If you’ve been thinking about some last-minute Christmas shopping at Brownells, here are some money-saving codes. Brownells is currently offering 10% off purchases over $150, $10 off a $100+ purchases, and 10% Off all in-stock Ammunition. In addition, there’s a 3% discount on a wide inventory selection (no minimum purchase required). It’s simple to get these discounts — there are no buyers’ clubs to join, no forms to fill out. Just use the appropriate Discount Code during online check-out.
Brownells Winter Clearance Sale
Along with the discount codes listed below, Brownells is running a Winter Clearance Sale now with major savings on barrels, triggers, firearms, AR lowers, reloading components, optics and more. Currently 126 different items are on sale with discounts up to 50%.
Brownells December Discount Codes
Listed below are the Codes to use. Simply use the appropriate Code for your purchase at Brownells.com. These codes have no listed expiration date, so Brownells could terminate them at any time. Accordingly, we recommend you do your shopping soon. Also if the highest value code no longer works, try a lesser value CODE.
Every serious hand-loader benefits from a precise, repeatable, and efficient powder dispensing system. There are many electronic powder dispensers on the market, starting at about $195 for a Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper and $240 for a Lyman Gen6. At the high end, the ultimate powder weighing/dispensing system would be an Auto-Trickler V4 mated to an top-tier electronic Force Restoration scale. Such a system can run $1200 or more, depending on scale cost.
In today’s Saturday video showcase we feature eight videos about electronic powder dispensers, as well as Auto-Trickler systems (both V3 and V4). If you are in the market for a new powder scale/dispenser system, we recommend you watch these videos. You may be surprised by some of the findings, and you will certainly learn more about these machines — their pros and cons. That knowledge can help you decide what electronic powder dispenser best deserves your hard-earned dollars.
Five Powder Dispenser Comparison Test (All Units Purchased)
If you are in the market for a sub-$500 electronic powder dispenser, definitely watch this review. This Backfire comparison test is notable because the tester spent his own money to purchase all five powder dispensers being reviewed. That means Backfire could tell the full truth, both good and bad, about the machines. In fact, Backfire bought TWO ChargeMaster Lites because one failed (See 14:12 time-mark). The reviewer liked the RCBS ChargeMaster Supreme, but his top choice overall was the Hornady Auto Charge Pro. He favored the overall design, and really liked the way the dispensing speeds could be easily set faster or slower. Here are highlights from the video review:
00:08 Speed Test
03:09 Accuracy Test
07:57 Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper
09:08 Lyman Gen 6
10:44 RCBS Chargemaster Supreme
12:03 Hornady Auto Charge Pro
14:12 RCBS Chargemaster Lite
14:41 Conclusions
AutoTrickler V3 vs. Hornady Auto Charge Pro
In the Backfire comparison video above, the Hornady Auto Charge Pro powder dispenser earned top marks among sub-$500 units. Here the Auto Charge takes on some tougher competition — an ultra-precise Force Restoration scale fitted with an Auto-Trickler V3, a system that cost upwards of $1150.00 U.S. Dollars. The Australian duo running the comparison found the Auto-Trickler system was more accurate and consistent. Notably, with a dispense speed of just 14 seconds. the Auto-Trickler V3 system was significantly faster than the Hornady machine. The Auto-Tricker V3 has been superseded by the new Auto-Trickler V4 which retails for $490.00 USD. Add $630 or more for a good Force Restoration scale such as the A&D FX-120i.
RCBS New ChargeMaster Supreme and Other ChargeMasters
In this well-made video, Gavin Gear of UltimateReloader.com does a detailed review of the new-generation RCBS ChargeMaster Supreme. He puts it through his paces, verifying its accuracy and repeatability. He shows how the unit can be programmed. At the 17:20 time-mark, Gavin employs an A&D FX-120i Force Restoration scale to check the ChargeMaster Supreme’s charge-weighing precision. The results were good.
Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper vs. RCBS ChargeMaster Link
The Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper, now just $194.49 on Amazon, was very innovative when first released, offering remote Bluetooth access and a wide range of programmable features. The downloadable App stores your load data and has preloaded bullet and powder databases. This video compares the Intellidropper with another Bluetooth-enabled modern powder dispenser, the RCBS Chargemaster Link. A free RCBS App allows you to control settings remotely.
