Summer is almost here, so it’s time to focus on fun. Here are four specialty targets with game themes: Dartboard, Billiards Table, Bowling Alley, and Poker Cards. Each target features multiple aiming points. Shoot the dartboard like a regular game or make up your own sequence. For the billiards target shoot the balls in number sequence or alternate stripes/solids. Click any target to load FREE downloadable PDF files. Then print the targets and take them to the range for a fun shooting session. A big thanks to our friends at NRABlog.com and NSSF for creating these colorful “fun & games” targets. Enjoy!
Dartboard Target
With this fun Dart-Board Target, aim for the four outer bullseyes, then go for the center bull. The colored darts provide additional targets. With an accurate rifle you can also aim for the colored stripes.
NSSF Billiards Table Target
This Billiards Table Target offers 15 brightly-colored numbered balls with the cue ball at the bottom. Aim for the numbers, shooting 1-15 in sequence, or alternate between stripes and solids. You can also draw an “X” on the white cue ball (or attach a paster), and use that to set your zero. This target is fun for shooting outdoors with rifles at 50 or 100 yards or indoors with pistols.
This billiards target is part of a set of 12 Fun Targets from the NSSF. These were issued a couple seasons back for National Shooting Sports Month, held in August of each year. The other free targets include Golf Links, Bowling Pins, Fireworks, Baseball Diamond, Dutch Windmill, Water Balloons, Light Bulbs, Dartboard, and three Bullseye targets.
NRA Bowling Pins with Bowling Ball Target
Here’s a fun target for close-range pistol or 100-yard rifle shooting. This NRA Bowling set target has 8 bulleyes. The largest bullseye is on the blue bowling pin. Then there are three slightly smaller bulls on the center of three of the seven bowling pins. Finally there are four small bullseyes located on the top of the first, third, fifth, and seventh pin. To test your skills, start with the bowling ball and then work up to the more challenging bulleyes.
Poker Target — Get the Best Hand
With this playing card-themed target, each shooter takes five shots and the one with the highest hand wins. With the Poker Game Target you can also shoot for 4-of-a-kind, against the clock, fastest four (without a mistake) wins.
Each year, on the last Monday in May, Americans honor the sacrifices of military men and women who paid the ultimate price in their service to our nation. Over 1.34 million American men and women have died in military service during wartime beginning with the Revolutionary War. Of that total, over 666,440 American troops have died in battle while nearly 674,000 died from other, non-combat related causes. On May 27, 2024, we again pay tribute to these men and women and remember their service to their country.
This is what Memorial Day symbolizes — a time Americans take a clear look at both our past and our future. One day each year, when we acknowledge the debt we owe to those men and women who — because they so cherished peace — chose to live as warriors.
Could anything be more contradictory than the lives of our soldiers? They love America, so they spend long years in foreign lands far from her shores. They revere freedom, so they sacrifice their own that we may be free. They defend our right to live as individuals, yet yield their individuality in that cause. Perhaps most paradoxically of all, they value life, and so bravely ready themselves to die in the service of our country. — Deborah Y. Parker
Moment of Remembrance
Memorial Day Observances will range from parades to memorial ceremonies and organized moments of silence. The Memorial Day National Moment of Remembrance honors America’s fallen warrriors. Established by Congress in 2000, the “Moment” asks Americans, wherever they are at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day, to pause for one minute, in an act of national unity and respect for the fallen.
What Is Memorial Day?
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for remembering the men and women who died while serving in the country’s armed forces. The holiday, which is celebrated every year on the last Monday of May, was formerly known as Decoration Day and originated after the American Civil War to commemorate the Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the war. By the 20th century, Memorial Day had been extended to honor all Americans who have died while in the military service.
On Memorial Day, the United States flag is traditionally raised to the top of the staff, then solemnly lowered to half-staff position until noon, when it is raised again to full-staff for the rest of the day. The half-staff position is to remember the more than one million men and women who have given their lives for this country.
Flags placed in Arlington National Cemetery by members of the 3rd Infantry Regiment, the “Old Guard”.
Many people visit cemeteries and memorials, particularly to honor those who have died in military service. Many volunteers place an American flag on each grave in national cemeteries.
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. Brownells — Weekly Featured Deals and Memorial Day Sale
⏺ Great deals at Brownells — ammo, bullets, optics, chronos, and more
2. EuroOptic — 50% Off Vortex for Military, LE, First Responders
⏺ 50% Off MSRP for Military, police, first responders through 5/30/24
Today (5/27/24) is Memorial Day. To help mark this day, Vortex, via EuroOptic, has a special promotion with 50% off MSRP for Vortex products. This offer runs through May 30, 2024. After that a similar Military/LE/First Responder discount may be available at 40% off MSRP. CLICK HERE for more information. To qualify you must set up a user account. The offer excludes close-outs and discontinued items.
