outstanding and with Roy, Mike, my grandson and myself shooting this rifle I don’t believe it has missed more than three hogs out of over 100 we shot at one summer. This rifle is carried in a ceiling rack in the truck where it’s handy and is used by the first person that grabs it when a hog is sighted if we are moving between setups. The Varmint reticle on the Leupold (shown below) is nice for quick hold-overs as you change distances.”
At right is a another Franklin Model 11 stock in Birdseye maple. That photo shows the details of the thumbhole stock.
Editor’s Note: We have shot a 1:8″-twist 22 BR in varmint matches and it was very accurate with 80gr bullets. It actually shot flatter out to 500 yards than our 6mmBR running 105-grainers. If we were to build a new long-range, bolt-action varmint rifle it would probably be a 22 BRA, essentially a 22 BR with 40° shoulder. That gives you a very stable cartridge with a bit more capacity. The 22 BRA retains a longer neck compare to the 22 Dasher, which is also an excellent cartridge — versatile and accurate.
22 BR Rivals 22-250 Performance
With bullets in the 40gr to 60gr weight range, the 22 BR gives up very little in velocity to a 22-250, despite burning quite a bit less powder (30-32 grains for the 22 BR vs. 35-38 grains for the 22-250). With a match-quality chamber, the 22 BR will probably have an edge in accuracy over a 22-250, and you should experience longer barrel life. Here are some recommended 22 BR loads for 40-60gr bullets:
In late 2020 Nosler released the Nosler Reloading Guide #9, the latest in a respected series of hardback Nosler load manuals. This 800-page guide covers 101 cartridge types. New in this edition you’ll find the popular 6mm Creedmoor, 6mm XC, 6.5 PRC, and 7.62×39, along with 20 Nosler, 22 Nosler, 24 Nosler, 27 Nosler and 33 Nosler. This new guide draws from thousands of hours in the Nosler Ballistic Lab, along with the experience of many respected experts.
Current Load Data for 101 Cartridge Types
The Nosler Reloading Guide 9 Reloading Manual provides load data for 101 rifle and handgun cartridges with hundreds of new powder additions. A comprehensive data set for today’s reloader, this manual is current with every bullet that Nosler offers through 2020 from 17 caliber up to 458 caliber in the rifle section and 9mm up to 45 caliber in the handgun section. Nine new cartridges were added to this manual. These include: 20 Nosler, 22 Nosler, 24 Nosler, 6mm Creedmoor, 6mm XC, 6.5 PRC, 27 Nosler, 7.62×39 and 33 Nosler. Also new for the Nosler Reloading Guide #9 are cartridge introductions written by veteran outdoor writers and industry tech experts. The 800-page book also has helpful “how-to” sections such as “Getting Ready to Reload”.
Q. Why Buy a Book when Load Data is Available Online from Powder Makers?
There are good, solid reasons to buy print-format loading guides produced by bullet-makers. If you go to the Hodgdon online Reloading Data Center you’ll only find loads with Hodgdon, IMR, and Winchester powders — the key brands they sell. In a book such as this Nosler #9 or the Sierra Reloading Manual, you will find loads with a much wider selection of powders including Vihtavuori, Alliant, Accurate, Norma, Ramshot, and other brands. You won’t find a Reloder 16 or VV N140 load on Hodgdon’s website.
In addition, it is handy to have loads in a print edition which is easy to access on your load bench. You don’t need a computer or an internet connection. And using a book is often faster than a web interface when quickly scanning through a variety of bullet choices for a cartridge.
Along with the new Nosler #9 Manual, here are four other Recommended Reloading Manuals:
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Sightron has launched its new Precision Long-Range (PLR) Riflescope Series. The Sightron SIII PLR Series offers high-end optics performance at reasonable prices, starting at $1325.00 MSRP. There will be three second focal plane (SFP) models: 6-24x50mm, 8-32x56mm, and 10-50x60mm. In addition there is an impressive new 6-24x50mm first focal plane (FFP) model.
