This Saturday Movie showcase features four handguns chambered for the modern, high-velocity 5.7x28mm cartridge. In a 5″-6″ barreled pistol, the 5.7x28mm round can achieve very high velocities compared to a 9x19mm (9mm Luger) or .40 SW. The bottle-necked 5.7×28mm cartridge weighs roughly two-thirds as much as a typical 9mm Luger cartridge, allowing more rounds to be carried for the same weight. The cartridge can produce considerable muzzle flash when fired from a pistol, but it has roughly 30% less recoil than the 9mm Luger cartridge, improving controllability. Thanks to its high velocity, the 5.7×28mm has a flatter trajectory than most pistol ammo types.
Today we showcase videos of four different 5.7x28mm pistols — the new S&W M&P 5.7, the PSA 5.7 Rock, the Ruger-5.7, and the FN Five-SeveN Mk3 MRD. If you are looking for the best deal on a 5.7 pistol, check out the the PSA 5.7 Rock. You can buy one today for $599.99 including Holosun Red Dot Sight.
Smith & Wesson M&P 5.7 with 22-Rd Magazine
Chambered for the high-velocity, flat-shooting 5.7x28mm, the Smith & Wesson M&P 5.7 features S&W’s new TEMPO barrel system. This is a two-part, lock-breech barrel with a proprietary gas system for improved cycling and extraction. The new M&P 5.7 includes a 1/2×28 threaded barrel to mount a muzzle device or suppressor, optics-cut slide, flat-face trigger, and forward, frame rail for mounting accessories.
PSA 5.7 Rock — Best Value in a 5.7x28mm Handgun
The Palmetto State Armory (PSA) 5.7 Rock is the best value in a 5.7x28mm pistol. Right now PSA offers it complete with a mounted Holosun Red Dot sight for just $599.99 with two 23-rd mags. A full-sized, polymer-framed pistol, the PSA 5.7 Rock has threaded carbon steel fluted barrel and 416 stainless steel slide with QPQ finish for corrosion protection. Chambered in 5.7x28mm, the PSA 5.7 Rock is fed from a 23-round magazine and operated by a smooth, single-action, striker-fired trigger mechanism. While sold with a Holosun 407k optic, the 5.7 Rock slide accepts other Shield footprint optics.
Ruger-5.7 Pistol Review by Hickok45
In the video above, popular YouTube host Hickok45 reviews the Ruger-5.7, which was introduced in late 2019. This gun has proven reliable and when it hit the market it was much less expensive than its main competitor made by FN. Ruger’s 5.7x28mm pistol is blow-back operated with an internal hammer and ambidextrous thumb safety. The pistol is offered with a 20+1 capacity magazine and an adjustable rear sight paired with a fiber-optic front. Current MSRP is $899.00. If you’re interested in the Ruger-5.7, read the On-Target Magazine Full Review.
FN Five-SeveN Mk3 MRD Review
In this episode of TFBTV, James Reeves reviews the new FN Five-SeveN Mk3 MRD. At $1,449.00 MSRP, this is the most expensive 5.7x28mm pistol on the market, but might it also be the best? James takes the new Five-seveN Mk3 MRD to the range and to the table to tell you if FN’ lastest, high-tech 5.7x28mm pistol is worth the spend.
Ruger-5.7 vs. PSA 5.7 Rock
Ruger-5.7 vs. FN 5.7
Comparison Between 5.7x28mm and 9x19mm
In this video James Reeves compares the performance of the 5.7x28mm round with the 9mm Luger. The 5.7x28mm round certainly offers higher velocity and greater penetration than the legendary 9mm round. Plus common 5.7 magazines hold over 20 rounds. James discusses the advantages of this modern 5.7x28mm cartridge, as well as a few of its shortcomings — such as high cost per round. There is another insightful comparison between the two ammo types on the Ammo-to-Go website. Editor John Lewis notes: “5.7×28 is lighter and faster than 9mm ammo” while the 9mm had a “slight advantage in energy [and was] much better in gel”.
5.7x28mm vs 9mm Penetration Test
In this video the tester shot both 9mm and a 5.7x28mm bullets into horizontal stacks of paper plates. The smaller-diameter 5.7mm bullet penetrated about 40% more paper plates than the 9mm bullet (See video at 3:10-3:35). The 5.7mm bullet basically retained its dimensions in this test, while the hollow-point 9mm spread out slightly. Just mere horizontal penetration can’t tell you the actual effectiveness of the round based in a defensive situation. In a different test using Ballistic Gel, both rounds penetrated adequately but the 9mm created a bigger wound channel. SEE: AmmotoGo.com 5.7x28mm Test.