Hornady Auto Charge Pro Review by Ultimate Reloader
As the $359 Hornady Auto Charge Pro dispenser was top-rated in the Backfire comparison at the start of this article, we thought we’d include a detailed review from Gavin Gear of UltimateReloader.com. If you are thinking of buying a Hornady Auto Charge Pro, definitely watch this video, as it is the most thorough Auto Charge Pro review on the web and Gavin is by far the most articulate tester. SEE FULL TEST.
AutoTrickler V4 and Force Restoration Scale
The AutoTrickler V4, paired with a quality Force Restoration scale, is the “Rolls Royce” of electronic powder dispensing systems, offering unrivaled charge-weight accuracy, great repeatability, and ultra-fast dispensing speeds. If you have the budget — $490 for the V4 plus $625+ for scale — the AutoTrickler V4 is a superb system that lets you load extremely accurate, consistent ammo. This detailed F-Class John video shows how to set up the system properly and control the dispensing and trickling functions.
RCBS MatchMaster vs. AutoTrickler V3 with A&D FX-120i Scale
This video is interesting because it compares the most advanced and expensive mass-market electronic dispenser, the $899 RCBS MatchMaster, with an AutoTrickler V3 mated to an ultra-precise Force Restoration scale. The AutoTrickler V3 + scale system offers wicked fast dispensing while delivering near-single-kernel precision and great repeatability. The MatchMaster has some interesting features, including dual dispensing tubes and a special slower, “Match Mode” dispensing function which provides enhanced precision.
BONUS Video: RCBS ChargeMaster Dispenser vs. Four Scales
This video answers the question “How does a common powder dispenser’s weighing accuracy compare to stand-alone scales?” Here the tester compares the weighing precision of an early-model RCBS ChargeMaster with four dedicated scales: A&D FX-120i (Force Restoration), Hornady G2-1500, Hornady GS-1500 (Gen 1), and a WAOAW milligram scale. These scales range significantly in price, with the FX-120i Force Restoration the most expensive by far. The features/prices of the four scales are listed at 4:41 time-mark. Accuracy/repeatability comparison testing with test weights starts at 10:12 time-mark.
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Among its notable products for 2025, Hornady offers a new small fireproof safe plus an advanced horizontal AR rifle safe with RFID technology. These can both be effective components of your home and/or office security systems. See these and other vaults, lock boxes, and RAPiD Safes at Hornady.com/security.
Hornady Security AR Gun Locker with RFID Technology
Hornady’s AR Gun Lockers offer good security with rapid access. RFID technology allows instant unlocking, activated through a wristband, key fob, or sticker. You can program up to five RFID tags. You can also open the unit using a keypad with security code. That allows quick access even without the RFID devices. The basic AR Gun Locker holds two rifles, while the XL version holds three ARs. The AR Gun Locker can be mounted vertically or horizontally, placed under a bed, in the back of an SUV, or mounted in a closet.
This is a tough unit made with thick 16-gauge steel and four locking lugs. Hornady says its “AR Gun Locker system surpasses ASTM International thresholds” and “excels in child and pry resistance, lock potency, and durability against various attacks. The AR Gun Locker package includes the RAPiD® Safe, Wall Power Supply, RFID Wristband, two RFID Stickers, RFID Key Fob, two Circular Barrel Keys, and a Security Cable.
AR Gun Locker Specifications:
Weight: 50 pounds
Interior Dimensions: 40.5″ x 13.5″ x 5.5″
Exterior Dimensions: 42″ x 15.25″ x 6.75″
AR Gun Locker XL Specifications:
Weight: 62 pounds
Interior Dimensions: 40.5″ x 13.5″ x 8.75″
Exterior Dimensions: 42″ x 15.25″ x 10″
New Compact Fireprood KeyPad Safe
Along with a full-size gun safe for firearms, most people can use a smaller safe to hold passports, currency, important papers, and a defensive handgun. A smaller safe can be easily secured and kept in a location sheltered from view. The Hornady Security line of KeyPad safes provides quick and secure firearm access.