3. Primary Arms — Memorial Day Sale, Save up to 30%
⏺ Major savings on hundreds of items — great for AR components
Primary Arms is running a big Memorial Day Sale with hundreds of items on Sale. Along with the featured special, you can shop for deals by Manufacturer/Brand (e.g. Vortex, EoTech, Magpul) or by Product Category (e.g. Optics, Barrels, Ammo, AR Uppers). Shown above are four noteworthy deals, but there are over 2000 items discounted.
4. Midsouth — Peterson Brass on Sale, 24 Varieties
⏺ High quality, long lasting brass — good PRS/NRL choice
Excellent American-made Peterson brass is on sale now at Midsouth. You’ll find many 6mm options including 6mm Dasher and 6mm Creedmoor. If you shoot a Dasher, this Peterson brass will let you avoid the time and expense of fire-forming cases. Hunters will be pleased to find a number of large magnum cartridge types available including 7mm PRC, 7mm RUM, .300 WinMag, .300 Norma Mag, 33 Nosler, .338 Lapua Magnum, and more.
5. MidwayUSA — ATN Day/Night 3-14X Video Scope, $559.00
⏺ Advanced scope records video and operates daytime and night-time
Here’s a great electro-optics product for hunters. The 3-14X ATN X-Sight scope offers day/night viewing capability, PLUS it can record HD video of your hunt. This scope even has a built-in Ballistics Calculator that shows hold-overs. Right now this 3-14X optic is $559.00 at MidwayUSA, a $140.00 (20%) discount. In addition to the ATN 3-14X model, there is a 5-20X version for $639.00 on sale at Midway USA. Both models offer HD video recording, ballistics, electronic compass, multiple reticle options, and smartphone connectivity. BONUS: Both 3-14X and 5-20X ATN optics ship with 30mm Picatinny rings.
6. Creedmoor Sports — Berger 6mm, 6.5mm, 7mm Bullets Sale
⏺ Good prices on top-tier Berger match bullets
Berger bullets are favored by top competitors in many disciplines. Right now you can get significant savings on popular Berger match bullets in 6mm, 6.5mm, and 7mm calibers. F-Class shooters — take note that Berger 180gr Match Hybrid Target bullets and 184gr F-Open Hybrid Target bullets are on sale — save $10 per hundred. Along with the savings on top-tier bullets, through 5/28/24 you can get FREE Shipping with orders over $149.00. Use Creedmoor Sports discount code REMEMBER.
7. Amazon — Lyman BrassSmith Funnel, $31.99
⏺ Very useful kit we use — avoids powder spills
Having a good powder funnel really helps precision reloading. The Lyman Products Brass Smith Pro Powder Funnel System (#ad) is a great little system. Unlike plastic powder funnels, the aluminum DIE cast body and CNC-turned aluminum caliber-specific inserts are static free to eliminate powder cling. The precision fit to your case necks eliminates spilled powder. The kit includes six laser-marked aluminum inserts to fit calibers 22 to 338: .22, .243/6mm, .25/6.5mm, .270/7mm, .30, and .338.
8. Midsouth — CCI Blazer .22 LR Ammo, $32.99/500 Rounds
⏺ Very low price on good, reliable .22 LR ammunition
If you use .22 LR ammo for NRL22, varminting, or plinking, consider this CCI Blazer 40gr ammunition. Rated at 1235 fps, this CCI ammo runs pretty fast and packs a punch. Right now you can get a 500-ct brick for just $32.99. That’s just $3.29 per 50-ct box, a great value for quality American-made ammo.
9. MidwayUSA — Plano Protector Pro-Max Rifle Case, $33.99
⏺ Good price on a sturdy, 52″ interior transport case for long rifles
Do you have a long-barreled hunting or varmint rifle? With a 52″ internal size, this Plano Protector Pro-Max Rifle Case handles rifles with barrels up to 30″ (or 31″ with a thin buttplate). On the inside the case has high-density, interlocking foam padding. On the outside, the case has four clamps, padlock tabs, and a handy carry handle. NOTE: This case will work well for normal trips to the range. However, you’ll want a thicker, more sturdy TSA-approved case for airline transport.
⏺ Under $20 for versatile, multi-lens Eye Protection
All shooters need quality eye protection when operating firearms. XAegis Tac 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 frame, Green Frame, or Khaki frame. For under $20 these are hard to beat. It’s nice to have the color lens options for different weather conditions, and indoors/outdoors.
As an Amazon affiliate, this site can earn revenues through sales commissions.
Commerce Dept. BIS Export Rule Targets Hunters and Competitive Marksmen Going Abroad Story based on NSSF Report By Mark Oliva
Hunters and competitive marksmen thinking about traveling overseas for their next adventure should keep in mind that the Biden administration’s new rule targeting firearm exports also puts their personally-owned firearms in the crosshairs.
The Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) published an Interim Final Rule that makes permanent a freeze on firearm and ammunition exports. Hidden in some of the fine print… are new restrictions for hunters traveling overseas. That lifetime dream of hunting in the African plains, Scottish Highlands or New Zealand mountains is going to come with more challenges than just arranging travel, passports, guides and getting on the animals. Now, there’s a new maze of legal paperwork too.
Personal Export License Will Be Required to Take Rifles to Dozens of Countries
Hunters planning destinations which are in Country Group D:5 will require an export license to travel with personal firearms. Those D:5 countries are Afghanistan, Belarus, Burma, Cambodia, Central African Republic, China, Democratic Republic of Congo, Cuba, Cyprus, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, North Korea, Lebanon, Libya, Nicaragua, Russia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe (but Zimbabwe is excluded from this export license requirement under the Interim Final Rile). Likewise, Caribbean countries will also require an export license for personal firearms.
That rule will change the license policy for a group of 36 countries considered to be “high risk” and BIS will revoke any current licenses held by exporters. There are a bevy of new restrictions, including a requirement that licenses that were once valid for four years are now only good for one year.
CLICK HERE for full NSSF Report with more information about specific foreign destinations.
Tomorrow, May 27, 2024 is Memorial Day — the day we honor those who have served in the Military and given the ultimate sacrifice. To help mark that important day, our Sunday GunDay story features “Modern Military” rifles that were once used in wartime but are now used in target competition. We spotlight the rifles of Brian Williams, one of the world’s best military rifle competitors, and a multi-time CMP Champion.
Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, is a U.S. federal holiday for honoring the U.S. military personnel who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. From 1868 to 1970, Memorial Day was observed on May 30. Since 1971, it has been observed on the last Monday of May.
Brian Williams is one of America’s top CMP match shooters. At the 2021 CMP Eastern Games, Brian won both the 3-Gun and 4-Gun Aggregates. He also won the 4-Gun at the CMP National Matches in Camp Perry three years in a row — the inaugural 2017 4-Gun Agg, plus 2018 and 2019. Due to COVID, there were no CMP Camp Perry National Matches in 2020.
In this article, Brian provides perspectives on the “Wood Gun” game, with suggestions on how to improve your performance with the M1 Garand, M1903 Springfield, M1917 Enfield, M1 Carbine, and other 20th Century military rifles. While Brian also shoots his AR15 for the 4-Gun, today’s article focuses on his favorite firearms — his classic “Wood Rifles”.
VIDEO Showcase — Brian Williams Shoots M1903A3 Prone in May 2021
The Classic Wood Guns of CMP 4-Gun Competition
Perspectives on M1 Garand, M1903A3, M1917, and M1 Carbine
Q: What should one look for when acquiring older rifles for CMP 4-Gun Games — M1 Garand, M1903/1903A3, M1917, M1 Carbine? What are realistic budgets for these firearms? What kind of accuracy can one expect? What upgrades are important?
Brian: All of these military surplus rifles are out there, but they are getting harder to get your hands on. And, just like everything else, the prices continue to rise. Not that long ago you could get your hands on a M1 Garand for four or five hundred dollars. In today’s market they are usually about double that price. But understand that these rifles are all unique and all have a story to tell. No two are alike, or have the same story. Just like the guns themselves, there are fewer and fewer dedicated gunsmiths for these vintage rifles. But I promise if you look for a good smith, they are out there and they are some of the most interesting people you will ever meet.
M1 Garand — Of the four (4) centerfire guns I shoot in the CMP games, my favorite has to be the M1 Garand. There were over 6 million of them produced in a very short time period, and every single one has its own unique story, and that is just cool. M1 Garands are capable of good accuracy. I believe that a well-maintained M1 with at least a replacement barrel is capable of shooting between 1 and 1.5 MOA.
M1903A3 Springfield — I find that the sights on a M1903A3 are a little easier to see than the sights of the M1903, but both are very accurate rifles. Like most military rifles in the current climate the prices have risen dramatically, but there are some gems out there that can be had for far less than $1000. The nice thing about the Springfield rifle is that almost all of the accuracy than you would want can come from just replacing a worn out 80-year-old barrel. In terms of accuracy, I think a good M1903A3 can shoot 1 MOA most of the time.
M1917 Enfield — This rifle is the newest of my collection and it shoots very well, with just a new Criterion barrel — again about 1 MOA with iron sights. These rifles are very close in price to the M1903 Springfield. But if you do your homework and keep your eyes open, there are always great deals to be found. I actually prefer shooting the M1917 to my M1903A3, due primarily to the M1917’s cock-on-close bolt which allows smoother cycling.
M1 Carbine — By 1945 there had been more M1 Carbines built than Garands. Today the Carbine can be harder to find, and due to the scarcity the price has shot up and most military M1 Carbines are going for more than $1000 at this point. The great thing about the M1 Carbine is that as long as you have a good ammo supply this rifle can shoot. Honest. I have had countless numbers of people that tell me that there is not an M1 carbine that will shoot. I can tell you from experience that they will, but you are going to have to put in some time with one to learn how to get it to shoot where you want it.