Sightron’s new SIII PLR riflescopes feature 30mm tubes, a new internal zero-stop mechanism, and several illuminated reticle options. All models sport a black satin finish with high visibility markings. The large, oversized tactical knobs are easy to adjust and are resettable to zero. The new internal zero-stop mechanism provides a tactile and audible positive stop for dead-on zero setting. The windage knob is marked for left and right, so there is no second-guessing when making adjustments. Click values for PLR scopes are either 1/4 MOA or 0.1 MRAD. Sightron’s patented ExacTrack Windage and Elevation System is standard on all models. ExacTrack provides super-precise windage and elevation adjustments while maintaining a positive point-of-contact with the internal erector tube.
All PLR scopes boast Sightron’s Zact-7 Revcoat Plus™ Enhanced Lens Coating for increased light transmission and improved clarity. And all PLR reticles are illuminated with a side-mounted 11-position on/off rotary-type dial. The side-mounted focus system has been redesigned for improved close focus performance. These PLR scopes all ship with 3-inch sunshade, flip-up lens covers, Torx Key/Allen wrench, and CR2032 battery. Like all Sightron scopes, the PLR series optics are nitrogen-charged for a 100% waterproof and fog-proof system.
First Focal Plane Scope for Tactical Disciplines
The new 6-24x50mm SIII PLR FFP riflescope features the first focal plane design favored by PRS/NRL and tactical shooters. This allows the shooter to range and holdover with speed and accuracy, knowing that the reticle dimensions will remain constant on all magnifications.
Sightron President Mack Matsumoto states: “Our engineers worked hard to improve the precision, function, and cosmetics of the already-popular SIII Long-Range Series. You will … experience a higher level of precision from the new internal Zero-stop to the Zact-7 Revcoat Plus multicoating technology that improves light transmission, color and clarity.”
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Today, March 17th, is St. Patrick’s Day. With the persisting pandemic challenges it may be hard to feel lucky in 2021, but at least you can collect some lucky targets. Here are two free Irish-themed targets to provide some fun and a bit of challenge. Shoot these Shamrocks or the Pot of Gold and see if you have the “luck of the Irish”.
To help celebrate this traditional day of Irish pride, the NRA has created two (2) fun targets you can download, print, and shoot. Try out these free targets. Click each Irish target photo below to open a high-rez PDF file you can download and print.
The first target features a large four-leaf clover in the middle, with 17 other smaller three-leaf shamrocks around the outside. With five black bulls-eyes in the center graphic, that gives you a total of 22 aiming points for shooting fun. For added challenge we suggest you set this target at 100 yards for rimfire rifle and 200 years for a centerfire gun.
CLICK Below for Big PDF Shamrock Target
The second target offers the legendary Pot of Gold at the end of the rainbow. Along with a big bullseye on the pot, there are 15 shamrocks in gold circles, plus five small gold bars with tiny bullseyes. Those smallest bulls will be a challenge even at 100 yards. You’ll need a half-MOA (or better) rifle to “clean” this target, hitting the smallest red dots.
CLICK Below for Big PDF Pot of Gold Target
Whether you’re Irish or not, these targets will hopefully bring you a bit of luck. Click each image above to open a high-rez PDF file that you can print out. Then, this St. Patty’s day, wear your green, grab your gear, and head to range for some fun shooting.
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Palmetto State Armory (PSA) is running a St. Patrick’s Day Sale, with some impressive bargains on handguns, rifles, and AR components (uppers, lowers, stocks, grips, bolt sets). Hundreds of items are on sale. Most are AR-related, but there are also many pistols and optics on sale, along with stocks, triggers, and more. Here are eight great deals that turned our heads this St. Patty’s Day:
St. Patrick’s Day Sale Great Deals
St. Patrick’s Day Shooting Coat Sale
Here is a special St. Patrick’s Day Sale Item from Creedmoor Sports. This Green Coat is certainly appropriate today, when “wearing the green” is a part of the tradition. A wide range of sizes, from 30 to 58 is available. For a few dollars more you can add a Sling Harness section or a Terry Cloth Collar piece.
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Now that you’ve spent thousands of dollars on the new benchrest, PRS, ELR, or hunting rifle (and thousands more on optics), how are you going to get it to the range and/or hunting grounds? It’s important to transport your valuable firearms in high-quality gun cases. Good padded soft cases can work, but for long-distance hauling (and all air transport), we recommend hard cases with quality foam inside.