Hornady’s latest 16.5″x15″x12″ Fireproof KeyPad safe boasts 16-gauge steel for the body and 8-gauge for the door. Hornady claims that “The fireproof capabilities are best in class, capable of withstanding fires reaching temperatures of 1400° F for 30 minutes”. Four hefty 1-inch diameter locking lugs secure the safe. You can access contents quickly with a programmable touch keypad. And if for any reason the keypad fails, a discrete keyhole provides additional key access. Notably, Hornady ships this safe with a set of concrete anchors that can be used to bolt down the safe.
Fireproof Keypad Safe Features:
Easy access touchpad entry with discrete key backup
Interior door light illuminates safe
Removable interior shelf
LED keypad warning when the safe battery is low
Easily mounted with concrete anchor bolts
Fireproof Keypad Safe Specifications:
Body Construction: 16-gauge steel (8-gauge door)
Exterior Dimensions: 12″x 15″x 16.5″
Interior Dimensions: 10.2″x 13.2″x 15″
Weight: 49 lbs.
Fireproof Rating: 30 mins at up to 1400°F
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Story based on report by Ashley Dugan, CMP Staff Writer
After years of testing, the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP), has announced “full use” of eTargets at the 2025 National Rifle Matches at Camp Perry, which run July 20 through August 9, 2025. The advanced Kongsberg eTargets will be used at all Highpower rifle matches, National Trophy Rifle competitions, and Rifle Games events. In addition the eTargets will be used for the Rimfire Sporter Match on July 20 and the National Mid/Long Range Matches in August. The use of eTargets eliminates the need for pit duty, drastically cutting down the duration of each match. “Shooting on eTargets is just a better experience for all competitors” notes Brian Williams, CMP Highpower manager.
The CMP’s Kongsberg Target System (KTS) registers shots with extreme precision. The system includes monitors at each firing point so competitors can instantly see the location and score for their shots — they don’t have to wait for a target to be pulled and marked. The use of the targets also eliminates the need for pit duty, drastically cutting down the duration of each match. The 2025 National Matches will be held on the historic ranges at the Camp Perry National Guard Training Facility in Port Clinton, Ohio. Learn more at Thecmp.org/cmp-national-matches.
Brian Williams, CMP Highpower manager stated: “We have utilized this system for years, and during that time, we have made countless upgrades and improvements. We believe that we now offer the most accurate, easiest to use eTarget system available [giving] competitors the very best system interface. Competitors have been asking for this for years, and we have spent a great deal of time and energy getting the system ready to be used on the biggest stage in competitive shooting”.
The KTS system has been permanently installed at CMP’s Talladega Marksmanship Park as well as on Camp Perry’s Petrarca Range in Ohio. The mobile version of the KTS system, featured at CMP Travel Games events, will be the eTarget types used at most of the 2025 National Matches.
“With an increasing number of affiliate local clubs converting to eTarget systems, there is a growing expectation that the National Matches should be conducted this way,” Williams addedd. As another advantage, the eTarget system at the National Matches will include the KTS Shooter’s Journal, which keeps a log of each individual’s shots/scores on the firing line.
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In June 2020, Hornady introduced the 6mm ARC, a new SAAMI cartridge optimized for AR-platform rifles*. The new 6mm ARC is basically a 6.5 Grendel necked down to 6mm, with the shoulder moved back around .030″. That pushed-back shoulder does reduce case capacity (and velocity), but we assume Hornady did that to create a shorter, proprietary chamber so people could not simply neck-down Lapua 6.5 Grendel brass, as has been done for years with Robert Whitley’s outstanding 6mm AR wildcat.
What Is the 6mm ARC Cartridge? The 6mm ARC cartridge is a new SAAMI-spec cartridge based on the 6.5 Grendel case necked down for 6mm bullets, with the shoulder moved back 0.030. Yes it is designed to run in AR15-platform rifles. You’ll need a new barrel, bolt, and mags. If you already have an AR chambered in 6.5 Grendel, the ONLY thing you need to change is the barrel. Everything else — bolt, magazines, gas system – is compatible with 6mm ARC.
▶ Official SAAMI Cartridge (not wildcat)
▶ Fits standard AR15-platform rifles
▶ Fits Short/Mini action bolt rifles
▶ Efficient short, fat case design
▶ 30-degree case shoulder
What Do I Need To Shoot the 6mm ARC?
Faxon and Ballistic Advantage are already producing barrels, with more manufacturers sure to follow. All the other required components are already on the market for 6.5 Grendel rifles. Aero Precision already offers complete 6mm ARC uppers.