The M1 Carbine shoots the .30 Carbine round, with 110gr bullet going about 1990 FPS. In comparison, the .30-06 Springfield round used in the M1 Garand is almost three times more powerful than the .30 Carbine.
Reloading for .30-06 Springfield Rifles
Tech Report by Brian Williams
Reloading for a military surplus gun as different than loading for a modern precision rifle in my opinion. There are a few tasks that care over from one to the other, but the main goal is slightly different. The Target that is being shot in the CMP games matches has a rather generous 10 ring, and with a little larger target you focus needs to change from a round with ultra accuracy to a round that is safe and functions well in your particular rifle.
Bullet Selection — With the .30-06 for my Garands and Springfields I stick mostly with 168gr bullets plus some 155-grainers. These bullet weights have just worked for me in the past.
Cartridge Brass (Milsurp vs. Commercial) — I use both military and commercial brass, having success with each. I do prefer commercial brass as it is easier to prep for the first reload. Military brass usually has a primer crimp of some kind that needs to be removed, and I have found that trimming these cases can sometimes leave you scratching your head as the OAL on military cases varies considerably.
Power Charge and Dispensing — I have always had good success with Hodgdon H4895 powder. My load has always been right around 47.0 grains, with both the 168gr and 155gr bullets. I also use the Auto-Trickler to drop all of my powder charges. This is a fantastic piece of equipment that not only gives super-consistent powder charges quickly, but it also makes one less thing that you have to worry about while on the firing line. With the Auto-Trickler, there is never a question about the powder charge in your ammo. As for primers, I have been shooting CCI 200 Large Rifle primers for many years and have never had an issue.
Case Care and Trimming — With most of the .30-06 brass that I use, I will only reload them 5 times maximum. I don’t push the brass too much, because the Garand’s semi-auto cycling can be tough on the cases. I also trim my cases for OAL each reload cycle. I use a Giraud power trimmer, so trimming is relatively quick and easy.
The chambers in some of the older rifles are not perfectly-machined like a modern high-end rifle. This can cause the brass to grow a little inconsistently, so I find trimming every load cycle helps to make sure that everything stays in a nice safe spec.
Case Annealing — A few years ago I started to anneal my .223 Rem service rifle brass. Now I have added that process for all my match ammunition. I anneal after every firing. It is a rather easy step as I can have my auto-feeding Annealeez machine running while doing something else, so annealing does not add a great deal of time or effort to the reloading process.
The .30-06 case was the father of the .308 Winchester, which was adopted as the 7.62×51 NATO cartridge. Brian has another Garand chambered in .308 Win which he shoots in Service Rifle Class in the President’s Match and NTI Match at Camp Perry.
Perspective on CMP 4-Gun (and 3-Gun) Aggregate Competition
Since the CMP’s introduction of the 4-Gun Aggregate in 2017, combining three classic wood rifles with the modern AR15-platform guns, Brian has lead the field, winning the 4-Gun at every National Match cycle held so far by the CMP at Camp Perry. Brian has also dominated in the 3-Gun Aggregate which includes the three older wood rifles.
Q. What’s the most fun/satisfying thing about shooting CMP 4-Gun Aggs?
Brian: The 4-Gun Agg takes place over several days, and is usually decided by a very thin margin of victory. Making sure that you are prepared for all four rifles and keeping focus through several days of competition is very difficult. There is a great sense of accomplishment when you are able to perform well for the entire aggregate.
Q. Do you like shooting the wood rifles more or the AR in Modern Military?
Brian: No question that the wood rifles are my favorite. A steel rifle, with a beautiful wood stock (see above), firing the .30-06 Springfield, is “where it is all at” in my opinion.
Q. What is the best approach to shooting these older Wood Guns?
Brian: One of the things that I struggled with shooting the “wood guns” is that it is so easy to tell yourself that its the rifle and not your bad habits or poor position. “The rifle is far older than I am it must just not be a shooter”. In order to be successful with these rifles you have to be honest with yourself. Only then will you improve.
Q. If you could change any CMP 4-Gun course of fire, or revise aspects of the CMP 4-Gun discipline, what would you modify/alter?
Brian: There is always conversation around changing the course of fire, target dimensions, or putting certain rifles into different classes. I like the fact that I have to adapt myself to fit the current discipline. I would surely not want to make it any easier. I feel like that would decrease some of the satisfaction that I get from competing well.
Q: What are your key gear items and shooting accessories?
Brian: A good shooting coat has been very important for me. I currently use a Creedmoor Hardback Cordura Leather Coat. I also think that a good rifle sling is very important. For the last couple of years I have been using a Eric Hollis National Match leather sling and love it. I own a ShotMarker e-Target system and I think it’s one of the best training tools that I own. It just makes it so easy to shoot, capture information, and then be able to recall that information later and use it to improve.
