In this 54-minute video interview, Ken Clemens, co-owner of Brux Barrels, is interviewed by F-Class ace Erik Cortina for the Cortina Precision YouTube Channel. A lot of ground is covered, with many fascinating insights into barrel-making revealed. Watch and learn:
Interview with Ken Clemens, Co-owner of Brux Barrels
If you are involved in competitive shooting, and especially if you compete in F-Class or long-range benchrest, we recommend you take the time to watch this interview, perhaps in a couple of sessions because it runs for a lengthy 54 minutes. Ken Clemens explains the important procedures that go into making match-grade, cut-rifled barrels. Ken also explains some factors to consider when choosing a barrel-maker and specifying length, contour, land/groove configuration, and twist rates.
About BRUX Barrel-Making Methods
Brux starts with 4150 chrome-moly or 416R stainless steel double-stress-relieved bar stock — the best available. Barrels are bored with the Barnes gun drill, and reamed with an industry-standard Pratt & Whitney reamer. Brux uses solid carbide cutter hooks and employs special methods to achieve best results.
After the bore-cutting process is complete, each barrel is hand-lapped to high-precision standards. Multi-point inspections and meticulous hand processes (not possible in mass production) ensure extremely high quality. The Brux website says: “If there is the slightest deviation in surface finish or tolerance, the barrel is discarded.”
BRUX Specializes in Cut-Rifled Gun Barrels
Brux produces custom cut-rifled barrels, precision-crafted by professionals with extensive experience in both machine tools and competitive shooting. While Brux earned its reputation building great barrels for F-Class, benchrest, and long range competition, Brux also crafts hunting barrels. Brux states: “Hunters, big game and varmint, can benefit from the accuracy and dependability of a custom barrel made to your specifications.”
BRUX Barrels’ Owners Are Competitive Shooters
Brux owners and machinists are shooters themselves. So they understand how important a truly top-quality barrel can be. Everything else about a rifle can be great, but you need a superb barrel to win at the highest level. Owners Ken Clemens (pictured above) and Norm Brux are both seasoned shooters with years of experience using their own products.
Made in the USA — About the Home of Brux Barrels
The Wisconsin River Valley near Lodi has a storied history of hunting and shooting. The glacier spared many granite escarpments, leaving secluded glens and a topography rich in soil and wildlife habitat, which attracted families with old-world values and skills. Many of their descendants turned raw steel and iron into the tools necessary for farming – and some evolved to precision tooling and making gun barrels.
Wisconsin River Valley near Ferry Bluff State Natural Area.
A large selection of new handguns have been introduced in recent months, with manufacturers racing to meet unprecedented high consumer demand. Millions of Americans have joined the ranks of gunowners in the past two years. At least 5.4 million people purchased a firearm for the first time in 2021 based on NSSF retailer surveys and NICS background checks adjusted data. And, for most new firearms owners, their first purchase was a handgun, most likely a 9mm compact. Here are nine notable new handguns* introduced over the last 12 months. Many debuted at SHOT Show 2022, while others were introduced in 2021.
The Taurus TX22 SCR (Steel Competition Ready) was designed as a fun rimfire for steel plate competition and action pistol games. We like the balance and ergonomics of this pistol, and the integrated forward compensator does reduce muzzle flip, allowing faster follow-up shots and better split times.
In this video, watch Jessie Harrison, the world’s best female action pistol competitor, shooting the TX22 on steel, starting at 0:14 time-mark.
Girsan MC P35 Hi-Power from EAA
This is the year of the Browning Hi-Power revival. Springfield Arms brought out the SA-35, FN Herstal has a new High Power, and the Turkish company Girsan now produces the MC P35 (sold in the USA by EAA). Based on the original John M. Browning pistol design, EAA’s MC P35 by Girsan pays homage to one of the most widely-used military handguns in history. The steel-framed MC P35 boasts a 15+1 capacity in a staggered column magazine. With classic styling, good machining, and a sub-$600 MSRP, this MC P35 may be the best bargain among the latest generation of Hi-Power clones. It is offered in three finishes: Two-tone (gray/black), Black, and Dark Earth.
Uberti 9mm Single-Action Classic Revolvers
Italian gun-maker Uberti expands its portfolio of classic single-action revolvers with the addition of new 9mm wheelguns. For 2022, Uberti offers select El Patrón and Cattleman Brass single-action revolvers chambered for the 9mm Luger (9x19mm) cartridge. These revolvers headspace at the cartridge mouth without the need for moon clips, allowing cartridges to be loaded individually into the cylinder and ejected in the regular fashion. With 9mm Luger ammo being available at a lower price than many other handgun cartridges, revolver shooters can put more rounds on target without breaking the bank.
Stoeger Introduces STR-9SC subcompact
Based on the original STR-9 compact 9mm introduced in 2019, Stoeger’s new STR-9SC Sub-Compact series offers three models: SSTR-9SC Sub-Compact Optic-Ready, STR-9SC Sub-Compact with Tritium night sights, and base model TR-9SC Sub-Compact. All come with a medium backstrap, left- or right-side mag release, trigger safety, accessory rail, front post/square notch rear sight configuration, and a 10-round magazine. These are all very affordable — the basic STR-92C Sub-Compact has a $329.99 MSRP.