If you’re converting a standard 5.56×45 mm (.223 Rem) AR15 upper to shoot 6mm ARC, you’ll need a 6mm barrel, a Type II 6.5 Grendel bolt carrier group, and new magazines. Some folks have suggested standard AR mags will work, but trust us, you want the magazines that have been designed for 6.5 Grendel. Most of the hardware you need is available at Brownells.
* While 6-6.5 Grendel shooters are known to run stout pressures, the new 6mm ARC cartridge has a relatively moderate Maximum Average Pressure (MAP) rating of 52,000 psi according to the official SAAMI specifications. For a variety of reasons, is wise to keep pressures in a semi-auto rifle moderate. Don’t chase the velocities you might get in a bolt-action gun.
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Christmas is just a week away, so today we’re featuring a hand-picked collection of sixteen “stocking stuffers” for precision shooters. Some of these are recent inventions. All are handy items that you’ll use over and over again at the range, on your vehicle, and/or at your loading bench (so you’re allowed to buy them for yourself, even after Christmas).
B&T Industries BT62 Determinator — $7.95 ✔
The acrylic BT62 Determinator measures groups with laser-cut concentric measuring rings. Check group size quick and easy — simply place the Determinator over shot group. Adjust until one of the circles crosses the center of the two outer-most holes. That gives you the center to center group measurement (1.5″ maximum). Alternatively, you can measure edge to edge (of the farthest shots) and then subtract the bullet diameter. Cool tool for gun guys. The supplied lanyard also glows in the dark.
MAXUS Reloading Scale Kit — $16.99 ✔
Here is a VERY affordable compact scale for use at home or at the range (with battery power). Though it costs under $20, the MAXUS Digital Milligram Scale (#ad) has earned good reviews and should be precise and repeatable. This high-precision digital milligram scale set comes with calibration weight and other reloading accessories. And numbers are easy to read with its large backlit LCD display. NOTE: This MAXUS Scale has dual power functionality — it can run with batteries or USB cable. It can read grains, ounces, grams, and other weight types.
Lyman Powder Scale Pan and Case Funnel — $6.99 ✔
The Lyman Powder Pan/Funnel saves reloaders time by combining the powder-receiving pan and funnel into one unit. With this combo tool reloaders can pour powder directly into the case without having to fumble with a separate funnel. That’s smart and efficient and just $6.99 on Amazon (#ad). RCBS makes a similar powder pan/funnel ($13.99 on Amazon #ad) with a slightly different case-neck section. You may want to try both to determine which works best for your cartridge brass.
Surveyor’s Flagging Tape (for Wind Indicators) — $1.69 per Roll ✔
Allen Camouflage/Black Neoprene Scope Cover — $11.47 ✔
Here’s a great gift item for a hunter. This reversible Camo-pattern Neoprene Scope Cover fits scopes up to 15″ long and 56mm lens diameter. The cover cushions your scope and protects against moisture and scratches. Along with the $11.47 large version, Allen makes a 12″ medium camo scope cover, and a 10″ small version. NOTE: These covers are reversible with Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camo on one side (as show), and black on the other side.
SIG Sauer Foxtrot1X LED Lamp — $49.99 ✔
The SIG Sauer FOXTROT1X gun lamp works with Picatinny rails, SIG Sauer rails, and Glock rails without the need for adapters or modifications. It features dual, finger-actuated switches that allow for ambidextrous operation in both continuous and momentary modes. This $49.99 gun lamp features an efficient 450 lumens white LED that can run for 1.5 hours on a single CR123 battery. This rail-mounted light is compatible with most holsters designed for light-equipped handguns.
MagnetoSpeed RifleKuhl Barrel Cooling Fan — $60.00 ✔
Cooling your barrel with a compact fan can extend barrel life. This bright red RifleKuhl from Magnetospeed (#ad) is quite effective. The battery-powered impeller pushes cooling air down the barrel. It has a chamber seal for increased cooling efficiency while a neodymium magnet helps secure the device to your action. The RifleKuhl includes a belt/pocket clip and there is a Replaceable built-in 50 Micron air filter. The RifleKuhl costs $60.00 on Amazon.
