In the past the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit published a series of reloading “how-to” articles on its USAMU Facebook page. One “Handloading Hump Day” article covered two basic case prep chores — uniforming primer pockets and deburring flash-holes. Visit the USAMU Facebook page for other tips.
Primer Pocket & Flash-Hole Conditioning
This week, we’ll address a question that frequently arises: “Do you uniform primer pockets and deburr flash-holes?” As we tailor our handloading methods to the specific needs of each instance, the answer, not surprisingly, is “Sometimes!” However, don’t flip that dial just yet, as what determines our approach may be helpful in deciding how to address one’s own techniques. Moreover, we have a buried “Easter Egg” morsel that may bring a chuckle, as well as useful safety information!
Generally, the USAMU Handloading Shop does not uniform primer pockets (PP) or deburr flash holes (FH) of our rifle brass. We’re certainly not against it… Rather, this reflects the very high volume of ammunition we load, the fact that very few cases are ever re-loaded for a second firing, and the types of brass we use. However, as a need is perceived, we DO deburr flash holes. Of interest, we have fired many very small, 1000-yard test groups and aggregates using weight-selected, domestic brass that had not had PPs uniformed or FHs deburred.
Before and After — On the left is a fired, deprimed 7.62×51 case with primer residue intact. On the right the primer pocket has been uniformed to SAAMI specs. Note the shiny finish at the bottom of the pocket — evidence of the the removal of metal when uniforming the primer pocket.
As to the type cases we use, many thousands of our long-range 5.56mm cases come to us from the arsenal with the primer of our choice pre-installed and staked-in, per usual practice. Obviously, we cannot uniform either FHs or PPs on this live, primed brass. However, after careful sorting, inspection and preparation, we do obtain match-winning results with it.
Shooters who reload their brass several times may decide to uniform PPs and deburr FHs, especially on their “300-yard and beyond” brass. Here, they will use the cases many times, while the uniforming is performed only once. Also, most handloaders only process moderate amounts of brass, compared to our multi-thousand round lots.
Having high quality Long Range (LR) brass helps. Many of the better brass manufacturers [make] their flash holes so that no burrs are created. Still, it does pay to inspect even THESE manufacturer’s products, as occasional slips are inevitable. Very rarely, some of the best makers will have a significant burr in, say, 1 per 1000 or 2000 cases, and it’s worth catching those.
Exceptions can always be found. Recently, we began processing a large lot of match brass from a premier manufacturer. We were startled to find that every case had a significant burr in the FH — something we’d never before seen from this maker. We then broke out the FH deburring tools and went to work.
Some observers have noted that it can be difficult to truly verify the contribution to accuracy of these procedures — particularly when firing from the shoulder, in conditions. Members of this staff, as individual rifle competitors, do often perform these operations on their privately-owned LR rifle brass. One could ascribe this to the old High Power Rifle maxim that “if you think it helps, then it helps.”
However, a World Champion and Olympic Gold/Silver medalist here commented on his own handloading (for International competition, which demands VERY fine accuracy). He noted that he did seem to see a decline in accuracy whenever he did not uniform FHs, deburr FHs and clean primer pockets before each reloading. (One might be tempted to counter that only a truly World Class shooter could reliably detect the difference.) However, with the wisdom of decades experience, our Champion also remarked that “It could have been that I just wasn’t shooting as well that day.”
For those who do opt for these procedures, note that various tool models may have adjustable depth-stops; pay attention to the instructions. Some FH-deburring tools (which enter the case mouth, not the primer pocket) are dependent upon uniform case length for best results.
Above is a flash-hole deburring tool on an RCBS powered case-prep unit. These case prep machines can save a lot of pain and misery, helping one perform various functions quickly and efficiently.
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Watch this video to see how a sound suppressor (aka “silencer”, “moderator”, or “can”) is constructed, start to finish. It’s more complicated than you might expect — there are quite a few stages in the process. The video below shows the fabrication of a SilencerCo Octane 45 suppressor:
SilencerCo writes: “What, exactly, goes into making a silencer? It may be more than you’d expect. From cutting metal to chemical baths, to extensive quality control every step of the way, our streamlined process is more than just a few steps. Watch our newest video, HOW IT’S MADE: Octane 45, to catch a glimpse behind SilencerCo’s doors.”