Shadow Systems DR-920P Pistol with Integral Compensator
Shown at the top of this article, the new Shadow Systems DR920P 9mm Luger pistol features a built-in, multi-port compensator at the end of the barrel. This reduces felt recoil and muzzle flip allowing faster split times on multi-target scenarios. NOTE that the front sight is mounted on the forward compensator so it does not reciprocate with the slide.
If you are an 3-Gun or Steel Challenge shooter, you may want to consider this new pistol. The DR920P fits Glock 34 holsters, and ergonomics are similar to Glock, but we like the Shadow DR920P’s trigger better than a standard Glock trigger.
Savage Stance 9mm Compact Pistol
This is the first compact pistol produced by Savage Arms in a century. Outdoor Life notes: “For the first time since 1920, Savage is back in the pistol market, diving right into the most competitive category — the micro 9mm. The Stance is an ultra-thin, polymer-frame semi-automatic striker-fired 9mm with a 3.2-inch barrel. It’s less than an inch thick, but an abrasive stipple finish on the grip and interchangeable back straps should make this one a pleasure to shoot.”
Kimber R7 Mako Optics Installed
Released in 2021, the R7 was Kimber’s first Polymer-framed handguns. The latest optics-installed R7 Mako ($799.00 MSRP) features a factory-installed CTS-1500 reflex sight for fast target acquisition and accurate shot placement. Capacity is 12+1 with flush-fit mag or 14+1 with extended. This little pistol features co-witnessed tritium night sights, and Hooded ejection port to vent gasses/brass away from the optic. For other features see this video review from Colion Noir:
Taurus Defender 605 3″-barrel .357 Magnum Revolver
The new 3″-barrel Taurus Defender 605 wheelgun comes in four versions, starting at $472.63 MSRP for matte black stainless with rubber grip. Show is the Altamont wood grip model with Tungsten Cerakote finish (MSRP $517.33). These are significantly less expensive than similar S&Ws. Unlike many 3-inch barrel revolvers, the Defender 605 comes with an extended ejector rod for quicker reloads. The Defender 605s come with factory-installed tritium front night sight with an orange outline.
Ruger PC Charger 9mm Large Format Pistol
Pistol brace, sling, suppressor, optic, and Glock Magazine NOT included.
The Ruger PC Charger pistol was is a handgun version of Ruger’s PC Carbine. This pistol was actually introduced last year, but now it is being sold without the legally problematic folding stock (err, make that a “pistol brace”). The 2022-model PC Charger still has a quick detachable barrel system, MLOK rail, and a 1913 rail up top for accessories. The PC Charger runs Ruger pistol magazines, and there is a handy, drop-in conversion for Glock magazines. This is hardly a carry pistol, but we can see how someone might favor this for home defense or fun shooting on steel.
Good Handgun Transport Case — Discrete Gun Luggage
Here’s a sensible transport option for range trips with handguns. This discrete, double-sided unit from Elite Survival Systems allows you to transport four pistols — as well as eye protection, cleaning kits, magazines and ammunition — no more conspicuously than a laptop. There are two identical 2-gun compartments for pistols, plus a top section for your muffs, targets, and other accessories. This bag system earned the U.S. Concealed Carry Magazine Editor’s Choice Award.
* We count the two Uberti single-action revolvers as one new design because they are nearly identical in layout and operation. However there are some differences (e.g. the brass-frame option on Cattleman model only).
Now that SHOT Show 2022 has wrapped up, we’ve had a chance to sort through the thousands of new products on display and spotlight some notable new items — some that may surprise you. Nosler is now selling suppressors, and there’s an affordable new Howa hunting rig well under five pounds. And 3-Gun and pistol shooters should definitely check out the New Kestrel KST1000 Shot Timer.
Nosler Suppressors — Advanced Design and Metallurgy
At SHOT Show 2022 Nosler unveiled its new line of Nosler Suppressors, designed to be very light but also very rugged. With both all-titanium and aluminum/Ti models, the new Nosler Suppressors incorporate cutting-edge materials and construction. Weighing just over 13 ounces, the all-titanium family includes the SR-22Ti (.22 caliber) and SR-30Ti (up to 30 caliber) with MSRP of $899.99 and $949.99 respectively. They are designed to strike an ideal balance between size, light weight, and sound mitigation.
The hybrid aluminum/titanium family has two models each weighing just NINE ounces. The 22-ALTi (22 caliber) and 30-ALTi (30 caliber) are engineered to offer the same balance of size, light weight, and sound mitigation for $649.99 and $699.99 respectively. All the ALTi and all-titanium Nosler suppressors are compatible with 5/8-24 (30 caliber models) and 1/2-28 (22 caliber models) threaded muzzles. All four models can also attach over a Nosler muzzle brake.
