Do primer types make a significant difference in accuracy or vertical dispersion at long range? The answer is “maybe”. Here’s one anecdotal study that tracked vertical variance among six different primer types. The tester is a good shooter with a very accurate rifle — four of the six 4-shot groups were under 2″ at 500 yards. This test doesn’t settle the question, but does suggest that it may be worth trying a few different primer types with your match ammo.
Here is a very interesting test for the 6 BRA (6mmBR Ackley) cartridge. Forum member James Phillips, a talented long-range benchrest shooter, tested SIX different primer types from three different manufacturers. To help determine vertical dispersion, James set his target out at 500 yards. He then proceeded to shoot 4-shot groups, in order, with each primer type. Velocities were recorded with a chrono. The photo above shows the results. James says: “I’ll retest the best two for accuracy and consistency with 10 shots each”. CLICK HERE for full-screen target photo.
As you can see, ALL the groups are pretty impressive. The smallest groups, 1.253″, was shot with CCI 400 primers. Next best (and very close) was CCI BR4, at 1.275″ for four shots. The “flat line” winner was the Remington 7.5, at upper left. There was almost no vertical. If you are intrigued by this interesting primer test, you can join the discussion in this Primer Test FORUM THREAD.
Primer Brand
Group Size
Velocity
Extreme Spread
Std Deviation
Remington 7.5
1.985″ 4 shot
2955 FPS
8 FPS
4.0 FPS
Federal 205M
2.200″ 4 shot
2951 FPS
11 FPS
4.8 FPS
Sellier Bellot SR
1.673″ 4 shot
2950 FPS
14 FPS
5.9 FPS
CCI 450M
2.341″ 4 shot
2947 FPS
14 FPS
6.6 FPS
CCI 400
1.253″ 4 shot
2950 FPS
3 FPS
1.3 FPS
CCI BR4
1.275″ 4 shot
2949 FPS
15 FPS
6.9 FPS
CARTRIDGE: 6mmBR Ackley, aka 6 BRA. Parent case is 6mmBR Norma. The 6 BRA is fire-formed to create a 40-degree shoulder and less body taper. Capacity is increased, but the neck is longer than a 6mm Dasher. The capacity is enough to get to the 2950+ FPS accuracy node. Some shooters say the 6 BRA is more forgiving than the 6mm Dasher. The 6 BRA is certainly easier to fire-form.
TEST REPORT — Conditions, Shooting Method, Loading Method
Tester James Phillips posted this report in ourShooters’ Forum:
Conditions: The testing was done in the morning over flags. The flags never moved or even twitched. I had as perfect conditions as I could have asked for. It was overcast so no mirage and no wind. There were no other shooters, just me.
Test Procedure: Each shot was precisely shot at my pace and centered the best possible using my Nightforce 15-55X scope. I did not use the round-robin method. Each four-shot group with the same was shot at one time. Then I moved onto the next primer. Everything felt right for each and every shot fired today. Of course I could repeat the test tomorrow and it could be exact opposite of today’s test. We can chase this forever. But [soon] I’m going to test the BR4 and 400 primer… for best accuracy and consistency for 10 shots each.
How Rounds Were Loaded: Each load was weighed to one (1) kernel of powder. So I know that’s as good as I can weigh them. Each bullet seating force was within 1# on my 21st Century hydraulic arbor press.
Previous Initial Load Testing: All groups were shot with 31.1 grains of H4895. During initial load testing I settled in on the Sellier & Bellot primer to finalize everything as it showed more promise over the CCI 450 Magnum I also tried. I was actually surprised to have seen the higher ES and SD from that primer today along with the vertical shown. [Editor: Look carefully — one shot from the CCI 450 is right in the center black diamond, stretching the vertical. By contrast the Rem 7.5 had almost no vertical.]
Velocity and NODE Considerations: I was about 5-6 FPS above what appeared to been my optimum velocity of 2943-2945 FPS, so I’ll test 5 shots of 31.0 and 5 of 31.1 and see what happens from there. I can only assume my velocities where higher due to the higher humidity and of course temps were 5 degrees warmer this morning as well. It wasn’t far off but I noticed it.
