Forum member F-Class John is an avid F-Class competitor and expert handloader. John reviews reloading hardware and shooting-related products for his popular F-Class John YouTube Channel, which now boasts 300+ videos. John also does important product testing for AccurateShooter.com. Through his YouTube channel, John has reviewed many of the latest and greatest reloading tools and accessories. For today’s Video Showcase, we selected eight F-Class John tool and reloading product reviews.
If you like these informative videos, consider joining F-Class John’s Patreon Channel for live video meetings, more in-depth videos, and detailed explanations.
AndiScan Micro A2 Doppler Radar Chronograph
This is break-through technology folks. Imagine a device that replaces a big, bulky chronograph and is a small fraction of the size and weight. The revolutionary AndiScan Micro A2 chronograph records bullet velocity with great precision. Yet it can fit in your pocket, and be easily mounted on your rifle or front rest. This recent video follows up on F-Class John’s initial AndiScan Test Video. And yes folks, this product is now, finally, in production according to the maker: “(6/July/2022) Model A2 will be available on e-shop in several supply batches. Batches of first small production series will be available during July and August.”
The AndiScan Micro A2 is an advanced 24 GHz Doppler radar for measuring velocity of projectiles. This extremely small form-factor device can be directly mounted on your rifle. This makes set-up fast and easy. Plus the AndiScan Micro A2 can be used in dynamic situations, such as multiple distance matches, multi-position stages, or PRS/NRL courses. SEE: AndiScan Micro A2 Product Information.
21st Century Hydro Press and Standard Arbor Press
John notes: “You can’t really talk about precision reloading without taking about inline dies and arbor presses. For my money there’s nothing better than the lineup from 21st Century Shooting. They offer the Hydro Seater which is hands-down the best manual seater out there as well as their standard arbor press which is great for taking on the road to push back bullets as needed.”
Zero Turret Press with Whidden Sizing Die
The new Zero Press from Area 419 is arguably the best turret press ever crafted. It offers unrivaled precision, along with the highest-capacity turret head with NINE die/tool stations. Milled from billet aluminum and stainless steel, this press moves with the help of 14 bearings. In this video, F-Class John shows how to use a Whidden Gunworks full-length sizing die on the Zero Press. And John has two other video reviews of the $1200 Zero Press: 1. Zero Press First Thoughts Video; 2. Loading on a Zero Press.
Dillon 750 Tips and Tricks
The Dillon XL 750 is a favorite of high-volume reloaders. With the optional case feeder, the XL 750 offers high output with great reliability. And Dillon offers one of the best warranties in the business. In this video, F-Class John features upgrades including the Armanov tool-head holders from Europe. These are drilled and tapped for all FIVE stations allowing the user to put threaded dies in any station.
Concentricity Checking with Accuracy One Gauge
Every serious hand-loader needs a quality concentricity gauge. The Accuracy One Concentricity Gauge boasts a smart design that delivers precise, repeatable results. We like the unit’s easy adjustability and its ability to work in a variety of configurations. The Accuracy One Gauge measures internal and external neck runout of cartridge cases as well as seated bullet runout. It can also measure the runout of the ogive, bearing surface, and boat-tail of individual bullets. And it can even measure your primer pocket runout.
Teslong Rigid (Shaft) Borescope with Monitor
Seeing inside your barrel can provide clues to how well you’re cleaning and the bore’s overall health. One of the best tools on the market is the Teslong Rigid Borescope. This features a solid rod for easy use in barrels. Plus it comes with a self-contained high-definition viewing monitor so no smartphones or WiFi tablets are needed. If you’re looking for something more portable and a bit more versatile, try the Teslong Flexible Borescope, $99.99 including monitor. John was impressed with the new rigid Teslong he tested, and he likes having a dedicated monitor (no WiFi required).
Lyman Powered Case Trimmer Review
The Lyman Case Trim Xpress is an efficient, precise unit that allows easy adjustment of trim length with a click-adjustable collar. The trimmer comes with a set of cartridge-specific bushings that index off the case shoulder. One nice feature is a variable speed control. For the price, $154.99 on Amazon, this trimmer delivers excellent performance. F-Class John has another video review of the Lyman Case Trim Xpress which shows set-up and operation.
