Above is a 26-year-old hand-loaded .300 Winchester Magnum case that failed to fire. After the misfire, the shooter used an inertial (impact) bullet puller to pull the bullet. In the process the case-neck sheared off.
Here’s a cautionary tale from the Tactical Rifle Shooters Facebook group. This real-world example explains why you should be cautious of old ammunition. Here serious internal corrosion was discovered.
Old Ammunition — Why You Should Be Careful
Commentary byTactical Rifle Shooters
The subject often comes up as to whether it is safe to shoot old ammunition. Historically my answer has always been yes, since over the years I have shot military surplus ammo dating back to World War II (1939-1945) and never had a problem. With over 40 years in competitive shooting, I’ve also had boxes of factory ammo that were 30+ years old and all worked flawlessly.
But I had an interesting experience this week shooting some .300 Winchester Magnum (WinMag) that I had loaded for competition with Reloder 22 back in 1993. I was breaking in a new barrel so just shooting any old ammo that I had. Of the 20 rounds, 15 shot perfectly, three had a fraction of a second hang-fire, and two didn’t shoot at all.
SMART TIP: If you have old ammunition, pull one bullet to see what’s going on inside.
So I pulled the bullets using a hammer-type impact (inertial) bullet puller. What I found was verdigris-like corrosion inside the necks, with one neck completely separating. One reason for this could be that dissimilar metals (copper and brass) can set up a reaction resulting in corrosion. Like I said, this is the first time I’ve seen this, but will definitely be more aware when shooting old hand-loads in the future.
Above is one of the 26-year-old reloaded .300 WinMag cartridges which had failed to fire. To check the internal condition, the bullet was removed using an impact (inertial) bullet puller. Note the verdigris-like corrosion and crack in neck.
Here’s a close-up of the same .300 Winchester Magnum hand-load from 1993 showing serious corrosion inside the neck. (This was a fail-to-fire.) The powder was Alliant Reloder 22. If you have old ammo, it wouldn’t hurt to pull one bullet to see what’s going on inside.
The 300 Raptor just might be the most powerful .30-Cal magnum for a conventional-sized receiver.
With the success of the King of 2 Miles (KO2M) event and the growing popularity of extreme long range shooting, we’ve seen an increased interest in really big cartridges for really long range. One such wildcat cartridge is the 300 Raptor pioneered by Kirby Allen. This monster magnum can launch a 230gr bullet at 3350 fps. That delivers some serious ballistics at extreme long range.
Kirby Allen of Allen Precision Shooting, www.apsrifles.com, has developed a .30-caliber, jumbo-sized magnum wildcat cartridge. The powerful 300 Raptor (center in photo) is based on Allen’s 338 Excalibur parent case (far right in photo), necked down to 30 Cal with shoulder moved forward to increase case capacity. Allen states: “This is the largest capacity and performance .30 caliber magnum on the market that can be used in a conventional-sized receiver.”
Shoot 200s at 3600 fps
Performance of Allen’s new 300 Raptor is impressive. Allen claims that “200gr Accubonds can be driven to nearly 3600 fps, 230gr Berger Hybrids to 3350 fps, and the 240gr SMK to right at 3300 fps. These loads offered case life in excess of 6-7 firings per case and many of my test cases have over 8 firings on each case so they are not an overly hot load showing the potential of this big .30 caliber.”
To showcase the new cartridge, Allen built up a prototype rifle with a McMillan A5 stock, Raptor LRSS Action with extended tenon, and a Jewell trigger. The first 300 Raptor Rifle is currently on its second barrel, a new 30″, 3-groove 1:9″-twist Lilja in a custom APS “Raptor Contour”. This distinctive dual-fluted contour runs full-diameter almost to the end of the stock, and then steps down and tapers to the muzzle, where a beefy Medium 3-port ‘Painkiller’ Allen Precision brake is fitted.
Story tip by EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
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.
