Springfield Armory’s new 9mm SA-35 pistol has been chosen as the NRA’s American Rifleman Handgun of the Year, and 2022 Golden Bullseye Winner. The NRA Publications Golden Bullseye Awards acknowledge important new products. The winners are selected by a committee of NRA Publications staff, representing more than a century of collective experience in the shooting and hunting industry.
Compared to the classic Browning Hi-Power pistol on which it is based, the new SA-35 offers enhanced controls, modern sights, improved feed ramp design, beveled mag-well, and increased 15-round capacity. Additionally, the SA-35 dispenses with the magazine disconnect as found in the original design. This provides the ability for magazines to drop freely. The new SA-35 also features forged steel parts for strength and durability.
“We are incredibly proud that the SA-35 has been given this prestigious award,” said Dennis Reese, CEO of Springfield Armory. “With this pistol, we have taken a revered design and updated it for today’s shooters.”
Springfield Armory’s new SA-35 semi-auto pistol takes advantage of modern materials and manufacturing techniques, while retaining the appeal of the J.M. Browning’s original P-35 design. The 9mm features a forged carbon steel frame and slide and a cold hammer-forged barrel.
Enhancements include subtle but significant changes to barrel feed ramp and extractor geometry to ensure the SA-35 will work with today’s defensive rounds. A factory-tuned trigger, 15-round flush-fit magazine, beveled magazine well, re-contoured “no-bite” hammer design, modern Tactical Rack sights, extended thumb safety and more round out the package. The SA-35 is compatible with the original pistol’s design, ensuring access to the broad selection of aftermarket parts and accessories available.
Guns America has done a thorough Review of the new Springfield Armory SA-35.
The modern SA-35 is based on the original Browning Hi-Power, aka the P-35. The Browning Hi-Power military pistol, considered the best 9mm handgun of all time by some collectors, is one of the most widely-used handguns in history, and is found in over fifty countries.
The initial Browning Hi-Power design came from John Moses Browning, but was then finalized by Dieudonné Saive at Fabrique Nationale (FN) in Belgium. Browning died in 1926, several years before the design was finalized. There have been many variants based on the Browning Hi-Power and many clones as well. See: Top Ten 9mm Handguns of All Time.
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The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP), starting this month, have authorized CMP League Matches at CMP-affiliated clubs throughout the USA. This will give shooters the ability to enjoy CMP-type competitions at their local ranges. The new CMP League Match Program will be open to any CMP-Affiliated Clubs. Participants’ average scores will be computed by CMP’s Competition Tracker, with awards distributed to the top competitors from around the country.
Beginning January 2022, the CMP will sanction a series of simulated head-to-head rifle, pistol, and CMP Games events for competitors to participate in from their home ranges. A CMP sanctioned match is an event hosted or sponsored by a CMP affiliated organization, where match sponsors agree to use CMP Competition Rules in conducting CMP Highpower Rifle, CMP Pistol and CMP Games competitions. Types of League Matches and available timeframes will include:
Rifle: March 15 – June 15 and/or August 15 – November 15
50 shot National Match Course (Non-EIC) (Full or Reduced)
4X20 (80 shots, Individual) (Full or Reduced)
Pistol: Outdoor Pistol League May 1 – October 31; Indoor Pistol League November 1 – April 30
30 Shot National Match Pistol Course (full or reduced)
900 Pistol Aggregate (.22 Rimfire, Centerfire, .45 Caliber or Service Pistol)
CMP Games Type Match: March 15-June 15 and/or August 15 – November 15
30 Shot As-Issued Military Rifle Course | Carbine | Rimfire Sporter
How to Get Your Local Club Involved
Interested clubs will need to fill out an application and also submit a match program. Once approved, the match director will be sent a spreadsheet to record official scores that will be compared among other participating clubs. Fees for these events include $10 per league to sanction, plus $2 per competitor.
CMP League INFO, including applications and match instructions, can be found on the CMP website at CMP.org/competitions/cmp-league-matches. Or call CMP Competition Support at 419-635-2141, ext. 714.
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The Great American Outdoor Show returns to Pennsylvania in February 2022. The big event, the world’s biggest consumer outdoor activity show, takes place February 5-13, 2022 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The Great American Outdoor Show will feature nearly 1,100 exhibitors in nine halls covering 650,000 square feet. In the booths will be shooting sports manufacturers, boat and RV dealers, hunting and fishing retailers, and more than 400 outfitters and boat captains.
“After a brief hiatus due to pandemic restrictions, we are thrilled to once again gather in Dauphin County for the world’s largest outdoor show. Next month, the nation’s best outfitters, outdoor experts, and retailers will gather in Harrisburg for a show you will not want to miss!” said Joe DeBergalis, NRA Executive Director of General Operations.
Many Hands-On Activities at the Show, Plus Nearly 200 Seminars
Visitors can expect to enjoy a wide variety of outdoor gear and family activities, including testing their archery skills for prizes in the 3D Bowhunter Challenge, experiencing world-class fishing lessons from pro anglers at the 5,000-gallon Hawg Tank, participating in almost 200 hunting and fishing seminars, and meeting their favorite celebrities and outdoor personalities. To learn more about the 2022 Great American Outdoor Show (GAOS), including guest appearances, special events, and ticket sales, visit Greatamericanoutdoorshow.org or visit the GAOS Facebook Page.