The Mental Game — How to Become a Better Marksman
Q. What is your pre-match routine (mental/physical match prep)?
Brian: I try not to do anything different on match day that I would do any other day. I am a coffee drinker and drink just as much on match day as I do on any work day. This game is very mental, and I find that treating match day just like any other day helps me to control stress and anxiety.
Q. If you could do it all over from the beginning, how would you change your training/practicing processes?
Brian: I have learned that practice makes me better, but just sending rounds down range is not that beneficial to me. Some of the biggest improvements I have made have come from practice sessions where I did not fire very many rounds. Working through the shot process, being honest with myself, and evaluating what needs to happen to get the desired outcome.
Q. Most guys will never achieve what you’ve done in Marksmanship, i.e. win multiple multi-gun titles. What are the other positive things people can get from the sport, beyond trophies and glory?
Brian: This is an easy one — this sport is full of the most genuine, thoughtful, and helpful people out there. I have friendships with people that I only see a couple times per year… yet when we see each other it’s like we had just gotten together last week. This does not just apply to fellow competitors, but also to the folks who run matches, to those who supply gear, even to spouses of competitors who’ve fed me more times than I can remember.
Brian “Carbine” Williams, King of Wood Guns
— Commentary by Dennis Santiago
When it comes to CMP Games competition, Brian Williams presently dominates the multi-gun field. I first met Brian at the so-called Michigan Embassy at Camp Perry, a makeshift compound of tables, pop ups and lawn chairs where competitors gather at the end of the shooting day to exchange stories. It’s a “who’s who” gathering of High Power personalities exchanging tall tales. In this prestigious crowd, Brian Williams is “King of Wood Guns”, his mastery of the GSMM (Garand, Springfield, Modern Military) Four-Gun Aggregate renown to all. Yet he is as humble a champion you can ever hope to spend time with.
I discovered that Brian and I share a mutual love of the U.S. .30 Caliber M1 Carbine, a rifle many other shooters don’t give a second thought. But we believe in the potential of the little gun. We know that when driven right, the joy of collecting gold achievement pins with it. I’ve enjoyed trading notes with Brian about how to make it shoot better to turn in scores in the high 360s to mid-370s out of a possible 400. In this regard, I assure you Brian is again the guy who will shoot the 400 possible on any given day. He truly deserves the moniker “Carbine” Williams.
Marksmanship Journey — from Novice to CMP 4-Gun Champion
I started shooting High Power rifle in 2007 with an iron sights AR15 A2. Most of the local shooting clubs are reduced course, so for the first couple of years I only shot reduced course of fire at 100 and 200 yards. In 2010 I shot my first match at the full distance of 200, 300, 600 yards, and was introduced to the Distinguished rifleman program. At that point I decided set a goal to “go distinguished”. In 2011, I made the trip to Camp Perry and was able to shoot in the M16 EIC match and thereby earn my first four introductory leg points. The day of the match went very well for me. Not only did I earn the points, but I won the match, and set a new National Record with the win. Over the rest of that season and the beginning of 2012 I was able to collect enough points to make my goal of going Distinguished.
Over the following years I continued to shoot a service rifle, first with iron sights and then with a scope when the rules changed. I enjoyed every bit of shooting the AR15. In 2014 I started to get into the CMP Games guns, with the M1 Garand and M1 Carbine. I enjoyed these two rifles so much that I decided that I should get a M1903 Springfield and I should also get a rifle to shoot in the vintage military rifle matches. For that I ordered a K-31 Swiss rifle.
In 2017 the CMP introduced a 4-Gun Aggregate award at the National Matches. This Aggregate would include the Garand, Springfield, Vintage rifle, and the new Modern Military rifle (non-scoped service rifle). For the first year of the 4-Gun Agg, I spent a good deal of time preparing for these matches in the months leading up to Nationals. Well that time was well spent as I did win the 4-Gun Aggregate. At this point in my shooting career I had gone Distinguished, made the President’s 100, and had achieved a classification of High Master, but the 4-gun Agg was the thing I was most proud of. I enjoy shooting these older rifles because they had such an impact on the world in which we live today. The M1 Garand played a key role in WW II, and the M1903 Springfield has been carrying out its job for over 100 years.
Mix that in with the fact that all of the competitors in the CMP Games matches are some of the finest people that I have ever surrounded myself with. Great guns and great people, who could ask for more?
In 2018 I campaigned a .308 Win-chambered Garand across the course in the President’s Match and the National Trophy Match at Camp Perry. Again I spend a good deal of time shooting the Garand for the months leading up to Nationals, and was able to be the high shooter with the Garand in both matches for 2018 and 2019. But I never took my eye off the 4-Gun, and was able to win it in 2018, and 2019, as well as the inaugural year of 2017.
