Many barrel-makers mark the twist rate and bore dimensions on their barrel blanks.
Does muzzle velocity change with faster or slower barrel twist rates? Absolutely, but much less than you might think. Faster twist rates do slow down bullets somewhat, but the speed loss is NOT that significant. With Bartlein .308 Win barrels of identical length and contour, a 1:12″-twist barrel was only 8 fps faster than a 1:8″-twist barrel. That was the result of testing by Applied Ballistics.
The Applied Ballistics team tested six (6) same-length/same-contour Bartlein barrels to observe how twist rate might affect muzzle velocity. This unique, multi-barrel test is featured in the book Modern Advancements in Long Range Shooting, Vol. 1. That book includes other fascinating field tests, including a comprehensive chronograph comparison.
Barrel Twist Rate vs. Velocity — What Tests Reveal by Bryan Litz
When considering barrel twist rates, it’s a common belief that faster twist rates will reduce muzzle velocity. The thinking is that the faster twist rate will resist forward motion of the bullet and slow it down. There are anecdotal accounts of this, such as when someone replaces a barrel of one brand/twist with a different brand and twist and observes a different muzzle velocity. But how do you know the twist rate is what affected muzzle velocity and not the barrel finish, or bore/groove dimensions? Did you use the same chronograph to measure velocity from both barrels? Do you really trust your chronograph?
Summary of Test Results
After all the smoke cleared, we found that muzzle velocity correlates to twist rate at the average rate of approximately 1.33 FPS per inch of twist. In other words, your velocity is reduced by about 5 FPS if you go from a 1:12″ twist to a 1:8″ twist. — Bryan Litz
Savage Test Rifle with Six Bartlein Barrels
Most shooters don’t have access to the equipment required to fully explore questions like this. These are exactly the kinds of things we examine in the book Modern Advancements in Long Range Shooting, Vol. 1. In that book, we present experiments conducted in the Applied Ballistics lab. Some of those experiments took on a “Myth Buster” tone as we sought to confirm (or deny) popular pre-conceptions. For example, here’s how we approached the question of barrel twist and muzzle velocity.
Six .308 Win Barrels from Bartlein — All Shot from the Same Rifle
We acquired six (6) barrels from the same manufacturer (Bartlein), all the same length and contour, and all chambered with the same reamer (SAAMI spec .308 Winchester). All these barrels were fitted to the same Savage Precision Target action, and fired from the same stock, and bench set-up. Common ammo was fired from all six barrels having different twist rates and rifling configurations. In this way, we’re truly able to compare what effect the actual twist rate has on muzzle velocity with a reasonable degree of confidence.
Prior to live fire testing, we explored the theoretical basis of the project, doing the physics. In this case, an energy balance is presented which predicts how much velocity you should expect to lose for a bullet that’s got a little more rotational energy from the faster twist. In the case of the .30 caliber 175 grain bullets, the math predicts a loss of 1.25 fps per inch-unit of barrel twist (e.g. a 1:8″ twist is predicted to be 1.25 fps slower than a 1:9″ twist).
Above, data shows relationship between Twist Rate and Muzzle Velocity (MV) for various barrel twist rates and rifling types. From fast to slow, the three 1:10″ twist barrels are: 5R (canted land), 5 Groove, 5 Groove left-hand twist.
We proceeded with testing all 6 barrels, with twist rates from 1:8″ to 1:12″. After all the smoke cleared, we found that muzzle velocity correlates to twist rate at the average rate of approximately 1.33 fps per inch of twist. In other words, your velocity is reduced by about 5 fps if you go from a 1:12″ twist to a 1:8″ twist. [Editor: That’s an average for all the lengths tested. The actual variance between 1:12″ and 1:8″ here was 8 FPS.] In this case the math prediction was pretty close, and we have to remember that there’s always uncertainty in the live fire results. Uncertainty is always considered in terms of what conclusions the results can actually support with confidence.
This is just a brief synopsis of a single test case. The coverage of twist rates in Modern Advancements in Long-Range Shooting Vol. 1 is more detailed, with multiple live fire tests. Results are extrapolated for other calibers and bullet weights. Needless to say, the question of “how twist rate affects muzzle velocity” is fully answered.
Other chapters in the book’s twist rate section include: · Stability and Drag — Supersonic
· Stability and Drag — Transonic
· Spin Rate Decay
· Effect of Twist rate on Precision
Other sections of the book include: Modern Rifles, Scopes, and Bullets as well as Advancements in Predictive Modeling. This book is sold through the Applied Ballistics online store. Modern Advancements in Long Range Shooting is also available as an eBook in Amazon Kindle format.
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This illustration shows headspace measurement for the popular .308 Winchester cartridge, which headspaces on the shoulder. Image copyright 2015 Ultimate Reloader.
In this Brownells Tech Tip Video, Brownells gun tech Steve Ostrem explains what headspace is and why it’s one of the most critical measurements for nearly all firearms. Even if you’re an experienced rifle shooter, it’s worth watching this video to refresh your understanding of headspace measurements, and the correct use of “GO” and “NO-GO” gauges.
