Hunting season is coming soon. For hunters that means many hours may be spent searching for animals through spotting scopes and binoculars — “glassing” for game. And when the hunter does find a good buck or doe, he’ll need to know the animal’s precise distance, so that demands a good laser rangefinder. Being carried in the field, the scopes on hunting rifles need to be tough and durable, and every hunting scope should have excellent low-light performance. And when the hunter finally takes his shot, his scope better be properly zeroed. Today’s Saturday showcase spotlights Hunting Optics. We offer eight great videos that help you select the right riflescope, spotting scope, rangefinder, and binoculars for your next hunt.
Here’s a good video by an avid hunter who treks in remote, mountainous zones. The host has learned what works… and what’s worth the weight to carry: “I’ve found that the combination of 10×42 binoculars and a 27–60x80mm spotting scope is the sweet spot for mountain hunting. This pairing balances weight with reach, allowing me to keep moving but also reach out and see well-hidden animals. In some cases, I will make use of an 18×56 binocular, but this is reserved for non-backpack hunts. With 25 years of mountain hunting experience, I can whole-heartedly recommend my preferred binocular pair as a fantastic and versatile set-up for northern mountain hunts at the very least.”
Ultimate Spotter Test — 19 Spotting Scopes Reviewed
The producers of this remarkable 19-product spotting scope comparison state: “If you are looking at choosing the best spotting scope for hunting… you are in the right place! We tested these 19 spotting scopes to find the best compact spotting scope, best 65mm spotting scope, and best 85mm spotting scope out there. We also wanted to find the best values on the market, and I think we definitely did that. While we certainly couldn’t test them ALL, we were able to put together this incredible lineup of some of the best spotting scopes out there to help you find what is going to work for your specific needs.”
First Focal Plane vs. Second Focal Plane Scopes
For the last century, Second Focal Plane (SFP) scopes have been most common on hunting rifles. Now there are an increasing number of First Focal Plane (FFP) optics favored by hunters. The main reason is that the reticle mark values (in Mils or MOA) are constant relative to the target size at all magnification levels. That is handy for hold-offs and hold-overs. On the other hand, a SFP scope maintains a constant reticle size and line thickness at all zoom values. For most hunting shots, taken inside 300 yards, that really should be fine. Many hunters feel they can spot their prey more easily without a busy reticle that obscures small details at higher magnification. This video explains the pros and cons of both reticle types. The final decision is up to you — much will depend on the terrain you hunt and the distances you shoot.
The Complete Optics Selection for For Deer Hunting
In this video, Vortex optics techs explain the optics package deer hunters will want to take into the field. Along with a good medium-power zoom riflescope, you’ll want binoculars and (probably) a spotting scope. You’ll also want a Laser Rangefinder (LRF) or laser-equipped binoculars. As the team points out, the LRF is not just to range your prey right before you take a shot. A top-quality LRF can range a reflective object as far as 1500 yards away. That helps you decide whether you want to hike a mile to reach that buck you see way out on the next ridge.
MOA vs. MIL — What You Need to Know
These days, scope manufacturers offer a wide selection of both MIL (Milliradian) and MOA (Minute-of-Angle) based optics. We do think that MOA is still predominant in the lighter-weight, lower-cost (sub-$500) scopes marketed for hunters. There are pros and cons for both angular measurement systems. One MIL is 3.6″ at 100 yards, while one MOA is 1.047″ at 100 yards. If you grew up thinking in inches, a 1/4-MOA click-value hunting scope might work best. If you shoot PRS or have other MIL scopes you may prefer a MIL-value optic for your hunting rifle. Both choices will do the job.
Comparison of Eight Laser Rangefinders
The Backfire team purchased eight rangefinders and tested them in the field. Most of the products are under $500. This is a good review if you are looking for a compact LRF at a moderate price. Looking at performance for the price, for the hunting market, the reviewers favored the Leupold RX-1600 and the waterproof Vortex Ranger 1800. COMMENTARY: If you can afford it, we recommend that serious hunters consider top-end laser rangefinder-equipped binoculars such as the ZEISS Victory RF and Leica Geovid.