Primal Rights Competition Priming Seater (CPS) Review
If there is a Ferrari of priming tools, it has to be the Primal Rights Competition Primer Seater (CPS). This impressive bench-mounted tool allows very precise control over primer seating depth. A vertical tube holds primers ready for insertion. The action is smooth and precise. John believes that this is definitely the best priming tool on the market, though it may not be for everyone given its premium $600.00 price.
Gunsmithing Torque Wrench Comparisons
When you are working on custom rifles that might cost $5000+, and mounting scopes that can run $3000 (or more), you need to use very high-quality tools. Precise torque settings are essential, both to avoid damage to valuable parts, and to have the rifle and optic perform optimally. In this video, F-Class John looks at a variety of torque wrenches suitable for gunsmithing duties.
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What is the most-used piece of equipment on this Editor’s reloading bench? No it’s not my Rock-Chucker press, my priming tool, or even my calipers. The one item in near-constant use is a small, folding magnifying glass. Mine folds into a square case and offers 4X viewing with an 8X bifocal insert. With this handy tool I can inspect case mouths for burrs, check primer pockets, inspect meplats, and look for flaws on bullet jackets. I also use the magnifier to see rifling marks on bullets seated into the rifling, or check my bolt for galling. The number of uses is nearly endless. I keep one magnifier at my reloading bench and another in my range kit.
Folding magnifiers are so handy yet inexpensive that you should own a couple spares (including one in the range box). I bought my magnifier in a book-store, but you can also find them on Amazon.com and FoldingMagnifier.com starting at under $2.00. To see inside cases and dies and view fine details, consider the 5X Meromore Folding Magnifier with a built-in, battery-powered LED light, plus a 11X high-magnification insert.
With a decent small magnifier, you can easily see any minute flaws in your barrel crowns. That’s important because crown damage can cause hard-to-diagnose accuracy issues. We’ve known guys who spend weeks tinkering with loads, when the real problem was a worn-out or damaged crown.
The slide-out iLumen8, shown at left in top photo, offers 3X power with built-in illumination. An “Amazon’s Choice” item, this palm-sized magnifier is $20.75 on Amazon.
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A new discipline has proven very successful. The NRL Precision Hunter Challenge features a multi-distance, walk-around shooting course similar in some ways to PRS/NRL, but limitations on weight and cost of equipment make this more affordable and more practical. The new discipline is catching on — the 2022 NRL Precision Hunter Challenge match, held June 24-26, 2022, in Price, Utah, drew nearly 150 competitors. Hornady was the title sponsor of the event.
Shooters from all over the country competed in 20 challenging stages. The course of fire consisted of 160 rounds with hiking between stages at the North Springs Shooting Complex. The Precision Hunter Challenge featured target distances from 200-850 yards, and angled shots between 0-10°. At the North Springs Shooting Complex, there were natural terrain obstacles and tree stands. Competitors had to navigate the terrain to establish their shooting positions — very much the opposite of a benchrest match!
“The NRL HUNTER Series is designed to help educate new and seasoned hunters about their skills, gear, and personal limitations. The Hornady Precision Hunter Challenge did just that!” said Travis Ishida, President of the NRL. “With a well-designed course of fire that was both challenging and fun, this match encompassed everything we are looking for. With over 50% new faces at this match the NRL HUNTER Series is growing faster than we ever imagined” he added. Verl Dallin, Match Director, added: “With the help of the staff and ROs, the Hornady Precision Hunter Match turned out simply fantastic”.
This video contains highlights from the 2021 Hornady Precision Hunter Challenge:
Here are the 2022 Hornady Precision Hunter Challenge division and class winners:
Factory – Kevin Wilkey
Open Light – Morgun King
Open Heavy – Serge Ducourneau
Team -Tyler Payne & Scott Peterson
Top Young Gun – Marshall Lewis
Top Lady – Katalin Burjan
CLICK HERE for complete 2022 Precision Hunting Challenge Match results on Practiscore.com. The next major NRL Hunter event is the 2022 COMPEXPO Hunter Challenge taking place July 20-22, 2022, at the Cameo Shooting and Education Complex, in Palisade, Colorado.
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SSG Amanda Elsenboss, now with the Pennsylvania National Guard, is the 2021 NRA National High Power Champion. And Amanda also won the NRA Long Range National Championship in 2019. These two major titles place Amanda among the greatest American shooters and one of only three women in U.S. history to win the High Power title. Amanda combines a superb “mental game” with outstanding gun-handling and wind-reading skills.