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Field Test and Hunt Review by Colton Reid
Dawn breaks. It’s a brisk 28 degrees. I sit concealed amongst a grove of fallen trees near the edge of a steep decline where I can see the canyon below and opposing hillsides. Snow blankets the mountainous slopes with patches of fir and naked aspen woven into the landscape. The soft glow of sunrise brightens southeastern slopes and illuminates a solitary statue of orange and green on an adjacent ridge. His presence alerts an already wary elk of the danger that moved in the night before.
It is second rifle season in Colorado and I have a cow elk tag in hand. I would love to say this is not my first rodeo, but in many ways it is. I’m on my first hunt in pursuit of an elk and my first hunt in Colorado. It is, however, the second test of my newest piece of hunting equipment — Leica’s latest, state-of-the-art Geovid 3200.COM 10×42 rangefinding binoculars.
Early morning light in Colorado, on a hunt for elk…
These laser rangefinder binoculars I purchased for myself from the good people at EuroOptic.com. I should note that I am not sponsored by EuroOptic or Leica. I happen to know a few people at EuroOptic and they are a knowledgeable friendly group who use the gear they sell.
When I evaluate optics I have a clear priority in how I rank them. At the top of the list is optical quality. That is, how clear is the optical image? How crisp are the edges? Can I resolve and distinguish similar small items? Anyone who has been hunting in the great American West knows that most of your time is spent behind optics of some sort, so it is best to buy optics that make it easier to spot your target and are easy on your eyes.
Second on the list is a combination of weight and durability. I tend to hunt rugged backcountry terrain, so weight is a big consideration for my trips. But if something is feather light but breaks when you sneeze? That isn’t good either. So a combination of a robust rubberized body with modest additional weight is desired. And since the Geovid 3200.COM is a combination optic, i.e. it includes a laser rangefinder, then that helps with weight since I don’t need a separate LRF.
Third on this list is the rangefinder’s performance. By performance I mean mostly accuracy and precision of the measurement. I can live with a max of 500 yards, as long as the measurement is correct and repeatable to within a handful of yards. If, however, the measurement is off by 10% (50 yards in the case of a 500-yard reading) or measurement to measurement varies by say 20 yards, then that will dramatically affect my ability to make an ethical shot.
The Geovid’s laser ranging beam showed excellent precision. Here it picks up a single male pronghorn (not broadside) at nearly 400 yards. The return was immediate.
Other considerations such as ergonomics or comfort are less important to me because they start to move away from “functional” requirements. That is, they don’t make a big difference when it comes to spotting and harvesting an animal. So while I do think about “nice to have” features when selecting equipment, they are of lower consideration than the functional requirements.
With my framework for evaluation laid out then, here is my assessment. The Leica Geovid 3200.COM 10x42s are high-quality rangefinding binoculars — well made, with good materials, and a thoughtful design. They weigh a mere 34.6 ounces (about 2 lbs.) and are built to withstand more than a few falls. They also come with both objective and ocular lens caps. Even though they are built tough, I would not take these into the field without some sort of binocular case. I personally use a Badlands Bino case (see top and bottom photos) but there are plenty of other good options.
This 6-minute Leica factory video shows the technical features and operations of the Geovid 3200.COM series of rangefinding binoculars. Worth watching:
The glass is amazing — remarkably good (and I have high standards). The image is extremely crisp, noticeably better than my tried and true pair of Swarovski Habicht 10×40 Porro prism binoculars. This matters because the exaggerated hand motion observed in higher power optics, aka “shake”, initially made me dizzy. Leica does offer a lower power unit, the Geovid 3200.com 8×42, for those who prefer less magnification. One could argue that the optics being too sharp means they aren’t a good fit, however, my philosophy is to get the best gear possible and figure out how to use it to the max potential. My solution here was an ultralight tripod to stabilize the image when glassing or if weight is a factor I place my arms on my knees while leaning against a tree or rock. Scouting with these binoculars over long periods on a stable platform is a pleasant experience. Shown belong is the Geovid mounted on my tripod.
The Geovids present a bright, crisp image, with excellent distance distinction (pop out effect) — all characteristics of high quality optics. The image at the edge of the field of view is less sharp, but that is typical, even for scientific glass. Because the binocular image quality is so good, the image quality change when I go to my spotting scope is a much shorter jump than with previous binoculars. That means I can resolve more items with the binoculars and therefore only go to my Swarovski spotting scope when I really want to clarify something. Overall A+ optics.
Over 950 yards — yes that is what we were looking for…
The rangefinder is top shelf. One innovation I like about these rangefinding binoculars is that Leica put the laser source outside of the optic tube. That means the source is unimpeded by additional optics allowing for more power transmission and reflection. They also implemented the patented Perger prism which incorporates the rangefinder into the base optical design as opposed to using extra optics to “modify” a non-laser rangefinder configuration. As an engineer I love the idea of function integration and minimizing components. It usually makes for a more efficient and superior performing design.