How to Zero Your Hunting Rifle Efficiently
Last but not least, here’s a great video from Vortex that shows you how to quickly and efficiently sight-in and zero your hunting rifle before heading out into the field. This video explains a simple procedure that lets you get a solid zero in just three shots. Of course you probably want to fire a few more rounds to confirm your zero before you head off to your hunting grounds, but this will let you get on-target with a minimum amount of time and ammo expended. This helpful video has over 3 million views on YouTube!
Fouling Shots and Cold Bore Condition
If you recently cleaned your rifle, you may want to fire two or three fouling shots before you start this procedure. But keep in mind that you want to duplicate the typical cold bore conditions that you’ll experience during the hunt. If you set your zero after three fouling shots, then make sure the bore is in a similar condition when you actually go out hunting.
When shooting targets, the closer to the center the better the result. But this is not necessarily true when it comes to using jags and patches. There are some good reasons to try spiking your patches away from the center. This Creedmoor Sports Tech Tip explains why you may want to spike (puncture) your patch away from the center. CLICK HERE to order patches and Swab-Its cleaning bore tips from Creedmoor Sports.
You begin to push your first patch down the barrel and you notice it is extremely tight and then it jams! How can this be? A commonly overlooked solution to remedy the frustrating occurrences of overly tight or jammed patches is what we like to call “Side-Spiking”. Side-Spiking is super simple and works!
“Side-Spiking”, as the words suggest, refers to moving your patch spiking position from the center of the patch towards the corner of a square patch or the edge of a round patch.
Moving From Center-Spiking To Side-Spiking
The closer toward the edge of the patch you spike your jag, the looser the patch will be when pushed down the bore.
Important: Be careful to not go to the very edge of the patch. Leave enough patch material to fully cover the first set of rings on your jag as this insures your jag is properly centered in the bore and that no contact with the rifling will occur.
Proper Side-Spiking Location Creedmoor Sports recommends side spiking all wet patches. This allows for a looser patch in the bore which removes gross powder fouling and leaves more cleaning solution behind to start working on the remaining fouling.
When a tighter patch is needed, simply move your spike closer toward the center of the patch. The closer to the center of the patch you get, the tighter the patch will become in the bore. The objective is to have a snug-fitting patch that allows you to smoothly push your rod down the bore. Remember you do not need to end up in the center of the patch!
Bore-Tech Patch Size Selection Chart Recommends Patch Sizes by Caliber:
GunBroker & Savage Arms Offer Precision Backcountry Rifle Prizes
With hunting season right around the corner, Savage Arms and GunBroker.com have kicked off the Savage Arms Precision Backcountry Hunting Sweepstakes, giving hunters the chance to win one of four handsome, rugged hunting rifles. Entries are open now through September 30, 2025. Participants can return daily for bonus entries that boost the odds of winning.
“Backcountry hunts demand preparation, reliable gear, and confidence,” said Beth Shimanski, Savage Arms VP of Marketing. “The 110 High Country and Axis 2 Pro Woodland deliver the accuracy and rugged finishes serious hunters demand. We’re excited to partner with GunBroker to put these rifles in the hands of four lucky winners just in time for fall.”
Allen Forkner, Gunbroker Brand Management VP, noted: “This sweepstakes helps hunters gear up with proven Savage platforms and reminds everyone to come back every day in September for bonus entries.”
Prizes — Four Rifles (Two Savage 110s; Two Savage Axis IIs)
Grand Prize #1: Savage 110 High Country Rifle, .270 Win — $1,279 MSRP
Grand Prize #2: Savage 110 High Country Rifle, .308 Win — $1,279 MSRP
Runner-Up Prizes (2): Savage Axis II Pro Woodland Rifles, 6.5 Creedmoor — $599 MSRP each
Total value of all prizes: $3,756.00.
How to Enter Contest
Enter the Savage Arms Precision Backcountry Hunting Sweepstakes at GunBroker.com/c/sweepstakes. You can re-visit every day through September 30th to earn bonus entries. Full details and entry form are available at GunBroker.com/c/sweepstakes.
Fine Print Contest Rules
No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. Open to eligible U.S. residents. Sweepstakes runs through September 30, 2025. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received. Firearm transfers must be completed through a licensed FFL in accordance with all applicable laws. See Official Rules at GunBroker.com/c/sweepstakes for eligibility, entry methods and prize details.