Short History of 5.7x28mm Guns and Ammo
The FN 5.7×28mm (designated as the 5.7×28 by the C.I.P. and FN 5.7x28mm NATO) is a small-caliber, high-velocity, rebated rim, bottle-necked centerfire cartridge designed for handgun and personal defense weapon uses. It is similar in length to the .22 WMR and somewhat similar to the .22 Hornet or .22 K-Hornet. Unlike many new cartridges, it has no parent case — it was developed from scratch by FN.
The 5.7×28mm was developed in conjunction with the FN P90 PDW and FN Five-Seven pistol in response to NATO requests for a replacement for the 9×19mm Parabellum cartridge (9mm Luger). In 2002 and 2003, NATO conducted a series of tests with the intention of standardizing a PDW cartridge as a replacement for the 9×19mm. The tests compared the relative merits of the 5.7×28mm cartridge and the 4.6×30mm cartridge, which was created by Heckler & Koch.
By 2006, FN’s 5.7×28mm firearms — the P90 PDW and Five-Seven pistol — were in service with military and police forces in over 40 nations worldwide. In the USA, 5.7×28mm firearms are currently used by many law enforcement agencies, including the U.S. Secret Service.
Along with use in military and law enforcement firearms, in recent years the 5.7×28mm cartridge has become popular for handguns in the USA. In December 2019 Ruger unveiled the Ruger-5.7 semi-automatic pistol chambered in this cartridge. In January 2021 Kel-Tec introduced its P50 handgun, which uses horizontal 50-round FN P90 magazines. In January 2021 Palmetto State Armory (PSA) introduced its Rock 5.7 pistol. And this year, Smith & Wesson has released its new M&P 5.7, featured above.
The 5.7×28mm cartridge itself is produced by multiple ammunition makers including Federal, Fiocchi, FN, and Speer. 5.7x28mm ammunition is PRICEY — the cheapest 5.7x28mm ammo we found with a quick search was 40gr Federal American Eagle at $0.77 round. By comparison, you can currently find bulk CCI 9mm Luger ammo for $0.30/round.
Some still images and text shared from Wikipedia: CC BY-SA 3.0
Impressive engraving by Jesse Kaufmann. Note how the scope rings have been engraved to perfectly match the engraving pattern on the Remington 547 action.
Who says fine craftsmanship is dead? There’s a modern day engraving wizard up in South Dakota, Jesse Kaufmann, who produces some of the most handsome engraving we’ve seen. Jesse, who operates Black Hills Gunstocks and Engraving LLC, is a true master at metal engraving and he also does superb stock checkering. Here are some examples of Jesse’s engraving work:
This 14-minute video showcases dozens of Jesse Kaufmann’s Engraving examples:
About Jesse Kaufmann, Master Engraver
Jesse Kaufmann was a professional stockmaker for Dakota Arms for over a decade. In 2009, he was inducted in the American Custom Gunmakers Guild as a checkering specialist. In January 2017, Jesse was awarded his Master Engraver certification by the Firearms Engravers Guild of America. With his broad skill set, Jesse is able to offer his clients a unique and complete package of stock work, finish, checkering, and engraving for a custom package that is all completed under one roof by his own hands.
Jesse Kaufmann’s work has been featured in American Rifleman, American Hunter, FEGA’s The Engraver, Sports Afield, Waidmannsheil Journal of German Gun Collectors Assn., Gun Digest 71st Edition, Modern Custom Guns Volume 2, Dangerous Game Rifles 2d. Edition. For more info, visit BlackHillsgunstocksandengraving.com, email blackhillsgunstocks [at] gmail.com, or call Jesse at (605) 499-9090 after 5:00 pm. SEE Gallery of Work.
GetZone.com has released its annual “What’s Hot at SHOT” video series covering notable new products. There are now nearly 30 new product videos available on YouTube and the GetZone website. You’ll find three of these videos below, featuring the Christensen Arms MHR Rifle, Mossberg Patriot Rifle, and Hornady 7mm PRC cartridge. You’ll find more product videos on GetZone.com and the GetZone YouTube Channel.
Christensen Arms Modern Hunting Rifle
The Christensen Arms Modern Hunting Rifle (MHR) is a versatile, modular design built on an aluminum mini-chassis with V-block bedding. The maker claims that the “MHR provides the accuracy potential of a chassis rifle and the ergonomics of a hunting rifle all while offering exceptional modularity.” The MHR’s stock, forearm, and grips can be swapped out to create a variety of different configurations. You could have one forearm/grip for field carry and another for varmint shooting from a portable bench. This versatility doesn’t come cheap — the MHR starts at a very serious $3499.00 MSRP.
New Mossberg Patriot LR Tactical Rifle
Mossberg showcased a new rifle that should prove popular — the Patriot LR (Long Range) Tactical. This $1085.00 rifle has many excellent features: MDT chassis with V-Block, 20 MOA Picatinny rail, 22″ or 24″ barrel pre-threaded for suppressor, and adjustable cheekpiece and LOP. And like all Patriot rifles, the Patriot LR Tactical has Mossberg’s patented LBA™ (Lightning Bolt Action) user-adjustable trigger with 2 to 7-pound adjustment range. Priced at $1085.00 MSRP, the rifle is currently offered in 6.5mm Creedmoor and .308 Win with 22″ barrel, and 6.5 PRC with 24″ barrel. FULL Specs HERE.