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. Palmetto SA — Labor Day Sale, Deals on Optics, ARs, and More
⏺ Major savings on dozens of popular guns and products
Palmetto State Armory (PSA) is running a major Labor Day Sale with huge discounts on guns, optics, ammunition, AR components and more. We feature three of the best deals above, but there are hundreds more items on sale now.
2. KYGUNCO — CZ 600 AL Alpha Rifle, $399.99 after $100 Rebate
⏺ Price after rebate is very low for a quality hunting rifle
Here’s a great bargain on a good CZ hunting rifle. The CZ 600 Alpha rifle series is on sale now at KYGUNCO for $499.99. Plus there is a $100.00 CZ-USA rebate. This rifle is offered in five popular chamberings for the same $499.99 sale price ($399.99 after factory rebate): .223 Remington (AL1), 6.5 Creedmoor (AL2), .308 Winchester (AL2), .30-06 Springfield (AL3), and .300 Winchester Magnum (AL3).
Note: The CZ-USA website currently shows a $50 Rebate, but KYGUNCO says the rebate is $100 for purchases made in September. SEE above video.
3. EuroOptic — Vortex Optics Close-Outs, Save 40-60%
⏺ Great deals on high-quality scopes with superb warranty
Right now EuroOptic has huge discounts on Vortex optics as part of the Vortex Close-Out Sale. Save on Vortex Viper, Diamondback, Ranger, and Strike Eagle scopes. If you need an affordable scope for your fall hunt, check out the Vortex 3-9x40mm Diamondback VM-1, at just $129.99. The $150 discount represents a 54% savings off the regular price.
4. Midsouth — Large Selection of Primers IN STOCK
⏺ Huge selection of primers including popular CCI, Federal, and Remington
For the past few years, primers have been hard to find at reasonable prices. Now we are finally seeing ample inventory. Right now you can get a wide range of Rifle and Pistol Primers at Midsouth starting at $69.99/1000. In stock now are leading US-made brands CCI, Federal, Remington, and Winchester. In addition, Midsouth has large inventories of Aguila, Fiocchi, and Unis primers. We have used all these brands with success. CCI 450 primers (our #1 choice for 6BR/Dasher) are $89.99 at Midsouth.
5. RCBS Buy Green Get Green Rebates, $25 – $75
⏺ Money Back programs for all RCBS products — effectively save 16-25%
With the RCBS Buy Green Get Green promo, you get a rebate if you spend at least $100 on ANY RCBS products. There’s no restricted list of “qualifying” products. Yes this applies to reloading presses, electronic powder dispensers, ultrasonic machines, beam scales, dies — everything RCBS makes. Buy from Midsouth or other retailer. The more you spend, the more you get back — up to $75.00 total. You can submit the Rebate form by mail or you can apply online for the Rebate.
6. Powder Valley — 20% Off Winchester Hunting Ammo
⏺ Hefty 20% ammo discount right in time for hunting season
Get a 20% off rebate on Winchester hunting ammunition — Winchester Power-Point, Deer Season XP, and/or Copper Impact. This rebate comes in the form of a prepaid giftcard, with a max $50 value. Ammo must be purchased before September 30, 2023 and the Winchester Rebate Redemption Form (with receipts) must be postmarked by October 16, 2023. Buy from Powder Valley or other major vendors.
7. MidwayUSA — Walker’s Quad Connect 26 dB NRR Bluetooth Electronic Muffs, $59.99
⏺ Comfortable with excellent 26 dB NRR plus Bluetooth connectivity
These Walker Electronic Quad muffs have an exceptionally high 26dB noise reduction rating (NRR). Some other electronic muffs are rated at just 20 or 21 dB NRR, a huge difference. These are equipped with Bluetooth so you can receive calls and audio from your smartphone. These muffs boast FOUR Omni Directional Microphones, twin volume controls, adjustable frequency tuning, integrated voice mic, and really fast reaction time. If you want something thinner, the Walker’s NRR 23 Razor Slim Muffs are also on sale, for just $39.99, 33% Off.