One other impressive feature is the ability to link to a rangefinder program. The Leica website explains: “Thanks to Bluetooth® connection, [the Geovid 3200.com] can be paired to either the Leica Hunting App to adjust and manage quickly and easily on the fly, or to a LINK-enabled Kestrel windmeter to get results from the Kestrel right in your Range Finder[.] In addition, users will benefit from various integrated atmospheric sensors, such as temperature, air pressure and inclination sensors, producing angle-compensated distance measering for shooting uphill or downhill with maximum precision.”
Testing Laser Ranging Performance
To test the Geovid’s laser rangefinder I did my usual measurement of different objects near my house and checked the accuracy with Google earth. I was able to consistently range larger objects (trees, hills, rocks) out to about 2200 yards, which is longer than I would ever shoot, but good when planning where to move for my next vantage point. I was also able to range a large reflective target (pedestrian overpass) out to a staggering 3300+ yards (see below).
In this video, the Geovid ranges a concrete pedestrian overpass at distance of 3334 yards.
I suspect the max range I can consistently get with large, non-reflective objects is somewhere around 2400 yards, but didn’t have the opportunity to test that specific distance. The rangefinder had some trouble at shorter distances and through thick branches. Around 25 to 45 yards I would get several yards variation when ranging tree trunks. Tall grass and a nest of tree branches would also interfere with the measurement. I would either get a slightly incorrect reading or no reading at all. This might come up if I am trying to range a buck bedded in tall grass. That is a drawback for me because that is a typical situation in archery. My workaround was to range nearby objects and estimate the handful of yards separation between the ranged item and target.
Summary: Geovid 3200.COM Rangefinding Binoculars Are Excellent
In summary, the Leica Geovid 3200.COM rangefinder binoculars are excellent in all key respects. The glass is top-notch and the rangefinding performance is very impressive. The modern Bluetooth connectivity is a plus. These Leica Geovids offer a slightly better price point than their equivalent competitors and are the optics I bought with my own money. I doubt you will be disappointed.
New for 2022 — Leica Geovid Pro 32 RangeFinding Binoculars
Smaller, Lighter, with Applied Ballistics and GPS Mapping Integration
Trading on the success of the Geovid 3200.COM series, on 1/6/2022, Leica announced a new smaller, lighter version, with enhanced software — the Leica Geovid Pro 32. Weight 30.6 ounces, this is about 4 oz. lighter than the original, and 0.83 inches shorter. With notably smaller objective lenses (32mm for the Pro 32 vs. 42mm with the Geovid 3200.com) these new Geovid Pro 32s should be easier to hold for extended periods, but they may give up a bit of low light capability compared to their bigger brothers.
The other big news is enhanced software in the Pro 32: “Leica Geovid Pro was built ground up to combine the on-board atmospheric sensors with NEW on-board Applied Ballistics[.] The Geovid Pro comes standard with Applied Ballistics Ultralight … upgradable to Applied Ballistics Sportsman or Elite. The Geovid Pro 32 now also offers advanced GPS tracking connectivity, Leica ProTrack, to guide the user to the target based on the last ranged measurement. The Geovid Pro 32 is the first premium rangefinder to feature GPS mapping integration through BaseMaps, Google Maps and Garmin mapping.”
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Here is a simple, low-cost way to get reliable readings of case headspace when you “bump” the shoulder back on your 6BR, .243 Win, or .308 Win brass. Credit Boyd Allen for this tip. First, you’ll need one .45 acp case (.40 SW works too), with primer removed. Make sure the pistol case is trimmed square and that it is round. We recommend you first size it, trim it and chamfer. Next, take the .45 acp (or .40 SW) case and slip it over the neck of a fired, unsized rifle case with the primer removed. Align the two cases between the jaws of your calipers and note the length from rim to rim (See photo below, with striped case).
OK, now you have the length for a fired rifle case BEFORE sizing. Next, take a full-length sized rifle case (without primer) and do the same thing, placing the pistol case over the neck of the FL-sized case (Bottom Photo). The difference between the two numbers is the amount of “bump” or set-back you are applying to the shoulder. Here the difference is .0015″. The amount of bump you need varies with your chamber and your load, but .0015-.002″ is a good initial setting. By using this simple tool, you can avoid bumping the shoulder too much. This will also help you set-up the depth of your full-length die to get the proper amount of bump each time.
Other Pistol Brass Types Work Too: Some folks have used this method but they prefer to work with 10mm or .40 SW brass rather than a .45 acp, because slightly smaller-diameter pistol cases may conform to the shoulders of their sized rifle cases a bit better. That works fine — use whatever pistol brass case works best for your rifle brass. We got very repeatable results with .45 acp brass but the method also works with 10mm or .40 SW brass. Just be sure the pistol brass has been sized, trimmed, chamfered, and de-burred.