1. Midsouth — RCBS ChargeMaster, $244.49 with Rebate
⏺ Great Deal with $75 Cash Rebate from RCBS
Here’s a great way to save on the popular RCBS ChargeMaster Dispenser, currently $314.99 at Midsouth Shooters (vs. $380 elsewhere). RCBS is running a Buy Green, Get Green Rebate currently. Buy ANY RCBS products worth $100.00 or more and you qualify. The more you spend, the more you get back — up to $100.00 total. Buy at least $400 worth of RCBS Products and get a big $100.00 rebate. Spend $250-$399 to get a $75.00 rebate. So if you buy the ChargeMaster from Midsouth you get $75 Cash Back. That lowers your net cost to $244.49!
2. CDNN Sports — Kel-Tec CP33 .22 LR Pistol with 33rd Mags
⏺ 33-rd Magazine, Top Rail, Xlnt Trigger, Great for Gun Games
We shot this Kel-Tec .22 LR pistol at SHOT Show Media Day and really liked it. It balanced well, the trigger is very good, and it functioned flawlessly. This is a great choice for gun games or reactive targets, such as dueling trees. The CP33 comes with built-in Fiber Optic blade sights and has a full-length Picatinny rail to mount a scope or red dot on top. The muzzle is threaded for easy suppressor attachment. This CP33 costs $449.88 with two 33-round magazines. You can pay nearly $500 elsewhere for this unique rimfire pistol.
⏺ Save $75 on Remington Model 700 Rifles, but Act Soon!
Folks — you can save big with these Remington Summer Rebates. But you must act SOON! Purchases must be made no later than July 31, 2020. Repeat: Deadline is 7/31/2020. Get $75 rebate on popular Remington Model 700 Rifles — Long Range, PCR, Magpul, 5R. There are also rebates on some Remington shotguns and Remington 1911 R1 handguns. CLICK HERE for Details and Mail-In Rebate Form.
4. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper, $199.95
⏺ Smart Powder Dispenser, Works with App, Fast and Accurate
There are many good digital powder scale/dispensers on the market. But one of the best new-generation machines is the Frankford Arsenal Intellidroper. This offers excellent controls, good drop speed and +/- 0.10 grain accuracy, plus an easy-to-use Mobile App. Right now on Amazon you can get the advanced Intellidropper for under $200! If you’re looking for a new “smart” digital powder dispenser with advanced features, this is an excellent deal. Intellidropper Review HERE.
5. Palmetto Armory — Savage A22 .22 LR Pro Varmint, $419.98
⏺ Versatile Self-Loader for NRL22, Fun Shooting, and Varminting
Looking for an affordable, versatile .22 LR rifle for NRL22 and PRS rimfire matches, varminting, and fun shooting? The A22 Pro Varmint is an excellent choice at $419.98 on sale. The rifle’s Boyds Pro Varmint stock has good ergonomics. The gun has a nice medium contour barrel and a one-piece Picatinny rail. Savage’s 10-round rotary magazine offers fast cycling. The delayed blowback action is safe and reliable. For gun games where speed counts, we like semi-autos — follow-up shots are way faster than a bolt-action.
⏺ Great Spotting Scope Deal — Hard to beat at twice the price
Whether hunting or target shooting, spotting scopes get you on target faster and easier than bare eyes or riflescope. If you need a good all-purpose spotter, check out the Vortex Diamondback 20-60x60mm angled spotting scope for $399.99. It offers great clarity and rock-solid lifetime guarantee. There’s also a straight version for just $398.95, with same 20-60X power and 60mm objective. If you need more low-light ability, the Vortex 20-60x80mm spotter is $499.00, angled or straight.