8. MidwayUSA — Gripper Shooting Rest Bag, $29.99
⏺ Very good deal on a large, stable media-filled support bag
Here’s a versatile front rifle support bag that can be used by hunters as well as PRS/NRL competitors. Normally $42.99, this black nylon media-filled support bag is now just $29.99 at MidwayUSA. This Gripper Shooting Rest Bag has removable top straps that can hold the bag on your rifle for multi-position PRS stages. This bag works well as a front support for zeroing a hunting rifle. The bottom two legs can be manipulated to raise or lower your rifle. The Shooting Rest Bag also includes a shoulder strap.
9. Powder Valley — CCI 9mm Pistol Ammo, $12.79 for 50 Rds
⏺ Quality, USA-made brass-cased 9mm ammo at great low price
The 9mm Luger (9x19mm) is the most popular cartridge for CCW, gun games, and handgun training. Right now you can get excellent CCI Blazer 9mm FMJ ammo for just $12.79/box at Powder Valley. Chose either 115 grain or 124 grsom FMJ for the same $12.79 price for a 50-rd box. We have used this brass-cased ammo in SIGs, HKs, and Glocks and it proved 100% reliable with good accuracy.
10. Amazon — XAegis Tactical Eyewear, $18.99
⏺ Under $20 for versatile, multi-lens Eye Protection
All shooters need quality eye protection when operating firearms. XAegis Tactical Eyewear is a versatile and affordable option. These ANSI Z87+ rated shooting glasses come with three different interchangeable lenses (Clear, Yellow, Gray). You also get a transport case, lanyard, and cleaning cloth. Choose from three frame colors, each for $18.99: Black, Khaki, or Green. For under $20 these are hard to beat. It’s nice to have the color lens options for different weather conditions, and indoors/outdoors.
The digital archives of Shooting Sports USA magazine (SSUSA) features an Expert Forum on Wind Reading. This outstanding article on wind reading starts off with a section by ballistics guru Bryan Litz, author of Applied Ballistics for Long-Range Shooting. Then four of the greatest American shooters in history share their personal wind wisdom. Lanny Basham (Olympic Gold Medalist, author, Winning in the Wind), Nancy Tompkins (Past National HP Champion, author, Prone and Long-Range Rifle Shooting), David Tubb (11-Time Camp Perry National Champion), and Lones Wigger (Olympic Hall of Fame) all offer practical wind-reading lessons learned during their shooting careers.
Whether you shoot paper at Perry or prairie dogs in the Dakotas, this is a certified “must-read” resource on reading the wind. Here is a sample selection from the article:
Shooting Sports USA magazine (SSUSA) has a modern, mobile-friendly website with tons of great content. Log on to www.ssusa.org. There you’ll find current news stories as well as popular articles from the SSUSA archives. The SSUSA website also includes match reports, gear reviews, reloading advice, plus expert marksmanship tips from the USAMU.
Here is beautiful F-Open rig crafted by Forum member CigarCop of KW Precision LLC. It features a laminated wood stock with stunning figured walnut on the outside.
One of the most popular items in our Shooters’ Forum is the ongoing “Pride and Joy” thread. Since 2009, Forum members have posted photos and descriptions of their most prized rifles. Here are some of the most popule “Pride and Joy” rifles showcased in our Forum. Do you have a gun you’d like to see featured there? Just Register for the Forum and you can add your favorite gun to the list. You’ll enjoy the Forum, which recently hit the 70,000-member mark!
600/1000 Benchrest Light Gun for Richard Schatz in 6 BRA
This blue benchrest rig was crafted by Alex Wheeler for ace benchrest competitor Richard Schatz, a past 600-yard IBS Shooter of the Year. Richard’s new 600/1000-yard Light Gun features a Krieger barrel chambered in 6 BRA (40° Ackley version of 6mmBR Norma). That Krieger is mated to a 1.550″ BAT B action, ignition-timed for smooth bolt close and increased accuracy. The trigger is the sophisticated Bix’n Andy. Schatz’s BAT is glued and screwed into a Wheeler LRB stock, with aluminum rails and adjustable metal “tracking rudder” on the toe of the stock. The rudder can be adjusted side to side to ensure optimal tracking, while the rudder’s vertical angle can be adjusted slightly with shims.