ZEISS DTI 3/25 Thermal Imaging Camera
Along with its excellent riflescopes, binoculars, and rangefinders, Zeiss displayed an impressive night vision system for hunters. The new ZEISS DTI 3/25 Thermal Imaging Camera “provides a view in total darkness, especially at close range,” says Tammo Lüken, Head of Category Management Hunting at ZEISS. The 25mm focal length offers an enlarged field of view of 26 meters at a range of 100 meters and provides a decisive advantage when hunting in wooded areas. The high-resolution HD LCOS display combined with a 0.5 zoom increments deliver detailed images for reliable spotting. The the new DTI 3/25 as well as the ZEISS DTI 3/35 thermal imaging cameras can be connected to the ZEISS Hunting app via Wi-Fi to share photos and videos and even livestream from the field.
Berger .30 Caliber 245 Grain Long Range Hybrid Target Bullets
Berger displayed an impressive new .30 caliber 245 Grain Long Range Hybrid Target (LRHT) bullet. This ultra-heavy projectile is optimized for use with large-capacity cartridges such as the .300 Norma Magnum, .300 PRC, and .300 Remington Ultra Magnum. Berger notes that “the 245 Grain LRHT is a heaviest-in-class solution for the longest of .30-caliber target and tactical applications.” The 30 caliber LRHT boasts a high BC, jump-tolerant hybrid ogive profile that is Doppler Radar verified with less than 1% BC variation. The new 245 Grain LRHTs was developed with the U.S. Military to increase long-range target hit percentage at 1,500+ meters. These new 245-grainers boast Berger’s innovative Meplat Reduction Technology which ensures ultra-consistent Ballistic Coefficients (BC).
Howa SUPER LITE — Hunting Rifle Weighs Just 4 lbs. 7 Ounces
“Light is right” — that seems to be the trend in the current generation of hunting rifles. For those long treks in search of game, hunters prefer a light-weight rifle. Now with carbon composite stocks and other weight-savings measures, we are seeing rifles that are one-third lighter than typical hunting rifles of the past. For 2022 Legacy Sports Int’l unveiled the new Howa SUPER LITE Series of rifles. These rigs tip the scales, without optics, at a mere 4 pounds, 7 ounces. Yes, well under five pounds! That’s impressive for a sub-MOA accurate, reliable rifle with a $1399.00 MSRP. The new Howa SUPER LITE features a new action that is larger than a Howa Mini Action but smaller and lighter than a standard short action. The Howa SUPER LITE will be initially offered in 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Winchester in Stocky’s Carbon Fiber stocks with choice of Kryptek Altitude or Obskura camo patterns. Measuring 39″ overall, the SUPER LITE comes with the nice HACT 2-stage trigger, Picatinny rail, and flush-fit detachable magazine.
Kestrel Ballistics KST1000 Shot Timer
Kestrel Ballistics released its impressive new KST1000 Shot Timer at SHOT Show. The KST1000 Shot Timer raises the bar, promising to be the most modern, versatile, advanced, and dependable shot timer on the market. And yes it even has Bluetooth capability. Kestrel’s new KST1000 offers five nameable setting presets, two easy-to-use screens, and an extra loud buzzer. The device is compatible with dry fire and suppressed shooting. Backed by a 5-year warranty, this Shot Timer is waterproof, dustproof, and durable (drop tested to MIL-STD-810G standards).
Doug Koenig, world champion shooter, had the opportunity to test out the new KST1000 Shot Timer and stated, “This is a must-have, next-level shot timer for serious shooters!”
Browning X-Bolt Target Pro McMillan
Making its debut at SHOT Show 2022 was the new X-Bolt Target Pro McMillan suppressor-ready model. This is an updated version of the X-Bolt with a beefed up action in a handsome McMillan stock. Features include a stiffer, heavier receiver, fluted stainless steel barrel with Recoil Hawg muzzle brake on 5/8″-24 suppressor-ready threads, new adjustable Target DLX trigger, and extended bolt handle. This model features a handsome McMillan A3-5 carbon fiber stock with adjustable comb, and a fore-end underside rail.
How and Why to Create a Dummy Round
When you have a new custom rifle built, or a new barrel fitted to an existing rifle, it makes sense to create a dummy round. This should have your preferred brass and bullet types, with the bullet positioned at optimal seating depth. A proper dummy round helps the gunsmith set the freebore correctly for your cartridge, and also ensure the proper chamber dimensions.
Respected machinist, tool-maker, and gunsmith Greg Tannel of Gre-Tan Rifles explains: “I use the dummy round as a gauge to finish cut the neck diameter and throat length and diameter so you have [optimal] clearance on the loaded neck and the ogive of the bullet just touches the rifling.” He recommends setting bullet so the full diameter is just forward of the case’s neck-shoulder junction. “From there”, Greg says, “I can build you the chamber you want… with all the proper clearances”.
Greg Tannel has created a very helpful video showing how to create a dummy round. Greg explains how to measure and assemble the dummy and how it will be used during the barrel chambering process. Greg notes — the dummy round should have NO Primer and NO powder. We strongly recommend that every rifle shooter watch this video. Even if you won’t need a new barrel any time soon, you can learn important things about freebore, leade, and chamber geometry.