In the archives of On The Mark magazine, DCM Emeritus Gary Anderson, an Olympic Gold medal-winning shooter in his younger years, offers sage advice for competitive shooters.
In his article Ten Lessons I Wished I Had Learned as a Young Shooter, Anderson provides ten important guidelines for everyone involved in competitive shooting. Here are the Ten Lessons, but you should read the full article. Anderson provides detailed explanations of each topic with examples from his shooting career.
LESSON 1 – NATURAL ABILITY WILL NOT MAKE YOU A SHOOTING CHAMPION.
(You also need hard work, training effort and perseverance.)
LESSON 2 – ANGER IS THE ENEMY OF GOOD SHOOTING.
(The key to recovering from a bad shot is to stay cool, no matter what happens.)
LESSON 3 – BAD SHOTS CAN TEACH YOU MORE THAN GOOD SHOTS.
(Today, error analysis is one of the most powerful tools for improving scores.)
LESSON 4 – NEVER GO WITHOUT A SHOT PLAN.
(A shot plan is a detailed breakdown of each of the steps involved in firing a shot.)
LESSON 5 – PRACTICE IN BAD CONDITIONS AS WELL AS GOOD CONDITIONS.
(Most competitions are fired in windy conditions or where there are plenty of distractions.)
LESSON 6 – CHAMPIONS ARE POSITIVE, OPTIMISTIC PEOPLE.
(Negative shooters expect bad results; positive shooters expect to train hard to change bad results.)
LESSON 7 – IT’S NOT ABOUT WHETHER YOU WIN OR LOSE.
(It’s about how hard you try to win.)
LESSON 8 – YOUR DOG WON’T BITE YOU AFTER SHOOTING A BAD SCORE.
(Hopefully your coach, parents and friends won’t bite you either.)
LESSON 9 – YOUR PRESS CLIPPINGS CAN HURT YOU OR HELP YOU.
(Winning can go to our heads. We start thinking we are so good we don’t have to work hard any more.)
LESSON 10 — YOU NEVER SHOT YOUR BEST SCORE.
(Great champions are always looking for ways to improve.)
USAMU shooters on the firing line at the Wa-Ke’-De outdoor range in Bristol, IN. Photo courtesy USAMU.
About Gary Anderson Gary Anderson served as the Director of the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) from 1999-2009, and is now DCM Emeritus. As a Nebraska farmboy, Gary grew up hunting and shooting. Dreams of winning an Olympic Gold Medal in shooting led Gary to the U.S. Army. In 1959, he joined the elite U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit. Just two years later, he won his first national championship.
At the 1962 World Shooting Championships in Egypt, Anderson stunned the shooting world by winning four individual titles and setting three new world records. At the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, Gary won the 300m free-rifle Gold Medal, setting a new world record in the process. At the 1966 World Shooting Championships in Germany, Anderson won three additional world titles. At the 1968 Olympics, Gary won a second gold medal in the 300m free-rifle event.
After his “retirement” from international competition, Gary competed in the National High Power Championships, winning the President’s National Trophy in 1973, 1975 and 1976. Over his competitive career, Anderson won two Olympic Gold Medals, seven World Championships, and sixteen National Championships. He is unquestionably one of the greatest American marksmen ever.
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Notably, over the past two decades, firearms production in the United States has tripled — from 2,911,346 in 2001, to 9,739,335 in 2020. In fact, peak production was reached in 2016, with 10,664,318 rifle, pistols, and shotguns produced. The annual production of shotguns has actually declined slightly over the past 20 years, but the production of handguns has soared. Check out this table:
In recent years, the U.S. firearms industry has been presented with unprecedented opportunities, as well as rising obstacles. Shooting Industry magazine’s annual U.S. Firearms Industry Today Report looks back to where it all began: 2020. Using the latest available data from ATF, this report delves into U.S. firearms production — revealing the top producers across all firearm categories — and includes analysis on historical NICS background check trends and the latest import/export figures.
“While 2020 represented the highest demand year, it was not … a record production year for the U.S. firearms industry”, observed SI Editor Jade Moldae. “Supply chain challenges, raw material sourcing issues, COVID-impacted shutdowns and labor shortages impacted business in 2020, to name a few.”