Hand-Crafted Thumbhole-Stocked Rifle Chambered in 6 PPC
Forum Member Grimstod offered this handsome 6 PPC custom with a beautiful, hand-made thumbhole stock: “This was fully accurized with Premier Accuracy recoil lug installed. Really makes these shoot a lot better. It features a Kelbly Panda action with Hart barrel and glass bedding. Trigger fall was perfect to start and we have to give Ian Kelbly big thumbs up for making every action perfectly timed.” On top is a March competition scope. See more photos at www.premieraccuracy.com.
A Wicked Accurate Big Dawg in 28 Nosler
This 28 Nosler Benchrest rifle looks good and shoots even better — check out that 20-shot target shot at 200 yards! You can’t argue with that…
Belonging to Forum member LA50Shooter, this rig is chambered in 28 Nosler, with metal work by Gre-Tan Rifles. The action is a BAT Model “L” 1.650 Octagon with a 30 MOA scope rail, running a Jewell BR Trigger. The stock, from D&B Supply, is a Shehane Big Dawg Tracker with 5″ fore-end. Color scheme is “Field & Stream” Rutland laminate. This big rig boasts FOUR 34″ Benchmark barrels (1.5″ for seven inches tapering to 1.225″ at muzzle).
A Pair of Score Benchrest Beauties
Forum member JimPag showcased two new Benchrest-for-Score rifles. The rig on the left, smithed by Dwight Scott, features a Farley Black Widow RBLPRE (with Bix’n Andy trigger). It features Pistachio and Carbon Terry Leonard stock glued and screwed by Sid Goodling. The barrel is a Krieger 23.5″ chambered in 30BR with a Mike Ezell tuner. It’s topped with a Goodling-built 1-piece Davidson base and a Nightforce 42X Comp scope. The rifle on the right, smithed by Sid Goodling, features a Marsh Saguaro RBLPRE Action with Bix’n Andy trigger, and March 36-55X scope. This rifle boasts a rare Screwbean Mesquite and carbon stock by Terry Leonard. The 23″ Lilja bbl is chambered in 30 Thrasher with a Goodling tuner. (30 Thrasher is longer 30 BR case developed by Joe Entrekin). Jim also has two other barrels for this action in 30 BR and 6 BRAI. On top is a Sid Goodling-built one-piece Davidson base with a March 36-55X scope.
6BRA with BAT Action, Brux Barrel — The Blue Beauty
Next is a blue 6BRA beauty from Forum Member RiflePainter: “This is my brand new 6BRA Light Gun built by Jason Danley at Danley Precision! Jason did all of the work including paint. Brass was done by Darrel Jones at DJ’s brass service.” This features a Johnny Byers stock painted in HOK Custom Oriental Blue Candy mix. The action is a BAT DS Left-load, Right-eject, Right bolt fitted to a 1.5 oz. Jewell trigger. The barrel is a 28″ Brux HV 1:8″-twist chambered for the 6BRA (6mmBR Ackley) and fitted with a Harrell’s radial muzzle brake. On top is a Sightron SIII 10-50x60mm optic riding in BAT 1-piece scope rings.
Rem 700 in Manners Stock — .284 Winchester for Hunting
Here’s a Rem 700 enhanced with a Manners Elite TA stock and other upgrades. Forum Member NickB1075 says: “Here is a rifle I finished for hunting this year. It’s a bit heavy for New York woods carry but it just shoots great. Maybe I will have to get one of those fancy Proof Research barrels to lighten it up a bit.” Nick is running a Benchmark 1:8.5″-twist barrel chambered in .284 Win with 0.315 neck for shooting 150gr Barnes bullets. Nick added a Jewell trigger and on top is a U.S. Optics B10 Scope.