The National 50 Benchrest League (N50) held its annual National Championships at the NRA Whittington Center in Raton, NM on August 23-25, 2025. This event featured air rifles and rimfire rifles competing together. Top shooters from around the country brought some of the most accurate and sophisticated air rifles and rimfire benchrest rifles ever created. Participants enjoyed the Whittington venue, with its great scenery and excellent facilities.
Combined Class champion Mike Schultz reported: “The 2025 N50 Nationals were a lot of fun and at the same time encompassed friendly fellowship and highly competitive shooting. It felt like everyone was there to enjoy each other’s company while giving full effort to do their best. The facilities were excellent and the range itself is perhaps one of the most consistent ranges for even fairness. Mike, Joe, Ardy, and Lou did a great job managing the event and keeping us on schedule. I personally made a number of new friends and look forward to shooting with them again. My Thomas HPX .22 cal air rifle was faithful. My time finding the right pellets paid dividends. I am thankful for N50, the leadership team created a friendly and safe environment. The banquet and awards ceremony had an atmosphere of good food and everyone celebrating whomever received an award. Looking forward to 2026.”
N50 Championship Event Results by Class
Pro Class: Mike Niksch took 1st place with a score of 1494-78X using Slug Air Rifle, He was followed by Mark Clemons 1493-88X and Mark Huber 1491-65X who both shot custom unlimited .22 LRs. Sportsman Class: Matt Kellerman and Mike Tokar tied for 1st place on points with Matt Kellerman taking the lead by X count. Four top competitors were within 2 points. Pellet Class: Jayson Barnes won with 1495-85X Dan Burbach was second with 1492-85X and Mike Schultz was third with 1489-85X. All Pellet Class: Overall ranking for pellet competitors in all 3 classes: Mike Schultz 4459-238X (1st); Dan Burbach 4441-224X (2nd); Ben Womack 4422-159X (3rd). All Combined Class: The Top 3 competitors shooting any rifle in all 3 classes. Mike Schultz 4459-238X (1st); Matt Kellerman 4458-218X (second), and Dan Burbach 4441-224X (3rd).
Here are comments from new shooter Jayson Barnes: “This is truly a special event, if you want to learn from some of the best! The equipment I used was an FX Dynamic in .22 cal with 700mm slug for the Pro and Sportsman classes and a FX Dynamic 30 cal 600mm in the pellet class. I truly now believe the 50 is more difficult and more disciplined than the 100 — you must really zone in or lose a point or 2 and that will cost you. I had never had scope and flag fatigue before, but on the second day it was very hard, you could not take your eyes from your wind flags or you would pay dearly. In the course of 2 days, you had the opportunity to shoot 18 cards of 25 targets per card.
From start to finish, the N50 [event] ran as well as any I have attended in the last 7 years! We were on schedule by the minute or ahead of time the whole time. As most of you know, this is very rare over the course of two days.
The rules and etiquette are straight forward and upheld. The scoring was also top notch and professional. Your previous card was usually already posted when you finished the card you were on!
I want to thank Joe, Lou, and Mike for being great sports and putting up with us, so many 5-star peeps! And the N50 medals are beautiful! I will covet mine forever and yes, I want more.”
.22 LR Rimfire Rifles and Air Rifles Shooting Side by Side — Same Match, Same Targets.
Air Rifles and .22 LR Rimfires Compete Together
N50 competition is an innovative 50-yard benchrest discipline where .22 LR shooters and Air Rifle aces compete shoulder to shoulder. This modern Rimfire + Airgun sport was created by the National 50 Benchrest League (aka “N50″) which now has 23 registered clubs in 15 U.S. States plus Panama.
The NRA Whittington Center has beautiful ranges. Above is an aerial drone view.
About N50 — The National 50 Benchrest League
Joe Friedrich, Open Grove Benchrest
The N50 National Benchrest League offers a unique shooting experience. We shoot air rifles with pellets and slugs alongside .22 LR Rimfire shooters. We currently have sanctioned clubs throughout the USA offering competition and good fellowship.
N50 has three Classes: Pellet, Sportsman, and PRO. The first Pellet Class is strictly for pellet airguns ranging in calibers from .177-.30 using Diabolo-style pellets from various manufacturers.