⏺ LARGE 53″ Cases hold two long rifles, 30% Off Savings
Do you own long-barreled F-Class, Benchrest, Palma, or PRS rifles? Here are two great Pelican hard cases that will each hold a pair of rifles up to about 51″ OAL. This week you can get 30% Off these quality cases. The Pelican 1750 is now $188.26, marked down from $269.95 — a 30% savings. The sturdy Pelican Vault V800 is even cheaper — $139.96, 30% Off the regular $199.95 price. Choose Black or tan colors for either model. NOTE: You must add these cases to MidwayUSA’s shopping cart to see the discounted prices.
8. Midsouth — Lee APP Press with Pocket Swage Kit, $109.99
⏺ Great for Decapping and bulk sizing, Swage Kit Remove Military Crimps
The Lee Deluxe Automatic Processing Press (APP) features an innovative case/bullet feeder with Jaws that automatically open and grasp the bullet or case and move them into operating position. This unique press efficiently handles repetitive functions such as decapping, case sizing, and primer pocket swagging. This $109.99 Combo Pack includes Primer Pocket Swage Kit which removes the military crimp from the primer pocket while swaging the primer pocket of your brass. Kit includes: BOTH .22 and .30 Cal decap/flare dies, swage push die, swage holder, push rod, swage punch, and shell holder adapter.
9. Amazon — The Wind Book for Rifle Shooters, $22.99
⏺ Best Wind-Reading Book — NEW Edition, Released May 2020
Readers often ask: “Is there a good, easy-to-comprehend book that can help my wind-reading?” Many of our Forum members have recommended The Wind Book for Rifle Shooters by Linda Miller and Keith Cunningham. Other books cover wind reading in a broader discussion of ballistics or long-range shooting. But the Miller & Cunningham book is ALL about wind reading from cover to cover, and that is its strength. The book focuses on real world skills that can help you accurately gauge wind angle, wind velocity, and wind cycles. Here’s a video review explaining what makes this book so good.
⏺ Everyone Can Use This — Four Driver types (51 pieces) at Great Price
This Outers-brand, 51-piece set contains all the drivers you could ever need: Flat-head, Phillips, Hex (Allen), and Torx. Priced under ten bucks, this driver set offers great value for the money. Even if you already own high-quality Allen and Torx wrenches, you can buy this as a spare set for your gun room. And this also makes a great holiday “stocking stuffer” for gun guys. These drivers work great for installing scope rings or bases, or everyday use around the home.
• Molded Driver with Magnetic Tip
• 15 Flat Head Bits
• 10 Hex Bits (inch)
• 9 Hex Bits (metric)
• 4 Phillips Bits
• 9 Torx Bits
• 2 Extra Long Phillips Bits
• 1 Hex to Square Adapter
In June 2020, Hornady introduced the 6mm ARC, a new SAAMI cartridge optimized for AR-platform rifles*. The new 6mm ARC is basically a 6.5 Grendel necked down to 6mm, with the shoulder moved back around .030″. That pushed-back shoulder does reduce case capacity (and velocity), but we assume Hornady did that to create a shorter, proprietary chamber so people could not simply neck-down Lapua 6.5 Grendel brass, as has been done for years with Robert Whitley’s outstanding 6mm AR wildcat.
What Is the 6mm ARC Cartridge? The 6mm ARC cartridge is a new SAAMI-spec cartridge based on the 6.5 Grendel case necked down for 6mm bullets, with the shoulder moved back 0.030. Yes it is designed to run in AR15-platform rifles. You’ll need a new barrel, bolt, and mags. If you already have an AR chambered in 6.5 Grendel, the ONLY thing you need to change is the barrel. Everything else — bolt, magazines, gas system – is compatible with 6mm ARC.
▶ Official SAAMI Cartridge (not wildcat)
▶ Fits standard AR15-platform rifles
▶ Fits Short/Mini action bolt rifles
▶ Efficient short, fat case design
▶ 30-degree case shoulder
What Do I Need To Shoot the 6mm ARC?
Faxon and Ballistic Advantage are already producing barrels, with more manufacturers sure to follow. All the other required components are already on the market for 6.5 Grendel rifles. Aero Precision already offers complete 6mm ARC uppers.
