If you want smoother bullet seating, inside neck lube can help. Forum member Ackleyman II likes to add a little Mica powder inside his case necks before seating bullets. This is easily done with the Forster three-brush neck lube kit. Ackleyman tells us: “Many loads that I have will not shoot well with a dry neck compared to a neck that is cleaned and lubed with this [Forster Dry Lubricator] — the best $15 you have ever spent.”
The Forster Case Neck Lubricator features three brushes attached to a tough, impact-resistant case with holes for bench mounting. The brushes accommodate all calibers from 22 to 35 caliber. The kit includes enough “motor mica” to process 2000 to 3000 cases and has a cover to keep dust and grit from contaminating the mica. By moving the case neck up and down on the correct mica-covered brush, the neck can be cleaned and lubricated at the same time.
Function: Lubricate case necks for easier resizing
Contents: Kit with base, lid, and three nylon brushes
Lubricant: Includes 1/10 oz. of Motor Mica, enough to process 2000-3000 cases
Neck Lubrication After Ultrasonic Cleaning or Wet Tumbling with Pins
If you wet-tumble your cases with stainless media and solvents or ultrasonically clean your brass, you may find that the inside of the case necks get too “squeaky clean”. The inside surface of the neck looses lubricity. In this situation, applying a dry lube can definitely be beneficial. CLICK HERE to see story about ultrasonic cleaning.
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. Palmetto SA — S&W M&P15-22 Sport Rimfire Package, $449.99
⏺ Good, reliable rimfire AR clone for NRL22 and cross-training
This Smith & Wesson AR-style M&P15-22 provides the fun of an AR15 with the low cost of rimfire ammo. This can work well for cross-training or NRL22 matches. The S&W M&P15-22 SPORT features a slim M-LOK handguard that easily accepts a variety of accessories without removing the handguard. The M&P15-22 SPORT comes standard with removable Magpul MBUS front and rear folding sights. This $449.99 package includes 3 magazines and a nice gun case.
2. Midsouth — Lapua Brass in Stock, Many Types
⏺ Good prices on long-lasting, top-quality Lapua brass
Lapua is a top cartridge brass choice for competition, varminting, and hunting. Lapua cartridge brass has set world records in Benchrest, F-Class, and High Power competition. Right now Midsouth has a wide variety of top-quality Lapua brass at attractive prices. Lapua brass in stock now includes: .223 Rem, 6.5×47 Lapua, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5-284, .308 Win, .300 Norma Magnum, 8×57 IS/IRS, .338 Lapua Magnum, and more.
3. Precision Reloading — Hornady Auto Charge, $299.99
⏺ Good performance with convenient raised control panel
Every handloader needs a good, automated powder dispenser. The new-generation Hornady Auto Charge has many good features, including a smaller footprint, and adjustable trickle rates. This was you can customize the dispensing speed to your choice of powder. Haveing the control panel on top of the scale/dispenser also is handy. This is a very good deal — the same Hornady Auto Charge currently sells for $359.49 on Amazon.
4. Amazon — Universal Gun Cleaning Kit, $39.50
⏺ Great value for cleaning kit for pistols, rifles, and shotguns
This Universal Gun Cleaning Kit has just about everything you need to clean any firearm, all packed in a handy transport case. The kit includes jags, brushes, bore mops, slotted tips, and lots more. The fitted jags and slotted tips are made from solid brass and marked by caliber. The cleaning rods and accessory adapters are also made from brass. Included in this easy-to-carry kit are: 6 gun rods, 13 gun jags, 4 slotted tips, 9 gun mops, 14 bore brushes, 3 muzzle guards, 3 utility brushes, 3 accessory adapters, 4 polishing cloths, 100 cleaning patches, 2 oil bottles (empty), and even a gun cleaning mat. NOTE: For competition rifles, we recommend using high-quality ONE-PIECE cleaning rods.
5. EuroOptic — Vortex Close-Outs, Save Hundreds on Top Optics
⏺ Incredible bargains on Vortex scopes — save $300-$500
Shown above are just three (3) of the 15 Vortex scopes on sale, including red dots, 1-6X tactical models, hunting scopes, and both FFP MRAD and SFP MOA competition models. CLICK HERE to see all the Vortex close-out optics.