Must Watch Video — This has been viewed over 772,000 times on YouTube:
This has been a very popular video, with 772,000 views! Here are actual YouTube comments:
That is the best explanation I’ve ever seen. Thank you sir. — P. Pablo
Nice video. You do a very good job of making this easy for new reloaders to understand. I sure wish things like this were available when I started reloading and having custom rifles built. Once again, great job, and your work speaks for itself. — Brandon K.
Beautiful job explaining chambering clearances. — D. Giorgi
Another Cool Tool — The Stub Gauge
When you have your gunsmith chamber your barrel, you can also have him create a Stub Gauge, i.e. a cast-off barrel section chambered like your actual barrel. The stub gauge lets you measure the original length to lands and freebore when your barrel was new. This gives you a baseline to accurately assess how far your throat erodes with use. Of course, as the throat wears, to get true length-to-lands dimension, you need take your measurement using your actual barrel. The barrel stub gauge helps you set the initial bullet seating depth. Seating depth is then adjusted accordingly, based on observed throat erosion, or your preferred seating depth.
SHOT Show, the huge gun industry trade show, returned to Las Vegas this past week, after a COVID-caused hiatus in 2021. Though attendance was down signficantly this year, it was still a major event, with thousands of companies showcasing products in two massive exhibit halls. There were plenty of new handgun offerings, and notably, some of the big AR-platform black rifle builders are now selling bolt guns. Here is the new Aero Precision A700 bolt-action rifle.
SHOT Show Day 2 Highlights — Nine Companies
This video from the Classic Firearms YouTube Channel spotlights a number of interesting products, both at Industry Day at the Range, and inside SHOT Show 2022. Companies covered include: Zastava (1:00), Kalashnikov USA (6:33), LMT Defense (12:21), Geissele (20:35), SureFire (25:12), Foxtrot Mike (32:20), Maxim Defense (34:15), Great Lakes (44:35), and Sylvan Arms (46.20).
Top Five New Guns from Industry Day at the Range
There were many interesting rifles and handguns on display at the Industry Day at the Range. Savage’s new straight-pull Impulse PRS/NRL rifle attracted considerable attention. Many of the testers at the range were also impressed by the new .44 Auto Mag which is featured in this “Top Five” video from TheGunSnob channel. The tester said this .44 Auto Mag was “by far my favorite [gun] I shot all day.”
Magpul New Products
TFB TV showcases multiple new products from Magpul for 2022. We liked what we saw, including a new $600 Pro 700 Lite chassis, and a new 8-ounce bipod. Magpul also had its radical FDP-9 “enclosed pistols” on display. Magpul explains: “With recently confirmed classification of the FDP-9 as a handgun, the purchaser can enjoy the firearm as a self-enclosing, large-format pistol. They may also choose to file the appropriate ATF Form 1 and, after approval, purchase a conversion kit to legally assemble it into the FDC-9. It will then be classified as a short-barreled rifle (SBR) and subject to all NFA laws.”
Mantis — Advanced Dry-Fire Training System
Mantis makes a variety of firearm-arms mounted systems that monitor muzzle movement and display that through a mobile App. These systems allow dry-fire practice at home — a great way to improve your marksmanship without spending big bucks on ammo. Mantis had a display at SHOT Show 2022. A Mantis dry-fire device fitted to an AR-platform rig (with the Mantis Blackbeard trigger reset system) is featured in this video record at the Mantis SHOT Show booth:
Cutting Edge Bullets — Solid, High-BC Bullets for .22 LR Reloaders
With the growth of long-range rimfire tactical competition, there has been interest in high-BC bullets fitted into the diminutive .22 LR case. This effort has been pioneered by Cutting Edge Bullets, which offers a variety of .22 caliber projectiles created expressly for hand-loaded .22 LR. Cutting Edge also offers dies and special shellholders for reloading the .22 LR case. This video (from 2020) explains how Cutting Edge pioneered long, high-BC lathe-turned solid bullets for the .22 LR cartridge. These bullets and dies were on display at Cutting Edge’s 2022 SHOT Show booth.
Optics companies from around the globe had scores of new scopes and optics products on display at SHOT Show 2022. There are many good companies in the market these days, all vying to have the “latest and greatest”. We were impressed with new FFP scopes from Zeiss and Vortex. And there were many other interesting optics on display from big and small optics companies. 2022 promises to be a good year for scope buyers, with many innovative new products. Here are some of the notable scope and optics products on display this week at SHOT Show.
Zeiss LRP S5 First Focal Plane Scopes
The all-new ZEISS LRP S5 Series first focal plane riflescopes consists of two models — LRP S5 318-50 and LRP Sr 525-56 — and are available in four unique configurations with 34mm main tubes. The long-range riflescopes include high-performance optics, highly repeatable, precise and tactile turrets; and a daytime visible illuminated reticle. Models are available in either MRAD or MOA. The optical design utilizes ZEISS Fluoride lens elements, SCHOTT glass and ZEISS’s proprietary T-Star lens coatings for optimum color fidelity, image brightness, exceptional resolution and edge-to-edge sharpness within the entire field-of-view. With the External Locking Windage Turret (ELWT), the user can pull out on the locking collar, make necessary adjustments and then lock-in the selected setting.