If you’re converting a standard 5.56×45 mm (.223 Rem) AR15 upper to shoot 6mm ARC, you’ll need a 6mm barrel, a Type II 6.5 Grendel bolt carrier group, and new magazines. Some folks have suggested standard AR mags will work, but trust us, you want the magazines that have been designed for 6.5 Grendel. All the hardware you need is currently available at Brownells. And Brownells also sells complete Aero Precision 6mm ARC Uppers, starting at $749.99.
* While 6-6.5 Grendel shooters are known to run stout pressures, the new 6mm ARC cartridge has a relatively moderate Maximum Average Pressure (MAP) rating of 52,000 psi according to the official SAAMI specifications. For a variety of reasons, is wise to keep pressures in a semi-auto rifle moderate. Don’t chase the velocities you might get in a bolt-action gun.
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.
1. Sportsman’s Warehouse — $75-$200 Gift Cards with Spotters
⏺ Deal of Year on Vortex Spotters — get $75, $100, or $200 gift cards
Vortex makes fine spotting scopes with rock-solid, unconditional warranties. Vortex spotters offer great performance for the price, so it is rare to see multiple Vortex spotter models on sale. But right now Sportsman’s Warehouse is running a Vortex Spotter Promo. Prices are slashed, PLUS when you buy a Vortex spotting scope you get a $75, $100, or $200 gift card. This is the best deal we’ve seen on Vortex Spotters in a long, long time. If you’re in the market for a new spotter, definitely check this promo offering discount prices PLUS valuable gift cards.
2. Grafs.com – Lapua Brass and Scenar Bullets Rebate
⏺ SAVE 10% with Rebate Program for Lapua Brass and Bullets
Here is a great deal on great cartridge brass. Check out Graf’s full selection of Lapua brass. With the Lapua Summer Savings Rebate you can then save 10% on your purchases up to $200 max. This is a great deal on top of Graf’s already attractive prices. NOTE: You can also get a 10% summer Savings Rebate on the excellent Lapua Scenar bullets. We have found the Scenars to be extremely consistent in weight and base-to-ogive measurements. The Lapua Rebate Program covers purchases through August 31, 2020.
⏺ Versatile, performs many tasks, integrated concentricity checker
Precision reloading involves taking precise measurements, typically using many different tools. Hornady’s new Precision Measurement System allow multiple measurements to be taken with a single work-station. With this unit you can sort bullets, check cartridge base to ogive location, measure cartridge headspace location and OAL. You can also measure bullet run-out and case concentricity using an adjustable, bearing-equipped concentricity checker. This versatile system comes complete with five headspace bushings (.330, .350, .375, .400, .420), and seven bullet comparators (.224, .243, .257, .264, .277, .284, .308).
4. Amazon — RifleKuhl and BarrelCool Portable Cooling Units
⏺ Get Barrel Coolers for hot summer months, extend Barrel Life
In summer it can be tough to keep your barrel at moderate temperatures. But a handy, compact cooling fan device can really help. Two of the best barrel coolers on the market are the RifleKuhl from Magnetospeed and the original Barrel Cool from BarrelCool. Both of these units can double as empty chamber indicators, feature high power fans and can cool your barrel down to a decent, usable temperature in about 10 minutes.
5. Bruno Shooters Supply — Nosler Brass Sale, Huge Savings
⏺ Wide selection of hard-to-find brass types at very good prices
Did you know that Nosler makes brass for more lesser-known cartridge types than just about any other domestic brass-maker? From .204 Ruger to 375 H&H, Nosler brass is a great choice for any handloader who reloads for specialized, “boutique” chamberings. Head over to Bruno’s for the Nosler Brass Sale and you can pick up hard-to-find brass varieties at remarkably low prices.