6. KYGUNCO — Turkey Season Shotgun Bargains, $210 and Up
⏺ Great low prices on shotguns for spring turkey season
7. MidwayUSA — Electronic Muffs with Walkie-Talkie, $54.83
⏺ Dual-function electronic muffs — great for range communications
Electronic earmuffs protect your hearing while allowing you to hear range commands. With these Walkie-Talkie muffs you also get 2-way communication capabilities. That lets you talk to folks in the pits or at a different section of your shooting club. The Walker Razor Slim Low Profile Electronic Earmuffs (NRR 23dB) with Walkie Talkie allows you to communicate with other FRS radios. That lets you give range commands or talk with friends without the need for a second radio. If you don’t need the two-way functionality, MidwayUSA also has the NRR 26 Walker’s Alpha Power Electronic Muffs for $39.99, and the slimmer NRR 23 Razor PRO Electronic Muffs for $39.99. All these options are excellent bargains.
⏺ Excellent, up-to-date resource with good powder/bullet data
Lyman has released its new 51st Edition Reloading Handbook. This big, full-color edition includes both reloading guidance and extensive load data. New cartridges include: 224 Valkyrie, 22 Nosler, 24 Nosler, 6mm ARC, 6mm Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, 6.8 Western, 300 PRC, and more. The book includes powders from Accurate, Alliant, Hodgdon, IMR, Norma, Ramshot, VihtaVuori, and Winchester. This Lyman Handbook also covers a huge selection of bullets from Barnes, Berger, Hornady, Lapua, Sierra, Speer, Swift and Winchester plus cast bullets. This latest 51st Edition has a new section about Progressive Presses along with How-To articles for single-station and turret presses. This soft-cover Handbook is on sale for $23.99 at Midsouth.
9. Locked&Loaded, CMMG .22 LR Conversion Kit for ARs, $129.99
⏺ Quick, easy .22 LR conversion kit for AR-platform rifles
Here’s a great way to save money when shooting your AR15. Shoot .22 LR at a fraction of the cost of .223 Rem ammo. Swapping your bolt carrier group with a CMMG Bravo Conversion .22 Bolt Group takes only seconds to install. This .22 Conversion Kit operates on direct blowback, so it does not need the gas tube for function. The Bravo Conversion Bolt Group system includes the stainless steel conversion bolt group along with one 25-round .22 LR magazine. If you need more mags, Palmetto State Armory sells the CMMG Bravo .22 Conversion Kit with THREE Magazines for $179.99.
10. Amazon — Large Digital Display Timer, $12.95
⏺ Use in Matches — Count-Down or Count-UP, handy big buttons
If you shoot in a discipline with time limits, or you time your firing strings during practice, having a reliable and easy-to-read timer is critical. One of our favorite timers is this very affordable Digital Display Timer with both count-up and count-down functions. It boasts an easy-to-read display and LARGE buttons making it perfect for F-Class, Palma, and other matches. This timer comes with both a built-in stand AND a strong magnet so you can position the timer conveniently.
How well can the little 6mm Dasher perform at 1000 yards when the conditions are good, and the shooter is riding a hot streak? Well here’s a shot-by-shot record of Scott Nix’s 4.554″ ten-shot group shot at the Deep Creek Range outside Missoula, Montana at the Northwest 1000-yard Championship a few years back. All 10 shots were centered for a 100-6X score. That’s about as good as it gets. If Scott had stopped after 5 shots, his group would have been under three inches.
Video Demonstrates Amazing 1000-Yard Accuracy
Watch the video. You can see the group form up, shot by shot. It’s pretty amazing. Scott’s first shot (at the 45-second mark of the video) was right in the X-Ring, and four of Scott’s first five shots were Xs. That’s drilling them! This video was recorded from the pits at the 1000-yard line, during record fire.
Deep Creek Range
The Deep Creek Range in Missoula, MT is one of the nicest places to shoot in the Intermountain West region. The range is located in the mountains within a few minutes drive of Missoula, and there is camping on-site. When conditions are good at Deep Creek, records get broken. To learn more about shooting at Deep Creek, contact Jamey Williams at jameydan[at]gmail.com.
Here is an aerial view of the Deep Creek Range (Drone video by David Gosnell):
This past Friday was April Fool’s Day, and there were some clever spoofs. One notable April First item came from Vihtavuori, maker of premium propellants. On April 1st, Vihtavuori (VV) announced a new men’s cologne — a “New scent for the avid reloader: Vihtavuori Eau de Gunpowder.”
Here is the product description:
“Our composition opens with an aromatic smokiness and lingers on the dark, addictive scent of graphite and nitrocellulose. A powerful and refined composition for the serious reloader who wants to feel connected to his powder every day. Try the essence of accuracy with Vihtavuori Eau de Gunpowder — you won’t be disappointed.”
Comments from Readers:
One Facebook poster observed: “I love the smell of gunpowder in the morning…” *
While another FB fan joked cleverly, “Will it be available in different burning rates?”
Finally, one astute poster said this Vihtavuori product actually has serious commercial potential: “I know today is April 1st … but I want this! It would market well I think!”