Huskemaw — Innovative Scope with INTERNAL Bubble Level
Huskemaw Optics has some very unique and smart features on their scopes, including a model one elevation AND windage on one central turret. At Industry Day at the Range, Huskemaw showcased another innovative optic. This features a Bubble Level INSIDE the scope. Look at the photo. You can see the bubble level at the bottom of the circle, within the shooter’s view. This is a clever feature that could certainly help hunters and tactical shooters keep their rifles level. Watch this Backfire video from 3:44 to 4:28 time-mark to see how the internal scope level works.
Vortex Riflescopes for 2022
Vortex did not have a display at SHOT Show 2022, but they recently introduced some interesting products for 2022. The new Razor HD Gen III models have attracted attention in the PRS/NRL ranks. In the first video below (from Guntalk TV) Vortex reps explain the features of the latest Razor HD Gen III series. In the second video the Area 419 team looks at the new Vortex Razor HD Gen III 6-36x56mm, a FFP mil/mil model with an eye-opening $3999.99 MSRP. Whoa — that’s serious money by any standard. CLICK HERE for video showing other new-for-2022 Vortex scopes.
March Scopes — How They Are Designed, Built, and Tested
March Scope of Japan produces some of the most advanced rifle scopes you can buy. The March 8-80x56mm scope offers the highest magnification you’ll find in any riflescope on the market. And, for ELR competition, the March Genesis 4-40x52mm is truly a game-changer. This revolutionary optic offers an incredible 86 Mils of elevation (vertical) adjustment range.
This video shows how March Scopes are crafted and tested at the factory in the Nagano region of Japan. This is a fascinating look into world-class optics production with design by some very brilliant optics engineers. Enjoy this factory tour video.
Schmidt & Bender 3-21x50mm Exos Hunting Scope
Schmidt & Bender showcased an impressive hunting scope, the 3-21x50mm Exos. First released three seasons back, this second focal plane (SFP) hunting scope is super rugged and boasts exceptional color fidelity with lenses “optimized to the human eye”. The 3-21x50mm Exos features ultra-repeatable, temperature-resistant elevation and windage turrets. The turrets boast “Zero Tolerance Clicks” that have been verified by S&B’s technicians. The solid, hard-anodized aluminum construction (with beefy wall thickness) allows the Exos to function in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Farenheit (-40°C).
The 3-21x50mm Exos features a single-turn, lockable elevation turret engraved with big digits for easy reading. With patented Schmidt & Bender S-Spring technology, this turret is 100% repeatable/precise and can be operated easily with gloves. The Exos is available in milliradian or MOA click values. The side focus/parallax adjustment runs from 30 yards to infinity. See details in the S&B EXOS 3-21×50 Brochure.
EOTECH 1-10x28mm Vudu FFP Scope and Mini Reflex
EOTECH had both conventional riflescopes and reflex (red dot) sights on display.
EOTECH’s new Vudu 1-10x28mm First Focal Plane (FFP) riflescope is a good choice for hunting and tactical applications. It can focus extremely close, but the 10X max power is great for spotting game at long ranges. The Vudu features a 34mm, one-piece aircraft aluminum tube and single-piece eyepiece with removable throw-lever. The glass-etched illuminated reticle and first focal plane design allows for distance estimation at any magnification and lighting condition. The low-profile elevation turret includes a push/pull locking system and a capped windage turret for a secure zero.
EOTECH also showcased a new EFLX Mini Reflex Optic for handgun installations. The features are covered in this promotional video. Warning: Sound level is very high. You may want to reduce the volume setting.
Leupold 6HD Patrol 1-6X Scope
In this video, YouTube host Roger Barrera visited the Leupold booth to learn about the new Patrol 6HD 1-6x24mm optic this should be popular with hunters as well as security personnel. MSRP is $1399.99 with illuninated Firedot reticle or $1499.99 with illuminated CM-R2 reticle.
“22 Plinkster” is an avid shooter who has produced a number of entertaining videos for his YouTube Channel. In the video below, he tackles the question “Why Do Misfires Occur in .22 LR Rimfire Ammunition?” This is the most common question posed to 22 Plinkster by his many viewers. He identifies four main issues that can cause .22 LR misfires or faulty ignition:
1. Damaged Firing Pin — The dry firing process can actually blunt or shorten the firing pin, particularly with older rimfire firearms. Use of snap caps is recommended.
2. Poor Ammunition — Some cheap brands have poor quality control. 22 Plinkster recommends using ammo from a manufacturer with high quality control standards, such as CCI and Federal.
3. Age of Ammunition — Rimfire ammo can function well for a decade or more. However the “shelf life” of rimfire ammunition is not infinite. You ammo’s “lifespan” will be shortened by heat, moisture, and humidity. You should store your rimfire ammo in a cool, dry place.
4. Mishandling of Ammunition — Tossing around ammunition can cause problems. Rough handling can cause the priming compound to be dislodged from the rim. This causes misfires.
Preventing misfires is essential if you want to succeed in NRL22 competition and other rimfire competition disciplines run “on the clock”.