Headspace Definition
In firearms, headspace is the distance measured from the part of the chamber that stops forward motion of the cartridge (the datum reference) to the face of the bolt. Different cartridges have their datum lines in different positions in relation to the cartridge. For example, 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition headspaces off the shoulder of the cartridge, whereas .303 British headspaces off the forward rim of the cartridge. If the headspace is too short, ammunition that is in specification may not chamber correctly. If headspace is too large, the ammunition may not fit as intended or designed and the cartridge case may rupture, possibly damaging the firearm and injuring the shooter. (Source: Wikipedia)
Problems Caused by Too Much Headspace
Excessive headspace issues can include: light primer strikes, failure to fire, bulged/blown cases, case separations, split shoulders, or unseated primers after firing. Case ruptures caused by excessive headspace can lead to catastrophic failures causing serious injury. That is why headspace is such an important measurement.
Problems Cause by Too Little Headspace
Insufficent (or excessively tight) headspace can prevent the firearm from going into battery, resulting in failure to fire or deformation of the cartridge case. Various feeding and functioning problems can be caused by cases with too little headspace, even if a round can be chambered (with effort).
Headspace Gauges
Headspace is measured with a set of two headspace gauges: a “Go” gauge, and a “No-Go” gauge. Headspace gauges resemble the cartridges for the chambers they are designed to headspace, and are typically made of heat-treated tool steel. Both a “Go” and a “No-Go” gauge are required for a gunsmith to headspace a firearm properly. A third gauge, the “Field” gauge, is used (as the name implies) in the field to indicate the absolute maximum safe headspace. This gauge is used because, over time, the bolt and receiver will wear, the bolt and lugs compress, and the receiver may stretch, all causing the headspace to gradually increase from the “factory specs” measured by the “Go” and “No-Go” gauges. A bolt that closes on “No-Go” but not on “Field” is close to being unsafe to fire, and may malfunction on cartridges that are slightly out of spec. (Source: Wikipedia)
You need to understand Headspace Gauges and how to use them. There are “Go”, “No-Go”, and “Field” gauges. The “Field” is actually the longest. Brownells explains: “The GO gauge corresponds to the SAAMI minimum chamber length, while the FIELD gauge usually matches the maximum chamber depth, or slightly less. NO-GO gauges are an intermediate length between minimum and maximum, that, technically, is a voluntary dimension. A firearm that closes on a NO-GO gauge and does not close on a FIELD gauge may not give good accuracy and may have very short cartridge case life [.]”
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The last half-inch or so of your barrel is absolutely critical. Any damage (or abnormal wear) near the crown will cause a significant drop-off in accuracy. Here are ways you can check the end of your barrel, using a common Q-Tip.
Use Q-Tip for Barrel Inspection
To find out if you have a burr or damage to your crown, you can use an ordinary Q-tip cotton swab. Check the edges of the crown by pulling the Q-tip gently out past the edge of the crown. If you have a burr, it will “grab” the cotton and leave strands behind.
Larry Willis has another way to use a Q-Tip: “Here’s a neat trick that will surprise you with how well it works.” Just insert a Q-Tip into your barrel (like the picture below), and it will reflect enough light so that you can get a real good look at the last half inch of rifling and the crown of your barrel. In most cases you’ll find that this works much better than a flashlight. Larry tells us: “I’ve used this method about a jillion times. Q-Tips are handy to keep in your cleaning supplies anyway. This is a good way to judge approximately how well you are cleaning your barrel when you’re at the range. It’s also the best way to examine your barrel when you’re in the field.”
Long Range Scope for Hunters — Quigley-Ford Dual Focal Plane
By James Mock
I recently tested a 5-20x50mm Quigley-Ford Dual Focal Plane Scope. This unique $3049.00 optic essentially offers DUAL focal reticles. The primary reticle is in the First Focal Plane while there is a SECOND reticle in the Second Focal plane. How is that possible? The scope is basically a First Focal Plane one, but there is an secondary Second Focal Plane reticle that does not change size (or thickness) when the magnification level changes. Quigley-Ford states: “The ONLY long range scope that is built with dual focal plane capability (without electronics or batteries) to make it effective for both long range shots AND close up.” The design holds U.S. Patent #D943050. This scope is assembled in Canada with German-crafted HD multi-coated lenses and a main tube from China.
The manufacturer explains: “The patented Dual Focal Plane scope provides a super bold Second Focal Plane etched aiming point … on all power settings PLUS a First Focal Plane reticle to provide the ability to shoot at any distance on any power. With this innovative combination a hunter in near darkness, using the lowest power setting can still pick up an aiming point on an animal with ease.” See how it works:
As seen in the photo, the two dark horizontal lines are in the second focal plane and are there to aid the “hunter” when the power is turned down and the fine cross hairs are difficult to see. This is an ingenious arrangement that allows one to use low power settings in dim light without losing sight of the reticle. NOTE: When ordering one of these scopes, one must give Randy Ford the particulars of the load to be shot. The required data includes caliber, bullet weight, bullet BC, and velocity. My load data sent to Randy was: 32.2 grains Varget, CCI 400 SR primer, 108gr Berger BT at 2910 FPS.
Randy emphasized that there are other factors to consider such as altitude, but his reticle is seldom off on distant targets more than 2 inches. He repeated that his system is designed for the hunter to quickly find an aiming point. They recommend a default altitude of 5000 feet. That way the reticle will still be very effective from sea level to 10,000 ft.
To set up the FFP system, one zeroes the rifle at 200 yards. The center crosshair will be for 200 yards with hash marks to 1000 yards with smaller marks between the longer 100-yard marks.