Choosing a Rifle Transport Case
Before he retired, Forum member Ron D. served as a Police Officer at Chicago’s O’Hare airport. Ron offers some very important advice for shooters traveling with firearms and expensive optics: “Buy the best [rifle case] that you can afford. Don’t cry when your $3,000+ Benchrest rifle has a cracked stock or broken scope. Think about what it would be like to travel across the country and arrive with a damaged rifle. Remember the Samsonite commercial. (For you younger shooters, it shows a monkey throwing the suitcase around in his cage at the zoo.)
Baggage handling is NOT a fine art. There is no guarantee that your rifle case will be on top of all the other baggage. Then there is shifting of baggage in the belly of the plane. Ponder that for a while. Rifle and pistol cases must be locked. It doesn’t take a Rocket Scientist to figure out that a simple pry tool will open most case locks. There is not much that you can do to disguise a rifle case. It is what it is, and opportunists know this. Among thieves, it doesn’t take long for the word to get around about a NEW type of case.”
Customizing the Foam Interiors of Gun Carry Cases
For the best fit of your firearms and accessories in a foam-interior hard case, you should customize the foam to fit. Some cases have “pluckable” foam. With these you remove small squares one an a time until the stored items fit. With other cases with dense foam interiors, you’ll need to cut the foam to fit. Here are two videos that show the process of tailoring foam to a rifle using an electric cutting tool. Watch these videos carefully — they can really help create the best custom-fit for your firearms.
Pelican 1750 Waterproof Travel Vault Case
Guncases.com, an Optics Planet company, offers a wide selection of quality, durable gun cases. One of the best units offered is Pelican 1750 Waterproof Rifle Case – Travel Vault Protector. If you’re headed to a very rainy/snowy climate, or transporting your rifle on a boat, consider this option. The waterproof Pelican 1750 case measures 53.00″ x 16.00″ x 6.12″ outside and weighs 25.5 pounds unladen. It features an O-Ring Seal, Pressure Relief Valve, and a lifetime warranty. It is offered in three colors, OD Green, Black, and Desert Tan, starting at $269.95. This is pricey, but it is one of the highest-rated cases you can buy.
Pelican Vault Series Rifle Cases
Pelican Products, known for premium hard-shell transport cases also offers a more affordable VAULT series of cases. Pelican’s VAULT cases offer durability and security at a lower price point. VAULT cases range in price from $39.99 to $199.99 and are backed by a 1-year guarantee. The VAULT rifle cases all feature wheels, easy-to-use push-button latches, and four stainless steel lock hasps for security. There is also a brightly colored Hi-Viz strip on the front of Pelican’s VAULT cases. This will make it easier to spot your case at airport baggage areas. The model V800 double-rifle case features a 53″ x 16″ x 6″ interior. That’s long enough for F-Class rifles and tactical rigs with brakes. The model V770 single-rifle case is 50″ × 10″ × 6″ inside. That’s still big enough for most hunting, varmint, and benchrest rifles.
SKB Double Rifle Case
GunCases.com also offers SKB Gun Cases. The SKB model 2SKB-5009 Double Rifle Case is an excellent choice carrying two rifles long distances. This has a very tough exterior with a metal middle frame for extra strength. Priced at $286.24 on Amazon, this case has exterior dimensions: 56″ L x 16.5″ W x 9.5″ H. This photo shows the case carrying both an M1A and an M1 Garand. NOTE: The foam is not really customizable. This is not the best choice if you plan to carry a single rifle and a spotting scope and a second barrel.
Plano Two-Gun All-Weather Tactical Case
This Plano two-gun case is Amazon’s #1 Best Seller in wheeled, heavy-duty firearms cases. This is offered in three sizes: 36″, 42″, and 52″. We like the biggest 52″ version, ($117.49 on Amazon), as it is long enough inside to fit most scoped match rifles. Alternatively, if you have a really long F-Class, ELR, or Palma rig, you can detach the barreled action from the stock, and run the two sections in the shorter 42″ case, now just $75.99 on Amazon. The big case lets you easily carry TWO scoped hunting rifles. That’s great because this case is strong enough for airline travel, meeting FAA requirements for checked baggage. This Plano case offers a good balance between strength and weight, all for a reasonable cost. Yes a Pelican 1750 is somewhat better, but that will cost at least $270.00 — over twice as much.