Hornady 7mm PRC Cartridge
The 7mm PRC cartridge is the newest offering in Hornady’s Precision Rifle Cartridge series. The 7mm Precision Rifle Cartridge from Hornady delivers long, heavy caliber bullets in a standard long action. Fitting the niche between the 6.5 PRC and the 300 PRC, the 7mm PRC features temperature-stable, magnum speed propellants for consistent velocity and longer barrel life. Factory rifles are already available or simply swap the barrel on your 7mm Rem Mag or 300 Win Mag and reap the benefits of this long-action, centerfire rifle cartridge. For more details on ballistics and loading, watch this Ultimate Reloader.com video:
VIEW More GetZone SHOT Show Product Videos
Now in its 6th year, What’s Hot at SHOT is featured on GetZone.com, the online video destination that takes you from targets to trophies — and everywhere in between. Additionally, episodes air across the Media Lodge Platform of websites, on social media, and on GetZone’s YouTube channel.
At SHOT Show 2023, Legacy Sports Int’l introduced a new line of Howa rifles that should be popular with hunters as well as PRS/NRL Factory-Class competitors. The new Howa Hera H7 rifles features an internal aluminum V-block chassis with modern composite external stock body. The forearm (aka “forestock”) is aluminum with M-LOK slots. The rear half of this German-engineered stock is fiberglass-reinforced polymer. These rifles are VERY affordable, with an $839.00 base MSRP.
The stock features a removable cheekpiece plus adjustable length-of-pull with 3 LOP inserts. The butt panel itself can be removed, allowing a bit of internal storage. The rifle ships with two AICS-compatible 5-round magazines.
The Hera H7 is offered in three colors: Tan, Black, or OD Green. Notably there are THREE barrel options: 24″ Carbon-wrapped, 24″ Heavy Contour, and 22″ Light Contour. These all have “suppressor-ready” threaded muzzles. We expect hunters will chose the Carbon-wrapped barrel, while PRS/NRL shooters will choose the Heavy-barrel configuration.
All the Hera H7 models feature a smooth-running Howa action fitted with the excellent HACT 2-stage trigger (see below). We’ve used this adjustable 2-stage trigger and it is among the best factory triggers you’ll find. These rifles all come with a Sub-MOA guarantee and a Lifetime Warranty. Two chamberings are currently offered: 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Winchester. We hope Howa eventually offers a 6mm chambering in the future — 6mm Creedmoor, 6XC, 6GT, or 6mmBR.
We like all the key features of the Howa Hera H7 rifle — the action, the barrel options, the excellent 2-stage trigger, and the very affordable price (MSRP starts at just $839.00). However, we question the design of the lower part of the rear stock section. This starts with a downward angle like a normal hunting stock, but then it angles upward to the butt-pad. That V-shaped design might not work so well with a conventional rear bag. We suspect some owners will add a straight piece of Delrin or aluminum to act as a bag-rider.
Hera Arms H7 Chassis System
The Hera Arms H7 Chassis is a modern and easy-to-use stock system for the Howa (short action) system. Made of fiberglass-reinforced polymer, with aluminum V-block and aluminum forestock, this stock system comes with two spacers, a polymer cheekpiece and an AICS-compatible, 5-round magazine. The H7 stock system has M-Lok mount points for mounting various accessories. Shown above is the Tan version with carbon-wrapped 24″ barrel.
Howa 1500 HACT 2-Stage Trigger
Howa 1500s feature the very nice Howa HACT trigger. This is an adjustable, two-stage trigger, set for about 3 pounds (combined stages). Crisp and repeatable, this is an excellent trigger for a factory gun. There is no annoying Glock-style safety lever in the middle of the trigger blade. The 2-stage design and pull weight range works well for a hunting rifle or a rig for PRS competition. Rifleshooter.com says the Howa trigger is “one of the best factory triggers, along with Tikka. I’ve found the Howa trigger superior to a Remington 700 — the Howas doesn’t need to be replaced.”
Writing for the Western Outdoor News, WONews.com, Steve Comus has field-tested the HACT Trigger. Steve writes: “I always liked two-stage triggers, because of the way I could take-up the slack and then actually know when the rifle was going to go off. The take-up on the [HACT] trigger was fast and easy. The crisp, positive release when pressure was put on during the second stage [reminded me] of some of the target rifles I shot through the years.”