In the photos below, I first shot over the chronograph to check my velocity. It is very important to match the velocity for which the reticle was designed. The velocity was within a few FPS of the velocity I provided to Randy. His system utilizes marks for hold-over rather than having to dial the scope. It is a very ingenious system. Although I am 79 years old, I still enjoy shooting. I wish I could have had a scope like this one when shooting at a mule deer in Colorado back in 1980. After checking velocity, one must obtain a 200-yard zero. I did this at my friend Kent Bennett’s 200-yard range…on which I have shot for many years. My rifle is a Stolle Panda with 28″, 1:7.5″-twist Krieger barrel chambered in 6mm Dasher.
Speaking of Kent, he was impressed with his initial contact with this scope. He stated that the optics were very sharp and clear. I will add that the adjustments were spot on and the parallax was easily removed. My next trip to the range was to another friend’s 600-yard range.
Parallax Adjustment: Side-focus
Click Adjustments: 1/4″ @ 100 yards
Length: 15.75″ plus sunshade
Weight: 25.5 ounces
Finish: Matte black
With the preparations completed, I took my Dasher with the Quigley-Ford scope to a friend’s range. He had targets set up at 200, 300, 400, and 600 yards. The morning was foggy with light drizzle, but the rain held off until I finished the test.
I started by checking my 200-yard zero and it was close, although not perfect. Next, I shot 300 yards, 400 yards, and at a 600-yard steel gong. The 300-yard shot (shown at right) was perfect except for being a tad right. I was very satisfied with the results so far. I skipped 500 yards temporarily, but went to the gong at 600 yards. There was a very satisfying “bong!” when the 108gr bullet arrived. This showed that the scope can provide precise elevations for distances from 200 to 600 yards.
I then set up a plywood dummy deer (crafted by my son years ago) at 500 yards and shot it twice. One shot was with the 108gr Berger BT and the other was with a 105gr, Bart’s VLD. Both were about 2910 FPS and have a BC that is very close. When I went to the target, I was pleasantly surprised in that the bullets were close to center and less than 1 inch apart. Both were 10s and one was an “X”.
Conclusion: I will continue more testing of this Dual Focal Plane scope. So far, I find that it is a very worthwhile addition to a long-range hunter’s rifle. I was amazed at how precise the reticle was from 200 to 600 yards. The Dual Focal Plane functionality is unique and very useful — offering the “best of both worlds” for hunting — you have a highly visible horizontal bar, combined with a FFP reticle which allows precise holds at multiple ranges. Stay tuned, James Mock.
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John Wilson wins Tompkins Trophy, Leech Cup, and NRA High Power Long-Range title at Camp Atterbury
This story is based on Shooting Sports USA Report by John Parker
We congratulate the newly-crowned 2024 NRA National High Power Rifle Long-Range Champion, John Wilson. With a very strong performance at Camp Atterbury, Indiana, John won the Long Range rifle title along with other honors. He was shooting an Eliseo tubegun that could be converted between two chamberings — .308 Win and 6.5 EL/MO.
Gary Eliseo posted: “Congratulations to John Wilson, 2024 NRA Long Range National Champion! John used his Competition Machine UMRS rifle chambered in 6.5 EL/MO to fire the winning score of 1241-73X, in addition to winning the championship John also won the Leech Cup, the oldest target shooting trophy in the United States! Well done John!”
Wilson captured this year’s NRA High Power Long-Range title and the Tompkins Trophy with a score of 1241-73X. Wilson also won the Leech Cup Match with a score of 199-14X, claiming victory in the shoot-off with a score of 100-5X. Wilson noted: “The best shooters in the country showed up to Camp Atterbury this year, and it was an honor to shoot with them”. This year there were 49 total entries in the 2024 NRA High Power Rifle Long-Range Aggregate.
Wilson was shooting an Eliseo Universal Match Rifle (UMRS) chambered in 6.5 EL/MO.
Coming in second place in the 2024 NRA High Power Rifle Long-Range Aggregate was Amanda L. Elsenboss a past NRA High Power Champion and Long Range Champion. Amanda, a former USAMU team members, finished 1240-62X score, and she won the Remington Trophy Match with a 199-12X score, after a shoot-off.
Ranking third in the Aggregate was John Friguglietti, with 1240-60X. Friguglietti secured the High Palma Rifle title, along with the Bert Rollins Trophy. John also won the Edward D. Andrus Memorial Trophy Match with a score of 199-9X, the Palma Individual title with 449-25X, and the Sierra Trophy Match with 796-41X.
USAMU Dominates Team Matches
In the team matches, the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit (USAMU) team took the Roumanian Trophy with a score of 784-38X and the Herrick Trophy with a score of 792-28X. Team members included SSG Lee Bahten, SSG Shane Butler, SSG Benjamin Cleland, SSG Jarrod McGaffic, Team captain SPC Adam Fitzpatrick, and Team coach SFC Alexander Deal.
Get Full Camp Atterbury National Match Results on NRA Website
Full results of the 2024 NRA National Matches at Camp Atterbury are available on the NRA Competitive Shooting website. There will also be a comprehensive Summer 2024 NRA Championship Report in an upcoming issue of the Shooting Sports USA digital magazine.
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ZEISS has introduced an advanced new line of binoculars, the Conquest HDX series. These have ED glass — “ED” stands for Extra-low Dispersion for vastly reduced chromatic aberration. The new Conquest HDX binoculars also have a robust, weatherproof design. They are available with three objective lens diameters (32mm, 42mm, and 56mm) with 8X or 10X magnification options. Plus the biggest 56mm model is also available with 15X magnification.