Ludex Case Prep Multi-Tool with Internal Storage — $15.99 ✔
This handy Ludex Case Prep Multi-Tool can perform multiple tasks. On one end is an inside neck chamferer, with the outside chamferer/deburrer on the opposite end. Stored inside the tool are four (4) uniforming attachments for large and small primer pockets. This tool with all the attachments is $15.99 on Amazon.
Digital Display Timer with Big Buttons — $16.95 ✔
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. We like this very affordable Digital Display Timer with both count-up and count-down functions. Just $16.95 on Amazon, this unit 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.
This handsome red leather ammo holder secures twenty (20) rounds of .308 Win-size ammunition, in a handy plastic carrier. In addition there are loops for 2 more sighter rounds on the outside. This is a very nice gift for a target shooter or hunter. There is also a .223 Rem version in black leather. Both these leather ammo holders conveniently fit into a shooting coat pocket via a leather pocket flap.
Hoppes Pistol Cleaning Kit — $8.99 ✔
Right now, for just $8.99, you can get a nice Hoppes Pistol Cleaning Kit complete with solvents, cleaning rod with swivel handle, jags, patch holder, bore brush, and 50 patches. The fluids include 2 oz. of Hoppe’s No. 9 Cleaning Solvent, plus 2.25 ounces of Hoppe’s Lubricating Oil.
Wheeler Manual Trigger Pull Scale — $17.90 ✔
While we prefer a sensitive digital trigger pull gauge, it’s nice to have a manual back-up. And the Wheeler gauge is plenty accurate for pistols and most hunting rifles. The Wheeler trigger pull scale accurately measures trigger pull weight from 8 ounces to 8 pounds. It features an ergonomic handle for consistent direction of pull. The sliding indicator stays reliably on the maximum weight registered and high contrast pull weight increment marks are very easy to read. This spring-type trigger scale measures in 2-ounce increments and is accurate to +/- 2 ounces — plenty good for pistols and hunting rifles. Priced at just $17.90 on Amazon, this gauge has earned 91% four- or five-star owner reviews.
Sack-Ups 13.5″ Pistol Storage Sock — $8.49 ✔
Here’s an actual fabric sock that you can roll up and put in your Christmas stocking. Sack-Up knitted storage sacks are made from silicone-treated 100% natural cotton. The cotton’s wicking ability draws moisture off the gun, inhibiting corrosion. This $8.49 13.5″ Sack-Ups sock is a great choice for revolvers and metal-framed pistols. Midsouth also carries larger 36″, 42″, and 52″ Sack-Ups for shotguns and rifles.
With the shortages of powder and primers, many folks will be shooting more rimfire in 2021. While .22 LR rimfire rifles require less cleaning compared to centerfire rifles, you still need to maintain those rimfire barrels. We like Bore Tech’s Rimfire Blend Bore Cleaner, now $16.15 at Creedmoor Sports. This specially-formulated, ammonia-free bore cleaner can simultaneously cut through the layers of lead, wax, and carbon fouling. NOTE: After use you may have to shoot quite a few rounds before best accuracy returns.
Is the temp and humidity OK inside your gunsafe? With Hornady’s Govee Bluetooth Wireless Hygrometer Thermometer, you can check that easily. The unit measures temperature and humidity inside your safe, and then displays temp/humidity readings on your smartphone via a Bluetooth App. The unit has a good range in open rooms but you may have to get close to the safe to get a signal with the safe door closed. The sophisticated Govee Wireless Hygrometer Thermometer is now just $14.99 on Amazon (#ad).
BONUS — TACTICAL XMAS STOCKINGS, $15.99-$17.99 ✔
Don’t have a stocking to hold your small gift items? Then check out these cool, heavy-duty stockings. These Willbond Tactical Stockings are sold as a two-pack for just $14.99 – $17.99 on Amazon (#ad).Choose a pair in three different types: Classic Style (Camo and Black, $14.99); Bright Style (Bronze and Green, $15.99), and Stylish Style (Green and Black, $17.99). These Willbond Tactical Stockings feature Hanging hook, MOLLE straps, carry handle, outside draw pocket, side zipper, and Velcro USA Flag Patch. These stockings are sure to bring smiles to your tacticool family members and friends.
As an Amazon affiliate, this site can earn revenues through sales commissions.