How Loud Are Unsuppressed Rifles?
Firearms Are Loud — 140 dB to 175 dB. ASHA explains: “Almost all firearms create noise that is over the 140-dB level. Exposure to noise greater than 140 dB can permanently damage hearing. A small .22-caliber rifle can produce noise around 140 dB, while big-bore rifles and pistols can produce sound over 175 dB. Firing guns in a place where sounds can reverberate, or bounce off walls and other structures, can make noises louder and increase the risk of hearing loss. Also, adding muzzle brakes or other modifications can make the firearm louder. People who do not wear hearing protection while shooting can suffer a severe hearing loss with as little as one shot[.]” Source: ASHA, Recreational Firearm Noise Exposure.
How Much Does a Good Suppressor Really Reduce Firearm Sound Levels?
That depends on the rifle, the cartridge, and the effectiveness of the suppressor. American Hunter explains: “Suppressors retard the speed of propellant gases from the cartridge that rapidly expand and rush out of the barrel. It’s these gases that produce the loud boom that’s heard for miles. A suppressor’s series of internal baffles slows these gases so they are not all released at once, thereby muffling the sound.” Many good commercial suppressors can achieve 30-35 dB sound suppression. However, Zak Smith of Thunder Beast Arms says: “There are a bunch of manufacturers who publish values that are not reproducible, or use an ad-hoc test instead of a mil-spec test. In many cases we’ve tested the exact same suppressors they’ve advertised with 30-40 dB reductions and found they are actually in the high 20s instead.”
Again, for this reason, we recommend that hunters use ear protection, such as electronic muffs, even when shooting suppressed.
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This is a great resource for firearms fans. The Gun Digest 2023, 77th Edition, can be pre-ordered now for $37.99 through the Gun Digest store or Amazon.com. Gun Digest states “Orders Anticipated To Ship Early August 2022″, while Amazon lists a 9/6/2022 publication date.
This 592-page resource covers rifles, shotguns, handguns, muzzleloaders, airguns, optics and more. We like the print edition, but there is also a Kindle eBook version for $16.00 on Amazon. Both paperback and Kindle versions provide hundreds of photos plus new product roundups, in-depth product tests, and scores of articles and stories.
Gun Digest 2023 Editor-in-Chief Phil Massaro has assembled a large team of respected industry authors for the new book, including Craig Boddington, Joe Coogan, Ron Spomer, Patrick Sweeney, Jim Supica, Thomas Gomez, Tom Turpin, Wayne van Zwoll, Bob Campbell and many more.
Gun Digest 2023 covers hunting, personal defense, target shooting, gunsmithing, and collecting. Historical articles look at the role played by firearms in our country. There are Updated Ballistics Tables, and the catalog section shows off the newest offerings in rifles, handguns, shotguns, muzzleloaders and air rifles. Here are some of the key topics from last year’s 2022 edition:
Reports from the Field cover the newest firearms and accessories. A Testfire section brings readers up to date on product performance. And the annual photo essay spotlights the finest custom and engraved guns.
Other Good Books from Gun Digest Media
Gun Digest Media produces numerous other quality books for rifle, pistol, and shotgun owners. Here are four volumes we recommend. These are offered in both paperback and eBook versions:
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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.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. Bruno’s — Large Selection of McMillan Stocks 10% OFF
⏺ Great savings on quality McMillan fiberglass stocks
McMillan stocks are world-renowned for competition, tactical/precision, benchrest, and hunting applications. We found a rare deal on McMillan stocks at Bruno Shooters Supply. Find one for your next rifle project and save 10% instantly during checkout. Bruno’s has 60+ McMillan stocks available now for 10% OFF. There are many stock varieties — benchrest, hunting, tactical, F-Class. Some of these stocks may also qualify for FREE Shipping.