The second class is the Sportsman Slug/Rimfire. This combined class allows any factory air rifle shooting commercially-made slugs in calibers from .177-.30 to compete against any factory rimfire that utilizes a factory-barreled action with no attachments to barrel. Pellet air rifles may also compete in this class.
The third class is the PRO Class, and no you do not have to have some magic card that says “Professional” to compete. This class allows purpose-built air rifles, and what we call “unlimited” rimfire rifles to compete. Three types of loads are allowed in PRO Class: .177 slug air-driven, .22 slug air-driven, and any .22 LR ammunition.
Another point — in N50, competitors are allowed to move up in class — you aren’t restricted to a “lower” division. For example, Pellet Class shooters can also move up to shoot in Sportsman and Pro. In addition, Factory rimfires are allowed in Pro Class. This way shooters with the less-expensive rifles can shoot more relays and also see how they compete with the unlimited rigs. It’s all about having fun.
We wanted to make N50 as simple as we could combining air rifles with rimfire so folks who have a factory rimfire can participate and have fun. We also did not want a lot of classes, so combining the two gun types would be simpler. To be honest we were worried that the rimfires will outpace the air rifles, but that was not the case at this year’s Nationals.
National 50 Benchrest League Rules and Course of Fire
The official N50 website, National50.net, lists N50 rules, classes, courses of fire, and membership requirements. There are currently 23 affiliated clubs nationwide, with more coming.
General Rules — Here are some of the more notable N50 General Rules that apply to N50 matches:
Target Distance: 50 yards
Match Times: 20 minutes per target
Targets: Official targets produced and distributed by N50
Aggregate Score: Cumulative score of 3 targets shot in sequence on same day
Scoring: No competitor shall score their own target
As far as hardware, N50 is pretty open. For all 3 classes, any scope is allowed and any trigger is allowed. For all 3 classes, stocks are unrestricted, stocks may be bedded, and rifle weight is unlimited. However, the Sportsman Class must retain factory barrel and action. N50 competitors in all classes may use 1-piece rests, 2-piece rests, bags, or bipods — whatever they prefer.
CLICK HERE for a free, printable version of the N50 practice target shown above. NOTE: Scroll down to the bottom of the webpage for the printable targets. You can also download the two parts of the N50 target as separate LEFT and RIGHT side PDFs. Download LEFT Side PDF | Download RIGHT Side PDF
Enjoy the Shooting Sports USA Archives
As we head into spring, many Americans will be spending more time at the range. And competitors will be shooting in rimfire and centerfire rifle matches throughout the country. Here’s an opportunity to learn competition skills, gun tuning methods, and reloading techniques from leading experts. A vast resource of great gun-related content available online for FREE. Check out the Shooting Sports USA Articles Archive. SSUSA maintains a vast digital library with hundreds of articles going back to June 2009.
It’s easy to find back issues of Shooting Sports USA magazine. Here’s how: First, navigate to the latest SSUSA Online Issue (September 2025). Then click on the “ARCHIVES” icon in the upper right area (indicated with red arrow). When you click on “ARCHIVES”, a window will open with a selection of Shooting Sports USA magazine covers/dates in a vertical column. The most recent issue (August 2024) will appear at the top left. You can then scroll down — use the vertical scroll bar to go from September 2025 all the way back to June 2009. Click any issue cover to read.
How to Find and Save Articles
To search back issues, select “MORE OPTIONS” from the toolbar (top left). Then click the “SEARCH” button. When that opens, select either “Search Archives” for ALL back issues or “Search Only this Issue”. When you’ve made your choice, enter your search term(s). For example, you can search for “Camp Perry” or “Palma” or “F-Class Championship”. You can also save any archived issue as a PDF for viewing offline. Just click “SAVE” to download the article you’re currently viewing/reading.
Read Sample Articles
Here are a three of our favorite SSUSA feature stories from recent years. There are hundreds of other informative articles worth reading.