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. Midsouth — Hornady Iron Press Kit, $599.99
⏺ Save $90 on an excellent loading kit with good press
Here’s a great deal on a complete reloading kit with a premium single stage press and all the accessories you need to load pistol and rifle rounds. Right now the Hornady Iron Press Kit is on sale at Midsouth for $599.99, $90 off the regular price. This kit features everything you need to get loading including the rock solid Iron Press, LNL powder measure, electronic scale, calipers, chamfer tools, loading manual, and more.
2. Smith & Wesson Firearm Frenzy Rebate and KYGUNCO Sale
⏺ S&W Factory Rebate through 4/2/2023 plus KYGUNCO gun discounts
Smith & Wesson firearms are some of the best you can buy. Right now you can save up to $100 with the Smith & Wesson Firearms Frenzy Rebate program covering purchases made from 1/15/2023 to 4/2/2023. To redeem online, visit www.SWRebates.com. Along with the S&W factory rebate, you can save with KYGUNCO’s S&W promotion right now. KYGUNCO has attractive pricing on numerous Smith & Wesson firearms. The S&W Rebate applies to revolvers, semi-auto handguns, and even S&W modern sporting rifles.
3. Amazon — Teslong WiFi Borescope, $89.99
⏺ New generation WiFi borescope displays views on mobile devices
Are you cleaning your barrels correctly and efficiently? A Teslong Flexible WiFi Borescope provides the answer. This $89.99 Wifi Borescope sends a feed wirelessly to your mobile device. With this unit’s built-in Wifi, you can view the live imagery from inside your barrel with just about any iPhone, Android device, tablet, or PC. NOTE: This borescope has a 36″ flexible cord, so it will work with the longest barrels. (NOTE: One part of the listing states 45″ length but the product dimension states 36″). Some folks will prefer a rigid wand-type borescope. Teslong does now offer a WiFi rigid borescope with 26″ insertion tube. That rigid WiFi unit is currently $129.99 on Amazon. Flexible or rigid, choose the unit that suits you.
4. Graf & Sons — SK Rimfire Ammo
⏺ SK .22 LR ammunition delivers great accuracy for the price
For folks getting started in rimfire matches here is some very accurate ammo that’s still quite affordable — offering great accuracy at a modest price. We’re big fans of SK Ammo and for good reason. It’s highly accurate with good consistency and is just one step below the highly-rated Lapua rimfire choices but at a fraction of the cost. Our tester uses this ammo with great success.
5. EuroOptic — Athlon Scope Sale
⏺ Save 20% now on excellent budget-priced Athlon optics
Athlon scopes offer really great performance for the price. We’ve heard many positive reports about these optics. Right now EuroOptic has select Athlon scopes on sale at 20% off. For an AR or scout rifle, try the 1-4x24mm Athlon Talos BTR SFP. For hunting or general use the 4-14x44mm Athlon Talos BTR FFP is a great scope for the $329.99 sale price.
6. Amazon — MOZETO Shooting Mat (Folding), $34.99
⏺ Nice padded nylon mat stows conveniently
Whether in the field or at the range, having a comfortable mat to keep you and your gear dry and clean is critical. The Mozeto shooting mat is made from durable 1000D nylon with EPE padding fabric for long-lasting durability. There is an extra thick padded section for elbows and knees. This nice 78″ x 28.5″ mat has convenient straps and carry handle. To transport, just roll it up, fold it over and attach the quick release plastic snap buckles.
7. Precision Reloading — 10% Off All Redding Products
⏺ Discounts on all Redding items through January 26, 2023
Redding makes great dies, tools, presses and other products for handloaders. Right now you save save a solid 10% on ALL Redding products in stock at Precision Reloading. You’ll want to act soon as this 10% Off promotion ends at 11:59 pm on Thursday 1/26/23. If you need dies, a turret press, or precision tools, take advantage of this Precision Reloading Redding Sale soon.
8. Amazon — Case Prep Tool, $22.99
⏺ Versatile Case Prep Tool with storage inside handle
Handloaders need to debur and chamfer brass, and uniform/clean primer pockets? A fine tool for these tasks is the Dreyoo Case Prep Multitool, now just $22.99 on Amazon. The handle is threaded on both ends so you can fit two tools. Conveniently, the orange tool handle can hold the attachments INSIDE (just unscrew the handle in the middle to access storage). This kit includes VLD Inside deburring tool, Out deburring tool, large and small primer pocket cleaners, and large and small primer pocket reamers.
9. Creedmoor Sports — Rifle Bore Guides
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⏺ Excellent, durable Bore Guides for many chamber sizes
The key to properly cleaning your barrel without damaging the chamber is a chamber-specific bore guide. A good-fitting guide with 0-Ring also prevents leakage of solvents into your expensive action and trigger group. Creedmoor Sports has a great selection of high-quality bore guides that are sized for specific chambers. Choose from many popular cartridge types from .222 up to .338 Lapua Magnum. These O-Ring equipped guides have a port on the outboard end for adding solvent.