For April 2023 — Will Vihtavuori Offer a Fragrance for Females?
Recognizing that there are many very talented lady shooters in the world, we think Vihtavuori should also introduce a special scent for ladies, i.e. a Female Fragrance. Perhaps it could be called Parfume de Pistol, Fragrance de Firearms, or VV N°5.56? What do you think ladies, would such products sell?
Kirsten Weiss would be a great representative for a Ladies firearms fragrance.
* In the 1979 Hollywood movie Apocalypse Now, actor Robert Duvall famously stated “I love the smell of Napalm in the morning.”
Harrell’s Precision sells “semi-custom” full-length bushing dies for the PPC and 6BR chamberings. While the Harrell brothers do not cut the die to spec, they carry a large selection of dies made with slightly different internal dimensions. When you send in your fired brass, the Harrells choose a die from inventory with just the right amount of sizing (diameter reduction) at the top and bottom of the case. Given the quality, and precise fit, Harrell’s full-length dies cost $115.00 plus shipping. These are currently available for PPC family, 6mmBR, 6mm Dasher, and 6.5×47 Lapua. The folks at Harrells recommend checking if you have questions about die sizing: “Unless you know exactly which die you need, do not order online. We have 8 different sizes of each caliber. Please call (540)380-2683.”
Bump Measuring Collar
The Harrell brothers provide a nice bonus item with each full-length die — a neat, little shoulder bump measuring device as shown in the photo at right. Hornady sells a stand-alone tool that does the same job, but the Harrell’s bump collar is simpler and faster. To measure your shoulder bump, simply place the Harrell’s bump collar over the front of your deprimed case (before sizing) and measure the OAL with your calipers. Then size the case in your full-length die, replace the collar and repeat the measurement. You want to set your die so the shoulder moves back about .001″ to .0015″ for most applications. (With semi-auto guns you may want more shoulder bump, perhaps .003″.)
It was bound to happen sooner or later. With the price of primers rising dramatically, and supplies being extremely restricted, we are now seeing pistol and rifle primers being marketed as “precious metals”, distributed through elite jewelry stores. With highly desirable match primers selling for $350 or more (per thousand) on GunBroker and other websites, primer makers have realized that primers are an exceptionally valuable product. Modern primers, which appear like tiny gold-colored pearls, can actually be marketed successfully through jewelry outlets and precious metals vendors.
The “precious primer” marketing trend is coming from Europe, home of the world’s leading jewelry empires. Primer maker Sellier & Bellot has started this trend, announcing that its primers will be sold through elite jewelry vendors Cartier, Tiffany & Co., and Bulgari. Not to be outdone, primer maker Fiocchi intends to market its high-grade primers through Damiani, Leviev, and Harry Winston outlets.
Starting in May, Sellier & Bellot primers will be put on display next to diamonds, rubies, and gold necklaces at Cartier, Tiffany, and Bulgari stores. Primer buyers will be able to purchase standardized primers, or special edition gold-plated primers with ruby-red internal cores. Initially the primers will be offered in sets of five, priced at $250.00.
Not to be outdone, Italian primer-maker Fiocchi plans to bring out its own jewelry line of primers, which will be offered in sets of four with Gold-tone, Silver, or Nickel finishes. These will be more affordable, with the silver-plated Fiocchis available for just $20 per set of four. There will also be a special 1000-pack of silver-coated primers for customers. This 1000-count Silver Collectors Edition will retail for $2500.00.
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. KYGUNCO — RemArms 700 Magpul Rifle starting at $988.99
⏺ Modern Magpul stock, versatile long-range target and hunting rig
Looking for a serious long-range rifle for under $1100? Check out these RemArms 700 Magpul rifles. Starting at just $988.99 for the 6.5 Creedmoor 22″ bbl version (without bipod), these are well-made, reliable, and accurate rifles with a nice modern Magpul stock. For $1054.99 ($66 more), you can get bipod-equipped versions in .308 Winchester or 6.5 Creedmoor, both with fluted 20″ heavy barrels. Currently out of stock is a .300 Win Magnum version with 24″ heavy barrel and bipod ($1054.99). When it becomes available again, we think the .300 Win Mag model would be a great long-range hunting rig for large game.
2. Midsouth — Hornady 168gr BTHP Match, $164.99 for 500
⏺ Great price for quality 168gr .30-Caliber bullets
Do you need affordable .30-cal bullets for an M1 Garand or 1903 Springfield? Or perhaps you want to get started in F-TR with lower cost projectiles? If so, you can now grab 500 168gr BTHP Match grade .30-cal bullets for just $165.99. That works out to just $33 per hundred — a great deal. You could easily pay twice as much (or more) for some other brands. This is a good option if you don’t need the Heavy 185-220 grain bullets. These bullets have a good BC for their weight class.