Plano now offers advanced versions of its All Weather series with “Rustrictor” technology. These Rustrictor cases, which sport RED handles and latches, come with built-in anti-corrosion technology — a rust-preventive Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) infused into the resin and into foam emitter blocks. If you often shoot in wet environments, or leave guns in a case for more than a few hours, you should probably upgrade to the Plano Rustrictor cases, currently priced at $97.76 for the 42″ model and $184.99 for the 52″ wheeled case.
Video Tip from Boyd Allen. We welcome reader submissions.
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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.
1. Whidden Gunworks — Barnard Model SMS Action, $1150
⏺ Outstanding, smooth-running action, takes Rem 700 triggers (like Jewell)
Building a new gun these days can be challenging at best, especially because action manufacturers now have lead times up to one year. If you want a great custom action with no long wait, check out the Barnard Model SMS Action in stock and ready to ship from Whidden Gunworks. With a Remingon 700 footprint it fits a huge variety of inletted stocks. You can order it with either a .223 Rem or .308 Win bolt face. The Barnard SMS action compatible with Remington 700 Triggers, AICS & HS Precision magazine systems and is Picatinny rail compatible. This is a great way to get started on that next precision build.
3. Stocky’s — Rem 700 Stock with Alum. Bedding Block, $249.99
⏺ Great value — nice stock with built-in Aluminum bedding block
We helped find you an action, now it’s time for a quality stock. Stocky’s Stocks carries a wide assortment of great looking stocks that work great. You can pick up this Remington 700 BDL Laminated With Aluminum Bedding Block for under $300.00! Choose among seven different color combinations. Stocky’s EuroStocks feature OEM-quality fit and finish, stippled laser-engraved checkering, and a nice, 1″ thick, vented recoil pad. Stocky’s ships these stocks complete with mil-spec takedown screws, washers, and Allen wrenches.
3. EuroOptic — SIG Sauer P320 M18 Carry 9mm, $699.99
⏺ Civilian version of U.S. Military 9mm pistol — accurate, high capacity
SIG Sauer continues to be one of the most respected pistol makers for good reason. SIG pistols are reliable, accurate, and trusted by law enforcement/military around the world. Here’s the civilian version of the U.S. Military’s M18 sidearm: SIG Sauer P320 M18 Carry 9mm. The P320’s modular design allows the shooter to easily change the size and fit of the handgun making for a great experience no matter the owner. Order now for $699.99 and you can get a free bonus extra magazine, for three mags total.
4. Creedmoor Sports — DLX 55″ or 60″ Rifle Case Blue, $149.95
⏺ Truly one of the highest-quality soft rifle cases you can buy
Tired of poorly-made soft cases that wear out after one season? If you want to get a top-quality case that will last for years, check out the Creedmoor Blue Deluxe 55″ or 60″ Rifle Case. These hand-made cases provide superior protection with quality fabrics and padding. Smart design, high-grade zippers, and top-quality sewing make a noticeable difference. You will see many of the nation’s top Palma and F-Class shooters using these cases.
⏺ Remarkable 8 times magnification range — great for hunting and tactical use
Vortex offers excellent optics with one of the best warranties in the business. Here’s a good choice for an AR or hunting rig. The 1-8X power range offers a wide field of vision plus plenty of magnification when you’re on target. Right now the Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-8X24mm is on sale for $429.99 at Brownells. This includes a cantilever mount that works great with AR-platform rifles and many tactical-style actions.
6. MidwayUSA — Frankford Case Tumbler Master Kit, $72.99
⏺ We’ve used this Combo Kit for many seasons — very good value right now
Keeping your brass clean is one of the best ways to keep your dies (and reloading presses) clean as well. If you’re looking for a new, affordable setup to clean cartridge brass, consider the Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-EZ Case Tumbler Master Kit. You get everything needed to dry-tumble your brass and remove the media. This is all available now for a very low $72.99. You could pay that much for a good vibratory tumbler alone.
7. Amazon — 36″ Carbon Fiber Cleaning Rod, $29.99
⏺ Good cleaning rod with ball-bearing handle and coated rod
Cleaning rods break and bend or just plain wear out, but they can be expensive to replace. We found this 36″ Carbon Fiber Cleaning Rod that features a ball bearing handle and a threaded tip to add any jag or brush of your choice. The shaft is nylon coated so it is easy to clean. User Reviews have been very positive.