When Only the Biggest and Boldest Will Do — .50 BMG
No “Pride and Joy” feature would be complete without a Big Boomer. This impressive .50 BMG, “61 inches of big bore goodness”, weighs a whopping 49 pounds (95 lbs. complete with case and accessories). This rifle’s proud owner, forum member 6MT, says everything on this black beast is jumbo-sized: “Yes, I can stick my finger clear through the ports in the muzzle brake!” The rifle boasts a U.S. Ordnance 31″ heavy-contour barrel fitted to Barnard GP action. The stock is a “Big Mac” from McMillan. No optics yet — 6MT says he is “looking at an ATACR 7-35x56mm with a Spuhr mount… As soon as my wallet recovers!”
Hunting season has already started in some states, and is right around the corner in other locations. For readers who plan to hunt game this fall, we recommend you brush up on hunter safety and learn the laws in your jurisdiction. This article provides links to key resources for hunters, including links for state-by-state hunting regulation. In addition, we provide key hunting safety tips. Before you go out on a hunt, provide the exact location to family members, and it’s wise to have some kind of geo-location device if you are venturing far into the backcountry.
Visit WhereToHunt.org
There’s a great online resource for hunters that will help you find game locations in your state and ensure you have all the proper permits and game tags. WheretoHunt.org features an interactive map of the country. For all 50 states, the NSSF has compiled information about hunting license and permits, where to hunt, hunter education classes, laws and regulations and more. For each state you’ll also find a link for required applications and license forms.
Click Map to Get State-by-State Hunting INFO
Hunter Safety Tips NRAFamily.org has a good article listing six salient safety tips for hunters. Anyone preparing for a fall hunt should read this article before heading into the field. Here are three key bits of advice:
1. Be Positive of Your Target before Shooting
This might sound overly simplistic, but the fact remains that, every year during whitetail season, farmers everywhere are forced to spray-paint their cattle or risk having them “harvested” by hunters who don’t bother confirming the species of the large ungulate in their sights. Why does this happen? The most likely explanation is “buck fever,” meaning that the hunter wants so badly to see a nice big buck that sometimes his eyes deceive him into thinking that there’s one there. When in doubt, don’t shoot.
2. Scopes Are Not Binoculars
Never use a riflescope as a substitute for binoculars. The temptation to do so is real, but when one does this, one is by definition pointing the muzzle of the gun at unknown targets.
3. Know When to Unload
When finished hunting, unload your firearm before returning to camp. You should also unload your gun before attempting to climb a steep bank or travel across slippery ground.
Hunting Affiliation Groups
There are many good organizations dedicated to promoting hunting and preserving our hunting habitats. These groups all offer valuable information for hunters:
Hunting season is starting soon around the country. For hunters that means many hours may be spent searching for animals through spotting scopes and binoculars — “glassing” for game. And when the hunter does find a good buck or doe, he’ll need to know the animal’s precise distance, so that demands a good laser rangefinder. Being carried in the field, the scopes on hunting rifles need to be tough and durable, and every hunting scope should have good low-light performance. And when the hunter finally takes his shot, his scope better be properly zeroed. Today’s Saturday at the Movies showcase is all about Hunting Optics. We offer nine great videos that help you select the right riflescope, spotting scope, rangefinder, and binoculars for your next hunt.
Comparison of Seven Popular Deer Hunting Scopes
This is summary review of seven (7) popular hunting scopes, as available in 2020 (there may be newer variants). This video consist mostly of manufacturer-created marketing content with a few minutes of independent reviews. Consider this video a place to start when shopping for a new hunting optic. You’ll want to check independent reviews when you select a particular model. The seven riflescopes featured in the video are: Athlon Optics Argos BTR, Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x50mm, Leupold VX-R 4-12x40mm, NightForce SHV 5-20x56mm, Nikon Buckmasters II, Vortex Crossfire II, Vortex Viper HS SFP.
Optics Selections for Mountain Hunts
Here’s a good video by an avid hunter who treks in remote, mountainous zones. The host has learned what works… and what’s worth the weight to carry: “I’ve found that the combination of 10×42 binoculars and a 27–60x80mm spotting scope is the sweet spot for mountain hunting. This pairing balances weight with reach, allowing me to keep moving but also reach out and see well-hidden animals. In some cases, I will make use of an 18×56 binocular, but this is reserved for non-backpack hunts. With 25 years of mountain hunting experience, I can whole-heartedly recommend my preferred binocular pair as a fantastic and versatile set-up for northern mountain hunts at the very least.”