3. Graf’s — Hornady Ammo Plant Progressive Press, $1299.99
⏺ Excellent progressive press with case feeder and bullet feeder
Do you reload large quantities of pistol ammo, or .223 rifle ammo? Then you can save significant time with a quality progressive press. Right now you can save over $200 on the Hornady L-N-L Ammo Plant Progressive Reloading Press Kit. This is a complete loading system with a 5-station, auto-indexing press plus a brass feeder and bullet feeder. The system uses a precise and easily-adjusted powder measure that we prefer to the Dillon powder system. NOTE: After buying the press kit, you’ll need to purchase the appropriate shell plate and dies for your choice of cartrdige(s). Guys, this is a good deal — the same Hornady Ammo Plant system is currently $1525.99 at MidwayUSA.
4. Sportsman’s WHSE — Leupold SX-4 Pro Guide Spotting Scopes
⏺ Good values on 20-60X and 15-45X Leupold Spotters
Looking for a quality spotting scope at a great price? Then check out the Leupold SX-4 Pro Guide HD spotting scopes on sale at Sportsman’s Warehouse. Chose the 15-45x65mm spotter for $699.99 or the bigger 20-60x85mm spotter for $899.99. Fully waterproof and fogproof, these Leupold spotters feature a rugged magnesium body plus an oversized eyepiece for all-day comfort. Both spotters offer Leupold’s Twilight Max HD Light Management System, which helps in low light conditions, while reducing glare in direct light. The 15-45x65mm SX-4 spotter is hard to beat at that $699.99 price.
5. Amazon — Tipton Compact Range Vise, $24.99
⏺ Good, transportable product for working on hunting/varmint rifles
Here’s a very handy gun cradle that helps you clean and maintain rifles while at the range or at home. The Compact Range Vise folds and collapses to 11-1/4″, so it is easily transported. Two padded “V” brackets hold the rifle while protecting the finish during cleaning/maintenance operations. Made from solvent-resistant polymer, Tipton’s Compact Range Vise is durable and should last for years. NOTE: For typical hunting and varmint rifles this Range Vise works well, though it is not suited for wide-forearm benchrest or F-Open rigs.
⏺ Very comfortable mat — worth the money if you shoot often
If you do a lot of prone shooting you NEED a quality, comfortable mat. One of the best mats on the market today is the Creedmoor Deluxe Folding Mat. This offers double-thick jute padding under the textured elbow pad sections. Carrying handles are provided so equipment can be carried within the fold of the mat. The mat features a waterproof vinyl bottom and a marine finished top. The combination of these materials makes a comfortable and durable mat. NOTE: These mats are custom made by Creedmoor, so, for a modest extra fee, you can order extra knee-zone rubber, or additional padding in the top third.
⏺ Everyone needs a tool like this to set fasteners correctly
When mounting a scope or installing an action, you need to set torque correctly or you risk damaging things. For basic tasks requiring precise torque levels, consider the Sanliang Torque Screwdriver Set. With a range of 10-70 inch pounds, this will perform a multitude of gunsmithing jobs. It’s easy to preset the torque —- simply pull down to unlock, then set the torque you need and push to lock. Includes a set of 10, 1/4’’ bits with convenient storage case.
⏺ Crazy-low price on basic hunting scope with good warranty
Here’s a VERY affordable optic that could be good choice for a youngster’s first rifle, or serve as a back-up for a hunting gun. Right now Natchez offers the Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm scope for just $29.99. You read that right — $29.99. You could pay more than that for a set of rings. Fitted with a Multi-X Reticle, this scope has a good 3-9X magnification range for hunting. It features Bushnell’s Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) lens coating for enhanced low-light performance.
Midsouth — .22 Caliber Aguila FMJ Bullets, 1000 for $99.99
⏺ Great deal on bulk .224 and 9mm bullets
Need a large supply of budget-priced bullets for your AR15 or varmint rifle? Here’s an amazing deal — get 1000 55gr or 1000 62gr .224-caliber bullets for just $99.99. That’s right, 1000 bullets for under 100 bucks. These won’t rival high-quality Berger or Sierra bullets, but they will be adequate for varmint work, 3-gun practice, or plinking with your AR. If you load 9mm, you can also get 1000 115gr 9mm bullets for $99.99.
10. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Trickler, $17.99
⏺ Inexpensive, works well, stable, tall enough
Every handloader can use a good powder trickler. However many tricklers are light and unstable, making them frustrating to use. We’ve been impressed with the Frankford Arsenal Trickler . This is a solid unit with some heft, with a hard rubber base. The mass and good design make this easy to use, allowing simple, accurate trickling.