⏺ Well-designed case for two pistols, mags, protective gear
Storing and transporting pistols can be a challenge since some cases are too small and while others are too big and heavy. If you need to transport a pair of pistols to the range, this Tactical Double Scoped Handgun Case is a good option. It has twin zippered pistol compartments plus straps for 6 magazines. This soft case perfectly fits two scoped pistols and has extra space for other gear such as glasses and earplugs.
9. MidwayUSA — Competition Shooting Mat $24.99
⏺ Good versatile mat that does the job for just $24.99
Here’s a good deal from MidwayUSA: $24.99 Competition Shooting Mat. Regularly priced at $33.99, these mats are now 9 bucks off — that’s a 26% savings. We’ve used this mat many times. It’s obviously not the most deluxe mat you can buy, but it does the job and should last a long time. This mat rolls up into a nice package with carry handle. Most purchasers give this 4 or 5 stars. One verified buyer posted: “Very nice basic mat for the money. Well-made and quality materials. I use it at the range on concrete pad. Very comfortable without a lot of bulk. Highly recommend this mat.”
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Congrats to Lester Bruno, overall winner of the 2021 Cactus Classic Benchrest Match. This popular NBRSA match is held every year at the Ben Avery Range outside Phoenix, Arizona. Lester shot brilliantly, particularly at 200 yards, to win the Two-Gun convincingly with an 0.2099 Overall Aggregate. Ed Adams was second with a 0.2303 Two-Gun Agg, with Durward Wofford in third place with 0.2655. Along the way Lester nailed a remarkable 0.1742 200-yard Heavy Varmint Agg. That’s mighty impressive.
Click Image Below for full-screen Panorama Image:
Paul Parosky reported: “So the Cactus Classic COVID Edition of 2021 has come to an end. Lester Bruno won with some amazing shooting at the LV and HV 200 yards. Myself? I need some more time behind the rifle and at 200 yards. We came across some nasty mirage that basically it was really hard to see the bullet hole. I still was able to finish in the middle of the pack 29th in the 2-Gun Aggregate, which is OK with me. But most of all had super great time, meeting new people and also putting faces to the FB friends from the group. The referees, Matthew Schwartzkopf and his crew [plus] the Wickenburg School volunteers did a wonderful job keeping the match going flawlessly.”
2021 Cactus Classic Top 25 Two-Gun Overall Results:
In 100/200 yard Group Benchrest, most top competitors load at the range, tuning their loads for the conditions. Here you can see the portable powder measure (left) and a compact ARKCO Hood Press (right). That blue combo press can both size cases with a screw-in die and seat bullets using a Wilson Seater die (placed on left side). The vast majority of short-range benchrest-for-group competitors run the 6PPC cartridge with fast-burning powders such as Vihtavuori N133.
Capstone Precision Group (Berger Bullets, Lapua, SK, Vihtavuori) provided many valuable prizes to competitors at the 2021 Cactus Classic.
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Vudoo Gun Works now offers V-22 action rifles chambered for the 17 Hornady Mach 2 (aka 17 HM2) rimfire cartridge. The 17 Mach 2 runs 2010-2100 FPS, making it much more potent than the .22 LR for varminting. Along with the added speed, the 17 Mach 2 is also much flatter shooting than the .22 LR, making it more fun to use past 150 yards. When you want to go back to the .22 LR for paper punching at 50-100 yards, simply spin on a .22 LR barrel, and use the same action and same magazines. So, you can have one rimfire rifle that shoots two rimfire cartridge types. That’s smart.
Because the 17 Mach 2 shares similar OAL and cartridge diameter/rim sizes as the venerable .22 LR, the 17 HM2 runs perfectly in actions and magazines designed for the .22 LR. Vudoo says: “The dimensional similarities of traditional .22 LR, which the V-22 action has been designed around, made the 17 HM2 a natural performer in our rifles. The addition of the 17 HM2 gives our customers access to a wide range of high-velocity projectiles to better suit a variety of sporting applications.”
Vudoo Gun Works currently offers a variety of rifles chambered in 17 Mach 2. The Ravage Ridgeback model (top photo) has a composite stock with adjustable cheekpiece. There is also a Ravage Renegade (shown below). For those who prefer a metal chassis, Vudoo offers its V-22 barreled action in the MPA alloy chassis. Vudoo has lighter, “walk-around stocks” and barrel profiles for hunters, and we like the Apparition model with the KRG Bravo Chassis. All Vudoo 17 HM2 models use the V-22 action. Multi-shot models employ Vudoo .22 LR magazines.