6. Brownells — SIG KILO Laser Rangefinders 1800/2200 BDX
⏺ SAVE $150-$160 on quality Sig Sauer Laser Rangefinders
If you’ve been looking for a compact, feature laden and powerful rangefinder head over to Brownells where they are having a smoking Sig Sauer Rangefinder Sale. You can pick up the Kilo 1800BDX for only $249.99. This model is accurate to 1,000 yards off deer or 2,000 yards on reflective surfaces. If you’re looking for even more capability, grab the Kilo 2200 BDX for $339.99 on sale. The 2200 BDX ranges deer to 1300 yards off deer or reflective surfaces to 3400 yards.
7. Cabela’s — Ruger American Rifle Compact Rifle, $279.97
⏺ Great bargain hunting rifle, decent accuracy and Ruger reliability
Right now you can buy a Ruger American Rifle Compact Bolt-Action Rifle in .243 Winchester or 7mm-08 for just $279.97, an amazing price! These reliable compact Ruger rifles are great for smaller stature shooters or those with thicker clothing on because of their shorter length of trigger pull. However they still have all the features of the standard Ruger American Rifle. This would be a great first hunting rifle for a young person.
8. Amazon — Caldwell The Rock Deluxe Front Rest Combo, $67.99
⏺ Super deal for basic rest and rear bag
For plinking, varmint shooting, or sighting in a hunting rig, Caldwell’s The Rock Deluxe Front Rest Combo provides a functional basic setup for $67.99 — a true bargain. Consider that a quality rear bag such at the Protektor Rabbit Ear Hard Bottom model costs $71.65 by itself. But a better bag will improve stability and tracking. Still this Caldwell Combo is way better than what many folks use for sighting-in rifles.
9. Midsouth Shooters — Buy Green Get Green RCBS Rebates
⏺ Rebate Program for ALL RCBS products — presses, tools and more
RCBS Buy Green Get Green promo is simple — buy ANY RCBS products worth $100.00 or more and you qualify. There’s no restricted list of “qualifying” products. Buy from Midsouth or other retailer. The more you spend, the more you get back — up to $100.00 total. Buy at least $400 worth of RCBS Products and get a big $100.00 rebate. Spend $250-$399 to get a $75.00 rebate. Purchase $100-$249 and get $50 back. If you are considering purchasing a single-stage press, electronic powder dispenser, progressive press, or a reloading kit, save big with this promo. It’s good for purchases now through August 31, 2020. Submit RCBS Rebate Forms HERE.
10. Amazon — Hornady One Shot Spray Lube, $13.99
⏺ Dry-Film Lube — not sticky, easy to apply, used by top shooters
If you’re looking for a mess-free way to lube cases before sizing give Hornady One Shot a try. It’s easy to apply and leaves a grease-free, friction-reducing film that works great for full-length case sizing. Here’s a good video that shows application methods with tips to ensure great results with your brass.
Here’s good news for PRS/NRL shooters, and factory-class competitors at local bench and varmint matches. Berger is now offering factory-loaded ammunition with Lapua brass and Berger’s outstanding, match-proven Long Range Hybrid Target™ (LRHT) bullets. This new loaded ammo is offered for the 6mm Creedmoor and 6.5 Creedmoor cartridges. Get the 109gr LRHT bullet in 6mm Creedmoor, or choose a 144gr or 153.5gr LRHT bullet in 6.5 Creedmoor.
Berger Long Range Hybrid Target ammunition features Berger’s high-BC, LRHT bullet, which is Doppler Radar-verified to less than 1% BC variation. LRHT ammo is assembled with Lapua cartridge cases and clean-burning, temperature insensitive propellants. These Berger cartridges are meticulously constructed to exacting tolerances — you will be pleased with the accuracy and low ES numbers.
Berger Long Range Hybrid Target™ Ammunition is available now in these offerings:
6mm Creedmoor 109 gr LRHT | 6.5 Creedmoor 144 gr LRHT | 6.5 Creedmoor 153.5 gr LRHT
Have a good look at the photos below — this may be one of the most noteworthy target strings we’ve ever published. What you can see is the effect of barrel tuner position on point of impact (POI). You can clearly see that the tuner position alters the up/down POI location in a predictable fashion.