On the Applied Ballistics Facebook Page, there is a fascinating series of posts showing traces of bullets at various speeds from Mach 0.86 to Mach 3.0. At the slowest speed, Mach 0.86, i.e. 962 FPS, there is turbulence behind the bullet, but no clear shockwave. At the highest velocity, Mach 3.0 (3375 FPS at sea level, 68° F), there is a dramatic double nose and tail wave formation.
To learn more, visit TheScienceofAccuracy.com. On that site you’ll find exclusive video content and you can subscribe to member’s only Podcasts. And you can purchase Applied Ballistics books on the Science of Accuracy webstore.
Mach 3.00 Bullet Flight Image
At Mach 3 (3355 FPS) this bullet now has a strong and well established shock wave forming at the tip, and at the base. Unlike the transition through Mach 1.0, nothing really interesting happens to the aerodynamics or shock waves meaning the aerodynamics and stability are: continuous, easy to predict, and model. As you go faster, the shockwaves make a shallower angle because the bullet is moving forward 3X faster than the shock wave is moving away from it. So the shock wave makes an angle that has a rise/run ratio of 1/3.
If a bullet flew within 10 feet of you traveling this fast, it would be about as loud as a 22 magnum. You’d certainly want hearing protection as the energy contained in a Mach 3 shock wave is high! How high…? Well, in 10 yards, this bullet slows from 3355 FPS to 3334 FPS in a time of 0.0090 seconds. The 55 ft-lb of kinetic energy lost during this 10 yards is due to aerodynamic drag on the bullet, which is comprised of wave, base, and skin friction drag components with the majority of the drag being due to shock wave formation. Expending 55 ft-lb of energy in 0.0090 seconds requires a power output of 6111 ft-lb/sec = 11.1 horsepower, most of which goes into creating the shock wave. Remember it’s a 3-D cone that travels great distance, and it gets its energy by stealing velocity from your bullet!
Mach 1.00 Bullet Flight Image
Many shots were fired to capture an image of the transonic shockwave structure at exactly Mach 1.00. With the bullet now moving at the speed of sound, the local airflow on some parts of the bullet exceeds Mach 1.0. Anytime something is moving thru the air faster than the air can get out of the way, you get a compression wave, aka “shock wave”. That’s what’s visible in this image — the areas where the air density changes rapidly (in the compression wave) are visible as near vertical lines and a detached bow wave out front. As the bullet progresses through transonic speed, this shockwave structure develops which has strong effects on the drag (wind sensitivity) and stability of the bullet.
The exact development of the shockwaves and the resulting effects are unique and sensitive to the bullet geometry, and become very difficult to predict through the transition from subsonic (incompressible flow without shock waves) to supersonic (compressible flow with shock waves). Each bullet geometry does this differently which is why it’s difficult to determine transonic stability criteria for bullets of different shapes.
Mach 0.86 Bullet Flight Image
Here’s a bullet at Mach 0.86 (86% the speed of sound, which is 962 FPS at 61° F). As you can see, this 0.86 Mach is not fast enough to make any discernable waves but you can see turbulence in the bullet wake (right side in photo). The beginning of small shock waves can be seen on the bullet tip, and at the bearing surface/boat tail juncture. For the most part, all of the airflow around this bullet is subsonic. You wouldn’t hear a supersonic ‘crack’ from this bullet flying past the observer.
Everyone should have a heavy-duty, thick-walled steel gunsafe for their firearms and valuables. Ideally this should weigh 400+ pounds and offer fire protection for the contents. However, a gun owner may also want more rapid access to defensive arms and security items, in a different part of the home. That is where the “hidden in plain sight” concept comes into play. Metal Art of Wisconsin has some unique wall-hanging products that provide hidden storage.
Freedom Cabinet Holds Long Arms and Pistols — RFID Access
The unique Freedom Cabinet, shown above, is a patriotic, wall-mounted Stars & Stripes Flag-themed concealment unit, offered in three sizes starting at $294.95. Available in Wood, Steel, or Carbon Fiber, each secure Freedom Cabinet features inlaid steel with optional RFID ($29.95) or Biometric ($49.95) locking systems. There is also the Decor series of Freedom Cabinets with simpler, single flip-up covers. CLICK HERE to view all the Decor Freedom Flip-Up Cabinets, ranging from $224.95 for small size (23″x12″) to $424.95 for large size (41″x22″), with 7 different graphic styles. Along with Metal Art’s flip-up Freedom cabinets in various sizes, there is a “Slider” version priced at $294.95.
Today’s Saturday showcase features a variety of notable products. We start with the excellent new-generation Micron seating dies. These precision dies deliver very low run-out and very consistent base-to-ogive numbers. Next we highlight the superb Bix’n Andy triggers, both single-stage and 2-stage models. Then Ultimate Reloader reviews the Longshot Hawk Spotting scope camera. This is followed by a detailed video on the state-of-the-art, computer-controlled AMP Mark II DB annealer, an amazing product that can enhance accuracy while dramatically extending useful brass life. For ELR shooters and 50 BMG fans, we include a review of Forster’s Co-Ax XL press. And finally you’ll find a video showing Caldwell’s handy and affordable “Flash Bang” hit detector.