Which Voodoo 17 Mach 2 to Buy?
We see the 17 HM2 round primarily as a varmint cartridge, secondarily as a fun-shooting round for steel and reactive targets. As yet it is not really for competition because there is no organized .17 Caliber rimfire League, and the 17 Mach 2 is not allowed for rimfire silhouette. That may change and the Mach 2 might be allowed in some local range fun matches, but it’s not really a competition cartridge.
That said, it is a great round for small critters such as ground squirrels. Accordingly, we recommend a Vudoo option that has a conventional stock that can work with both bipod or front rest, used in the field off bipod or shot from a portable bench or tripod. You’ll want a magazine-fed rig to allow quick follow-up shots on critters.
For this we recommend the Ravage in the Renegade stock for $2295.00. This has a fairly straight buttstock toe in the rear so it works well with a rear bag. There are seven (7) different stock finishes available. If you want an adjustable cheekpiece and forearm rails you can get the Ravage in the Ridgeback stock for $300 more ($2595.00). Vudoo call this “A purpose-built competition/target rifle with an impressive list of options.” All Ravage Models promise sub-MOA accuracy. You can probably beat that with the best lots of 17 Mach 2 ammo.
Vudoo V-22 17 Mach 2 Rifle Features
Short action Remington 700 footprint
Magazines fit std AICS-form bottom metal
Large selection of aftermarket triggers
Large selection of aftermarket stocks
17 HM2 converts to .22 LR with bbl swap
Vudoo Rimfire Rifle Specs
Action: V-22, Patented Vudoo Rimfire repeater action with control-round-feed
Chamber Options: .17 HM2, .17 HMR, .22 LR, .22 WMR
Barrel: 416R stainless, cut-rifled, Vudoo chamber, 16.5″, 18″, 20″, or 22″, Kukri contour
Trigger: Timney 510v2 preset at 2 lbs. (Upgradable to other Timney, Trigger Tech, or Huber at add’l cost)
Because the 17 Mach 2 fits .22 LR magazines and has the same OAL and rim size, it can be shot from a Vudoo .22 LR action. Just spin on a 17 HM2-chambered barrel, get some ammo, and you are good to go. WARNING: Never shoot a .22 LR in a 17-caliber barrel.
About the 17 Mach 2 (17 HM2 Cartridge)
The 17 Mach 2 was developed by Hornady and ELEY in 2004 to give varmint hunters a high-velocity rimfire cartridge that fits in standard rimfire-length actions. With a selection of V-MAX or NTX bullets, the 17 HM2 is capable of taking ground squirrels and prairie dogs at ranges of up to 220 yards. We like this cartridge because 17 HM2 ammo has historically been 35% less expensive than 17 HMR ammo. And with the current shortages, we’ve seen 17 Mach 2 at HALF the price of 17 HMR ($11/box vs. $22/box). When you’re shooting hundreds of rounds a day in the varmint fields, that price savings adds up.
What Kind of Accuracy Can You Expect?
Vudoo .22 LR rifles have shown exceptional rimfire accuracy. Accordingly we believe the 17 Mach 2 versions should be impressive. But frankly, the limit will be the ammo. You may want to sort through each box and check for run-out and COAL. With Hornady 17 HM2 ammo, we usually find 2-4 rounds per 50-ct box with short-seated bullets or very high bullet run-out. You can sometimes actually see the bullet tilted off-axis. Use those for foulers or short range.
Accurateshooter.com built a 17 Mach 2 benchrest rifle some years ago with a match barrel, custom action, and wide-forearm benchrest stock. We saw many 5-shot groups in the 0.7″ range at ONE HUNDRED yards with early ELEY-made 17 Mach 2 ammo. Yes, 0.7 MOA at 100. The current Hornady ammo is not as consistent. We’ve heard good things about the CCI VNT 17 HM2 ammunition introduced in 2019, but we haven’t tested it yet.