10. Palmetto SA, CMMG .22 LR Conversion Kit for ARs, $169.99
⏺ Quick, easy .22 LR conversion kit for AR-platform rifles
S&W Model 629-3 .44 Magnum with 5″ barrel, image from GunAuction.com
This week on Shooting USA John Scoutten tests three Smith & Wesson .44 Magnum revolvers. These S&W wheelguns are reviewed for the Shooting USA TV episode this Wednesday, January 25, 2023. This episode also has a Talking Tech segment explaining different types of hammer-fired handguns.
John tests the three S&W revolvers using Hornady 240gr XTP ammunition. He first tests a beefy 45-oz. model 629 stainless with 5″ barrel, then a model 629 Performance Center with short 2.6″ barrel. Lastly he tests the ultra-lightweight model 329 PD AirLight. For that black-finished AirLight wheelgun, the Barrel is actually stainless steel, but the frame is scandium alloy, and the cylinder is Titanium alloy.
Shooting USA SHOW TIMES: This Shooting USA episode airs Wednesday, January 25, 2023 at 9:00 PM Eastern and Pacific; 8:00 PM Central. If you miss the regular broadcast, you can stream the show online at any time on Vimeo for $0.99 per episode.
The year 2022 is now behind us. We wondered — “What new firearms did Americans purchase the most last year?” Well Gunbroker, via the GunGenius.com site, answered that question based on its 2022 sales data. GunGenius.com publishes a monthly Top Sales Report featuring the Top 5 Best Sellers for each major category of firearms on GunBroker.com. This culminates in a year-end report listing the Top Selling Firearms of the Year. Just recently, GunGenius.com released its gun sales report for 2022. Across all gun categories, the report ranks the Top 22 Best-Selling Guns of 2022. Check out the list below.
Here Are the Top 10 in Each Major Category:
Here are the 22 Top-Selling Firearms in 2022:
1. SIG Sauer P320
2. Remington 700
3. SIG Sauer P365
4. Smith & Wesson M&P9
5. Ruger 10/22
6. Mossberg 590
7. Remington 870
8. Glock G19
9. Ruger American Rifle
10. Springfield Armory XD
11. Glock G43
12. Beretta 90
13. Colt Python
14. Ruger Mark IV
15. SIG Sauer P226
16. Springfield Armory Hellcat
17. CZ-USA CZ 75
18. Winchester Model 70
19. Ruger Mini-14
20. Glock G17
21. Henry Arms Big Boy
22. Mossberg 500
New for 2023 — 36 NEW Firearms Showcased at SHOT Show
This 17-minute Backfire Channel video covers three dozen firearms from multiple manufacturers. There are tactical rifles, hunting rifles, modern sporting rifles, plus a wide selection of new-for-2023 handguns from major manufacturers including S&W, Beretta, and Canik. Here are the firearm brands covered, with the respective times in the 17-minute backfire video. NOTE: More than one rifle per brand was reviewed so there are 36 guns covered among 22 manufacturers. For rifle fans we recommend Tikka (4:12), Howa (7:00), Bergara (10:11), and Browning (12:05).
New Rifles with Notable Features at Attractive Prices
Most of the 2022 best-selling bolt-action rifles* are traditional rigs such as the Remington 700 and the Winchester Model 70. Will some new rifles challenge these classics? Mossberg has a semi-tactical style Patriot rifle with a very attractive $1085.00 price. And Bergara has some nice, lightweight hunting rifles with advanced carbon stocks. These are priced competitively compared to carbon-stocked models from Gunwerks and Christensen Arms.
New Mossberg Patriot LR Tactical Rifle
Mossberg’s new Patriot LR (Long Range) Tactical looks like a winner. This $1085.00 rifle has many cool features (MDT Chassis, 20 MOA Rail, threaded muzzle). Get a Patriot in 6.5 Creedmoor for local PRS-style events, and it can serve for deer hunting also. Then slip on a .22-cal barrel and use the rifle for varminting. We like the ergonomics of the stock and it offers an adjustable cheekpiece and Length of pull (with spacers). Like all Patriot rifles, the Patriot LR Tactical has Mossberg’s patented LBA™ (Lightning Bolt Action) user-adjustable trigger with 2 to 7-lb adjustment. Priced at $1085.00 MSRP, the rifle is currently offered in 6.5mm Creedmoor and .308 Win with 22″ barrel, and 6.5 PRC with 24″ barrel. FULL Specs HERE.
Bergara Carbon-Stocked B-14 Squared Crest Rifle
Bergara’s new B-14 Squared Crest is an ultralight rifle for demanding backcountry hunters. It features a proprietary carbon-fiber monocoque stock with an internal spine for greater strength and rigidity. The new 100% carbon fiber stock is crafted using CF-RTM technology, a state-of-the-art method used in the aerospace industry. This manufacturing process consists of assembling dry carbon fibers by hand with an injected resin. With grey Cerakoted stainless steel 20″ barrel, unloaded weight is approximately 6.8 pounds. MSRP starts at $1999.00.