F-Class fans will enjoy the coverage of the 2023 F-Class World Championships in the June 2023 issue of Shooting Sports USA. On the cover is our friend and Forum member Erik Cortina. The 2026 F-Class World Championship will be held at the at the world-famous Stickledown range at the Bisley Camp in the UK
Video Reviews Selected by Brandon Green
For this week’s Saturday Showcase, we present seven videos featuring modern Electronic Target Systems. These videos were selected by Brandon Green, one of America’s greatest marksmen. Recent winner of the legendary King’s Prize in the UK, Brandon is a three-time National High Power Champion, and a National Long-Range Champion. Brandon has chosen these videos to illustrate how electronic target systems work, and so viewers can optimize their performance when working with e-Targets, both for live fire and dry-fire training. The first four videos cover electronic live-fire systems for rifles. The second three videos cover dry-fire systems for pistols that can be used indoors.
Electronic Targets for Rifles
Shotmarker Target Unboxing, Overview and Set-Up
The convenience of electronic targets offers the competitive marksman or enthusiast the ability to train and gather data without having to enlist help. These systems allow the shooter to set up a target at any distance where the projectile is supersonic and collect vital data. This system allows you to see impacts on target, get retained velocities, and measure group sizes with remarkable accuracy provided the target frame is square, rigid, and calibrated properly. This 14-minute Ultimate Reloader video will cover the unboxing of the system as well as discussing the capabilities, setup, and calibration for proper use. This ShotMarker unit retails at $799.00 USD. LINK: ShotMarker Product Page.
Long Shot LR-3 Long Range Target Camera
With the versatility of shooting steel or paper targets at distance, the camera style target systems can bring undeniable convenience to your range sessions. These systems can give you both the visual indication of shot placement on target and group sizes right on your phone or tablet.
This video covers unboxing, compatibility, and functionality of the Long Shot LR-3 target camera system with a live fire demo that shows image quality and speed. This impressive system can work out to 2 miles and syncs directly to your device. No range WiFi is required. This Longshot LR-3 Target Camera System is on sale for $899.99 USD.
If you typically shoot inside 1000 yards there are less expensive Long Shot devices. The Ranger+ 1K system is $404.00, The Marksman 300-yard UHD (ultra-high definition) is $449.00, and the Range 100-yard unit is just $224.00. LINK: LongShot Camera Options.
Caldwell Ballistic Precision LR Target Camera System
The Caldwell camera system appears to work similarly to the Long Shot system while coming in at a bit of a reduced cost. This video will cover unboxing, setup, and capabilities as well as a live fire demo that shows video quality and speed. This unit retails at $604.99 USD. LINK: Caldwell Camera System.
Kongsberg Electronic Targets for CMP
The CMP’s outdoor electronic targets at Camp Perry employ Kongsberg Target System (KTS) technology. The system includes monitors at each firing point that instantly display shot scores. The mobile version of the KTS system, which has been featured at CMP Travel Games events and the National Matches highpower series for many years, was used at the 2025 National Matches this summer. The advanced Kongsberg eTarget system at the National Matches will includes the KTS Shooter’s Journal, which keeps a log of each individual’s shots/scores on the firing line. LINK: Kongsberg Target System Products.
Pistol Dry-Fire Training Systems
Strikeman Laser Firearm Training System
The Strikeman Laser Training System is another dryfire training aid that allows the user to choose calibrated targets and get instant feedback with the training App on their smartphone. This video covers the unboxing, setup, and demonstration of the system. This unit is sold for $124.98 on the Strikeman website. LINK: Strikeman Pistol Training System.
Mantis Laser Academy Training System
The Mantis Laser Academy is a complete dryfire training system that allows the user to train indoors with the added benefit of getting feedback of shot placement, score on target and split times between shots. This system allows you train on numerous calibrated targets and offers several training drills with the app. You can also adjust your offset if you’re running an optic such as an RMR on your pistol. This kit is sold for $159.00 USD on the Mantis website. LINK: Mantis Laser Academy Kit.
Laser Ammo i-MTTS Target Training System
Laser Ammo’s i-MTTS training system is an interactive training system that allows the shooter to set up a complete indoor training range with various target sizes and shapes. This system allows the user to program drills, group targets together, and track splits with elapsed time. This video will cover the target system, setup, programming and drill demonstrations. This unit starts at $99.95 for a single target or $395.00 for the 5-in-1 combo pack on the Laser Ammo website. LINK: Laser Ammo i-MTTS Target System.