Ultimate Spotter Test — 19 Spotting Scopes Reviewed
The producers of this remarkable 19-product spotting scope comparison state: “If you are looking at choosing the best spotting scope for hunting… you are in the right place! We tested these 19 spotting scopes to find the best compact spotting scope, best 65mm spotting scope, and best 85mm spotting scope out there. We also wanted to find the best values on the market, and I think we definitely did that. While we certainly couldn’t test them ALL, we were able to put together this incredible lineup of some of the best spotting scopes out there to help you find what is going to work for your specific needs.”
First Focal Plane vs. Second Focal Plane Scopes
For the last century, Second Focal Plane (SFP) scopes have been most common on hunting rifles. Now there are an increasing number of First Focal Plane (FFP) optics favored by hunters. The main reason is that the reticle mark values (in Mils or MOA) are constant relative to the target size at all magnification levels. That is handy for hold-offs and hold-overs. On the other hand, a SFP scope maintains a constant reticle size and line thickness at all zoom values. For most hunting shots, taken inside 300 yards, that really should be fine. Many hunters feel they can spot their prey more easily without a busy reticle that obscures small details at higher magnification. This video explains the pros and cons of both reticle types. The final decision is up to you — much will depend on the terrain you hunt and the distances you shoot.
Field Evaluation of Nine Binoculars under $500
Here is another multi-product optics comparison test. Backwoods Pursuit tested nine binoculars under $500. The testers evaluated each of the nine binoculars performed, considering optics (glass) quality, sharpness, low-light performance, focus control, weight, and ergonomics. Listed in the order they appear in the video, here are the nine binocular types tested:
1:27 Maven C.1
2:16 Athlon Midas
3:15 Zeiss Terra ED
4:30 Kowa BD II XD
5:34 Bushnell Forge
7:29 Vortex Viper HD
The Complete Optics Selection for For Deer Hunting
In this video, Vortex optics techs explain the optics package deer hunters will want to take into the field. Along with a good medium-power zoom riflescope, you’ll want binoculars and (probably) a spotting scope. You’ll also want a Laser Rangefinder (LRF) or laser-equipped binoculars. As the team points out, the LRF is not just to range your prey right before you take a shot. A top-quality LRF can range a reflective object as far as 1500 yards away. That helps you decide whether you want to hike a mile to reach that buck you see way out on the next ridge.
Comparison of Eight Laser Rangefinders
The Backfire team purchased eight rangefinders and tested them in the field. Most of the products are under $500. This is a good review if you are looking for a compact LRF at a moderate price. Looking at performance for the price, for the hunting market, the reviewers favored the Leupold RX-1600 and the waterproof Vortex Ranger 1800. COMMENTARY: If you can afford it, we recommend that serious hunters consider top-end laser rangefinder-equipped binoculars such as the ZEISS Victory RF and Leica Geovid.
MOA vs. MIL — What you Need to Know
These days, scope manufacturers offer a wide selection of both MIL (Milliradian) and MOA (Minute-of-Angle) based optics. We do think that MOA is still predominant in the lighter-weight, lower-cost (sub-$500) scopes marketed for hunters. There are pros and cons for both angular measurement systems. One MIL is 3.6″ at 100 yards, while one MOA is 1.047″ at 100 yards. If you grew up thinking in inches, a 1/4-MOA click-value hunting scope might work best. If you shoot PRS or have other MIL scopes you may prefer a MIL-value optic for your hunting rifle. Both choices will do the job.
How to Zero Your Hunting Rifle Efficiently
Last but not least, here’s a great video from Vortex that shows you how to quickly and efficiently sight-in and zero your hunting rifle before heading out into the field. This video explains a simple procedure that lets you get a solid zero in just three shots. Of course you probably want to fire a few more rounds to confirm your zero before you head off to your hunting grounds, but this will let you get on-target with a minimum amount of time and ammo expended. This helpful video has over 3 million views on YouTube!