The firearms industry is a significant component of the U.S. national economy: “According to NSSF’s 2022 Firearm and Ammunition Industry Economic Impact Report, the industry’s total economic influence ballooned from $19.1 billion in 2008 to $70.52 billion in 2021, a 269% jump. Year-over-year, the industry’s economic impact rose 11.1% (from $63.5 billion in 2020).
Corresponding with a rising economic impact, the total number of full-time equivalent jobs in the industry increased from approximately 166,000 in 2008 to over 375,000 in 2020 (126% increase). From 2020 to 2021, total jobs grew from 342,330 to 375,819 (9.8%).
Highlights from the report:
• Total Firearms Production has TRIPLED since year 2001, boosted primarily with handgun sales (see chart).
• After hitting a near 10-year low in 2019, U.S. firearms production jumped 53.3% in 2020 (from 6,353,124 to 9,739,335 firearms). This was the biggest year-over-year jump since 1993, which recorded a 66.5% increase over 1992.
• A record 6,502,261 handguns were produced in the U.S. in 2020. 9mm pistol paced handgun production, with about three out of every five handguns produced in 2020 were chambered in the caliber.
• Smith & Wesson set a new benchmark in firearms production with 2,320,963 firearms, while Ruger (1,659,324) and SIG SAUER (1,077,019) passed the 1 million mark.
We love Smith & Wesson rimfire revolvers. We have put thousands of rounds through S&W Model 617 revolvers, with 4″ and 6″ barrels. These stainless .22 LR handguns are accurate, superbly reliable, and they hold their value. In general we’ve found that Smith & Wesson rimfire revolvers may be less fussy with ammo, and more trouble-free than typical semi-auto rimfires. Bottom line, we feel that everyone should have an S&W rimfire wheelgun in their collection.
Along with its .22 LR wheelguns, S&W now offers another very impressive Rimfire Revolver option — the “revived” Model 648 in .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire). This stainless Model 648 brings a more powerful cartridge to S&W rimfire revolver fans.
Built on S&W’s medium K-frame, the 8-round Model 648 is designed for small game hunting and target shooting. The .22 WMR is definitely a much more potent varmint cartridge than the .22 LR. You have more downrange energy plus a flatter trajectory. While the 648 does not come with an integral scope rail, it is not difficult to mount red dot or optical sights to this wheelgun.
The Model 648 revolver is built on a stainless steel medium K-frame and includes black synthetic finger groove grips, a black patridge front sight, and adjustable rear sight. This impressive revolver features a full underlug six-inch barrel, eight-round capacity, and is available with an MSRP of $749.
Model 648 History and Features
According to Guns.com: “The K-frame .22 WMR-caliber Model 648 first appeared in Big Blue’s lineup in 1989 sporting a full-lug barrel and stainless steel construction. Retired since 2005, the newest generation of the Model still brings a 6-inch barrel to the party, which translates to a very commanding 11.1-inch overall length. Weight is 46.2-ounces in the eight-shot .22 Mag, making the gun attractive for both those looking to fill pots and smoke targets.” Shown below is a vintage Model 648.
Jan Mladek, General Manager of Smith & Wesson General Manager Jan Mladek reports: “The Model 648 is back in production to satisfy the needs of handgun owners who are looking to achieve greater distance while hunting or target shooting. With a full underlug, six-inch barrel and a patridge front sight, the Model 648 has been designed … to boost accuracy at longer distances. While we currently offer .22 Magnum revolvers in both our J-frame and Classics line, we are excited to add this new .22 Magnum revolver to the modern K-frame lineup.”
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Bullet sorting station — quilted Maple with marble tile inlay, created by JVW2008.
We have a master woodworker in our Shooters’ Forum, Jerry from Colorado (aka JVW2008). In a Shooters’ Forum thread, Jerry showcases multiple examples of his handiwork — various wood projects for the reloading room. Beautifully made, these one-of-a-kind custom cabinets and tool stands deserve to be on display in a museum.
Jerry’s creations exhibit exquisite craftsmanship and some very clever design features. What is your favorite item among the Jerry’s wood wonders shown here? You can reveal your favorites in the comment section below.