Here is a comparison of the size and weight of the 8X versions. NOTE: These are ALL also offered in 10X, and the biggest 56mm variant is offered in high magnification 15X. These Conquest HDX binoculars start at $979.99 retail price for the 8x32mm model.
ZEISS Conquest HDX binoculars offer great optical quality with 90% light transmission. ZEISS FieldFlattener Technology provides high resolution over the entire field of view and the T* lens coating helps provide high contrast images even in adverse light conditions.
ZEISS Conquest HDX binoculars boast a lightweight magnesium housing plus full rubber external armoring for durability and weather protection. These binoculars also have a hydrophobic ZEISS LotuTec® lens coating. ZEISS states that: “Whether in extreme temperatures, in wet conditions or in direct sunlight — the Conquest HDX is durable, waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof[.] The Conquest HDX combines premium optical performance, durability, and ergonomics.”
The Conquest HDX focuses quickly and precisely, even when wearing gloves. The eyecups adjust to four different positions, and there is a lockable diopter. The Conquest HDX also has a handy tripod adapter. That will work well for the 15X version when used for long-range spotting. CLICK HERE for ZEISS Conquest HDX detailed product information.
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The 2024 F-Class Mid-Range and Long Range National Championships were held August 10-17 at the Winnequah Gun Club in Lodi, Wisconsin. The match was a success, drawing 145 competitors in F-Open and 67 shooters in F-TR. Shooters tell us the Long-Range match was tough, with challenging weather conditions. The entire competition — Mid-Range and Long Range — was shot using a ShotMarker Electronic Target System. Each target frame had sensors that locate shot placement (and score) with great precision. This system provides instant score access, and eliminates the burdens of pit duty.
We congratulate the new 2024 Long Range National Champions: Alan Kulcak (F-Open) and Randy Littleton (F-TR). These men both showed great shooting skills and impressive wind-reading abilities — there were some tough conditions in Lodi this year.
F-Open champ Alan Kulcak shot a great match to win with 1390-71X, four points ahead of second-place Peter Johns (1386-72X) and third-place Robert Sebold (1386-60X). F-TR Long Range National Champion Randy Littleton fought a tight battle to the very end. The F-TR LR match went down to the final target with Littleton (1376-54X) edging runner-up Mike Plunkett (1375-56X) by a single point. Now that’s close competition!
Credit AccurateShooter Forum member Turbulent Turtle for all the images in this story. You can see over 340 photos from the match, thanks to Turbulent Turtle and his camera. CLICK HERE to see 2024 F-Class Nationals Photo Archive.
Here are the Long Range Top 10 for F-Open and F-TR:
F-Open LR Top 10
1 Kulcak, Alan (HM) 1390-71X
2 Johns, Peter (HM) 1386-72X
3 Sebold, Robert (HM) 1386-60X
4 Dileva, Dan (HM) 1384-73X
5 Skogman, Doug (HM) 1384-72X
6 Fairley, Joseph (HM) 1383-67X
7 Nettesheim, Brian (HM) 1382-73X
8 Basalla, Matthew (HM) 1382-67X
9 Kolodziej, William (HM) 1382-63X
10 Mitchell, Ryan (HM) 1382-62X
F-TR LR Top 10
1 Littleton, Randy (HM) 1376-54X
2 Plunkett, Mike (MA) 1375-56X
3 Trapp, Keith (HM) 1373-57X
4 Hubbard, Tom (HM) 1373-50X
5 Hogg, Tracy (HM) 1370-51X
6 Strasovich, Todd (MA) 1367-44X
7 Lucy, Dale (MA) 1363-41X
8 Klemm, Ian (HM) 1362-55X
9 Casale, Lou (MA) 1362-53X
10 Faloon, Christopher (HM) 1360-46X
Long Range F-Class Nationals Team Competition
In F-Open Long-Range team competition, Team Bayou Boyz won the F-Open Team title followed by Team Lapua-Brux-Borden (Second) and Team Vihtavuori (Third). It was a close match, with the Bayou Boyz (1590-83X) edging Team Lapua-Brux-Borden by a slim 2-point margin (1588-83X) with the same X-count. Congrats to Team Bayou Boyz members: Joseph Fairley, Johnny Ingram, Peter Johns, and Alan Kulcak.
Team Bayou Boyz won both the Long Range and Mid-Range F-Open Team events.
In F-TR LR Team competition, Team Vortex (1583-80X) finished first, followed by Team USA White and Team USA Red. Team Vortex recorded an impressive victory, winning by 20 points over runner-up squad Team USA White (1563-54X). Congrats to Team Vortex members: Tracy Hogg, Ian Klemm, Brad Sauve, and Keith Trapp.
Team Vortex recorded an impressive 20-point win in the F-TR Long Range Team Match.
The Mid-Range F-Open event saw tight competition. We congratulate new Mid-Range Champ Johnny Ingram who edged second-place Jim Fowler by two points. The top five F-Open finishers were separated by just five points and third-place finisher Matt Basalla had the highest X-Count with an impressive 99X. In the F-TR division, 2024 Mid-Range Champion Tom Hubbard put on a dominant performance, winning by ten points with the highest X-Count (87X) among all F-TR competitors.