SHOT Show is one of the biggest trade shows of the year among ALL industries. This year there are thousands of exhibitors spread out over two exhibit halls the combined size of 14 football fields! Thankfully a number of YouTubers have been working hard, finding interesting new products in the miles of aisles. Today we feature some notable videos from SHOT Show 2022. The first video in our showcase comes from Backfire, a popular gun-centric YouTube Channel with 358K subscribers. This video spotlights numerous new rifles, pistols, shotguns, and optics. Then we feature other videos covering new pistols, ELR shooting, suppressors, and knives.
Notable New Products Revealed Including New-for-2022 Firearms
Browning’s new X-Bolt Target Max rifles were impressive. The actions are thicker and stiffer and a new DLX (double lever) trigger is fitted which adjusts down to two pounds. See discussion at 1:34 in video.
Backfire, a popular YouTube Channel with 357K subscribers) has done a very comprehensive, 16-minute run-down of many interesting products at SHOT Show including chassis systems, new cartridges, optics, and 17 new-for-2022 rifles. The host also declared “the coolest thing I’ve seen wasn’t a rifle at all — it’s a new cartridge [8.6 Blackout]”. This video covers a LOT of ground, so we’ve provided a time-marked index with the notable highlights. You can use the video slide bar to navigate back and forth:
1. Canik Arms (0:40): TP9 SFX Rival competition pistol. 2. Browning Rifles (1:34): New X-Bolt Target beefed up action with 2-lb trigger; Speedline rifles with new camo finish and suppressor-ready muzzle threads. 3. Kriss (3:36): New DMK 22P AR-type Pistol. 4. Palmetto State Armory (3:46): New 5.7mm pistols with 23rd capacity. 5. Nemo (4:24): Deluxe over-under imported shotguns 6. Backfire Channel (4:58): 8.6 Blackout cartridge discussion — new .338 Caliber with 1:3″ twist. Optimized for short-barreled rifles (Faxon Barrels, Gorilla Ammunition). 7. Taurus (7:38): TX-22 SCR (“Steel Competition Ready”) compensated rimfire pistol and new G3X 9mm. 8. Zeiss Sports Optics (9:48): New LRP S5 First Focal Plane Scopes, 3-18x50mm and 5-26x56mm. 9. Bergara (10:36): Divide Rifle with carbon stock/carbon-wrapped barrel, Also MGLite carbon rifles. 10. Rokman (13:02): Lightweight Packs with carbon fiber “CORE-Flex” construction. 11. Gorilla Ammunition (13:30): New 8.6 Blackout Ammunition for AR10s and bolt-guns. 12. Daniel Defense (13:50): New PRO Chassis for Rem 700 Clone actions. 13. Christensen Arms (14:48): Modern Hunting Rifle with modular stock. 14. KRG stocks (15:34): New KRG C4 metal alloy chassis for PRS/NRL comps.
New 8.6 Blackout Cartridge with 1:3″-Twist Barrels The new 8.6 Blackout “is a 6.5 Creedmoor shortened case, blown out for a .338 bullet. For supersonic… between 150 and 160 grains. Out of a 12″ barrel, we’ll be able to get somewhere close to 2400 FPS with that. We’ll have subsonic up to about 360 grains. A Barnes 210-grain bullet [is] about 2,000 feet per second out of a 12″ barrel.”– Q’s Kevin Brittingham It is claimed that there is more energy on target than with a .308 Win, even with a very short barrel
The cartridge inventors are running a very radical 1:3″ twist rate. Yep you read that right — one in three. According to Kevin B: “Fast twist … gives you several things. The first being better accuracy because when the bullet is long and slow, you need to spin it faster. For expanding subsonic bullets, it has more reliable expansion at lower velocities, which is great for hunting with subsonic [ammunition]. This is going to be the first subsonic, sub-MOA cartridge, and that’s due to the fast twist.”
Hi-Power Returns — FN Brings Back the Browning Hi-Power
TFB TV visited the FN Herstal booth to see the reintroduction of the legendary Hi-Power, first manufactured by FN in Europe. While the Hi-Power is a traditional, revered gun, FN has made a few tweaks to the new-for-2022 model to bring it up to date. This release is interesting given that just last month Springfield Armory released its own updated Hi-Power clone, the SA-35, which won the NRA’s American RiflemanHandgun of the Year award. STORY HERE.
So which is better — the modernized American-made SA-35, or FN’s version of the classic Hi-Power? Time will tell as the market decides. We like some of the features of the SA-35 but prefer the fit and finish of the FN.
Video of ELR Shooting at Raton in New Mexico
The SHOT Show TV video below has a great sequence from Cutting Edge Bullets with big-bore rifles shooting at extreme long range in Raton, NM and elsewhere. This is a nice intro to ELR shooting. Look carefully and you can see advanced optics, Doppler Radar, and other high-tech gear.
NOTE: The ELR sequence in the video below starts at 23:48 mark, but if you click the center arrow start button the video should start at 23:48:
How to Order a Suppressor the Easy Way — E-Filing
Are you considering getting a suppressor this year? There are important Federal regulations regarding suppressors, because they are considered a Class III device. You may also want to consider having the suppressor owned by a trust. The process of getting a suppressor is covered in this helpful video. It explains Federal rules and how to e-File your application through the Silencer Shop.