Yes 17 Mach 2 Ammo IS Available Right Now
Readers may be asking “Can I actually get 17 Mach 2 ammo right now?” The answer is a definite “YES”. While popular centerfire ammo is hard to find, and many types of .22 LR ammo is out of stock, we found 17 HM2 ammo in stock right now at many vendors. Here are some examples in stock on 3/14/2021:
One Rimfire Rifle Can Shoot Two Calibers — .17 and .22
Here is the Vudoo V-22 action in an MPA chassis. You can have one .22 LR barrel for NRL22 Matches and another 17 HM2 barrel for varminting. Best of both worlds. Both cartridge types will run from the same magazine, with no modifications required other than a barrel swap. WARNING: Never shoot a .22 LR through a .17-Caliber barrel!
About the Vudoo V-22 Action — Important Design Features
The Vudoo V-22 action resembles a Remington 40X action at first glance. However, there are many key differences. Vudoo’s engineers explain: “First off, the V-22 departs from the 40X in that the 40X was a full-size, centerfire receiver converted to handle the diminutive .22 LR cartridge. The V-22 has been designed from the ground up as a true-to-scale Rimfire receiver that fits the Rem 700 footprint as far as stocks and chassis systems go. The V-22 also runs a full size short action bottom metal (DBM) and our V-2210 magazine has an AICS form factor so it pops right in Chassis’ or other DBM’s made for such.
V-22 Actions Boast Controlled-Round Feeding
Vudoo’s V-22 action has a unique control-round-feed design. The bolt fully controls the rimfire cartridge from the time it leaves the magazine until it ejects the spent round out the ejection port. The significance of that is two-fold. Great feed and extraction reliability and…equally as important, the cartridge is controlled in a way that it never touches anything on its entrance into the bore. There is no feed ramp, nor does the projectile go in at an angle that might damage it in any way. Potential bullet damage is avoided through the V-22’s smart design.
17 Mach 2 — Best Rimfire Varmint Bang for the Buck?
If you are looking for a capable, squirrel-busting round or a fun plinking round, you should definitely consider the 17 Mach 2, especially since CCI has committed to production of the little cartridge. CCI now offers its “Gen 2″ 17 Mach 2 VNT Ammo. This features a Speer bullet with a very thin jacket and yellow polymer tip. G1 BC is 0.125 with 2010 FPS muzzle Velocity. CCI claims “explosive terminal performance” on small varmints.
Considering that 17 HMR ammo is typically running $17 to $22 a box (when you can find it), the 17 Mach 2 is an excellent value by comparison. It is available right now for $8.99 per 50ct box at Sportsman’s Warehouse. That’s just $0.18 per round. Other vendors have 17 Mach 2 in stock now for $10-$12/box.
When you consider overall “bang for the buck”, for many shooters, it makes sense to use the 17 Mach 2 rather than a 17 HMR or 17 WSM. You save money, barrel life is a little longer, and the 17 Mach 2 is still a much more potent cartridge than the .22 LR. Check out this comparison, and note how the 17 Mach 2 has a much flatter trajectory than the .22 LR. For small varmint shooting, we think the 17 Mach 2 is clearly the better choice.
Hornady’s 17 Mach 2 has a 2100 FPS muzzle velocity vs. 1255 FPS for “High-Velocity” .22 LR.
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Are you a do-it-yourself kind of guy with a creative eye? Then you’ll love the FREE Target Generator from the folks at ShooterShed.com. This free, interactive webpage allows you to design a variety of fun targets, including grids, benchrest-type Score Shooting targets, sight-in targets, and even playing card targets. Choose the paper size and orientation (vertical or horizontal), then select the number of target elements on the page. For example, you could have four (4) bulls or 52 playing cards. Then click the Style TAB to choose your target style. Use the OPTIONS TAB to overlay a grid on the target, choose squares or diamonds, or include load information blocks. For bullseye targets, you can control the number, color, and spacing (diameter) of the rings. LINK to TARGET GENERATOR.
Click the TARGET STYLE TAB to select one of many target styles, including NBRSA Benchrest targets and 20+ types of NRA bullseye targets, scaled to distance:
Benchrest
Bullseye
Shapes
NRA High Power
NRA Pistol
NRA Rimfire
Images
Playing Cards
Load Test Blocks
The program provides a preview of each target you generate. There are controls to choose border and fill colors. If you like a particular design, save the file, and then print as many targets as you want. Check it out, this program is fun and handy to use. Here are five (5) targets your Editor created just for this article. With a bit of practice, you can be generating your own custom targets in minutes. We just created the green diamonds grid target in 5 minutes this morning. Have fun!