This remarkable 15-shot sequence was shot by French benchrester Pascal Fischbach using his 6 PPC fitted with a CG (Carlito Gonzales) action and a Bukys barrel tuner.
Pascal reports: “After [bullet] seating and load validation, I put the Bukys tuner on, screwing it out 10 turns. According to Carlito, the CG’s super stiff action-to-barrel fit gives a faster vibration modulus that is detrimental below 10 turns [position of the tuner].” Pascal’s procedure was to screw out the tuner 1/4 turn progressively from one shot to the next. He shot one bullet at each tuner position, with a total of 15 shots.
Left Half of Target Strip (shots with 1/4 rotation change of tuner in sequence)
Right Half of Target Strip (shots with 1/4 rotation change of tuner in sequence)
Pascal observed: “Note the point of impact displacement [from shot to shot] tracks clearly along a sinusoide (sine wave curve).” This is indeed notable and significant! This shows how the tuner’s ability to change barrel harmonics can alter the position of the muzzle as each bullet exits, resulting in a higher or lower POI. Pascal sent his results to Carlito Gonzales in Argentina for analysis.
Pascal poses this question to readers: “Guess which three positions Carlito recommends to try?”
Editor’s Note: While this target sequence clearly shows how tuner position can alter bullet point of impact, this, by itself, does not tell us which tuner position(s) are best for accuracy. That will require further multi-shot group testing, involving careful experimentation with tuner position (and powder charge weights). But for those folks who doubt that a tuner can make a difference on a short, fat barrel, just take another look at the photos. The up/down changes are undeniable, and noteworthy in the wave pattern they follow.
Shooting Set-up and Test Conditions:
Pascal did this test at an outdoor range under very good conditions: “This was shot at my home range, outdoors, with four Smiley flags. The range is a narrow cut in high woods. Wind was consistent with readable flags. I started testing the tuner from 10 turns out and on to 15. I recently… found a sweet spot very close to the rearmost position of the tuner, so the rigidity provided by this super long tenon (just short of 70mm) was not a reason to overlook the recommended Bukys tuning procedure.”
You never want your barrels to get too hot, which can happen more quickly in summertime. Accuracy suffers when barrels over-heat, and excessive heat is not good for barrel life. So how do you monitor your barrel’s temperature? You can check if the barrel is “warm to the touch” — but that method is not particularly precise. There is a better way — using temperature-sensitive strips. McMaster.com (an industrial supply house) offers stick-on temp strips with values from 86° F to 140° F. A pack of ten (10) of these strips (item 59535K13) costs $12.77. That’s a mere $1.28 per barrel for strips — cheap insurance for your precious barrels. For best barrel life, try to stay under 120 degrees F.
NOTE: On the McMaster.com website, you’ll need to scroll down to the multi-use “Temperature Indicating Labels”. Then click on the horizontal label and select item 59535K13, as shown below.
Click image for large view.
Forum member Nomad47 says: “I have temperature strips (bought at McMaster-Carr) on all my barrels. I try not to shoot when the barrel gets to 122 degrees or higher[.]” Here are photos of the McMaster-Carr temp strips on Nomad47’s customized Savage.
Bad things can happen if your barrel gets too hot. First, with some barrels, the point of impact (POI) will shift or “walk” as the barrel heats up excessively. Second, even if the POI doesn’t change, the groups can open up dramatically when the barrel gets too hot. Third, if the barrel is very hot, the chamber will transfer heat to your loaded cartridge, which can lead to pressure issues. Finally, there’s considerable evidence that hot barrels wear out faster. This is a very real concern, particularly for varmint shooters who may shoot hundreds of rounds in a day. For this reason, many varminters switch among various guns, never letting a particular barrel get too hot.