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Article based on report by Gary Anderson, DCM Emeritus
The CMP has posted updated 2022 rulebooks on the CMP website. The CMP competition program began in 1996 with two disciplines, Service Rifle and Service Pistol. CMP competitions have now grown to include separate disciplines for Service Rifle, Service Pistol, .22 Rimfire Pistol, Service Revolver, As-Issued Military Rifle (Garand, Springfield, Vintage Military Rifle, M1 Carbine, Modern Military Rifle, Vintage Sniper Rifle), As-Issued Pistol (M9, M1911, M&P Service Pistol) and Rimfire Sporter Rifle competitions where the CMP is the national governing body. The CMP also issues rules for Match Pistol (3-gun pistol), Long-Range and Mid-Range Rifle, Smallbore Rifle (position and prone), Air Rifle, and Air Pistol to govern events it conducts in conjunction with the National Matches, CMP Competition Games, and other match sanctioning programs.
To govern all these target rifle and pistol disciplines, the CMP now publishes five different rulebooks. Here are links to download the 2022 editions of these rulebooks:
If anyone has questions about any 2022 CMP Competitions Rulebooks, contact the CMP Competitions Department at competitions@thecmp.org or (419) 635-2141, ext. 714 or 729. For Smallbore Rule questions, contact (419) 635-2141, ext. 730 or bdonoho@thecmp.org. For Air Rifle/Air Pistol questions, please contact (419) 635-2141, ext. 702 or airgun@thecmp.org.
Photo courtesy Jonathan Ocab, who himself earned the Distinguished Rifleman Badge.
Here are the Highpower (Centerfire) and Smallbore (Rimfire) Rifle Rules Changes for 2022. Other changes (e.g. Pistol Rules Changes) are provided below that:
CMP HIGHPOWER RIFLE COMPETITION RULE CHANGES
The CMP Highpower Rifle program includes 1) traditional Service Rifle events conducted according to National Trophy Match rules (no sighters, starting rapid-fire series from standing), 2) Highpower Rifle events conducted according to CMP Cup Match rules (with sighters, starting rapid-fire in position), 3) Long-Range Rifle (prone and F-class events at 800, 900, and 1000 yards) and Mid-Range Rifle (prone and F-class events at 600 yards). The CMP program for Mid- and Long-Range competitions now includes: 1) Match Rifle Prone Long-Range, 2) Service Rifle Prone Long-Range, 2) F-Class Long-Range, 3) AR Tactical Long-Range, 4) Prone Mid-Range, F-Class Mid-Range 6) AR Tactical Mid-Range, and 7) Service Rifle Mid-Range events.
There are no major changes in the 2022 Highpower Rifle rules, but there are several technical changes that competitors and match sponsors will want to note. For example, Eye and Ear Protection is now required during Pit Duty:
Rule H2.6.9. Residency requirements for National Trophy Team Matches were changed to allow competitors who live in states that do not enter teams to join and compete for a team from an adjoining state. Competitors who wish to take advantage of this authorization must apply to CMP Competitions for annual approvals.
Rule H3.6.2. The rule requiring the wearing of eye and hearing protection on active Highpower Rifle ranges was clarified to also require wearing eye and hearing protection when in Highpower Rifle target pits.
Rules H3.8.2 & H6.5. Firing times for rapid-fire series on electronic targets are clarified. To equalize firing times between pit-operated and electronic targets, 3 seconds are added to electronic target firing times to compensate for the time it takes for pit-operated targets to rise from the pits to their fully elevated positions.
Rule H3.9.3 c). The allowance for an extra sighter when CMP Cup Matches at 600 yards are interrupted for more than 3 minutes was extended to also apply in all Long-Range events at 800, 900, and 1000 yards.
Rule H3.10.1. A CMP sanctioned Highpower Rifle match may be fired on ranges that have both electronic and pit-operated targets if random squadding is used. A new rule clarifies that for Service Rifle EIC Matches, all Non-Distinguished competitors must fire on the same type of target.
Rule H3.10.9. A procedure for correcting scores recorded in error was added.
Rule H3.10.10 h). A procedure for handling shots that were inadvertently not recorded was added.
Rule H3.10.11 b). If there is a missing shot with no evidence of a crossfire or off-target miss and it is confirmed that the competitor fired all ten shots, the competitor will be given the score of the lowest value hit for the missing shot. The previous requirement that the nine visible hits all had to be nines or tens was dropped.
Rule H5.2.2. F-Class Mid-Range 600-yard 3×20 competitors will be allowed unlimited sighters before the first 20-shot stage.
Rule H6.6.6 d). A procedure was added for allowing a sighter in matches where electronic targets are used for events where an additional sighter may be authorized after an interruption.
SMALLBORE RIFLE COMPETITION RULE CHANGES
The first CMP Smallbore Rifle Competition rulebook was released in 2018. These rules were used to conduct National Matches Smallbore Rifle Position and Prone Championships in 2018, 2019 and 2021. (The 2020 Championship was cancelled due to covid.) One of the most encouraging 2021 National Matches developments was an increase in competitors in the National Matches Smallbore Rifle Position Championship and the high percentage of those competitors who were juniors. Entries were up 44%, with 137 competitors. An impressive 88% of those competitors were juniors!
There are no significant Smallbore Rifle rule changes for 2022, but there are a couple of program developments to note:
Smallbore Rifle Distinguished Badges. Smallbore Distinguished Badges were introduced in 2020, but Covid prevented this new award opportunity from getting off the ground. With a new Camp Perry Open Smallbore Rifle event in May, the National Matches Smallbore Championship in July, and the expectation that there will be sanctioned Smallbore EIC Matches in 2022, the first presentation of Smallbore Distinguished Badges could occur in the coming year.