Here are the Mid-Range Top 10 for F-Open and F-TR:
F-Open Mid-Range Top 10
1 Ingram, Johnny (HM) 1783-95X
2 Fowler, Jim (HM) 1781-82X
3 Basalla, Matthew (HM) 1779-99X
4 Waite, Boe (HM) 1779-92X
5 Brooks, David (HM) 1778-88X
6 Kulcak, Alan (HM) 1777-78X
7 Thomas, Jamie (MA) 1777-71X
8 Stob, James (HM) 1776-86X
9 Basalla, Gwen (HM) 1776-70X
10 Zwahr, Brandon (HM) 1775-86X
F-TR Mid-Range Top 10
1 Hubbard, Tom (HM) 1770-87X
2 Gavrock, Gabriel (HM) 1760-68X
3 Crofts, James (HM) 1759-78X
4 Conrad, Keith (HM) 1756-73X
5 Retzloff, Robin (EX) 1755-62X
6 Faloon, Christopher (HM) 1749-63X
7 Brindle, Jerry (HM) 1749-55X
8 Wiens, Gerry (HM) 1746-62X
9 Sowa, Mike (EX) 1743-58X
10 Dixon, Richard (HM) 1739-59X
Mid-Range F-Class Nationals Team Competition
In Mid-Range Team Competition, Team Bayou Boyz (1598-115X) won the F-Open Division while Team USA White (1585-87X) won the F-TR Division. Congrats to the Mid-Range Bayou Boyz (Johnny Ingram, Peter Johns, Alan Kulkak, and Pat Wood) and to USA White (Keith Conrad, Christopher Faloon, Dale Lucy, Mike Plunkett). There were 17 teams competing in F-Open, and 10 Teams competing in F-TR.
CLICK HERE for 2024 F-Class Nationals Program and Match Rules. NOTE: This official program incorrectly states that Silver Mountain electronic targets are used. Instead the ShotMarker system was used.
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Coating bullets with a friction-reducing compound such as Molybdenum Disulfide (Moly) offers potential benefits, including reduced barrel heat, and being able to shoot longer strings of fire between bore cleanings. One of the effects of reduced friction can be the lessening of internal barrel pressures. This, in turn, means that coated bullets MAY run slower than naked bullets (with charges held equal).
To restore velocities, shooters running coated bullets are inclined to “bump up” the load — but you need to be cautious.
Be Careful When Increasing Loads for Coated Bullets
We caution shooters that when your start out with coated bullets in a “fresh barrel” you should NOT immediately raise the charge weight. It may take a couple dozen coated rounds before the anti-friction coating is distributed through the bore, and you really start to see the reduced pressures. Some guys will automatically add a grain or so to recommended “naked” bullet charge weights when they shoot coated bullets. That’s a risky undertaking.
We recommend that you use “naked” bullet loads for the first dozen coated rounds through a new barrel. Use a chronograph and monitor velocities. It may take up to 30 rounds before you see a reduction in velocity of 30-50 fps that indicates that your anti-friction coating is fully effective.
We have a friend who was recently testing moly-coated 6mm bullets in a 6-6.5×47. Moly had not been used in the barrel before. Our friend had added a grain to his “naked” bullet load, thinking that would compensate for the predicted lower pressures. What he found instead was that his loads were WAY too hot initially. It took 30+ moly-coated rounds through the bore before he saw his velocities drop — a sign that the pressure had lowered due to the moly. For the rounds fired before that point his pressures were too high, and he ended up tossing some expensive Lapua brass into the trash because the primer pockets had expanded excessively.
LESSON: Start low, even with coated bullets. Don’t increase your charge weights (over naked bullet loads) until you have clear evidence of lower pressure and reduced velocity.
Procedure After Barrel Cleaning
If you shoot Moly, and clean the barrel aggressively after a match, you may want to shoot a dozen coated “foulers” before starting your record string. Robert Whitley, who has used Moly in some of his rifles, tells us he liked to have 10-15 coated rounds through the bore before commencing record fire. In a “squeaky-clean” bore, you won’t get the full “benefits” of moly immediately.
To learn more about the properties of dry lubricants for bullets, read our Guide to Coating Bullets. This covers the three most popular bullet coatings: Molybdenum Disulfide (Moly), Tungsten Disulfide (WS2 or ‘Danzac’), and Hexagonal Boron Nitride (HBN). The article discusses the pros and cons of the different bullet coatings and offers step-by-step, illustrated instructions on how to coat your bullets using a tumbler.
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AccurateShooter.com is more about rifles than pistols. But we know that the majority of our regular readers own handguns, and many also have concealed carry (CCW) permits. And with the prospect of social unrest following the election, we expect more reader than ever will be “packing” a sidearm. Accordingly, we’ve found a great resource for CCW holders that can help you select a holster. On the Shooting Illustrated website you’ll find a detailed review of 30 different holster types. Each holster is illustrated, with pros and cons explained. These are all EDC holsters, meaning those designed for “Every Day Carry”.
Shooting Illustrated calls this article “HolsterPallooza” and it really does provide a ton of helpful information. Most other holster reviews on the web may feature a half-dozen holsters at the most. In this Holsterpallooza article you can see 30 holsters, with a wide variety of materials, designs, and applications. There are small molded IWB holsters for CCW, conventional on the belt holsters, leather shoulder holster rigs, and even ankle holsters. This is a great place to start if you are in the market for a holster.
Here’s sample of the many holster options reviewed, an innovative hybrid IWB holster constructed with leather over Kydex. That gives you the “best of both worlds” — the secure fit/retention of a molded Kydex shell, with an attractive leather exterior.