Throne for a Sartorius Analytical Balance
Jerry built this “Throne” for his ultra-precise Sartorius Entris force restoration scale, which is linked to a V2 Auto-Trickler. This is a true state-of-the-art powder measuring system on a beautiful base unit.
Cabinet for Balance Beam Scale
Here is an oak balance beam scale cabinet and weighing surface. Note the mulitiple tiers, side wings, and other smart design features.
Custom Arbor Press Base
Below is a handsome, well-designed base for K&M Arbor Press and Wilson dies. Look at the fitted recesses for the hand dies — very nice!
Jumbo Walnut/Maple Loading Block
And here is a beautiful 100-cartridge reloading block, crafted from Walnut over Maple. It’s impressive to see 100 cartridges all lined up like that!
To see more impressive wood projects by our Shooters’ Forum members, visit the Wood Working Ideas Forum Thread. Along with Jerry’s reloading toom wonders, you’ll see cleaning cradles, shooting benches, transport boxes, and much more. Check out this amazing inlaid rifle case crafted by Forum member Nando-AS for his son.
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Do you need to pull bullets that have been seated in a case? You can use lever-actuated, collet-type pullers, or inertial hammer-style pullers, but there is a faster solution. The Grip-N-Pull bullet puller is a precision-machined hand clamp that works for multiple calibers. A single Grip-N-Pull can replace several other tools, while being faster to use. With larger-diameter bullets loaded with light-to-moderate neck tension, it works well. The bullets come out pretty easily, with no scuff marks or dents.
For smaller-diameter, .204 to .243 caliber bullets, it may be hard to grip the bullet easily, or you may end up with some jacket damage. And we wouldn’t use this for factory-crimped cartridges. One tip for the smaller-diameter bullets — you can try the tool notch one size smaller than nominal bullet diameter. One Grip-N-Pull owner reports: “I’ve had one for a while and like using it much better than a kinetic puller. I have found with .22 and .24 caliber bullets they pull better using one size down.”
Introduction to Grip-N-Pull — How It Works:
How to Use the Grip-N-Pull
Put your loaded case in the shell-holder on a reloading press. Raise the ram so the bullet is exposed at the top of the press. Then select the correct, caliber-specific slot in the Grip-N-Pull, clasp the bullet firmly, then lower the ram. The bullet withdraws from the case-neck, retained in the tool. Fast and simple. If there isn’t much neck tension (or a crimp), the bullet should come out undamaged.
Not So Great for Small-Diameter Bullets
Watch this video — the tester says the Grip-N-Pull works well with larger-diameter bullets, but there can be slippage with smaller-diameter projectiles, or those with short bearing surfaces. When there is a lot of neck tension, you have to grip extremely hard which can cause your hand to hurt after a while. And the bullets can get marred. (NOTE: For smaller-diameter bullets, it may sometimes work better to use the next size down slot. E.g. use the .22 Slot for .243 bullets.)
This video explains some of the shortcomings of the Grip-N-Pull.
Four Grip-N-Pull Models Available Grip-N-Pull bullet pullers can be used for multiple calibers. For example, the Standard Rifle Grip-N-Pull pulls bullets for these calibers: .17, .20, .22, .24, .25, .26, .27, .28, and .30. The Large Rifle model works with 8mm, .338, .375, .416 and .458. There is a third model for pistol cartridges, and a fourth “Mil-Spec” unit that does 5.56, 7.62, .338 and .50 BMG. Grip-N-Pull bullet pullers are made of 1/4″ heavy-duty #30 stainless steel and are backed by a lifetime warranty.
Speed and Efficiency of Grip-N-Pull
The Grip-N-Pull’s creators claim this hand clamp cuts bullet pulling time in half. For a speed comparison between Grip-N-Pull and a hammer-style (inertial) bullet puller, watch this Extreme Outer Limits video. Bob and Chris Beck do a head-to-head comparison between the Grip-N-Pull and an inertia puller. It’s no contest — the Grip-N-Pull is way faster, and the powder stays in the case.
Pull Comparison — Grip-N-Pull Vs. Hammer-Style Inertial Puller
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We’ve just celebrated the July 4th holiday, so the 2022 summer season is well underway. Do you have a good first-aid kit in your vehicle to deal with possible injuries to family members of all ages? For just $20.00 you can get an excellent kit from Be Smart/TRI, the #1 maker of First Aid Kits in the USA.