Smallbore Position Course of Fire. The CMP Smallbore Rifle rulebook mandates that Smallbore Rifle Position EIC Matches be 3×40 120-shot courses of fire, but if the pending ISSF change to 3×20 three-position events is finalized, CMP Smallbore Position EIC Matches likely will be changed to recognize 3×20 courses of fire as EIC Matches later in 2022.
Junior Age Limit Change. Since the Smallbore Rifle matches attract a high percentage of juniors, the age group rule change that extends junior eligibility to the day of a competitor’s 21st birthday, intermediate junior eligibility to the 18th birthday and sub-junior eligibility to the 15th birthday will impact many juniors who compete in these matches.
Savage Arms has won a second major award for its innovative Savage Impulse straight-pull hunting rifle. This is the only straight-pull centerfire rifle currently produced by a major U.S. manufacturer. The rifle has won the coveted NRA American Hunter 2022 Golden Bullseye Award as Rifle of the Year. Previously, Guns & Ammo magazine editors named Savage’s Impulse the 2021 Rifle of the Year.
“The new Savage Impulse is more than just a good first attempt at an American-made straight-pull,” wrote American Hunter magazine’s Associate Editor David Herman. “It is a rifle that can take long-range precision shots with ease, yet is in its element stacking lead in rapid fashion. It would make an excellent addition to any serious hunter’s arsenal.”
Beth Shimanski, Savage’s Marketing Director, says the design is a game-changer for hunters: “The speed of Impulse’s straight-pull action has changed the way Americans think about hunting rifles. This design combines everything Savage has learned about accuracy and reliability with innovation that provides marksmen and women with new capabilities with new capabilities.”
Savage’s Impulse series of straight-pull bolt rifles is the first American-designed and crafted straight-pull centerfire rifle. The new Impulse features an innovative Hexlock bolt-locking mechanism with six spherical bearings that move radially outward into a ring in the barrel extension, thereby locking the bolt in place. That barrel extension is held in the receiver assembly by four cross-bolts on the lower front section. Ahead of the barrel extension is a conventional recoil lug and a familiar Savage barrel nut.
Savage Impulse Straight-Pull Rifle — Overview
Savage claims the new system offers the cycling speed of a semi-auto, with the accuracy of a bolt-action. However, based on the videos that Savage has posted, the cycling of the Impulse’s straight-pull bolt does not seem to be as smooth as some European straight-pulls, such as the Blaser R8, Merkel RX Helix, and Strasser RS 14. We’ve tried those Austrian/German rifles and you really can cycle them very smoothly. From the video the Savage Impulse appears to require somewhat more muscle and effort. Watch below. The video will launch at the 15-second mark for a comparison between the Impulse and a conventional Savage bolt-action:
Savage Speed Comparison — Impulse vs. Regular Bolt Action
Savage says: “Conventional bolt-actions require four steps to cycle the bolt. Impulse simplifies the process with a simple back-and-forth motion.”
Advantages of Straight-Pull Cycling System
What is the advantage of a straight-pull system? You should be able to cycle faster, and (ideally) maintain your cheek-weld and target view. Savage says: “The smooth bolt throw allows a shooter to cycle rounds intuitively, without the need for the standard four changes-of-direction common to a conventional bolt’s path-of-travel. Impulse reduces split times and allows a shooter to manipulate the bolt without losing [his] cheek weld. The bolt travels out and back and shooters don’t have to take their eyes off the target.” Sounds good, but if you watch the above videos, it’s not as wonderful as claimed. That said, if one slows down a bit, a straight pull should allow the shooter to maintain his cheek weld.
When the bolt is closed, the Hexlock system holds it in place instead of conventional lugs. With the Hexlock, six (6) hardened steel bearings lock the bolt in place inside the receiver’s barrel extension. Savage says “As pressure increases, Hexlock’s hold tightens, ensuring that there can be no rearward movement of the bolt. Once the round has left the barrel, the pressure subsides, and the action can safely open again with the straight pull of the bolt handle.”
Savage Impulse — Hexlock System (Bolt Locks in Barrel Extension)
The cleverly-designed, modular Impulse bolt can be disassembled without tools. And the bolt-handle can be moved to either side easily. Impulse barrels are connected via barrel extension which is held in the action/receiver by a lower-side four-bolt barrel clamp.
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Shooting Industry Magazine offers a very comprehensive 2022 New Product Showcase. This major product feature highlights products from more than 100 manufacturers. The first 58 items were featured in the December 2021 New Product Showcase, Part I. Another 70+ new products are featured the recently-released Product Showcase Part II article (January 2022), while Part III is slated for February 2022. CLICK HERE to access recent issues of Shooting Industry Magazine.
CZ recently introduced the new CZ 600 line of centerfire rifles. The series includes four unique models, with a variety of stock types, barrel profiles, action lengths, and chamberings. User-friendly CZ 600 features include 60-degree bolt throw, adjustable triggers, and the ability to swap barrels/chamberings using optional conversion kits. The CZ 600 Series includes four brand new models: Alpha, Lux, Trail, and Range.* These are designed for accuracy, modularity, and smooth cycling. Expect CZ 600s at dealers in early 2022.