Shooting Illustrated explains: “As the interface between your gun and your body, the holster is a vital component of your carry rig. In many cases, the circumstances of your daily life will determine the method of carry you choose. This, in turn, will determine what type of holster you need, which may end up determining the handgun you carry. Therefore, choosing the method and type of holster may be as, or even more important than, choosing a firearm.”
MORE Reviews — Hickok 45 Reviews 15 CCW Holsters:
If you want to see even MORE holsters for “Every Day Carry” (EDC), check out this video from Hickok 45. This popular YouTube host looks at 15 different IWB holsters from a number of manufacturers. Hickok 45 examines many hybrid holsters that combine Kydex or plastic with leather for increased comfort. He has his favorites… and they might not be what you’d expect. NOTE: As this video has been watched over 900,000 times, you may also want to read the viewer comments. There are many helpful suggestions from CCW holders who carry daily.
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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. Midsouth — Popular Hodgdon and Alliant Powders IN STOCK
⏺ Great powders for precision reloading now in stock at Midsouth
Right now Midsouth has some of the best Hodgdon and Alliant powders in stock, with many on sale. If you need top-tier powders such as Varget, H4350, H4831sc, Reloder 16, Reloder 15.5 TS, then head over to Midsouth today. The prices are very competitive, with some items, such as RL 15.5 TS, currently on sale. Both 1-lb and 8-lb varieties are offered. For example you can get an 8-lb jug of Varget or H4831sc for $390.99. And 8 lbs. of Alliant 15.5 TS is now on sale for $449.99.
2. EuroOptic — Vortex Optics 12% Site Wide Sale
⏺ Save 12% on Vortex scopes, spotting scopes, LRFs and more
If you’re in the market for a new scope, spotter, and/or other optics, check out the Vortex sale at EuroOptic.com. For a limited time, save 12% on most Vortex products when you use promo code VTX12. There is a wide selection of scopes available for both hunting and competition use, with FFP and SFP models. Vortex also makes very popular (and durable) spotting scopes, binoculars, and rangefinders.
⏺ Quality unit with 4 speed settings and very precise “Match Mode”
The RCBS MatchMaster Powder Dispenser is one of the best combined scale/dispensers you can buy. On sale now for $778.35 on Amazon (#ad), you can save $120+ with this deal as this unit costs $899 elsewhere. The unit’s dual tube system yields fast dispensing with 0.10 grain accuracy. There are four speed settings. RCBS says the unit delivers .04 grain accuracy in “Match Mode”. We have found that a tuned MatchMaster can dispense 38.5gr of H4350 in under 7 seconds. In the highest speed setting (#4) you get slightly less precision but much faster powder delivery. SEE Matchmaster Instructions.
⏺ Key safety item for hunters/hikers provides Satellite communication
When backcountry hunting, cellphone service is often not available. If you have an emergency on a hunt or hike, you need to be able to transmit your location and health status. For this task, we recommend the Garmin inReach Mini2 Satellite Communicator. Available for $349.99 at Sportsman’s Warehouse, this ultra-compact unit weighs just 3.5 ounces and can be attached to your clothing or backpack. It is also available on Amazon for $340.89 with Orange Case (#ad) or $346.40 with Black Case (#ad).
5. Graf & Sons — Harris Bipod Sale (25%-34% OFF)
⏺ Huge Savings — Save 25-34% on quality Harris bipods
Whether for hunting, plinking, or PRS/NRL target shooting, a good bipod is a key accessory. Right now a wide variety of Harris bipods are on sale at Grafs.com. Harris bipods enjoy a great reputation for functionality and durability, earned over decades. Harris bipods are made with heat-treated steel and hard alloys with a black anodized finish. The legs adjust for height. A variety of attachment systems are offered — sling swivel stud, M-LOK, Picatinny rail and more.
6. Sportsman’s WH — Benelli Nova Field 12ga Shotgun, $329.99
⏺ Good pump shotgun for trap/skeet and hunting
Looking for a quality shotgun that can shoot clays or game? Check out the Benelli Nova Field 12 Gauge Pump Shotgun now on sale for $329.99, a $120 discount. This shotgun features a steel skeletal framework overmolded with polymer for durability. Owner reviews (93% 5-stars) of this Benelli Nova 12 gauge have been very positive saying that the action is smooth and it is a great value: “Great shotgun — it was an awesome deal”. This rifle features a black finish and 28″ barrel. One owner reports: “Weighs only 8 pounds, breaks down easily with the tube cap… and feels good in the hand.”
7. Midsouth — Hornady Precision Hunter Ammo Sale
⏺ Good ammo for large variety of hunting cartridge types
Hornady Precision Hunter ammunition has proven very reliable with good accuracy. This hunting ammo features ELD-X bullets which offer good ballistics, accuracy, and terminal effectiveness. If you need a box or two of ammo for your fall hunt, Midsouth currently offers Precision Hunter ammunition for 19 different cartridge types. Prices start at $27.99 for a 20-rd box. The .30-06 Springfield ammo is $31.99 for 20 rounds with 178gr ELD-X bullets.
8. Amazon — Lyman BrassSmith Funnel with Inserts, $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, caliber-specific aluminum inserts to fit calibers 22 to 338: .22, .243/6mm, .25/6.5mm, .270/7mm, .30, and .338. The inserts can be quickly and easily interchanged when changing cartridge types.