If two barrels are better than one, then why not three? That’s the thinking behind the exotic Bockdriling BD14 from Blaser, unveiled at the 2014 IWA Show in Germany. This three-barrel Bockdrilling firearm works as a shotgun, large-caliber rifle, and small-caliber rifle all in one. Even with all those barrels, the BD14 is relatively light, at 3.3 kg (7.26 lbs) without optics. That makes this a nice, carry-around gun for stalking. As you’d expect from Blaser, the twin triggers are crisp and precise, with a pull weight of just 1.43 lbs (650 grams). The front trigger is for the large-caliber rifle barrel, while the rear trigger works both the shotgun and small-caliber barrels, via a tang-mounted selector. These firearms are rare in the USA — and quite expensive. The only Blaser BD 14 we could find on GunBroker had a $9099.95 asking price. That works out to over three grand per barrel.
Here’s what Blaser USA has to say about its unique three-barreled BD 14:
“The ‘Bockdrilling’ is, put simply, an over/under (O/U) rifle-shotgun combination with a smaller caliber rifle-barrel… on the side. The barrel arrangement [allows] for an extremely slender receiver, making the BD14 exceptionally huntable.
The [patent-pending] Vertical Block Lockup… combines an extremely compact and solid block lockup in a closed system within the monoblock with the comfortable handling of a classic break-action rifle.
The double lock permits, if needed, a rapid second shot, the front trigger always releasing the large rifle-caliber. The … barrel selector actives the shotgun barrel when in position ‘top’ and activates the smaller rifle caliber in position ‘bottom’.”
Why Does Anyone Need Three Barrels?
The Blaser website explains: “As hunters, we learn to expect the unexpected, whether in a blind or stalking, so it’s understandable that we dream of a firearm that will allow us to take advantage of any situation. With the Bockdrilling BD14, Blaser has developed the perfect blind and stalking firearm – compromises are finally a thing of the past.”
Design Features of the Bockdrilling BD 14 Tri-Barrel Gun
The BD14 has a double-lock system so that a second shot can be taken without having to recock the firearm. Blaser says: “Thanks to the free-floating barrels, point of impact remains constant even with a quick succession of shots, no matter which barrel was fired first. The extremely strong vertical block lock on the BD14 helps contribute to the high degree of precision.”
Story idea from EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
Proper eye protection is ‘must-have’ gear for shooting sports. In addition to providing reliable impact protection, good shooting glasses should be comfortable, fog-free, and not interfere with your preferred hearing protection. Those who require corrective lenses also need to consider the various options available. In a past episode of their Weekly Gear Review, the 6.5 Guys discuss a variety of shooting glasses they have tried, including examples from DeCot, Oakley, and Wiley-X. Ed and Steve outline the key considerations when choosing eye protection, and then review practical aspects of eyewear design and construction that enhance comfort and functionality in the field.
The 6.5 Guys (Ed and Steve) offer a number of smart tips consider safety eyewear, helping you select the most effective safety glasses at an affordable price. Here are the 6.5 Guys’ KEY Take-aways when choosing shooting glasses, including prescription eyewear:
Key Things To Consider When Choosing Eye Protection
1. Avoid polarized lenses or lenses that reduce light transmission significantly (except for action shooting in very bright conditions with large, close targets).
2. Avoid frame designs that interfere with prone shooting.
3. Avoid designs that easily fog.
4. Avoid frame designs with thicker temples that are uncomfortable to wear underneath hearing protection.
5. Select lenses with an appropriate degree of ballistic protection. CLICK HERE to learn more about eyewear safety standards.
6. When you get your prescription, be sure your ophthalmologist includes the interpupillary distance. This is a critical measurement particularly for heavier prescriptions.
7. If you have a complicated prescription select a vendor who will actually spend time with you to address any concerns.
Horrific .50 BMG Kaboom — Eye Saved by Protective Eyewear
Think you don’t need eye protection? Watch this video starting at 4:10. The screw-on barrel “cap” (chamber closure) of the .50 BMG action flies into the shooter’s face. Without eye protection the shooter would have definitely lost his right eye. (See video at 5:20 for analysis).