Controlled-Feed Action with 60° Throw: CZ 600 Rifles have a 60-degree bolt throw. This cycles faster than a 90-degree bolt, with more clearance between bolt and optic, allowing for larger scopes. All CZ 600 models boast an oversized bolt knob for improved control with gloved hands. And the actions have controlled-round-feed. The 2-position safety allows bolt cycling with the safety engaged.
EOTECH 1-10x28mm Vudu FFP Scope
EOTECH’s new Vudu 1-10x28mm First Focal Plane (FFP) riflescope is a good choice for hunting and tactical applications. It can focus extremely close, but the 10X max power is great for spotting game at long ranges. The Vudu features a 34mm, one-piece aircraft aluminum tube and single-piece eyepiece with removable throw-lever. The glass-etched illuminated reticle and first focal plane design allows for distance estimation at any magnification and lighting condition. The low-profile elevation turret includes a push/pull locking system and a capped windage turret for a secure zero.
CCI Lead-Free Blazer Pistol Ammunition
CCI’s new Lead-Free “Clean-Fire” brass-cased ammunition used a lead-free Clean-Fire primer combined with flat-nose, lead-free projectiles. This CCI says, “provides consistent, accurate performance on targets without leaving any lead behind on the range or in the air”. The lead-free bullets are as safe and accurate as traditional FMJ bullets. In CCI’s Clean-fire line, 9mm Luger 100-grain cartridges are available in 50-round boxes.
Howard Leight Impact Sport Muffs with Bluetooth 5.0
Howard Leight’s new Impact Sport Bluetooth electronic earmuffs feature Bluetooth 5.0 technology, allowing users to stream audio from their Bluetooth-enabled devices. The comfortable, slim-profile ear cups feature four-hour auto shutoff, automatic attenuation of potentially dangerous noise over 82 dB and up to 4X amplification of ambient sound. The earmuffs also deliver a 0.5 millisecond reaction time for a more natural acoustic experience at the shooting range, or anytime attenuation of loud sounds over 82 dB occurs. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery delivers up to 20 hours of operation per charge. New sizes and color: Impact Sport Classic electronic hearing protection is now being offering in a new Youth/Adult Small size that fits better on many youth, women, and men with smaller heads. Youth/Adult Small sizes are launching in new colors: Metallic Charcoal Gray and Berry Pink.
Kimber Mfg. RAPIDE 9mm 1911 Series
For 2022, Kimber Mfg. is adding the RAPIDE DAWN and RAPIDE Scorpius pistols to its Micro 9 family. RAPIDE DAWN pistols feature a frame and slide finished in Silver KimPro II with brush-polished flats and a Gold TiN finished barrel, and include gray/black RAPIDE G-10 grips. The RAPIDE Scorpius pistols are finished in Black KimPro II with brush-polished flats, black DLC-finished barrel and Black RAPIDE G-10 grips. The RAPIDE 1911s are chambered in 9mm Luger with stainless-steel frames and 5″ stainless 1:16″-twist barrels. The RAPIDE series ships with a 9-round magazine. The two new RAPIDE models feature TRUGLO TFX Pro Day/Night sights with orange front ring.
Alliance Sports Group Smart Knife
From Alliance Sports Group the SmartKnife+ is a small pocketknife cleverly augmented for additional uses. The Alliance Smartknife+ includes a bottle opener, 0.25″ bit driver with magnetically-stored Phillips bit, three flathead screwdrivers, 6mm-14mm wrenches, wire strippers, pry bar, 2″ ruler and 5cm ruler. The 2.375” partially serrated drop-point blade is 420 stainless steel with black-oxide coating. The multi-use knife measures 4.375 inches long, so it can easily be carried in a pocket.
RMT Nomad AR-Platform Pivot Tech Trigger
The Nomad Trigger from RMT offers patented Pivot Technology, allowing the trigger to adjust freely to the shooter’s natural position. The Nomad Trigger is engineered to move and index correctly every time, allowing the firearm to remain stable through a variety of shooting positions and trigger pulls. The housing and trigger are both made of anodized 7075 aluminum with 440c stainless steel. The Nomad’s hammer is S7 tool steel. The Nomad is set set at 3 lbs. from the factory (not adjustable), with 6 degrees rotating/pivoting freedom and extremely short positive reset. RMT trigger have a lifetime warranty.
ISOtunes Sport DEFY Slim Electronic Muffs with BlueTooth
Here is another Bluetooth-enabled set of lightweight, slim electronic ear-muffs. These muffs can be used with plugs underneath for increased noise protection. SafeMax Technology limits volume output to 85 dB, while Tactical Sound Control amplifies hearing by 8X and protects against high-impact noises (21 dB NRR). Bluetooth 4.2 allows for monitoring devices up to 30-feet away. The DEFY Slim sports a slim, lightweight design for maximum comfort. These ISOTunes Sport DEFY Slim muffs are powered by two AAA batteries for up to 25 hours continuous run time.