9. Amazon — F.A.T. Firearm Torque Wrench, $54.99
⏺ Versatile, precise, affordable Torque Wrench for gun owners
Here’s a versatile tool every gun owner can use. This Wheeler Engineering F.A.T. (Firearm Accurizing Torque) Wrench (#ad) performs a multitude of duties for firearms. The wrench provides a precise read-out of torque values for action screws, scope rings, and other vital connectors. The wrench is also handy for working on other projects (such as torqueing motorbike fasteners). This torque wrench comes complete with 10 bits, all in a handy, fitted case. Save 20% now with the $54.99 Amazon Sale Price.
10. Amazon — Pistep Splatter Target Roll
⏺ Handy stick-on targets with grid and aiming box
These handy, adhesive grid targets show shot location with a bright, high-contrast yellow circle. These Pisteps Splatter Targets (#ad) measure 3″ x 3″ with nine internal squares and red center for precision aiming. There are 250 targets on each $19.99 roll. Upon impact, you can see your shots instantly with a BRIGHT YELLOW BURST on the black background. These 3″ square Pisteps splatter targets work with airsoft, BB guns, pellet guns, air rifles, pistol and even shotguns.
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Competition Note:This past week the 2024 F-Class National Championships have been running in Lodi, Wisconsin with competition in both F-Open and F-TR divisions. F-TR is shot with a bipod and cartridge types are limited to .223 Rem (5.56 NATO) and .308 Win (7.62×51). The 2024 Mid-Range Championship ran August 10-13 while the 2024 Long-Range Championship ran August 14-17, concluding late yesterday. CLICK HERE for 2024 Championship Results.* We will soon have a full report on the 2024 event, but for today’s Sunday GunDay story, we look back at a Mid-Range winning F-TR rifle from a few years back.
Story based on Report by Bryan Blake, Blake Machine Company
Here’s the gold medal-winning .308 Win rifle of the 2020 F-TR National Mid-Range Champion, Andy Cyr. Arizona native Cyr won the F-TR Mid-Range Championship with an impressive score of 1761-72X out of a possible 1800 points. At this three-day Mid-Range event at Ben Avery in Phoenix, all 180 rounds were shot at 600 yards. Andrew delivered a convincing victory, winning by NINE points over runner-up James Crofts, a past national champion himself. We congratulate Andrew on his impressive win. And today’s Sunday GunDay feature examines the details of Andrew’s impressive .308 Win F-TR rifle.
Cyr Overcame Incredibly Tough Conditions at Ben Avery
After Day One of the Mid-Range Nationals, Andy was in 5th place. Andy made up some serious ground on the next two days despite winds that were well into the 20 MPH+ range. In fact, many experienced shooters took misses (not hitting the scoring ring) because the winds were so fierce. Interestingly, Andy’s 1761-72X score beat all but eight F-Open shooters.
Andrew Cyr’s .308 Win F-TR rifle during load development and accuracy testing.
F-TR Mid-Range Championship-Winning .308 Win Rifle Specifications:
Blake Barrel and Rifle 32″ .30 Caliber, 1:11″-twist barrel with custom specs
McMillan XIT Stock (lightened with ports on butt area)
Borden BRM Action
Kahles K1050 10-50x56mm Scope
Phoenix Bipod with F-Class Products lowering kit and skeleton legs
Andrew Cyr’s Championship-winning F-TR rifle was built by Phoenix-based Blake Barrel and Rifle (BBR) in 2018. Interestingly, this rifle was originally built for Andy’s daughter Jessica. The rifle was used by Andy a few months later. The rifle features a severely-lightened XIT stock with the grip smoothed out. Andy was actually the first customer of Blake Barrel and Rifle back in 2018. He has always been willing to try out new rifling profiles, twist rates, and barrel configurations as recommended by BBR.
Bryan Blake tells us: “Many customers demand exact specs and there is no way of changing their mind, even if it is factual-based. With Andy he was always willing to try new things, some things didn’t work well, but some things worked very well, just like the barrel used to win the Nationals.” Andy preferred a heavier barrel in the chamber area than most TR shooters. The shank diameter is 1.350″ rather than 1.250″. What this does is keep as much material around the chamber, which is the hottest area of the barrel. That way the barrel is less affected by heat over a string of fire, since the heat can be dissipated into a larger area.
Andy used a 32″ barrel, a length not commonly used in F-TR anymore. Most are running 30″ or even 28″ now. Many folks think a shorter barrel is more accurate so these competitors do not use a 32″ barrel. Well as you can see by his results, Andrew’s 32″ tube shot great. The extra length was NOT a handicap. We should remember that longer barrels can normally produce higher velocities than shorter barrels or deliver equivalent speeds with less pressure.
Many people also believe that a 1:9-10″ twist is needed to shoot 200-grain class bullets out of a .308 Win accurately. However, Andy took the advice of Blake Barrel and Rifle, and went with a 1:11″-twist Blake cut-rifled barrel. Many would say this twist is too slow, and some online calculators say a 1:11″-twist won’t fully stabilize 200-grain bullets. Obviously this is also not the case. Andy’s 11-twist and Berger 200-grain Hybrid bullets (NOT 200.20X bullets) work very well with this combination. NOTE: Andy uses an F-Class Products barrel tuner to tune his load. He will sometimes even alter tune between relays to compensate for changing barometric conditions.
Winning .308 Win Load — Lapua Palma Brass, VV N550, CCI 450s, Berger 200gr Hybrids
Andy Cyr took the Mid-Range title loading Vihtavuori N150 powder, CCI 450 primers, Berger 200gr Hybrids, and Lapua .308 Win Palma brass. Andy does not push his bullets very fast and finds a big accuracy node at the mid-2600 FPS range. He jumps his bullets .015″ off the lands. One thing Andy consistently does is test, test, test. He will test different powders, charge weights, seating depths nearly every time he is at the range. He will shoot a different load for each string to see what works best.