2. Midsouth — Berger Bullets In Stock!
⏺ Grab these great Berger Bullets before they sell out
Berger makes top-tier competition bullets but the most popular calibers have been in short supply lately. The good news is that Midsouth Shooters Supply just got a huge shipment of Berger bullets in many calibers and grain weights. This is one of the biggest Berger bullet drops we’ve seen in the past year, so don’t hesitate if you need good match bullets.
3. Graf & Sons — Ammo Sale with FREE TRI-Can Carrier
⏺ Good prices with excellent three-compartment ammo carrier
Here’s a great chance to stock up on quality .223 Rem ammunition. Right now Grafs.com is running a big sale on .223 Remington Ammo from leading makers such as Federal, Norma, Nosler, Barnes, and Winchester. As an additional incentive, if you spend $150 or more on in-stock ammo, you get the excellent Berry Tri-Can ammo carrier for free.
4. Amazon — Teslong Rigid Borescope with Monitor, $135.99
⏺ Excellent borescope complete with monitor — everything you need
Teslong borescopes let you evaluate barrel fouling and gauge the effectiveness of your cleaning regimen. We recommend the $135.99 Teslong Borescope with rigid shaft and Teslong monitor. This can use either the included monitor or your mobile device. There are other good Teslong models. We also like the rigid shaft no monitor version for $99.99 which plugs into your smartphone or tablet. There is also a less expensive flexible unit with monitor for $76.28. This uses a flexible cord rather than a metal shaft.
5. Natchez — Major Rifle and Pistol Ammunition Sale
⏺ Excellent prices, large selection of pistol and rifle ammunition
If you’re in the market for ammunition, check out the giant Natchez Ammo Mix Sale. You’ll find an great assortment of brands and calibers all at prices up to 35% off. This is a great time to stock up with quality ammo for pistols and rifles.
6. Midway — Magpul Bipod Sale
⏺ Strong high-quality bipods at significant savings, good for PRS
Whether you’re a hunter, plinker, or target shooter, a sturdy bipod is a must. And, right now, the excellent Magpul Bipods are available at significant discounts — up to 20% off normal retail prices. NOTE: You must add the bipod to your MidwayUSA shopping cart to see the near 20% Off prices: $89.99 for Magpul 933 M-Lok, $89.99 for 933 Picatinny Rail, and $104.99 for Magpul Sling Stud QD.
7. Midsouth — Lyman Tac-Mat Shooting Mat, $56.31
⏺ Thick padded mat offers more comfort with good length and carry handle
Comfort counts when you’re on the ground for hours. We like this Lyman Tac-Mat 71″ x 36″ shooting mat. It has more padding than most mats, providing significantly better comfort. Midsouth is currently offering these excellent Lyman mats for $56.31 in tan or $56.31 in black. That’s a great deal. This same Lyman shooting mat currently costs $75.19 on Amazon.
8. Amazon — OTIS Elite Cleaning Kit, $99.99
⏺ Very complete universal kit for all firearms
All firearms owners need quality tools for cleaning their pistols, rifles, and shotguns. A good choice is the Otis Elite Cleaning Kit. This universal gun cleaning kit comes complete with over 60 components for all rifles, pistols, shotguns and inline muzzleloaders, including a full tactical cleaning kit all contained in a lightweight, portable case and the best part is that it’s made in the USA.
9. Amazon — Crosman Legacy Air Rifle, $47.25
Here’s a great bargain in a basic airgun. This works for short-range plinking and can be a good training rig for someone new to shooting. The .177 Caliber Crosman Legacy air rifle which weighs just under five pounds boasts an all-weather synthetic stock and forearm. This Crosman Legacy can shoot .177 pellets or BBs with a built-in 850 BB reservoir. This inexpensive, little air rifle comes complete with 4x15mm scope and fiber optic front/rear blade sights.
10. Amazon — Tactical Pistol Light, $30.99
⏺ Good price on rugged lamp that fits pistol front rails
Do you own a Glock, Sig, HK, CZ, or Walther pistol with a standard under-barrel frame rail? A useful accessory is the 600 Lumen AUCLAYTEC Tactical Pistol Light. Get the unit with one battery for $30.99, or (as shown) with two batteries for $32.99. Crafted from aircraft aluminum, this pistol light comes with rechargeable battery and charger.