New Knives at SHOT Show — Reviews by Knife Center
Despite the name, SHOT Show isn’t all about guns and shooting. There are also many knife vendors displaying their wares at the big trade show. Here are two videos from the Knife Center, showing new knives from Spyderco, and Artisan/CRJB.
SHOT Show 2022 continues in Las Vegas. Attendance is down compared to years past, but there are still many innovative products on display in the “miles of aisles”. This year’s SHOT Show encompasses two facilities — the Venetian Expo AND the new Caesars Forum. Combined, these facilities provide over 800,000 square feet of exhibit space. The two trade show halls are connected by a new elevated walking bridge.
New Rifle Systems
There were some interesting new bolt-action chassis rifles for the PRS/NRL crowd, along with some impressive, high-end hunting rifles on display, such as the eye-catching Christensen Arms Modern Hunting Rifle (MHR). In addition there were quite a few new rimfire rifles. With the increasing cost of components, and the difficulty of finding primers and powder, many riflemen are shooting more rimfire than ever before.
Christensen Arms Modern Hunting Rifle (MHR)
The Christensen Arms Modern Hunting Rifle (MHR) features an interesting multi-piece, modular stock with a metal center section and composite fore-arm and buttstock sections. The barrel is carbon-wrapped. The MHR’s modular design lets the customer select from a variety of different forearm and butt section components. That allows you to configure the rifle for field carry or long-range work from prone.
Aero Precision Bolt-Action Rifle with Barrel Nut
At SHOT Shot 2022, Aero Precision displayed its new bolt-action rifle. This features a 3-lug (60-degree throw) bolt with three interchangeable bolt face sizes (standard, medium, magnum). Notably the rifle features a Savage-style barrel nut so pre-fit barrels can be used. The rifle has a metal chassis with modular fore-arm, extended forward bipod mount, quick-adjust length of pull, and rear bag-rider keel.
Rock Island TM22 — AR Style .22LR Semi-Auto Rimfire
Rock Island Armory’s new TM22 Rifle employs AR-type design and construction, being made from 7075 aircraft-grade aluminum. It also has a AR-type grip and an M-LOK capable fore-end that can accept a wide variety of accessories. The TM22 is available in both 20″ barrel (TM22-A20) and 18″ barrel (TM22-A18) versions. The TM22 ships with a 10-round magazine, but aftermarket 15- and 25-round mags are available. In the video below, the GunsAmerica Digest team tests the TM22 at the Industry Day at the Range earlier this week.
Timbercreek Outdoors Colorful AR Platform Build Kits
Tired of that boring black rifle? Would you like your AR-platform rifle to stand out from the pack? Then consider bolting on some bright-colored components from Timbercreek Outdoors. This Oregon-based company offers build kits with handguards, grips, buffer tubes, and other components in a variety of eye-catching colors — red, orange, purple, green, blue… you name it. If you like bright-colored rifles, this is your solution.
Notable Handguns — Semi-Autos, Revolvers, and a Bolt-Action
There were scores of handguns on display at SHOT Show. There was certainly an emphasis on small carry pistols, even at the Smith & Wesson booth. Gun sales have been at record levels in the past couple of years, as more states are authorizing concealed carry. Accordingly the gun-makers are providing new pistols suited for everyday carry.
SIG Sauer P365 in Rose Gold Plate with Jewells
To learn more about this gold-plated pistol, watch SHOT Show TV video starting at 4:16 time-Mark.
There was a stunning SIG Sauer P365 pistol on display at SHOT Show 2022. This little carry pistol had a stunning 18-carat Rose Gold finish with dozens of diamonds embedded in the slide. This sets a new standard for Carry Pistol Bling. This one-of-a-kind handgun was created by the Seattle Engraving Center.
The P365 is a very popular carry gun that is very thin with good ergonomics. SIG Sauer claims the P365 series is now “America’s #1 Selling Handgun”. Multiple P365 models are currently offered including: P365X, P365 SAS with flush sights, the P365 Nitron Micro-Compact, the P365 Romeo Zero with integrated Red Dot, and the P365 XL with longer slide and barrel.
Savage 110 PCS Bolt-Action Pistol
The new Savage Arms 110 PCS bolt-action pistol features a Savage model 110 blueprinted action secured in a one-piece aluminum chassis from Modular Driven Technologies (MDT). The 110 PCS features a 10.5″ barrel, a user-adjustable AccuTrigger (2.5-6 lbs.), and AICS-style detachable box magazine. There are five chamberings: .223 Remington, 6.5 Creedmoor, .300 AAC Blackout, .308 Winchester, and .350 Legend.
.44 Auto Mag — Beautiful Stainless Semi-Auto with Power
The .44 Auto Mag semi-auto pistol is literally a “blast from the past”. First released decades ago, this is the latest version of a handsome, powerful handgun. In this video, TFB’s testers try out the legendary .44 Magnum Auto Mag pistol at Industry Day at the Range. Other gun journalists at the event who tested this latest Auto Mag gave very favorable reviews. And we think it is one handsome pistol. In a world of polymer pistols, we love the all-stainless steel construction.