Neconos.com offers Bar-L Temp Strips that visually display heat readings from 86 to 140 degrees. Think of these strips as compact, unbreakable thermometers. With adhesive backing, they can also be used to monitor barrel heating.
Put a strip on the side of the barrel and the barrel’s temp will be indicated by a stripe that changes from black to green. There is also a “general purpose” strip that reads to 196 degrees (see bottom row). The Benchrest strip (86°F to 140°F) is in the middle. These Bar-L temp strips cost $9.00 each, or $25.00 for a 3-pack.
Lapua has kicked off its 2020 Sizzling Summer Savings Rebate Program. From July 15 through August 31, 2020 you can get 10% Cash Back on qualifying Lapua Scenar bullets and rifle cartridge cases. With this Summer Rebate you can get up to $200 back on your Lapua bullet and brass purchases.
This is quality stuff. Lapua brass is used by top shooters in all disciplines, and Lapua Scenar bullets show outstanding accuracy and consistency. We’ve had superb results with Scenar bullets in multiple rifles and even set a local range record with the 6mm 105s.
– Lapua Scenar bullets have a proven record on the range and the battlefield. They’re a popular tangent ogive, HPBT design that is extremely accurate with excellent base-to-ogive and weight uniformity.
– Lapua cartridge cases set the standard for quality, uniformity, and long life. Strong primer pockets, superior annealing processes, and dimensional uniformity deliver superior accuracy and longevity. There is a reason winning shooters use Lapua.
To get your rebate, complete the online form at Capstonepg.com/LapuaRebate or fill out an order form from your favorite retailer. You will need the original online order receipt or the retailer cash register receipt showing the retailer name and date of qualifying product purchase.
About Lapua — Renowned for Quality
Lapua is world-renowned for producing the finest bullets and cartridge cases. Starting with the highest-quality raw materials and state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques, Lapua components are highly sought-after by competitive shooters, Mil/LE operators and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Lapua is a part of the Capstone Precision Group, exclusive U.S. distributor for Berger, Lapua, Vihtavuori and SK-Rimfire products. For more information, visit .
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.
1. Midsouth Shooters — Buy Green Get Green RCBS Rebates
⏺ Rebate Program for ALL RCBS products — presses, tools and more
RCBS Buy Green Get Green promo is simple — buy ANY RCBS products worth $100.00 or more and you qualify. There’s no restricted list of “qualifying” products. Buy from Midsouth or other retailer. The more you spend, the more you get back — up to $100.00 total. Buy at least $400 worth of RCBS Products and get a big $100.00 rebate. Spend $250-$399 to get a $75.00 rebate. Purchase $100-$249 and get $50 back. If you are considering purchasing a single-stage press, electronic powder dispenser, progressive press, or a reloading kit, save big with this promo. It’s good for purchases now through August 31, 2020. Submit RCBS Rebate Forms HERE.
⏺ Excellent hard case, $60 savings, great for air travel
This is one of the best large hardshell rifle cases on the market. The Pelican Vault V800 compares well to other hard cases costing up to $350.00 but right now it is just $139.96 at MidwayUSA. Choose Desert Tan or Black. This case will hold two large match rifles securely. It features five layers of customizable foam, along with six (6) push-button latches. This same V800 53″ case sells elsewhere for $219.00, and is normally $199.95 at MidwayUSA. With this deal you save at least $60.00!
3. Brownells — KRG Bravo Chassis Rem 700, $329.99 with Code
⏺ Versatile internal frame stock for PRS or hunting — tan, black, or green
The Kinetic Research Group (KRG) Rem 700 Bravo Chassis is a good dual-purpose choice for PRS and hunting. There is an internal aluminum frame with polymer exterior in Flat Dark Earth, Sako Green, or black. The stock fits Rem 700 and Rem Clone actions, accepts AICS-pattern mags, and is M-LOK compatible. The 2.9-lb KRG Bravo chassis features adjustable cheek riser and length-of-pull, built-in thumb shelf, plus quick-detach sling-swivel and bipod mounts. The KRG Bravo stock costs $349.99 at Brownells. You can also get $20 Off with Brownells code VSA, lowering the net cost to $329.99.