TRI’s Be Smart Get Prepared First Aid Kit has 201 items inside a sturdy case with shoulder strap and carry handle. There is also a handy, detachable mini pouch with key essentials for first aid on-the-go. You can easily bring the mini-pouch along on a bike ride or hike.
This multi-purpose First Aid Kit includes:
• 50 – Bandages 3/4 x 3
• 30 – Bandages 3/8 x 1 1/2
• 6 – Bandages Closure
• 3 – Knuckle Bandages
• 1 – Tapes – .5 x 2.5yd Waterproof
• 10 – Cotton Tips – 2.75″”/10 Pack
• 4 – Finger Splints
• 1 – First Aid Guide
• 4 – Gauze Pad – 2 x 2 / 4 ply
• 4 – Gauze Pad – 4 x 4 / 4 ply
• 1 – Gauze Pad – 5 x 9
• 2 – Nitrile Gloves
• 1 – Instant Cold Pack – 5 x 6
To help ensure that outdoor adventures remain safe and trouble-free, the CTD Shooters’ Log has a helpful Essential Summer Survival Guide. This is worth reading before you venture away from civilization.
Here are some highlights of the article with links for MORE INFO:
First Aid Kits for Campers
You should never venture outside without a first aid kit close at hand. While exploring the outdoors, all types of accidents can occur—from cuts, scrapes, and burns to broken limbs and severe allergic reactions.
Basic Survival Skills
Basic survival skills are a necessity if you plan to spend any amount of time outdoors. These five tips, plus a how-to on what to pack in a lightweight, basic survival kit will help if you are ever stuck, lost, stranded or injured in the field.
How to Treat Burns
Fireworks, barbeques and campfires — in the summer we are frequently around fire, which increases our chance of getting burned. A first-degree burn is most likely home treatable, while a third degree burn requires immediate medical attention. Learn how to spot the differences between minor and severe burns.
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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. Brownell’s — Save $45 on $300 purchase, and Holiday SALE
⏺ Major Discount, plus 4th of July Weekend Sale
Are you looking for a 4th of July holiday savings code? Head over to Brownells for the 4th of July Sitewide Savings Promotion. With Code 45OFF300 you get $45 off any purchase of $300 or more. That’s up to 15% off. In addition, Brownells has discounted a wide selection of products through the weekend including optics, AR parts, reloading tools, triggers, magazines and more. SALE Items HERE. With the discounts and the $45 Off promo, you can save big this holiday weekend.
2. Sportsman’s — Savage Arms Axis XP Scope Combo, $299.99
⏺ Good, reliable deer rifles WITH SCOPE in popular chambering
Here’s a great deal for hunters. How would you like to pick up a great rifle, with a scope, in one of the most popular calibers around all for under $300? Sportsman’s has the Savage Arms Axis XP Scope Combo for just $299.99 complete with a Bushnell 4-12x40mm scope. Chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor, this matte-finished rifle with 22″ barrel is a good choice for deer and small game hunting.
3. Natchez — 4th of July Ammo Sale, Big Savings
⏺ Major savings on rimfire and centerfire ammo this weekend.
For big savings on good factory ammunition, check out the Natchez 4th of July Ammunition Sale. A wide variety of ammo is on sale — from .22 LR to 12 gauge — all at very attractive prices. Along with the significant discounts, Natchez is offering FREE ammo shipping with purchase of $99.99 or more. Ammo sale prices are good through 7/4/22 at 11:59 PM.
4. Creedmoor Sports — Hornady Bullet Sale Plus FREE Shipping
⏺ Good deal on quality ELD, BTHP, and A-Tip bullets, FREE shipping $99+
There’s a big Hornady Bullet Sale running this 4th of July Weekend at Creedmoor Sports. NOTE: After you click the link, select “Hornady” from the brand filter on the left. You can save up to 17% off Hornady bullets, plus get FREE Shipping on orders over $99.99 with code FREEDOM. Along with the three bullet types shown above, Creedmoor Sports has many other Hornady projectiles on sale. Here are some other notable discounted Hornady bullets: .224 68gr BTHP Match, .224 80gr BTHP match, 6mm 110gr A-Tip, 6.5mm 140gr BTHP Match, .308 168gr ELD, .308 208gr ELD.