Korth .357 Mag Revolver from Nighthawk Customs
Korth revolvers are produced in Germany and distributed in the USA through Nighthawk Custom. For 2021 Nighthawk is offering the spectacular Korth Heritage Edition in .357 Magnum. This six-shot double-action wheelgun features an heirloom-quality color case-hardened and charcoal-blued finish by Turnbull. The 5.25″ precision cold-forged barrel is chambered in Korth’s traditional .357 Magnum. The trigger has been highly polished with a roller trigger system for single- and double-action shooting. A fully adjustable rear sight pairs with an 18k gold bead front sight. The grips have been carved from figured Turkish walnut.
This was the first Industry Day at the Range in two years, after the event was cancelled in 2021 due to COVID. Media members were pleased to see the latest guns and optics after a two-year wait. GunsAmerica Digest Editor True Pearce and his colleagues were on hand at the Boulder City, Nevada gun range to test a variety of new firearms first-hand. There were many notable new products, with new rifles, pistols, and optics on display.
Savage Impulse Elite Precision Rifle
There was much interest surrounding Savage’s new straight-pull tactical rifle, the Impulse Elite Precision which will be available in the “spring of 2022″. We recently reported on this new rifle in the Daily Bulletin. True Pearce got his hands on the new rifle at the Savage range booth, and he said the straight-pull action can, with a little practice, definitely increase rifle cycling speed: “It’s much faster to chamber follow-up shots, and stay on target. Even novice shooters can chamber a second shot much faster than with a standard rotating bolt.” Here is his video report:
Watch video starting at 3:00 time-mark to see bolt cycling.
GunsAmerica Digest writer Levi Sims explained the advantages of the Savage’s straight-pull operation: “Normal bolt action guns require you to lift the bolt handle, pull it back, and then push it back forward, and then pull it back down to lock it in place. With modern optics often using larger ocular bells, manufacturers have made an effort to reduce the classic 90° throw to just 60° to allow room for the bolt to move past the bell. The straight-pull action reduces all that movement to simply pulling forward and backward on the bolt handle. The handle swings a few degrees forward and back to lock/unlock, but it has no vertical movement at all. It will likely fit well with all scope designs and mounts.” Retail price for the Savage Impulse Elite Precision is $2619.00. Currently that would not be eligible for Production Class under PRS 2021 Rules.
Savage currently offers the Impulse Elite Precision with seven chamberings: 6mm Creedmoor, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, .308 Win, .300 PRC, .300 Win Mag, and .338 Lapua Magnum. The four smaller chamberings have 26″ barrels while the .300 PRC, .300 Win Mag, and .338 LM have 30″ barrels.
New Tisa PX-9 Gen III Pistol
GunsAmerica Digest Editor True Pearce tested a number of handguns on Monday. One of his favorites, based on “bang for the buck”, was the new Tisa PX-9 Gen III 9mm pistol.
GunsAmerica Digest staffer Jordan Michaels reported that the PX-9 performed well: “Most importantly, the gun shoots. GunsAmerica editor True Pearce was impressed with the gun’s ergonomics and the quality trigger. It’s a real pleasure to shoot, and it reminded us of the H&K VP9 and the SIG P320.”
This modern pistol is made in Turkey. There are many options: “The PX9 Gen III comes in three different configurations: the Duty, the Duty Threaded, and the Tactical Threaded. The MSRP varies by configuration ($500-$600), but all three are chambered in 9mm and come with a slide cut for RMR-footprint optics. All three ship with 18 and 20-round magazines[.] The PX-9 comes with a removable flared mag well, and interchangeable side and back grip panels. With three options for each panel, the PX-9 offers 27 different grip combinations to fit any size hands.”
The NSSF, sponsor of SHOT Show, had its own hosts Angela Blair and David Lombardo at the Industry Day at the Range 2022. This initial report is pretty superficial, but you can see some of the new guns in the first 5 minutes of this 23 minute video. After that the video includes some interviews as well as pre-recorded product features.
About BRUX Barrel-Making Methods
March Scope of Japan produces some of the most advanced rifle scopes you can buy. The March 8-80x56mm scope offers the highest magnification you’ll find in any riflescope on the market. And, for ELR competition, the March Genesis 4-40x52mm is truly a game-changer. This revolutionary optic offers an incredible 86 Mils of elevation (vertical) adjustment range.
The new 8.6 Blackout “is a 6.5 Creedmoor shortened case, blown out for a .338 bullet. For supersonic… between 150 and 160 grains. Out of a 12″ barrel, we’ll be able to get somewhere close to 2400 FPS with that. We’ll have subsonic up to about 360 grains. A Barnes 210-grain bullet [is] about 2,000 feet per second out of a 12″ barrel.”– 
The SHOT Show TV video below has a great sequence from Cutting Edge Bullets with big-bore rifles shooting at extreme long range in Raton, NM and elsewhere. This is a nice intro to ELR shooting. Look carefully and you can see advanced optics, Doppler Radar, and other high-tech gear.