4. MidwayUSA Padded Shooting Mat, $74.99 on Sale
⏺ Most comfortable Shooting Pad, stellar owner reviews
This padded MidwayUSA mat is much more comfortable than typical shooting mats. With 1.5″-thick high-density foam, this is way better for knees and elbows than typical roll-up mats. For your home range, this is a good choice. On sale now for $74.99, this thick mat folds into three sections. It stows flat and fits nicely in the back of a truck or SUV. Actual owner comments: “If you like to be COMFORTABLE … I can highly recommend it! Easy on the elbows. Easy on the knees. Easy on the belly. You can even kneel on it comfortably, even when the surface is rock-hard!”; “I tell you what … Do yourself a favor and spend the few extra dollars on this unit. Highly recommended.” MORE REVIEWS HERE.
5. Amazon — Wheeler Digital Trigger Pull Gauge, $47.92
⏺ Precise, repeatable to 12 pounds, select Peak or Continuous read-outs
Every serious shooter should have a good trigger gauge. The Wheeler digital trigger gauge is precise and repeatable, measuring pull weights up to 12 pounds. The load cell directly contacts the trigger making it extremely accurate with +/- 0.2 ounce precision. There are two modes: “Peak” and “Live.” Peak mode shows max force for each pull and calculates the minimum, maximum and average pull weights. Live mode continuously shows the force on the sensor. It even has a special adapter for Savage-style triggers with bladed inserts. Sale price is just $47.92 on Amazon.
6. EuroOptic — Nikon BLACK Riflescope Closeout Sale
⏺ Great Value — These FX1000 Nikons rival optics costing twice the price
If you’re in the market for a tactical scope, check out EuroOptic’s Nikon BLACK riflescope sale. These are good, reliable scopes that rival optics costing twice as much. EuroOptic has a good selection at prices up to 40% off. Choose MOA or MRAD versions with a variety of reticle options. NOTE: These BLACK Nikons are quality scopes that have performed well in the field. You’d have to pay hundreds more to do much better.
Having a good hunting knife on your hip when you’re out in the field is a necessity. Whether dressing your game, making kindling, or getting out of dangerous situations, the importance of having a good knife can’t be overstated. If you’re looking for new one or maybe a gift for that new young hunter in your life, take a look at this custom Damascus hunting knife complete with leather sheath. It can do a myriad of tasks while looking great with that Damascus steel blade.
8. Grizzly or Amazon — Dewalt Storage Box on Wheels, $60.95
⏺ Strong, tough, with many stackable tool box options
Hard-side rolling range boxes are becoming very popular. Wheeled toolboxes such as the Dewalt TSTAK storage box have become the new go-to way of easily transporting gear to the line, replacing bags. The best part of these systems is that you can easily stack a smaller fitted Dewalt box on top such as the flat top toolbox or the deep drawer organizer and create the range box combo that works best for you. These smaller boxes mate with recesses in the top of the larger TSTAK Deep Box with Wheels.
Eye protection is important! All you need is one case separation or blown primer to cause serious eye injury. Don’t take that risk. Plus the CMP has made Eye Protection mandatory for all CMP Pistol and Centerfire Rifle events. Here’s a great kit with TWO Sets of safety eyewear. These feature ANSI Z87.1-rated lenses that are anti-fog and scratch-resistant. The lenses also block harmful UV rays. Get the Twin Safety Eyewear 2-Pack for just $12.95 at Amazon.
Kirby Allen of Allen Precision Shooting, 
Have a good look at the photos below — this may be one of the most noteworthy target strings we’ve ever published. What you can see is the effect of barrel tuner position on point of impact (POI). You can clearly see that the tuner position alters the up/down POI location in a predictable fashion. 