They say that a man can never have too much money or too much time. Darrell Jones would add that a man can never have too many BR-based rifles. Darrell had a fleet of BRs, in 22BR, 6mm BR, 6.5 BR, 7 BR, and 30 BR. But he was intrigued by the potential of a rifle in the .257 caliber. Could it shoot as well as a 6mm BR? Could it challenge the more popular calibers in the highly competitive 600-yard benchrest game? Through careful research and component selection, Darrell created a 25 BR rifle that proves the viability of the 25 BR as a competition round. Pushing 115gr high-BC Berger bullets at 2837 fps, Darrell’s 25 BR “Peppermint” won first place in its very first match.
The Barely Bigger BR — Exploring the .25 Caliber Option
Rifle Report by Darrell Jones
I decided to build a 25 BR after several weeks of deliberation and ruling out a .257 Ackley Improved. Part of my dilemma was that I wanted to shoot F-Class competition at 600 yards, and I was unsure about the accuracy potential of the 25 BR. However, I currently have several BRs chambered in 22 BR, 6BR, 6.5 BR, 7 BR, and 30 BR and they all shoot exceptionally well at 600 yards. This lead me to believe a 25 BR should deliver fine accuracy, just like its other BR siblings. Why wouldn’t a 25 BR shoot accurately provided that I built it with the right components? The feasibility saga began. I began searching diligently for custom 25-caliber bullets. Unfortunately, there are not many 25-caliber custom bullet makers. I actually found only two custom bulletsmiths who produce the 25s. I did look at Fowlers and then looked at Bergers. Both Jeff Fowler and Berger made 110-grain flat-base bullets when I was looking. [Editor — this 110gr bullet is no longer listed by Berger]. The Berger 110gr FB bullets (.414 ballistic coefficient) shot very well out of my 12-twist 25-06 Ackley. However, I wanted to shoot a heavier bullet if possible. Berger makes a 25-caliber 115gr VLD boat-tail with a high ballistic coefficient. This needs a 10-twist barrel.
Panda Action, McMillan Stock, Weaver T-36
As you can see, I went with a Panda polished action and a weighted McMillan BR stock painted metallic silver with red candy cane stripes thus the name “Peppermint”. This gun actually does double duty now as a 25 BR and 6 PPC switch barrel. When I want to run the gun as a 6 PPC for short range, I simply screw on the PPC barrel, then swap in a bolt (fitting the PPC bolt face) from another Panda action I own. That’s one advantage of owning custom Kelbly actions! Don’t even think about exchanging bolts between factory guns. Kelbly rings and a Weaver T-36 fixed-power scope handle the optical duties while a Jewell trigger set at one ounce takes care of the firing mechanism.
Chambering for the .25 Caliber BR Wildcat
I wanted a chamber that would let me shoot both the 110s and the 115s. I took some time surfing the net looking for rental reamers that had suitable throat dimensions. I found that Elk Ridge Reamer Rentals had a 25 BR pilot reamer available. I called and Elk Ridge faxed me a reamer diagram that indicated it was designed to tight SAMMI specs. I asked how often was the reamer used and was told “not very often”.
I did want a minimum no-turn neck optimized for Lapua brass. The drawing indicated that the reamer would cut a .281″ neck and a throat of 1.0315″. This was very close to ideal, though I did have to turn two thousandths off the necks of Lapua 6BR brass after I necked it up. I resized using a .277″ bushing and the loaded rounds came out to be .279″. Realizing that this was in the ball park, I decided to go with the Elk Ridge Reamer and build a 25 BR that could shoot 110gr or 115gr bullets. Now the question was where to get a match-grade 25-caliber barrel. I called quite a few of the custom barrel-makers, including BlackStar Barrels in Texas (no longer operating). I have had wonderful success with the BlackStar barrel on my 6BR “Chantilly” — it delivered great accuracy and impressive velocities. Since the 25 BR was so similar, I went with another BlackStar. I ordered a 10-twist, 6-groove, 1.250″-diameter straight-contour tube.
After chambering, the barrel finished at 1.245″ diameter and 27.5″ inches with an 11° crown. I actually had the throat lengthened to accept both Berger 110gr and 115gr bullets. The bases of the FB 110-grainers sit flush with the neck-shoulder junction, when they are seated .010″ into the lands. With the longer 115gr VLDs, the bottom of the bearing surface (i.e. start of boat-tail) is just about even with the neck-shoulder junction.