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Conventional brass jags work great — except for one thing. They can react to solvents, leaving a blue “false positive” on patches. In recent years, jag-makers have experimented with many different materials in an effort to cure the solvent-reaction problem. Today we have polymer jags, nickel-plated jags, and stainless steel jags. And the latest innovation is the aluminum jag from Dewey.
J. Dewey Mfg. offers a series of “Copper Eliminator” jags and brush adapters made from aircraft-grade aluminum with the same hardness as brass. Dewey claims that its aluminum jags will not become embedded with grit or particles that could harm your bore. At the same time, Dewey’s aluminum jags will not react to ammoniated bore solvents that can turn patches blue green when used with brass jags. Dewey aluminum jags are offered with either male OR female 8/32 threads. The $5.25 aluminum jags and $3.70 brush adapters are offered in a wide variety of calibers. You can order these products from Dewey Mfg. or Brownells.
Story Tip from Boyd Allen. We welcome submissions from our readers.
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Each day, on Facebook, the NRA National Firearms Museum showcases something special from the Museum collections. A while back the Museum displayed a trio of snakes — three very special Colt Pythons. From bottom to top, these three prized wheelguns are: Colt Python serial number 2, number 3, and number 5. And yes, that is the original box for Python #2 (at bottom). The museum says such low serial number guns were typically produced for a company executive or key members of the gun design team.
Loved for their beautiful finish, nice balance, and great trigger, Colt Pythons have proven to be excellent investments. Since the Colt Python was first introduced in 1955, Python prices have gone through the roof. A pristine, LNIB early-era Colt Python can now command $4400.00 or more, more than 35 times the original price.
How much did a Python cost in 1955? You could purchase the handsome Royal Blue model for just $125.00! Factory-engraved models started at $245.00, according to this Colt advertisement from June, 1955:
History and Design Evolution of Colt Python Revolvers
You can see hundreds of other interesting firearms on the National Firearm Museum website, www.NRAMuseum.com. Or, if you’re lucky, you can see the collections in person. The NRA now operates three Museum locations: the NRA National Firearms Museum in Fairfax, Virginia; the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum in Springfield, MO; and the Frank Brownell Museum of the Southwest in Raton, NM.
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One of our Forum members asked us the question: “Does anybody make a good range box with cradles for cleaning at the bench?” The answer is yes — the MTM model RBMC Range Box offers slide-in plastic cradles that provide a reasonably sturdy platform for a quick clean when you’re done shooting. The RBMC box also offers plenty of storage for jags, brushes, solvents, ammo boxes and other miscellaneous gear you need for the range.
Among the many range boxes available, the MTM model RBMC Range Box leads the pack in terms of versatility. It is rugged, it has plenty of storage space, and it doubles as a handy cleaning station. This Editor has used the MTM Range Box to clean rifles and as a “range expedient” rifle holder when adjusting scopes and tensioning action screws. It’s a good product that does the job and stands up to rough handling. The MTM Shooting Range Box is in stock now for $49.99 at Midsouth (green version).
Fitted Cleaning Cradles
The key feature setting MTM’s RBMC apart from most range boxes is the rubber-coated cradle system. Wide enough to fit a 3″-wide fore-arm, the cradles slide into vertical slots on either end of the box. This allows your range box to serve as a maintenance station. The RBMC is really pretty stable in this role, and the cradles won’t mark your stock. The cradles even feature slots on each side to hold your cleaning rods. The MTM Range Box is secure enough to stay in place when you’re brushing the barrel. However, if you’re working on a carpeted bench top, keep one hand on the box when running a cleaning rod through the bore, just to ensure the box doesn’t slide.
Versatile Upper Tray with Dividers
The MTM Range Box has two major components — the box base (with cradles), and a large upper tray with hinged top and carry handle. This large upper tray clamps securely to the bottom unit for transport. The top tray has a long section that holds cleaning rod guides, long brushes, grease syringes and the like. There are two, clear-plastic fitted divider trays. These will hold your patches and jags, plus comparators, ring wrenches, and other small tools.
MTM offers a black “tactical” Range Box for $50.71 at Midsouth. This black Tactical Range Box includes a special bracket that supports AR-type rifles through the magazine well. As show at right, this is red. However, some previous production models had black magwell brackets (see below).