5. Amazon — Plano All Weather Tactical Gun Case, $129.99
⏺ Excellent hard case at half the price of some others
Traveling with rifles requires a tough, secure hard case. The Plano All Weather Tactical Gun Case fits the bill. With rugged, industrial-strength construction and a continuous Dri-Loc seal, AW2 cases create a watertight and dust-proof shield that protects your gear even in the most extreme conditions. Available in 36″, 42″, and 52″ lengths there’s a size that fits your needs for that next trip. At $129.99, the 52″ case will hold long-barrel match rifles securely with weatherproof protection.
6. Amazon, Dragon AR600 Steel Gongs, $14.99 and up
Shooting steel is fun — you get instant gratification from hearing the “clang” and seeing the gong swing. Shooting steel is also good practice for PRS/NRL events and ground-hog matches. Right now, you can get some great deals on quality AR500 steel targets. These Dragon Target Gongs start at just $14.99 for a 4″-diameter, 3/8″-thick gong. Larger 6″, 8″, 10″, and 12″ gongs are offered in 3/8″ and 1/2″ thicknesses, and a 3-pack of 8″ gongs is available. A 6″-diameter gong is $22.99 (3/8″ thick) or $29.99 (1/2″ thick). The largest 12″-diameter gong in the heavy 1/2″ thickness is $69.99 (or $52.99 in 3/8″ thickness). NOTE: All these Dragon gongs have a center hole allowing more hanging options.
⏺ Great deal for 9mm reloaders — 1000 bullets and 1000 cases
Here’s a great deal for pistol shooters who handload 9mm Luger ammunition. Midsouth offers a 9mm Loader Pack featuring 1000 124gr FMJ bullets and 1000 JAG brand new brass cases. This is a great deal for anyone who reloads large supplies of 9mm ammo for fun shooting or competition.
8. Amazon — Caldwell Matrix Rest, $49.49
⏺ Very versatile rest for pistols and hunting rifles
For benchrest competition and varmint matches you’ll want a high-quality, heavy metal front rest. However, for pistol shooting or sighting-in a hunting rifle, a less expensive, easier-to-transport support can do the job. The budget-priced Caldwell Matrix Combo Rest can perform those tasks. Now available for just $49.49 on Amazon, this rest features a spring-loaded elevation system for fast, one-handed adjustment. NOTE: The rear portion of the rest is detachable, so you can shoot handguns using just the front rest section.
9. Amazon — Midland Walkie-Talkie Set, $69.99
⏺ Highly-rated units with impressive range and 50 channel
Walkie-Talkies are “must-have” items for long-range hunting and ELR shooting. They are also great for communicating with a buddy who is down-range setting or recovering targets. The 50-CH Midland GXT1000VP4 Two-Way Radio set is Amazon’s #1 Best Seller among FRS/GMRS Handheld Radios. Priced at $69.99, this Midland two-unit kit includes earbuds plus both 12V and 120V chargers. This Midland set features 50 Channels with impressive range plus “whisper mode”, so they’re good for hunting. These units include VOX for hands-free operation and even offer NOAA Weather Scan capability.
10. Amazon — 3-Pack In-Safe Storage Cases, $16.99
⏺ Very handy, effective cases for in-safe handgun storage
Storing a big collection of firearms, valuables, and other items in your safe requires smart organization. A simple way to keep things organized is with this 3-Pack in-Safe Storage Cases . Designed to protect handguns and valuables, while optimizing storage, these see-through cases provide extra protection, while letting you quickly identify the contents.
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Today, July 4th, we are celebrating a special birthday — the launching of a new nation that would become the world’s greatest exemplar of freedom and democracy. In our modern world, it is easy to lose sight of the challenges that faced our fore-fathers, and the continuing burdens we all share, as Americans, to maintain the struggle for freedom, both at home and abroad. It is more important than ever that we remember the ideals on which the nation was founded, and remember that our nation became great through the efforts and talents of a free citizenry, not through an all-powerful central government.
In the Beginning — Overcoming Great Odds
In a July 4th speech, Navy Lt. Ellen Connors wrote: “Our nation declared its independence in order for our families to live free –- not just for one generation but for future generations. And what odds [the founding fathers] faced. It must have seemed impossible. Our forefathers went up against the world’s most colossal empire since ancient Rome. No colony had ever successfully left a mother country to set up a self-governing state.”