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Now here is an example of truly impressive marksmanship skills and amazing aiming from a USAMU soldier. From a standing position, SPC Ivan Roe shoots a tiny aspirin pill off the top of a balloon — without breaking the balloon. In fact, he does this twice … with iron sights no less.
Watch Video to See Aspirin Pill Shot Twice off Balloon:
The first time the pill sits on a small piece of tape just millimeters above the upper edge of the balloon (Time mark 00:40-45). But the second time, the aspirin pill lies flat on the top on the balloon — an even tougher challenge. Watch Ivan nail that flat pill again without hitting the balloon at 00:59. No that is truly impressive — and remember it was done from standing with Iron sights!
SPC Ivan Roe was using a German Feinwerkbau, an elite precision air rifle favored by Olympic and World Cup competitors. Originally from Montana, SPC Roe is a member of the USAMU International Rifle Team.
Did you like this demonstration of Trick-Shot marksmanship? Then visit the USAMU’s Facebook Page. The USAMU often releases shooting skills/marksmanship videos on Facebook and YouTube, with the Trickshot examples featured on Tuesday. CLICK HERE for another USAMU trick-shot video — hitting a poker chip on a fast-moving target frame with a pistol. Very impressive.
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With all the blacktical rifles and plastic tacticool gear on the market these days, it is great to see some old style craftsmanship — hand-built rifles with colored case-hardened receivers, fine engraving, rich bluing, and beautiful wood. We found just that at the Shiloh Sharps booth at SHOT Show a few years back. There were handsome firearms, with beautiful metal and stunning wood. The heritage style of the Shiloh Sharps rifles harkens back to another era, when the West was still wild, and gifted smiths crafted rifles with pride, skill, and true artistry.
The cartridges shown in the photo (left to right above rifle) are: 45-110, 50-100, 45-90, and 40-70.
This video shows how Shiloh Sharps crafts its rifles, from “Foundry to Finish”:
The Historic Sharps 1874 Lever Action Rifle, An American Classic Shooting USA has featured the 1874 Sharps rifle, a side-hammer breech-loader favored by plains buffalo hunters. Christian Sharps patented his signature rifle design in 1848. The Sharps Model 1874 (shown below) was an updated version, chambered for metallic cartridges. According to firearms historian/author Garry James, the Sharps rifle “came in all sorts of different calibers from .40 all the way up to .50, and jillions of different case lengths and styles and configurations”.
Sharps rifles have enjoyed a bit of modern-day notoriety, thanks to Hollywood. Tom Selleck starred as Matthew Quigley in the hit movie Quigley Down-Under. In a famous scene, Quigley used his 1874 Sharps to hit a wooden bucket at very long range. The Sharps rifles used in the movie were made by Shiloh Rifle company (Powder River Rifle Company). There were actually three Sharps rifles made for the movie. One went to the NRA’s National Firearms Museum while another was raffled off to support NRA shooting programs. The third rifle (Selleck’s Favorite) was sold at auction in 2008.
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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. Natchez — Bushnell Optics Sale
⏺ Save up to 35% on Bushnell rifle scopes and binoculars
You’ll find some serious bargains on Bushnell optics right now at Natchez. Check out the Bushnell optics sale. You’ll find everything from rifle scopes to red dots to rangefinders all at deeply discounted prices. Act fast because the best deals can sell out quickly.
2. Midsouth — RCBS Rotary Case Cleaner (Tumbler), $169.99
⏺ Strong, durable tumbler machine for use with Stainless Media
The RCBS Rotary Case Cleaner tumbling machine is great for cleaning brass inside and out. Set the machine for up to three hours of continuous cleaning at 60 RPM. The rubber-lined drum lowers noise levels significantly. This RCBS product comes with a clear sealing plug with a rubber seal, and a grated drain to separate you brass from media/liquid when done. The screw-on lid features a sturdy lifting handle. Get this machine on sale now for $169.99 at Midsouth. NOTE, this same case tumbler is $223.99 on Amazon without media, so you can save $54 with this Midsouth deal!
3. Midsouth — Winchester .223 Rem Ammo 1000 rds, $599.99
⏺ Excellent chassis rifles and hunting rigs, save 15% with discount
Did Santa bring you a new AR-15 but forgot to leave some ammo? Here’s a very good deal on a 1000-round case of .223 Remington ammo. At only $.60 per round this is one of the best deals we’ve seen for quality, major-brand USA-made ammo. Ammunition continues to be in short supply for popular chamberings so take advantage of this deal before it sells out.
4. Amazon — RCBS Trim Mate Case Prep Center, $169.99
⏺ Excellent chassis rifles and hunting rigs, save 15% with discount
Prepping your cases before loading is important. However case prep chores can be very time-consuming. Save time (and effort) with a case prep center such as RCBS Trim Mate. This all-in-one unit contains six variable, high-speed rotating stations (four at < 350 RPM; two at < 550 RPM). It also features tools included for all stations and a storage area for tools not in use. The Trim Mate performs multiple prep tasks quickly and efficiently -- deburring, chamfering, primer pocket uniforming, and more.