Fouling Shots and Cold Bore Condition
If you recently cleaned your rifle, you may want to fire two or three fouling shots before you start this procedure. But keep in mind that you want to duplicate the typical cold bore conditions that you’ll experience during the hunt. If you set your zero after three fouling shots, then make sure the bore is in a similar condition when you actually go out hunting.
Here’s an inexpensive product that can make your case prep and loading tasks easier. We use and recommend the cleverly-designed Lyman Bleacher Blocks. These multi-level (stepped) cartridge holders save space on your bench AND make it easier to select a particular case/cartridge from a full block. Each row is a different height for convenience. With Bleacher Blocks it’s also easier to check for powder levels, or place bullets before the seating process.
Lyman’s Bleacher Block cartridge holders have many advantages over conventional, single-level blocks. Use the different levels for sorting brass. Or, migrate the brass from top to bottom as you proceed through case prep stages. If you are assembling loads with different bullets for load testing, you could arrange the loaded rounds on different levels for easy recognition. For example put V-Max loaded rounds on the top tier, and Berger Hybrid loaded rounds on the bottom tier. Or, if you are experimenting with neck tension, you can use different rows for cases processed with different bushings.
Made of durable orange polymer, Lyman Bleacher Blocks are now molded in five sizes — small pistol, large pistol, and three rifle sizes. The smallest rifle block (with 0.388″-diam holes) fits .223 Rem-size case heads. The middle size rifle block (with 0.485″-diam holes) fits .308 Win-size case heads. That works for 6mmBR/Dasher sized cases perfectly. The biggest rifle Bleacher Block has 0.565″-diameter recesses for magnum-size cases. All cartridge block sizes hold fifty (50) rounds. Purchase these for just $6.29 per block at Midsouth or get them for $7.99 per block at Brownells.
Here’s what Lyman says about its innovative cartridge block design: “Our [stepped] loading blocks allow for easier handling of cases in and out of the loading block. Our stepped design allows you to easily grip a single case without jamming your fingers down into a group of cases like in traditional loading blocks, and allows for a smaller ‘footprint’ on your bench.”
Lyman Bleacher Blocks are among the Reloading Tools reviewed in this helpful video:
Many online vendors are running sales this Labor Day Holiday weekend. You’ll find scores of products marked way down, plus discount codes that can save you 20% or more on your purchases. Many sales run through the end-of-day on Monday, September 4th, while other Labor Day sales extend further. Be sure to check the sale schedules.
Here are links to seven notable Labor Day sales. With these Labor Day promotions you can save 10-40% on some items. In addition, some of the vendors are offering FREE Shipping and/or FREE Hazmat (for primers and powder shipping) with a minimum purchase.
Precision Reloading — 10% Off Sitewide with $99 Minimum Order
Right now at Precision Reloading, if you spend at least $99.00, you can get 10% Off on nearly everything on the site now through September 4 at 11:59 pm. Save 10% this Labor Day weekend on orders over $99 with Coupon Code 9123 at checkout.
Brownells — 410+ Sale Products Plus 10% Off with Code LD10
Brownells is running a big Labor Day promotion. Go to the Labor Day Sale Page to find over 410 products discounted up to 40%. Featured items include Federal Gold Medal Ammo, Winchester Rimfire Ammo, Reloading Powders, Hornady Presses, Lee Reloading tools, AR components, and optics. In addition, with special Code LD10, you save an extra 10% on products featured in the 2023 Brownells Labor Day Sale.
Primary Arms — Labor Day Sale
There are some amazing deals this Labor Day Weekend at Primary Arms. All in-stock gun cases are on sale. Bipods from Harris, Magpul, and Atlas are on sale. A large selection of optics are deeply discounted with big savings on Trijicon and Holosun Red Dot sights. And rifle components are discounted — for example you can get a Precision Arms mid-length AR-15 barrel for just $59.99.
Midsouth — Free Shipping or HazMat with $99+ Orders
Celebrate Labor Day with Free Shipping Or Hazmat on Midsouth orders over $99.00. For an Order to Qualify for FREE Shipping (LDFS23) the order must Include $99 of In Stock items Up to 49 lbs. If order weight exceeds 50 lbs, a shipping charge will be assessed for the overage. For an order to qualify for FREE Hazmat (LDHM23) the order must include $99 of In-Stock Hazmat items. This promotion is for Retail Customers only. No backorders. Lower 48 States only. Offers cannot be combined. Offer ends 9/4 at 11:59 pm CST.