The Price of Freedom… The Pride of A Nation
Here is a selection from Daniel Webster’s July 4th, 1851 Oration. His words ring true even now:
On the 4th of July, 1776, the assembled Representatives of the United States of America in Congress declared that these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, FREE and INDEPENDENT States. This Declaration, made by most patriotic and resolute men, trusting in the justice of their cause and the protection of Heaven, and yet made not without deep solicitude and anxeity, has now stood for seventy-five years, and still stands. It was sealed in blood. It has met dangers, and overcome them; it has had enemies, and conquered them; it has had detractors, and abashed them all….
Every mans’ heart swells within him… as he remembers that seventy-five years have rolled away, and that the great inheritance of liberty is still his — his, undiminished and unimpaired, his in all its original glory; his to enjoy; his to protect; and his to transmit to future generations.
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Federal Ammunition offers advanced Syntech ammunition with polymer-encased projectiles. American Eagle Syntech is the first range-specific factory-loaded ammunition designed to reduce fouling and extend barrel life with a high-tech polymer bullet coating plus specially-formulated clean-burning powders. The potential for reduced wear and fouling is real. When tested against conventional FMJ ammunition, Federal claims Syntech produced an average of 12% less barrel friction and 14% less heat. Also, since Syntech bullets lack a metal jacket, there is less chance of ricochets on steel targets.
User reviews have been highly positive:
Syntech ammo does what it says, I’ve tested it. Barrel stays cooler, easier to clean without lead or copper fouling. Extremely reliable — the Syntech coating aides in the feeding cycle.
This my favorite ammo for shooting steel plates. Makes a terrific sound when hitting. Far less barrel cleaning after a day of shooting.
Great range ammo. Clean pistols less often.
Federal now offers Syntech ammunition in 9mm Luger, 40 S&W, and .45 ACP. These three calibers are offered in various bullet weights with both round-nose and flat-nose bullet options. The best value is a 9mm Luger bulk-pack with 500 rounds for $239.99 at MidwayUSA.
For years this Editor has loaded his .45 ACP and .44 Mag handguns with polymer/moly matrix-coated bullets from Precision Bullets in Texas. Those poly/moly-encased lead bullets shot VERY accurately and I found that my barrels fouled much less than with conventional lead bullets. Likewise, there was much less cylinder fouling on my revolvers. If the American Syntech bullets work as well as those Precision bullets, we think the Syntech line will be a winner. Syntech bullets should benefit any shooter who frequents a range where conventional lead ammo is not allowed.
Features & Benefits
• Polymer-encapsulated Syntech bullet prevents metal-on-metal contact in the bore, eliminating copper and lead fouling, while extending barrel life.
• Exclusive primer formulation provides reliable, consistent ignition.
• Clean-burning propellants minimize residue and fouling.
• Significantly reduces the required frequency of cleaning.
• Absence of a copper jacket minimizes splash-back on steel targets.
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What is the most-used piece of equipment on this Editor’s reloading bench? No it’s not my Rock-Chucker press, my priming tool, or even my calipers. The one item in near-constant use is a small, folding magnifying glass. Mine folds into a square case and offers 4X viewing with an 8X bifocal insert. With this handy tool I can inspect case mouths for burrs, check primer pockets, inspect meplats, and look for flaws on bullet jackets. I also use the magnifier to see rifling marks on bullets seated into the rifling, or check my bolt for galling. The number of uses is nearly endless. I keep one magnifier at my reloading bench and another in my range kit.
In the archives of 
Gary Anderson served as the Director of the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) from 1999-2009, and is now DCM Emeritus. As a Nebraska farmboy, Gary grew up hunting and shooting. Dreams of winning an Olympic Gold Medal in shooting led Gary to the U.S. Army. In 1959, he joined the elite U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit. Just two years later, he won his first national championship.
Built on S&W’s medium K-frame, the 8-round Model 648 is designed for small game hunting and target shooting. The .22 WMR is definitely a much more potent varmint cartridge than the .22 LR. You have more downrange energy plus a flatter trajectory. While the 648 does not come with an integral scope rail, it is not difficult to mount red dot or optical sights to this wheelgun.