⏺ Great deal on excellent FFP 5X zoom scope for PRS/NRL
Are you in the market for a high quality, First Focal Plane (FFP) scope at a good price? We found this Crimson Trace CTL 3 Series 5-25x56mm rifle scope. Featuring a 34mm tube, a large 56mm objective, and an innovative reticle this scope is a bargain with the nearly $300 savings right now. With a 5X zoom range and 0.1 Milrad clicks, this scope can definitely do the job for PRS/NRL competitions. This Crimson Trace FFP scope has received very positive reviews from purchasers.
⏺ Great kit with 9mm pistol, muffs, eye protection and case
We love finding great deals on pistols especially when they come as a complete kit. Check out this Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield range bundle. It contains the reliable S&W M&P 9mm Shield EZ pistol, a quality Plano hard carry case, safety glasses, and hearing protection.
7. Amazon — Caldwell Target Camera, $177.53
⏺ Effective for under 400 yards at lowest price ever
Every serious shooter should have a target camera. One of the most affordable systems is Caldwell Ballistic Precision Sight-In Target Camera. This high-definition camera can stream 720p video from up to 400 yards away straight to your mobile device. This Caldwell TargetCam features a waterproof housing on camera and transmitter and ships with a tripod and stand. The viewing App is compatible with Android, iPhone, and most tablets. This App allows you to save pictures, add notes, calculate group size, and even record video. If you need a target cam with more range we recommend the LongShot LR-3.
8. Amazon — Dewey Lug Cleaning Kit, $25.69
⏺ Get your action’s internals clean with this complete kit
Cleaning your action’s lug recesses is important to accuracy and good bolt operation. The Dewey Rods bolt action lug recess cleaning kit will allow you to clean the inside of your action and the critical lug recess area. Keeping this area clean ensures your bolt locks up properly every time ensuring consistent ignition and accuracy. The kit comes with brass rod with handle, aluminum lug swab holder, felt lug cleaners, bore swab, hand-brush, and a 50-pack of cotton rolls.
9. Amazon — Rusfol PMAG Wall Holder, $11.99
⏺ Handy, sturdy way to store AR Magazines for quick access
Many folks have multiple AR-platform PMAGs but they may not be readily accessible. A great way to store loaded mags is with the ABS Standard PMAG Wall Mount. This horizontal rack, made from strong ABS plastics, can hold up to 6 mags, loaded or unloaded. You can mount these to a safe door, or to a wall in your home or garage. This gives you secure storage, and/or rapid access.
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Do you enjoy watching gun videos on YouTube or reading gun Blogs? Then here’s your chance to vote for your favorite video hosts, firearms instructors, and celebrity shooters. The 2022 Gundies Awards program is taking votes now. Modeled after the Oscars/Emmys, the Gundies Awards focus on the world of guns, shooting, and hunting. The annual community-voted Gundies awards spotlight notable firearms-centric content creators — shooters who do videos, gun reviews, and Second Amendment commentaries.
Vote and Get a Chance to Win Prizes
Voting is now open for the 3rd Annual Gundies Voter Choice Awards. You can cast your votes online through 1/32/2022. Voters can vote each day throughout the month of January to earn entries towards prizes valued upwards of $2,000. The final Gundies Awards “ceremony” will be streamed live on February 19th at 9:30 EST at TheGundies.com.
Voting gives you a chance to win category prizes, plus ALL voters are also automatically entered towards the GRAND PRIZE, a trip to attend the Gundie Awards & Range Day.
2022 Gundies Award Categories
This year features five new categories: Top Voices of the Second Amendment, Firearm Instructor of the Year, Best Guns of Hollywood, Most Dapper Influencer and Pro Gun Celebrity.
Here are four leading candidates in the Gundies Best Shooter Category. There are 47 shooters vying for this honor overall. CLICK HERE to cast your vote for “Best Shooter”.
Sponsors of the 2022 Gundie Awards include: Brownells, Gallowtech, Henry Repeating Arms, Savior Equipment, Walker’s Ear Pro, Retro Rifle, Heckler & Koch, X Products, CMMG, Eotech Optics, Timney Triggers, Crossbreed Holsters, True Shot Gun Club, Primary Arms Optics, and Midwest Gun Works. These companies will provide prizes.
How the Nomination and Selection Process Works
The Gundies leave the decision to the public to choose the official nominees in each category. Fan voting opens on January 1st, 2022. The top five contestants in each category with the most fan nominations will automatically be chosen as one of the category nominees.
The previous Gundie Awards saw over 140,000 voters, over 1 million votes and over 20,000 viewers of the Award Ceremony. For more information go to TheGundies.com.
Mixed Bag of Nominees — Some Good, Some Laughable
Best Shooter candidate Kirsten Joy Weiss was a top-level NCAA 3-position rifle competitor in college. She is VERY skilled with firearms and just happens to be very attractive as well. However, to be honest, some of the female “influencers” are just narcissistic social media queens who trade on their looks. They get dolled up in revealing outfits and lots of make-up for posed shots with guns. And on the male side there are plenty of tattooed tactical poseurs with almost no technical knowledge. But there ARE some solid nominees, especially in the Best Shooter and Best Gun Reviewer categories.
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Savage Arms has won a second major award for its innovative 