* We were curious about the Top 10 sellers among bolt-action rifles. There were some surprises. Here is the GunGenius.com list of the Top 10-selling bolt-action rifles: Ruger American Rifle, Browning X-Bolt, Savage 10/110, Savage Axis, Remington Model 700, Tikka T3, CZ-USA 457 Rifle, Ruger Precision Rifle, Mossberg Patriot, and Savage Model 93. We note this is somewhat inconsistent with the Top 22 list above. For example, if the Browning X-Bolt ranks higher among bolt guns than Rem 700s, then why is the Rem 700 higher on the overall list? We can’t really explain that. Perhaps the overall ranking is based on new AND used sales, but GunGenius doesn’t really give an explanation.
Anschutz .22 LR rifle set up for F-Class competition. Photo courtesy Sportschieben Blog.
Here’s a fun new discipline that will grow in years ahead — Smallbore F-Class with .22 LR rimfire rifles. Rest-supported prone rimfire matches have been held around the world for quite some time, but only a few years ago was the discipline officially codified in the NRA Smallbore Rulebook. And the first-ever Smallbore F-Class National Championship was held in July 2018 in conjunction with the Smallbore Nationals at Camp Wa-Ke’-De in Bristol, Indiana. The Nationals involved multiple days of prone shooting at 50 meters and 100 yards. For more information read Hap Rocketto’s Shooting Sports USA Smallbore F-Class Report.
Smallbore F-Class competitors may shoot F-TR style with a bipod, or use a front rest. In the above photo from the inaugural NRA National Championship you can see a shooter with SEB Coaxial Rest at top, with a competitor using a low-profile bipod at bottom. Note the extended handle used to adjust bipod elevation. This is not a coaxial joystick, but rather a long handle attached to the mariner wheel.
Smallbore F-Class — The Future Looks Bright
With the high cost of centerfire ammunition, and the limited number of 1000-yard (or even 600-yard) ranges, we can envision that Rimfire F-Class will become a popular event at ranges across the country. Clubs don’t even need benches — just a 100-yard target bay and flat ground for the shooters. You can start with an inexpensive rimfire rig and Harris bipod. Then work up from there. Here is a custom rimfire F-TR style rig that belongs to F-Class ace and past centerfire F-TR National Champion James Crofts.
Rimfire F-Class and Fun Prone Matches with Front Rest or Bipods
Rimfire F-Class offers the fun of centerfire shooting at a much lower cost. Shooting is done prone with either a front rest or a bipod. You can shoot a relatively inexpensive rifle such as a CZ 457 MTR, or a custom build that has the same design features, weight, and ergonomics as a full-size F-TR or F-Open rifle. The choice is yours. We like shooting smallbore F-Class, because you can find decent .22 LR ammo for just $0.20 per round. By contrast, you’ll probably spend at least $1.20 per round for F-Class centerfire ammo (counting bullet, powder, primer, and part of the brass cost).
Top-Tier Vudoo V22-S Target Rifle for Rimfire F-Class
Vudoo Gun Works now offers an impressive .22 LR Single Shot Target Rifle that should prove ideal for rimfire F-Class (Open division). It features the new V22-S single-shot action, McMillan stock, and Flavio Fare BR-VS trigger.
Rimfire F-Class in the Canary Islands
This video comes from the Canary Islands, part of Spain. The voice-over is in Spanish but there are English sub-titles. The host explains: “In this video we summarize the main characteristics of this [shooting sport] that is practiced at 50 meters, 100 meters, and 200 meters with your .22 LR. Learn how to prepare your rimfire carbine and learn how to score your own targets by following our simple explanations. In another video we will delve into shooting techniques, shooting accessories and field accessories.”
Here is another rimfire F-Class video from the Canary Islands. This shows how the sport can be done with a variety of rimfire rifle types, even including a .22 LR AR clone. Some shooters are using a wide-base bipod, others are using normal Harris-type bipods, while others are using a large, benchrest-style front rest.
Rimfire F-Class-Style Local Fun Match in Oregon
In this video, F-Class John shoots an F-Class-style local fun match in Oregon. He is using a .22 LR rimfire rifle that has a full-size stock very similar to his custom F-Open centerfire rifles. This allows him to easily switch from centerfire F-Class to rimfire prone shooting with front rest and rear bag. The local fun match rules are a little different than an official F-Class match, but the shooting skills required are the same. Shooting this kind of local rimfire match allows John to keep his F-Class skills at a high level at a fraction of the cost of shooting centerfire F-Open.