L.E. Wilson — 10% Off Sitewide (Except Presses)
L.E. Wilson currently offers 10% OFF all online orders. Take advantage of these special Labor Days Weekend savings on outstanding Wilson tools and dies. NOTE: The 10% Off discounted prices are already reflected in the Wilson online shopping cart total. The 10% discount does NOT include reloading presses.
Mesa Tactical — 10% Off Sitewide
Starting Friday, September 1st through Monday, September 4th use coupon code LABOR10 to receive 10% OFF sitewide at Mesa Tactical. Popular products include rifle stocks, adjustable fore-ends, and shotshell carriers. You also get a free Mesa Tactical Operator’s Cap with orders over $150.00.
SilencerCo — Up to 30% Off
SilencerCo is running a major Labor Day Sale now through September 4, at 11:59 PM MDT. You can save 25% off sitewide and 30% off product bundles. SilencerCo states: “There’s never been a better time to start working down that laundry list of suppressor accessories.”
Lapua has hired skilled competitive shooter Ryan Sponauer as the new Rimfire Performance Center Manager for the sophisticated Lapua rimfire ammunition test center in Mesa, Arizona. At that center, rimfire rifle owners can test lots of Lapua rimfire ammo in their own rifles. In the Mesa, Arizona facility as well as other Lapua Rimfire Performance Centers, visitors can test lots of ammunition at both 50 and 100 meters simultaneously to determine which lots shoot best in their guns.
Sponauer brings a long and accomplished competitive shooting background to Mesa’s Lapua Rimfire Performance center. He started with three-position and prone at the age of 14 at The Blue Trail range in Wallingford, CT, where he won numerous state and regional matches. Sponauer, who graduated from the University of North Georgia, shot for their NCAA 3-P and Air Rifle teams, served as multi-year team captain, and managed lot testing ammunition for the team. Sponauer and his team went on to win the 2021 Southern Conference Championship.
Sponauer commented: “I am very excited to give back to the shooting community with this position because the sport has given me so much. The lot testing we offer gives any shooter a significant competitive edge allowing them to compete to their maximum potential.”
Patterned after the world-renowned Lapua Test Center in Germany, both the Marengo, Ohio, and Mesa, Arizona Lapua Rimfire Performance Centers allow shooters to test multiple lots of ammunition under tightly-controlled conditions. Each of the Lapua Rimfire Performance Centers offer the ability to test ammunition at both 50 and 100 meters, simultaneously. By comparing the results of various ammunition lots at both distances, the best performing lots can offer a competitive advantage. To learn more about the Lapua Rimfire Performance Centers or to schedule an appointment, visit Rimfiretest.com.
About Lapua
For 100 years, Lapua has been producing the highest quality small caliber cartridges and components for civilian and professional use. Lapua is a part of the Capstone Precision Group, exclusive U.S. distributor for Berger, Lapua, Vihtavuori and SK-Rimfire products. For more information, visit Lapua.com
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has released the 35th Edition of State Laws and Published Ordinances — Firearms (ATF P 5300.5). This information will help FFLs and gun owners comply with federal and state firearm laws and, specifically, remain in compliance with the Gun Control Act of 1968. The information is found on the ATF website here: ATF.gov/firearms/state-laws-and-published-ordinances-firearms-35th-edition.
The ATF website has links to the particular laws for all 50 U.S. States as well as the American territories such as the U.S. Virgin Islands. This makes it quick and easy to check for updates in your region. We encourage readers to review the pertinent state or territory link provided on the ATF website that is relevant to your location. Click here for more information.
NOTE: The ATF Guide to State Laws has this caveat: This material is not intended to provide legal advice and should be used only for informational purposes. It is possible that a state may have passed a more recent law(s) or issued interpretations or regulations that have yet to be published and are not included in this publication. If you have any questions regarding state, county or local laws, please contact your state’s Attorney General.