New Micron Seating Dies from Bullet Central
This F-Class John video covers the impressive Micron Precision Series eating dies, both the threaded version and the Arbor Press model. These are beautifully made with very precise seating depth adjustments. John starts by showing the full operation of the Micron Arbor Press Die. Then, at the 12:05 time-mark, John shows the Micron threaded die used in the impressive new Short Action Customs Nexus Press. John explains how to back off the dies to work towards your desired seating depth in stages. Use code MICRON15 at Bullet Central to save 15% on your Micron purchase.
Bix’n Andy Triggers — Single-Stage and 2-Stage
Bix’N Andy triggers are now widely used by top long-range, F-Class, and Palma competitors. These triggers are precise, easy to adjust and available for a wide range of actions. The availability of Bix’N Andy triggers is more important than ever before because Jewell triggers has halted production and it is now difficult to get spare parts for Jewell triggers. In this video, F-Class John shows the features of both single-stage Comp and 2-stage Comp triggers, with different trigger blades. At the 16-minute mark, John shows the triggers in use at the range on both benchrest and NRL22-style rimfire rifles. NOTE: For a limited time save $30 off order of $300 or more at BulletCentral.com with code FCJ30.
Longshot Hawk Spotting Scope Camera
The LongShot Hawk Spotting Scope Camera is a great accessory. Attached to the eyepiece of your spotting scope, it will send the “view” to a tablet or smartphone placed next to your rifle. With this system you can see the shot impact in normal firing position your cheek resting against the rifle. That is impractical with the cheaper phonescope systems attached to a spotting scopes. NOTE: Any device that you’ll use to connect to the HAWK (phone or tablet) will need to be Wi-Fi capable. The HAWK has built-in Wi-Fi and broadcasts an SSID to connect with your phone/tablet. It doesn’t need an internet connection to work — but it uses the wireless connection for streaming the video signal.
Annealing Made Perfect AMP Mark II DB
This detailed 9.7 minute review outlines the features of the latest AMP electronic annealing machine, the AMP Mark II DB. This uses a computer control to deliver precise annealing times and temperatures with a profile for your specific lot and brand of brass. One user praised this new AMP machine: “The touch screen is much more intuitive than the old one.” Another stated: “If you want to anneal the best way possible this is it. Does a torch work? Sure it does. The AMP does it far better and far more consistently.” A buyer confirmed this sophisticated new AMP is fast and efficient: “Just got one, a few days ago and it’s so easy to use. Without even trying, I easily anneal eight rounds per minute”.
Forster Co-Ax XL Press — Great Option for Very Large Cartridges
If you load very long cartridges, such as the .375 CheyTac, .416 Barrett, or 50 BMG, you will need a specialized press with more space inside the frame and enhanced vertical die travel. The relatively new Forster Co-Ax XL press, introduced at the 2023 SHOT Show, fills the bill. In this Ultimate Reloader video, Gavin Gear shows how to set up the XL press. Then he shows how to adapt the press to different die sizes. He finishes by sizing a 50 BMG case. Gavin notes that this press has beefy construction and ball bearings in the linkage plates. Like what you see? You can purchase this press direct from Forster for $1295.00.
Caldwell Flash Bang Device Shows Hits
If you are shooting steel or reactive targets at long range, sometimes it is difficult to see the hit, particularly if you are shooting lighter-weight bullets or if the target hasn’t recently been painted. Caldwell has a solution — the battery-powered Flash-Bang. A bright-green strip light flashes on impact. The Flash-Bang unit attaches with adhesive to the rear of the target, extending to the left or right side. CLICK HERE for another Caldwell Flash Bang field test from the HarleyWood YouTube Channel.
We are finally seeing prices drop on loaded ammo, and there are some notable inventories of ammunition right now at Midsouth, Palmetto State Armory, Powder Valley and Precision Reloading. We are even starting to see ample supplies of large-caliber hunting rifle ammunition — something hard to find a year ago.
Thankfully, if you shop around aggressively, you can now find many types of ammunition at reasonable prices. By using AmmoSeek.com you can instantly compare ammo prices from dozens of sellers. AmmoSeek monitors more than 180 online vendors — checking current pricing and available inventory, for pistol, rifle, and shotgun ammunition. Looking for .22 LR ammo for your rimfire trainer or .45 acp ammo for your 1911? Just select the cartridge type from the “Quick Seek” list on the right. Likewise you can find .223 Rem and .308 Win Rifle ammo with one click.
If you haven’t sourced ammo online before, note that, for nearly all jurisdictions, it IS legal to order ammunition online and have it delivered to you at home in most states. But check your state and local laws! California, for example, has prohibited direct ammo shipments to ordinary customers.