Rimfire F-Class in Russia
NOTE: This video was filmed in Russia. The dialog is in Russian (without English subtitles), but it is still interesting to watch. Shooting F-Class with .22 LR ammo has become popular in Russia and other parts of Europe. You can have fun on a relatively short (200m) range with low-cost ammo.
Smallbore F-Class Course of Fire
The Smallbore F-Class Nationals was completed on paper targets at 50 yards and 100 yards. According to Shooting Sports USA: “The tournament ran during the any sight and metric phases of the 2018 NRA National Smallbore Rifle Championships, featuring a daily course of fire which mirrored the sling shooters, 40 shots at 50 meters on the A-50 target, a Metric Dewar, followed by 40 shots at 100 yards on the A-33 target. Although the international targets were shot throughout, the first two days were titled ‘conventional’ and the last two ‘metric’.”
The specifics of the match such as rifle requirements, rests, and sights may be found in the Provisional Smallbore Rifle F-Class Rules (Section 23), found on page 65 of the current NRA Smallbore Rifle rulebook. Any rules not covered in Section 23 will [reference] the normal rules of Sections 1 through 22.
SHOT Show 2023 was a big success, drawing over 52,000 registered visitors from over 100 nations. The show was virtually sold out of exhibit space with 2500+ exhibitors overall. Everything you can imagine relating to firearms and hunting was on display at the show: rifles, pistols, shotguns, ammunition, optics, stocks, barrels, reloading equipment, safety gear, gun cases, and more.
Today, January 20th, 2023, is the last day of SHOT Show 2023. To celebrate the successful show this year, we’ve collected a variety of images from the event. If you’ve never been to SHOT Show, the biggest gun-related gathering in the world, these photos provide a “look inside”, offering a vicarious SHOT Show experience for our readers.
SHOT Show 2023 — Images from the Big Event
Yes, SHOT Show can be crowded! This is opening day at the Venetian EXPO, Level 2.
Ace pistol, PRS, and 3-Gun competitor Doug Koenig records a Podcast at the Ruger booth.
Line-up of display stocks with mounted rifle scopes.
Brightly colored purple and black AR pistol from GunTec USA.
The quantity and variety of guns on display can be a little overwhelming for show visitors.
Above all SHOT Show is about commerce — connecting manufacturers and wholesalers with retail dealers/vendors across the nation and the world.
SHOT Show 2023 featured a small archery range set up on the plaza near Caesars Forum.
On Wednesday there was an All-Star Jam Concert outside Caesars Forum, next to Great Outdoors Plaza.
SHOT University’s ATF Compliance seminar drew hundreds of firearms retailers.
Setting up SHOT Show 2023 at the Venetian Expo and Caesars Forum (above) was a massive job requiring heavy equipment. Over 2500 companies exhibited at SHOT Show 2023.
SHOT Show is one of the biggest trade shows of the year among ALL industries. This year there are thousands of exhibitors spread out over two exhibit halls the combined size of 14 football fields! Thankfully a number of YouTubers have been working hard, finding interesting new products in the miles of aisles. Today we feature some notable videos from SHOT Show 2023. The first video in our showcase comes from Backfire, a popular gun-centric YouTube Channel with over 600,000 subscribers. This video spotlights 36 new rifles, pistols, and shotguns. Keep scrolling to view a dozen other videos highlighting a wide variety of new firearms as well as the all-new Mark 7 GENESYS progressive press.
36 New Guns at SHOT Show 2023
You’ll need some patience to get through this entire 17-minute Backfire Channel video, but it’s worth it. The hosts cover three dozen different firearms from multiple manufacturers. There are tactical rifles, hunting rifles, modern sporting rifles, plus a wide selection of new-for-2023 handguns from major manufacturers including S&W, Beretta, and Canik.
New Bolt-Action Rifle from Stag Arms
Stag Arms, a major producer of AR-type rifles, surprised SHOT Show attendees with an all-new, bolt action rifle, the Pursuit Line Bolt Gun. This rifle features a pivot pin behind the action which allows rapid and easy change of stock types. There are many other interesting features in this new bolt-action rifle.
New Beretta and Smith & Wesson Pistols
This 5-minute video was mostly created at the Beretta and Smith & Wesson booths at SHOT Show. Highlights include the new S&W 5.7 pistol (1:50 time-mark, see also S&W video above), which shoots the high-velocity FN 5.7x28mm cartridge. For CCW, there’s a nice little Beretta BX-4 Compact Carry with factory Red Dot sight (1:12). If you want a “Show-Off” pistol, check out the eye-catching faux-gold finish Girsan Hi-Power clone (0:17). Revolver fans will appreciate the massive S&W 350 Legend revolver (1:29).