Accurate Load Development
The barrel broke in easily with just 10 shots, using a “shoot one and clean” process. The load I started with was 31.5 grains of Varget with CCI 450 primers. The Berger 110s and Berger 115s had the same Point of Impact (POI) at 100 yards. However, the 115s impacted two inches higher at 600 yards with the same load. That shows the benefits of a higher BC. Pushed by the CCI 450s and 31.5 grains of Varget, the 115-grainers were running about 2837 FPS. I boosted the load up to 32.0 grains but I noticed primer cratering, so I backed off, settling on 31.5 grains for the 115gr Berger VLD.
Peppermint Wins at 600 Yards
For her debut in competition, I took “Peppermint” to our local 600 yard F-class match. Shooting the Berger 115s with 31.5 grains Varget, she won with a perfect score of 200 with 14 Xs. At my club, we use a SR3 target. The X-Ring measures 3″ in diameter and the 10-Ring measures 7″. At the match there were some very good shooters with top-flight custom rifles in accurate calibers such as 6.5-284 and 22 Dasher. I was very fortunate to come out on top, but I give the credit to Peppermint’s good bench manners and outstanding accuracy.
As you can see from the target, “Peppermint” is a very accurate rifle that has proven herself in competition. It takes a good gun to finish “on top” in her very first match. So far, I’m very happy with the project, and more than satisfied with the accuracy of the 25 BR. This is definitely a worthy cartridge for Egg Shoots, 500m varmint matches, and the 600-yard F-Class game.
BR-Based Cartridge Comparison
CALIBER
22 BR
6mm BR
25 BR
6.5 BR
7 BR
30 BR
Bullet
80gr SMK
107gr SMK
115gr Berger
107gr SMK
130gr SMK
118gr BIB
BC
.420
.527
.522
.420
.391
na
Load Grains
31.0 H4350
30.0 Varget
31.5 Varget
32.0 Varget
34.0 AA2460
34.0 H4198
Barrel Length
27″
27″
27.5″
27.5″
28″
24″
Velocity
3100 fps
2880 fps
2837 fps
2851 fps
2719 fps
2970 fps
Comparing the BR-Based Variants
Now that I have several calibers in the BR cartridge family, (22 BR, 6mm BR, 6.5 BR, 7 BR, and a 30 BR), it is my humble opinion that they each have their own place. A varmint hunter’s dream, the 22 BR can push a bullet faster and more accurately than the 22-250. With an 8-Twist barrel, the 22 BR can send an 80gr SMK to 600 yards with extreme accuracy.
The 6 BR can do it all. The 6mm caliber offers a wide variety of quality bullets suitable for any shooting situation. All the major custom barrel makers produce outstanding 6mm barrels in a full range of twists. Moreover, since the 6 BR cartridge is so popular, there is a great store of knowledge about reloading for the 6 BR. It is easy to find a load that will shoot superbly in any bullet weight.
The 25 BR has proved to be easily tuneable, proficient and not fickle. You can obtain extreme accuracy without great effort in load development. The 115gr Berger offers a good high-BC projectile for this caliber, making the 25 BR a viable alternative to the 6 BR. As I’ve shown, it is competitive with a 6 BR in head to head competition.
Compared to the 25 BR, the 6.5 BR has a small edge in ballistics. However, there are not many light bullet choices available, especially from custom makers. The 123gr Lapua Scenar is an excellent bullet with a .547 stated BC, but it may be a bit heavy for the case capacity.
The 7 BR was designed for silhouette shooting, and it excels at that task. The 7 BR can push a 130 grain bullet fast enough to knock over the steel silhouettes at 500 meters with real consistency.
The 30 BR is nothing less than outstanding. The 30 BR is now the dominant cartridge on the benchrest Score-shooting circuit. It is also highly accurate for group shooting at 200 yards and very capable of winning a 600-yard F-Class match. Barrel life of over 6,000 rounds is realistic.
I like all the “flavors” of BR derived from the 6mm BR Norma case. However, if I could only have one BR in my safe, give me my 8-Twist, 6 BR “Chantilly” and I will be a happy camper. The final point I would make is if a cartridge is stamped BR on the case, it will shoot extremely accurately if you can.
Here’s a smart tip from Bryan Litz, explaining how damage to a bullet jacket can harm the projectile’s Ballistic Coefficient (BC). This tip is posted on Bryan’s new Bryan Litz Ballistics Facebook page. We recommend you subscribe to that page to access Bryan’s latest informative posts.
Bryan notes: “If the case mouth scratches the bullet when you seat it, the damage can cause the BC to be inconsistent, which shows up as vertical dispersion at long range.
We see this sometimes when running Doppler Radar for competitors at Applied Ballistics Mobile Lab events. If someone is shooting a bullet that typically has a very consistent BC (1% or less) but they’re seeing a higher BC variation, it can be due to the bullets being damaged in the loading process.”