What Might Be Improved
Though we really like the MTM Range Box, it’s not perfect. First, we wish the box was a bit deeper, to have added carrying capacity. The dimensions of the MTM Range Box are: 25″ long x 11.5″ wide x 8.75″ high. We’d like to see it 12″ high/deep to allow larger solvent bottles to stand upright and to provide more space to carry tools and shooting muffs. However, it is deep enough to hold the large 100-round MTM cartridge boxes that are popular with many shooters (see photo at right).
While we like the twin clear plastic dividers that fit into the removable top-tray, but we wish the dividers had individual hinged tops. This would keep small items more secure.
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Are you looking to have some shooting fun this holiday season — perhaps having a fun day with the kids or grand-kids? Then check out the colorful, innovative Game Series of paper targets from Action Target, a leading manufacturer of steel targets and shooting supplies. These can be used in indoor ranges or outdoors in warmer climates where there’s no winter snow on the ground.
Inspired by arcade games, tabletop gaming, circus themes, and team sports, the new Game Series paper targets are designed to be engaging — to involve the shooter in a fun process, rather than just aiming at dots on paper. The sports targets let you enjoy Baseball and Hockey. The nostalgic arcade target designs capture the fun of an amusement park. Some targets, such as ‘Alien Invasion’ (above), feature fluorescent colors that “glow” when used indoors with black lights. You can even enjoy darts and billiards targets.
The selection of games is impressive — there are currently 18 different Game Series targets — really something for everyone. NOTE: These Game Series targets are not inexpensive. A single Game Series target costs $1.59. However, if you buy at least 100 targets (one or more types), the cost per target goes down to $0.87, a 45% savings.
This video shows a variety of Game Series Targets being used at an indoor range. You can see they are large, brightly colored, and fun to shoot.
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Hornady sponsored shooter Jerry Miculek — Yamil Sued Photo.
If you are considering acquiring a revolver for fun shooting, self-defense, or competition, you should definitely watch this YouTube video. In this 23-minute presentation, legendary wheelgun ace shooter Jerry Miculek puts three .357/.38 SPL wheelguns through their paces. Jerry, one of the greatest revolver shooters in history, hosts a “Revolver Showdown” with three popular wheelguns: 1) S&W L frame (3″ bbl); 2) Colt Python (6″ bbl); and 3) Ruger Speed Six (2.75″ bbl).
Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus, L-Frame, 7-rd .357 Magnum/38 SPL, 3″ Barrel.
Testing at 10 Yards and 50 Yards
In the video, Jerry shoots all three revolvers rapid-fire, double-action at 10 yards. Then he shoots the three guns single-action, slow-fire at 50 yards (starting at time mark 7:19).
After his range session, Jerry examines nine medium frame revolvers, comparing and contrasting design features. Jerry considers these factors:
1. Accuracy
2. Balance and Handling
3. Speed and Sureness of Trigger Return (watch video at 3:45″ re Colt.)
4. Reliability
5. Barrel Twist Rate
6. Strength of Construction/Durability
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Jim Borden, the very knowledgeable owner of Borden Accuracy, provided an interesting historical insight about barrel fitting and the term “blueprinting”. Jim has posted on his Borden Accuracy Facebook page an explanation of the term “blueprinting” as it originally was used with respect to barrel/shoulder/lug fitting.
Barrel/Shoulder Fit and Blue-Printing
Jim told us: “Something often overlooked on barrel installation is the shoulder fit. Many are so overly obsessed with doing a crank-on fit of threads that the shoulder contact is overlooked. Full, solid barrel shoulder to recoil lug or action face is critical to optimum accuracy and precision.
Many years ago part of the ‘blueprinting’ of an action was the use of Prussian blue to ‘blueprint’ lug fit, thread fit, and barrel shoulder fit. It was a colloquial expression that had nothing to do referring to a blueprint or drawing of the action.” Bet you didn’t know that!
About the photo below, Jim noted: “the fuzzy look on the threads is a liberal coating of Never-Seez thread lubricant.”
Look carefully to see the Prussian Blue applied to the barrel shoulder, plus Never Seez on threads.
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MTM offers a black “tactical” Range Box for 
What Might Be Improved
Testing at 10 Yards and 50 Yards
Barrel/Shoulder Fit and Blue-Printing