About the Creator of the Target Generator
The Target Generator program was created by Rod Brown of Sheridan, Wyoming. Rod tells us: “I build custom rifles and coach shooters. I’ve got a 100-yard range out my back door. I shoot short- and long-range benchrest competitively around the country. I’m a full-time software development consultant and an FFL holder. When I’m not developing custom software for my clients, I’m usually fiddling in the shop, building a custom benchrest rifle, traveling to a match, chambering a barrel, or reloading some ammunition.
Story tip from Boyd Allen. We welcome reader submissions.
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It didn’t take long. Democratic Party politicians in Washington are moving to ban semi-auto, modern sporting rifles. During his campaign, Joe Biden promised to ban so-called “assault rifles” and now Democratic U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (CA) has introduced legislation to do just that. Feinstein’s New Senate bill, introduced as the Assault Weapons Ban of 2021, is Feinstein’s latest attempt to block gun purchases and scuttle the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. An identical bill has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressman David N. Cicilline (D-R.I.).
God forbid Feinstein should craft legislation to actually deal with the crime, drug abuse, homelessness, and crumbling infrastructure in her home turf of San Francisco, California. No, she doesn’t care about that. That’s because she has no answers, and she knows that Democratic-party policies have fostered ALL those problems. So she wants to target guns once again, though there is zero evidence that past semi-auto gun bans have had a measurable effect on overall, national violent crime rates.
• Bans the sale, manufacture, transfer and importation of 205 military-style assault weapons by name. Owners may keep existing weapons.
• Bans any assault weapon with the capacity to utilize a magazine that is not a fixed ammunition magazine and has one or more military characteristics including a pistol grip, a forward grip, a barrel shroud, a threaded barrel or a folding or telescoping stock. Owners may keep existing weapons.
• Bans magazines and other ammunition feeding devices that hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition, which allow shooters to quickly fire many rounds without needing to reload. Owners may keep existing magazines.
• Requires a background check on any future sale, trade, or gifting of an assault weapon covered by the bill.
• Requires that grandfathered assault weapons are stored using a secure gun storage or safety device like a trigger lock.
• Prohibits the transfer of high-capacity ammunition magazines.
• Bans bump-fire stocks and other devices that allow semi-automatic weapons to fire at fully automatic rates.
Senator Feinstein declared: “We’re now seeing a rise in domestic terrorism, and military-style assault weapons are increasingly becoming the guns of choice for these dangerous groups. I’m hopeful that with the new administration and Democratic control of the Senate, we can finally … remove these deadly weapons from our communities.” NOTE: This is disingenuous to say the least. If Feinstein was really concerned about “domestic terrorism” she would be doing something about Antifa and BLM rioters.
In the Senate, the Assault Weapons Ban is cosponsored by Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Mark R. Warner (D-Va.), Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawaii), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.).
Read those names. Notice that there is not ONE Republican on the list. This anti-gun legislation is pure partisan politics folks, pushed by a biased, career politician and supported by a Democratic Party President who is suffering from dementia. While Feinstein and Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer hide behind fences and razor wire, with thousands of armed National Guard troops serving as their “palace guards”, they seek to destroy your right to armed self-defense as guaranteed by the Second Amendment. Without question, after these corrupt politicians ban all mag-fed semi-autos, they will come after other guns, until their mission of disarming America is accomplished.
* There are certain “carve-outs” in the legislation. The bill exempts by name more than 2,200 guns for hunting, household defense, or recreational purposes. The bill also includes a grandfather clause that exempts all weapons lawfully possessed at the date of enactment.
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The 6mmBR Norma cartridge has spawned many great variants in multiple calibers: 6mm Dasher, 6BRA, 22 BR, 22 Dasher, 30 BR and others. This article is about a handsome 22 BR Rem-action varmint rig.
Accuracy is outstanding and with Roy, Mike, my grandson and myself shooting this rifle I don’t believe it has missed more than three hogs out of over 100 we shot at one summer. This rifle is carried in a ceiling rack in the truck where it’s handy and is used by the first person that grabs it when a hog is sighted if we are moving between setups. The Varmint reticle on the Leupold (shown below) is nice for quick hold-overs as you change distances.”