The lead photo above shows the badly-scratched jacket of a bullet seated in a rough-mouthed case. To prevent such jacket damage, one should chamfer, deburr, and smooth case mouths after trimming.
Below is a recorded Doppler radar result showing excessive BC variation. Such variation can increase vertical disperson at long range. This can result in larger group sizes and lower scores.
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.
This handsome rig is now $799.97. That’s $200 (21%) off the regular price. The Sauer 100 Atacama features a smooth-running 3-lug, 60-degree-lift bolt. The action, bolt, and 22″ barrel sport a durable Desert Sand Cerakote finish. The advanced Atacama camo is very effective. For large game hunting, we recommend the potent 6.5 PRC Chambering. The rifle is also available in 6.5 Creedmoor for the same discounted price. This rifle has a double-stack 5+1 capacity detachable magazine.
2. Bruno’s — Sierra Loaded Ammo, Pistol and MatchKing Rifle
NOTE: After clicking photo, SORT BY “Name Descending” to feature the Sierra ammunition.
⏺ Excellent match-grade rifle ammo plus good price on pistol ammo
If you need high-quality ammo for competition, but don’t have the time or the tools to reload — here’s a great option. Bruno Shooters Supply has discounted Sierra ammunition loaded with excellent MatchKing bullets. Get this ammo for popular match rifle cartridge types including: 6mm Creedmoor, .223 Remington, and .308 Winchester. In addition, Sierra 9mm and .45 ACP pistol ammo is on sale. .45 ACP shooters should grab the 185gr Sierra ammo priced at just $19.85 for 20 rounds. That’s one of the best .45 ACP deals we’ve seen. For all Sierra ammo on sale at Bruno’s, CLICK HERE then SORT BY “Name Descending”.
3. Midsouth — RCBS Explorer Reloading Kit, $299.99
⏺ RCBS Kit includes all vital tools — good for new hand-loaders
Good news — Midsouth has RCBS Explorer Press Tool Kits on sale for $299.99. That’s $65 off the regular price. Great for folks getting started in reloading, this kit includes the single-stage press, powder measure, priming tool, trickler, digital scale, load manual, and various accessories. Get the RCBS Explorer Kit 2 for $299.99. If you want a bigger press, Midsouth also has the Rebel Master Reloading Kit for $359.99, marked down from $489.99. This includes everything in the Explorer kit, but with the beefier Rebel press and a few more tools.
4. EuroOptic — SIG Sauer Scopes on Sale, Save up to $180
⏺ Save hundreds on good Sig Sauer scopes for hunters/varminters
Right now, EuroOptic.com has some great deals on Sig Sauer Riflescopes and Scope/Rangefinder Packages. There are some great deals here for basic scopes for hunting and varminting. User reviews on SIG scopes and rangefinders have been very positive.
5. MidwayUSA — Tipton Best Gun Vise + Wheeler Gunsmithing Screwdriver Set, both for $89.99
⏺ Outstanding gun vise PLUS a 43-piece gunsmithing driver set
This is a great combo kit for working on rifles and shotguns. And right now you can save $40! The Tipton Best Gun Vise is stable, and offers plenty of storage for solvents, patches, small tools and parts. The vise can adapt to hold a variety of long guns, including ARs. Along with the Best Vise, you get a full 43-piece screwdriver kit that has 40 bit options: standard (flat) (21), Phillips (4), Allen (10), and Torx (5). The adjustable handle is nicely designed and comfortable.
6. KYGUNCO — Walther 9mm and .22 LR Pistol Savings
⏺ Great deals on Walther 9mm and .22 LR pistols
We like Walther pistols. They have nice ergonomics (better than Glock), and consistent triggers. Here we’ve picked a pair of Walther pistols — one 9mm centerfire for CCW and a rimfire for training. The CCP M2, now $429.99 on sale, is an excellent choice for concealed carry. And the P22Q .22 LR rimfire, $318.67 on sale, has a nearly identical size, weight, and grip so it’s a great for training with lower-cost rimfire ammo. NOTE, the CCP M2 is striker-fired with 5.5-lb DAO trigger pull, while the P22Q is hammer-fired with an 11-lb double action and 4-lb single action trigger.
⏺ Very handy folding bench can handle multiple tasks, 20% Off
Not everybody has a dedicated reloading room. For those with limited space here is a good option. The Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Reloading Stand can handle a press and a powder measure at the same time. This versatile bench features collapsible shelves that tuck away for easy storage. When folded, this reloading stand can fit in a closet or a RV storage compartment. The Frankford Arsenal folding Reloading Stand is now $141.59 on sale at MidwayUSA, a 20% savings.