Safety First — Your Eyes Are Irreplaceable Accurate shooting begins and ends with the human eye. Your career as a marksman could be cut short if you don’t use good eye protection every time you go to the range and/or handle a firearm.
Every year, over 1,000,000 people suffer serious eye injuries. Shooting is hazardous; it is estimated that there are 30,000 firearms-related eye injuries each year (if you include paintball sports.) After paintball, general hunting accidents comprise most firearms-related eye injuries.
Quality eye protection need not be expensive. You can find comfortable, ANSI Z87.1-certified shooting glasses for under $10.00.
If you select shooting glasses carefully, and ensure that your eyewear is safety-certified, inexpensive shooting glasses can perform very well. But you need to avoid cheap, soft-plastic lenses that claim “impact resistance” without satisfying a testing standard.
Nobody likes to spend hours manually chamfering cases and cleaning primer pockets. There are simple hand tools that will perform these tasks, but the process is time-consuming and tedious after a couple dozen cases. To speed up case prep duties, you can get one of the large, powered case prep centers. These function well, but frankly we didn’t want to give up that much precious space on our reloading bench. One good solution is Hornady’s compact Lock-N-Load Case Prep Trio (item 050160). This triple-threat tool packs a lot of functionality in a small package.
This cleverly-designed powered tool has a small footprint, yet it can perform three tasks as well as much more expensive, tower-style case prep units. The Hornady Case Prep Trio $139.99 at Midsouth, $144.65 at Precision Reloading, and $146.99 on Amazon. We’ve used this machine and it works well. The only negative is that you will get metal shavings on your bench (unlike some of the larger case prep centers). We’ve seen some guys put a small pan under the power head — then you can just dump the shavings out of the pan.
With three active stations, you can chamfer, deburr and clean primer pockets without having to change tools. The Case Prep Trio ships with inside chamfer, outside chamfer, and deburr tools. You can also use the machine with other optional 8/32 threaded accessories such as primer pocket reamers, primer pocket uniformers, and case neck brushes. CLICK HERE to see all tool options. Conveniently, the Case Prep Trio has on-board storage for your tool-heads. User reviews have been very positive.
Here is a simple but effective product that can benefit varminters and game-hunters. The slip-on, padded RRR (“triple R”) gun rest cushions your rifle on any surface and helps eliminate noise when shifting the gun from one shooting position to another. The RRR slip-on rest is made of neoprene (wet suit material) with a built-in, thick Armaflex foam cushion on the bottom. This $26.95 sleeve protects the finish of your rifle, while providing a cushioned layer between your rifle and the supporting surface.
Key Benefits of the RRR Slip-On Padded Fore-Arm Rest
1. The RRR sleeve cushions your rifle. This helps to keep the shot from going high even when the rifle is placed on a hard surface.
2. The RRR sleeve quiets the gun. The padded, neoprene covering acts like a sound deadener even when you set the gun on a metal frame or hard surface.
3. The RRR protects the finish on the stock of your rifle from scratches when resting on hard surfaces.
“Side-Spiking”, as the words suggest, refers to moving your patch spiking position from the center of the patch towards the corner of a square patch or the edge of a round patch.
Combined Class champion Mike Schultz reported: “The 2025 N50 Nationals were a lot of fun and at the same time encompassed friendly fellowship and highly competitive shooting. It felt like everyone was there to enjoy each other’s company while giving full effort to do their best. The facilities were excellent and the range itself is perhaps one of the most consistent ranges for even fairness. Mike, Joe, Ardy, and Lou did a great job managing the event and keeping us on schedule. I personally made a number of new friends and look forward to shooting with them again. My Thomas HPX .22 cal air rifle was faithful. My time finding the right pellets paid dividends. I am thankful for N50, the leadership team created a friendly and safe environment. The banquet and awards ceremony had an atmosphere of good food and everyone celebrating whomever received an award. Looking forward to 2026.”
With the versatility of shooting steel or paper targets at distance, the camera style target systems can bring undeniable convenience to your range sessions. These systems can give you both the visual indication of shot placement on target and group sizes right on your phone or tablet.
Accurate shooting begins and ends with the human eye. Your career as a marksman could be cut short if you don’t use good eye protection every time you go to the range and/or handle a firearm.