Got Ammo? Here’s just part of the vast inventory at Skagit Arms in Washington State.
Use Ammoseek.com to Find Reloading Components Too
Ammoseek.com also lets you search for reloading components, including powder, primers, brass, and bullets. This is a huge time-saver. You can instantly check a dozen or more vendors to see if a particular type of powder is in stock. Likewise, you can quickly check for primer availability. If you have a big match coming up and are short on primers — this could solve the problem. To search for components, from the AmmoSeek home page, click the gray “Reloading” Tab (see below), then select Bullets, Brass, Primers, or Powder from the pull-down menu.
AmmoSeek.com FAQ Page
If you have questions about using AmmoSeek.com, visit the AmmoSeek FAQ Page. You’ll find details on how the search engine works. Here’s one FAQ:
How often does the AmmoSeek engine process its ammunition data?
Every minute or two! AmmoSeek is constantly updating ammunition data 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, automatically. Individual retailers are updated at least hourly, most most are updated much more often. Still, however, there’s always the possibility that items can go out of stock the moment after our site is updated, so it’s not always possible to be 100% accurate.
Even with high-quality brass from Lapua, Peterson, Norma, Alpha and RWS, occasionally you may find one or two cases per box which have a small flake or obstruction in the flash-hole. This will appear like a thin crescent on one side of the flash hole (see photo). You should inspect ALL new brass before loading to identify any pieces with a partially-obstructed flash hole. It’s a good idea to remove any flake or thin crescent left as an artifact of the flash-hole forming process. Because the flash-hole itself is normally centered and of the correct diameter, it is not necessary to ream the flash-hole to a larger diameter. All you really need to do is remove the small obstruction(s). This can be done quickly with inexpensive tools.
Use a Small Pin Vise to Remove Flash-Hole Obstructions
Folks have asked if there is a tool that can remove obstructions from a Lapua small, BR-sized flash hole without opening the hole size. The Lapua PPC/BR flash hole is spec’d at 1.5mm, which works out to 0.059055″. Most of the PPC/BR flash-hole uniforming tools on the market use a 1/16″ bit which is nominally 0.0625″, but these often run oversize — up to 0.066″.
If you want to just clear out any obstructions in the flash hole, without increasing the flash hole diameter, you can use an inexpensive “pin vise” with an appropriate drill bit. For $5.19, Amazon sells a 10-piece set of cobalt steel 1.5mm drill bits, that matches the Lapua flash hole exactly. Other vendors offer a #53 pin vise drill bit that measures .0595″ or .060″ (depending or source). An 0.0595″ bit is close enough. You can find pin vises and these small-diameter drill bits at hobby stores.
For quite some time, Sinclair Int’l has sold a similar device for small (PPC and BR-size) flash holes. Like the 07-3081 unit for large flash holes, the 073000 Reamer for small flash holes works from the outside, so it can index off the primer pocket. It reams to .0625″, and also costs $29.99. The standard dimension for Lapua 220 Russian and 6mmBR flash holes is 1.5mm or .0590″. This tool will permit standard-size decapping rods with .0625″ tips to work without binding. However, note that both Forster and Redding normally supply .057″ decapping pins with their PPC and BR dies. So, it is NOT necessary to ream your Lapua BR/PPC flashholes, unless you prefer to do so for uniformity. It IS, however, a good idea to check BR/PPC flash holes for burrs before loading the first time.
NOTE: If you purchase either the 073081 or 073000 Sinclair Flash Hole Reamer tools, we recommend you mic the cutter tip before you process a bunch of cases. Sometimes a tip comes through that is oversize. This will ream the flash holes larger than you may intend.
This Billiards Table Target offers 15 brightly-colored numbered balls with the cue ball at the bottom. Aim for the numbers, shooting 1-15 in sequence, or alternate between stripes and solids. You can also draw an “X” on the white cue ball (or attach a paster), and use that to set your zero. This target is fun for shooting outdoors with rifles at 50 or 100 yards or indoors with pistols.
Bullet Selection — With the .30-06 for my Garands and Springfields I stick mostly with 168gr bullets plus some 155-grainers. These bullet weights have just worked for me in the past. 
Power Charge and Dispensing — I have always had good success with Hodgdon H4895 powder. My load has always been right around 47.0 grains, with both the 168gr and 155gr bullets. I also use the Auto-Trickler to drop all of my powder charges. This is a fantastic piece of equipment that not only gives super-consistent powder charges quickly, but it also makes one less thing that you have to worry about while on the firing line. With the Auto-Trickler, there is never a question about the powder charge in your ammo. As for primers, I have been shooting CCI 200 Large Rifle primers for many years and have never had an issue. 
Brian: I have learned that practice makes me better, but just sending rounds down range is not that beneficial to me. Some of the biggest improvements I have made have come from practice sessions where I did not fire very many rounds. Working through the shot process, being honest with myself, and evaluating what needs to happen to get the desired outcome.