⏺ Lightweight adjustable rest for sighting-in hunting rifles and ARs
This inexpensive, Birchwood Casey Bravo Shooting Rest works for sighting-in hunting rifles and ARs. At 15 lbs., it is easy to transport to the range. It has 3.5 inches of vertical adjustment with the center crank, allowing it to work with a variety of rifles, including mag-fed semi-autos. One cool feature is that this steel-framed Shooting Rest is designed so it can work from the Bench AND while shooting prone on the ground. This rest has a bubble level and adjustable rear height control. It’s on sale now for just $79.99 at Midsouth, a significant savings over the regular price.
⏺ Compact, lightweight, and very affordable Laser Rangefinder
Here’s a very affordable big-name Laser Rangefinder that will work for hunters and varminters. The Nikon Prostaff 1000 6×20 Laser Rangefinder offers 1000-yard ranging capability with compact ergonomics. The 6X monocular optic is good, and Nikon’s Tru-Target system allows you to select either First Target or Distant Target Priority. This is a good basic rangefinder at a remarkably low price — just $149.95 at Graf & Sons.
⏺ Crazy-low price for good quality NRR 30 safety earmuffs
These are quality Walker’s EXT NRR 30 muffs that sell elsewhere for up to $16.00. If you need a good basic pair of full-size muffs, it’s hard to beat this deal — $7.99 at MidwayUSA. Purchasers say this EXT model is pretty comfortable. Even if you have your own high-end electronic muffs, get a couple pair of these Walker EXTs to keep in your vehicles as spares for your guests and shooting buddies. If you want thinner, compact muffs, Graf’s has Walker’s Pro-Low Profile NRR 22 Muffs on sale now for $11.99.
How well can the little 6mm Dasher perform at 1000 yards when the conditions are good, and the shooter is riding a hot streak? Well here’s a shot-by-shot record of Scott Nix’s 4.554″ ten-shot group shot at the Deep Creek Range outside Missoula, Montana at the Northwest 1000-yard Championship a few years back. All 10 shots were centered for a 100-6X score. That’s about as good as it gets. If Scott had stopped after 5 shots, his group would have been under three inches.
Bump Measuring Collar
It was bound to happen sooner or later. With the price of primers rising dramatically, and supplies being extremely restricted, we are now seeing pistol and rifle primers being marketed as “precious metals”, distributed through elite jewelry stores. With highly desirable match primers selling for $350 or more (per thousand) on GunBroker and other websites, primer makers have realized that primers are an exceptionally valuable product. Modern primers, which appear like tiny gold-colored pearls, can actually be marketed successfully through jewelry outlets and precious metals vendors.
I did want a minimum no-turn neck optimized for Lapua brass. The drawing indicated that the reamer would cut a .281″ neck and a throat of 1.0315″. This was very close to ideal, though I did have to turn two thousandths off the necks of Lapua 6BR brass after I necked it up. I resized using a .277″ bushing and the loaded rounds came out to be .279″. Realizing that this was in the ball park, I decided to go with the Elk Ridge Reamer and build a 25 BR that could shoot 110gr or 115gr bullets. Now the question was where to get a match-grade 25-caliber barrel. I called quite a few of the custom barrel-makers, including BlackStar Barrels in Texas (no longer operating). I have had wonderful success with the BlackStar barrel on my 6BR “Chantilly” — it delivered great accuracy and impressive velocities. Since the 25 BR was so similar, I went with another BlackStar. I ordered a 10-twist, 6-groove, 1.250″-diameter straight-contour tube.
After chambering, the barrel finished at 1.245″ diameter and 27.5″ inches with an 11° crown. I actually had the throat lengthened to accept both Berger 110gr and 115gr bullets. The bases of the FB 110-grainers sit flush with the neck-shoulder junction, when they are seated .010″ into the lands. With the longer 115gr VLDs, the bottom of the bearing surface (i.e. start of boat-tail) is just about even with the neck-shoulder junction.
For her debut in competition, I took “Peppermint” to our local 600 yard F-class match. Shooting the Berger 115s with 31.5 grains Varget, she won with a perfect score of 200 with 14 Xs. At my club, we use a SR3 target. The X-Ring measures 3″ in diameter and the 10-Ring measures 7″. At the match there were some very good shooters with top-flight custom rifles in accurate calibers such as 6.5-284 and 22 Dasher. I was very fortunate to come out on top, but I give the credit to Peppermint’s good bench manners and outstanding accuracy.
Now that I have several calibers in the BR cartridge family, (22 BR, 6mm BR, 6.5 BR, 7 BR, and a 30 BR), it is my humble opinion that they each have their own place. A varmint hunter’s dream, the 22 BR can push a bullet faster and more accurately than the 22-250. With an 8-Twist barrel, the 22 BR can send an 80gr SMK to 600 yards with extreme accuracy.