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By a 217-213 vote, the U.S. House of Representatives narrowly passed a bill that would ban mag-fed semi-automatic rifles for the first time since 2004, with two Republicans voting for the measure and five Democrats voting against it. This article features the NSSF’s response to this new legislation, which would ban sales of AR-type rifles and some pistols.
NSSF Denounces Unconstitutional Gun Ban Passed by U.S. House of Representatives
NSSF, the firearm industry trade association, condemns the U.S. House of Representatives’ passage of H.R. 1808, the “Assault Weapons Ban of 2022″, as amended. The legislation ignores the Constitutional right, upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court, for law-abiding Americans to keep and bear arms that are in common use. NSSF estimates that there are over 24.4 million Modern Sporting Rifles (MSRs) in circulation in America between 1990 and 2020.
“This legislation is as dangerous as it is revealing of the contempt for which the House Democrats hold for the Constitution and the U.S. Supreme Court”, said Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF’s Senior Vice President and General Counsel. “Chairman Jerrold Nadler admitted during debate in his committee that he didn’t care the legislation was unconstitutional and defied Supreme Court precedent. Democratic representatives are not fulfilling the interest of ‘the People,’ instead representing special-interest gun control groups that seek to disarm law-abiding citizens and scapegoat them for crimes committed by others.”
The MSR remains the most-popular selling centerfire semiautomatic rifle in the United States today. There are more MSRs in circulation today than there are Ford F-Series trucks on the road. The Supreme Court upheld that commonly-owned firearms are lawful for private ownership in both the Heller and Bruen rulings. Banning of an entire class of semiautomatic firearms can be viewed as nothing short of an outright infringement of Second Amendment rights — rights which belong to the people and not the government. This legislation, however, also includes some semiautomatic shotguns and handguns.
This legislation does nothing to improve public safety, as it doesn’t address criminals acting without regard for law or innocent life. Instead, it will put the lives of those who obey the law at greater risk by denying them an entire class of firearms that are used for home defense.
The previous 1994 Assault Weapons Ban proved to be ineffective at reducing crime. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) concluded the “assault weapons ban” did not result in crime reduction. (See Analysis).
The FBI’s Uniform Crime Report shows more murders were committed by individuals using knives, fists and clubs than by those using any rifle – not just MSRs like AR-15s.
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Summer 2022 is speeding along. Today is the first day of August, and that means it’s National Shooting Sports Month (NSSM). To help grow the ranks of shooters, the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) asks you to bring a new shooter to the range in August. That’s a good mission — adding to the ranks of shooters is the best way to preserve our Second Amendment rights.
This coast-to-coast celebration spotlights the fun and enjoyment of target shooting. Newcomers can take their first shots, and experienced shooters can invite someone new to the range or help an erstwhile shooter rediscover the fun of target shooting. This month-long event involves all the shooting sports — rifle, pistol, and shotgun.
Find Shooting Sports Events Near You
The NSSF’s ShootingSportsMonth.org website offers a comprehensive, searchable database. This lets you search by state, to find ranges, events, and sales promotions near you. Visit the NSSF online database of NSSM shooting events to find matches, clinics, training sessions, special sales — and much more.
Great FREE Targets for Fun at the Range
To promote National Shooting Sports Month, the NSSF offers 17 FREE Downloadable Targets. There are regular bullseyes, as well as Darts, Golf, and more. We really like the Billiards target and kids love the Water Balloons target. You can download all 17 targets for free, and then print them out, ideally with a color printer. Below are six of our favorite targets. Click HERE to download these six targets (3.5 mb ZIP).
What Shooters Can Do to Promote National Shooting Sports Month:
The NSSF says: “As shooters, you serve a critical role in the continued growth of gun ownership and shooting sports participation. We urge you to join us this August for National Shooting Sports Month.” There are a variety of ways you can help this August:
— Introduce a family member, friend, or group of friends to the shooting sports by taking them to a local range that’s hosting an event.
— Spread the word to family/friends and encourage them to get out to the range in August.
— Encourage the ranges and retailers near you to host an event this August and add them to the official events calendar at www.ShootingSportsMonth.org.
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