New Shotguns and Upgraded LUPO Rifle from Benelli
Benelli showcased new shotguns and an enhanced version of its handsome LUPO Rifle, first introduced in 2020. Benelli expanded the choice of LUPO chamberings to include 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win, .30-06 Springfield, and .300 Win Mag. The LUPO featured Benelli’s proprietary BE.S.T. (Benelli Surface Treatment) which is guaranteed against rust and corrosion for 25 years. BE.S.T. is high-gloss, unlike Cerakote. This proprietary finishing technology is a hybrid Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) and Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD) technology that applies a protective coating to parts. PVD and PECVD processes utilize electricity, radio frequencies, and plasma in a high vacuum environment to deposit a solid coating that precisely and uniformly covers the treated parts.
New Benchmade Knives for 2023
Here is a report from the floor of SHOT Show 2023. The video features a variety of cool new knives for 2023 from Benchmade. Some of these are coming soon, but you can check out all the latest Benchmade knives available at the KnifeCenter website.
New Savage 1911 Pistol
You read that right, rifle-maker Savage Arms is now producing a 1911-type pistol and is looks very good. It has ambidextrous controls, a forward rail, target crown, and nice sights. The new Savage 1911 is built built from stainless steel, has a dual recoil spring, machined sear and disconnector. It is offered in three styles: Black Nitride, Stainless, and Two-Tone (black slide, stainless frame). MSRP is $1499.00.
Lyman Mark 7 Progressive Reloading Press Line-Up
SHOT Show’s Amy Sweezey visited the Lyman booth to look at Lyman’s Mark 7 progressive reloading presses. The Mark 7 line of presses is very advanced. The all-new, automated Mark 7 GENESYS press featured in the video can be set, via a keypad, for a shorter pistol ammo up/down stroke or a longer rifle cartridge stroke. Output is 2500 rounds per hour for pistol and 2000 rounds per hour for rifle! For more info on the GENESYS and other Mark 7 progressives, visit LymanProducts.com.
New Glock Performance Trigger for Gen 5 Pistols
In this episode of TFB-TV, James Reeves interviews champion shooter Shane Coley. The key topic is Glock’s new factory-built Performance Trigger. Yes, Glock is now making a high performance trigger for its Gen 5 pistols. Shane explains all of the relevant details, including a surprisingly reasonable price. This new trigger should be available very soon.
QUICK FLIX
Rise Armament Iconic 2-Stage AR Trigger
Henry Homesteader Semi-Auto 9mm Rifle
LEFT: Rise Armament claims this is the first-ever “mechanically independent” two-stage trigger for AR-platform rifle. The first stage is 1 pound while the second stage is 2 pounds for 3-pounds total pull weight. As you can see in the video, there is a very short reset — good for 3-gun competition and tactical games.
RIGHT: Here is the new Henry Homesteader semi-auto 9mm rifle as displayed at Industry Day at the Range. This PCC (Pistol Caliber Carbine) shoots 9x19mm (9mm Luger) pistol ammo. As you can see, recoil is minimal. Testers really liked this new Henry rifle. READ Full Report.
Shadow Systems Pistols
BONUS Last Year Video of ELR Shooting at Raton in New Mexico
As a “blast from the past”, this 2022 SHOT Show TV video has a great sequence from Cutting Edge Bullets with big-bore rifles shooting at extreme long range in Raton, NM. This is a nice intro to ELR shooting. Look carefully and you can see advanced optics, Doppler Radar, and other high-tech gear.
NOTE: The ELR sequence in the video below starts at 23:48 mark, but if you click the center arrow start button the video should start at 23:48:
This Saturday Movie showcase features four handguns chambered for the modern, high-velocity 5.7x28mm cartridge. In a 5″-6″ barreled pistol, the 5.7x28mm round can achieve very high velocities compared to a 9x19mm (9mm Luger) or .40 SW. The bottle-necked 5.7×28mm cartridge weighs roughly two-thirds as much as a typical 9mm Luger cartridge, allowing more rounds to be carried for the same weight. The cartridge can produce considerable muzzle flash when fired from a pistol, but it has roughly 30% less recoil than the 9mm Luger cartridge, improving controllability. Thanks to its high velocity, the 5.7×28mm has a flatter trajectory than most pistol ammo types.
About Jesse Kaufmann, Master Engraver
We like all the key features of the Howa Hera H7 rifle — the action, the barrel options, the excellent 2-stage trigger, and the very affordable price (MSRP starts at just $839.00). However, we question the design of the lower part of the rear stock section. This starts with a downward angle like a normal hunting stock, but then it angles upward to the butt-pad. That V-shaped design might not work so well with a conventional rear bag. We suspect some owners will add a straight piece of Delrin or aluminum to act as a bag-rider.
Howa 1500 HACT 2-Stage Trigger
As a “blast from the past”, this 2022 SHOT Show TV video has a great sequence from Cutting Edge Bullets with big-bore rifles shooting at extreme long range in Raton, NM. This is a nice intro to ELR shooting. Look carefully and you can see advanced optics, Doppler Radar, and other high-tech gear.