Profile of 2020 F-TR Mid-Range National Champion — Andrew Cyr
Father and Daughter Compete Together
Andy started shooting F-Class in 2012 to help him shoot better in the PRS series. He hoped to learn to read the wind better and get more experience in long-range shooting in general. After shooting F-Class he was hooked and found he enjoyed it more than PRS. Andy and his daughter Jessica have shot many state matches together, with both of them shooting F-TR. Jessica owned the Mid-Range 20-shot woman’s Aggregate record for years with a score of 200-11X. Interestingly Andy shot his very first clean at 1000 yards at the Nationals in Raton, NM in 2018 with a score of 200-11X also. This year Andy started using a spotting scope to help read mirage and it has helped him tremendously he reports.
The “Master” Beat the “High Masters”
Andy is currently classified in Mid-Range as a Master for F-Class, not yet High Master. Even after winning the F-Class Mid-Range Nationals, the most prestigious F-Class match of the year, he is still classified as a Master. Andy’s 1761-72X score works out to 97.8% of a perfect 1800. But the requirement for F-Class High Master is 98%. That just shows you how tough the conditions were at Ben Avery this year. But still the Master beat ALL the High Masters — if you look at the score sheet above, all the other Top 10 F-TR competitors were High Masters. Impressive. And we believe Andy is the first Arizona resident to ever win a national F-Class Championship in either F-Open or F-TR.
About Blake Barrel and Rifle Blake Barrel and Rifle (BBR) has been in business since 2018. BBR built the rifle that Brian Bowling used to win the 2019 F-Open National Championship. And now another ultra-accurate BBR-built rifle has won the 2020 F-TR Mid-Range Championship. Bryan Blake tells us that Blake Barrel and Rifle has recently upgraded BBR’s rifle barrel building equipment. There are advanced CNC lapping machines, CNC bore-honing machines, and all-new, proprietary rifling cutter designs that no one else in the barrel business uses.
Blake Barrel and Rifle produces cut-rifled, 6-groove barrels with a unique rifling profile no other barrel manufacturer is using. Blake barrels have an impressive winning record in recent major competitions — earning National Championships, plus many match wins and podium performances. Bryan Blake tells us that “The time and quality control spend on Blake barrels is second to none and the proof in the results.” For more information, visit Blakebarrel.com.
* We believe that Alan Kulcak won 2024 Long-Range F-Open while Randy Littleton won 2024 Long-Range F-TR Division. We believe Johnny Ingram is the 2024 Mid-Range Champ in F-Open and Tom Hubbard won the 2024 Mid-Range F-TR title.
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While some shooting disciplines have moved to electronic targets, most shooting matches still use paper targets, which must have precise dimensions for the particular distance and discipline. If you need correctly-sized targets for specific shooting disciplines (such as NRA Smallbore, F-Class, and 1K Benchrest) check out the links in this article. Precise, dimensionally-correct competition targets are produced by a half-dozen specialty printers. In this article we provide links to the leading target sellers, with a chart showing “who’s got what”. Look for your particular discipline and the vendors will be specified.
Sources for Official Shooting Competition Targets:
AccurateShooter.com offers dozens of FREE, printable targets for target practice, load development, and fun shooting. We also offer a few of the most popular NRA Bullseye targets. One or more of these printable targets should work for most training purposes. However, some readers have asked: “Where can we get the real targets… exactly like the ones used in NRA, IBS, and NBRSA shooting matches?”
All these vendors carry nearly all the NRA High Power and Smallbore targets, including the smaller F-Class targets. National Target has the F-Class and High Power targets, including 100-yard reductions of the 200, 300, and 600-yard military targets.
Here are some of the air rifle, smallbore, and High Power targets at Creedmoor Sports:
Orrville Printing currently sells IBS targets for rimfire (50 yard) benchrest, short-range centerfire Benchrest (100, 200, 300 yards), Hunter BR Rifle (100, 200, 300 yards), plus the official 600-yard and 1000-yard IBS targets. National Target Company also has most of the IBS targets. NBRSA short-range, 600-yard, and 1000-yard benchrest targets are available directly from the NBRSA Business Office. Send an email to nbrsa@icloud.com or call (434) 993-9201.
Good Source for Specialty Targets and Target Stands
Need Steel, Cardboard Silhouettes or specialty targets? ALCO Target Company in Duarte, California is the USA’s leading producer of the full spectrum of shooting targets including paper targets, cardboard targets, steel targets, and target stands.
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This is just a brief synopsis of a single test case. The coverage of twist rates in Modern Advancements in Long-Range Shooting Vol. 1 is more detailed, with multiple live fire tests. Results are extrapolated for other calibers and bullet weights. Needless to say, the question of “how twist rate affects muzzle velocity” is fully answered.
Headspace Gauges
The last half-inch or so of your barrel is absolutely critical. Any damage (or abnormal wear) near the crown will cause a significant drop-off in accuracy. Here are ways you can check the end of your barrel, using a common Q-Tip.
With the preparations completed, I took my Dasher with the Quigley-Ford scope to a friend’s range. He had targets set up at 200, 300, 400, and 600 yards. The morning was foggy with light drizzle, but the rain held off until I finished the test.
