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August 25th, 2007
 After some delays associated with licensing issues, Whidden Gunworks has resumed production of its bullet-pointing tool. Whidden’s Pointing Die System narrows the diameter of bullet meplats. This also makes the bullet tips more uniform by smoothing the ragged edges. The result is higher Ballistic Coefficient (BC), and, potentially, more consistent BC.
Our 1000-yard Editor, Jason Baney, has used the tool and he reports it performs as advertised. Jason noted a significant difference in 1000-yard vertical impact when he compared pointed and un-pointed 106gr and 105gr 6mm bullets. The bullets which were pointed-up with Whidden’s tool consistently hit higher on the target, indicating they flew with less drag to the target. Jason reports: “Shot round-robin, with my 6BR, 5-shot group centers were 18+ inches apart vertically. In other words, the pointed bullets flew 1.75 MOA flatter to 1025 yards. This number has been repeated in matches at Williamsport.”
John Whidden tells us: “Tests have shown pointed bullets to have a typical BC increase of about 35 to 40 points as compared to bullets right out of the box. At 1000 yards, we usually see them impact about 1-1.5 MOA higher.” The pointing die costs $250.00 plus $40 for each caliber-specific insert. For more info, call Whidden’s shop at (229) 686-1911 or visit WhiddenGunWorks.net.
August 23rd, 2007
Sinclair Int’l has a new 150-page competition log book with many smart features. You’ll like the way the book is designed and organized. There are 30 plot sheets for each position; that’s enough for 30 complete 80-round matches. Target sheets (grid-lined in 1 MOA squares) are printed as large as possible for plotting hits. The target sheets are also color-coded for each stage — 200-yard slow fire standing, 200 yard sitting rapid, 300-yard prone rapid, and 600-yard prone slow fire. The book even includes MOA windage charts for commonly used cartridge/bullets with elevation come-ups out to 600 yards.
The log book includes windage and elevation data along with separate pages to record sight settings for various yardages and ranges, separate pages for recording scores, pages to keep track of total rounds fired, note pages, and blank windage charts to fill in custom data. Plot sheets include boxes to record pertinent range data, “no-wind zeros”, actual wind, corrected wind, and values. The new Sinclair High Power Record Book, item 15-2600, costs $11.75.
August 11th, 2007
Chemist and entrepreneur Terry Paul, creator of Wipe-Out foam bore cleaner, has come up with a new product, “CARB-Out”. This is specifically designed to remove carbon from rifle bores, including the stubborn carbon ring that can build up with extended firings.
Initial test reports are very promising. CARB-out is out-performing Shooters Choice and Hoppes Elite (aka MPro-7), two of the most popular carbon solvents on the market. Terry Paul claims his new “CARB-Out” will “knock out stubborn carbon rings better than anything out there–you don’t need abrasives anymore.” One of the “superstars” of short-range benchrest, we’ll just call him “Mr. T” for his first name, has been using “CARB-Out” in major matches this year. It has replaced Iosso paste in his cleaning kit.
You can order “CARB-Out” from SharpShoot-R™ Precision Products, Terry’s company, or from MidwayUSA, which expects to receive its first supplies of CARB-Out next week. At MidwayUSA, CARB-Out costs $8.49 for an 8 oz. aerosol bottle (item #312649). For more info, call SharpShoot-R™ at (785) 883-4444. Terry himself might just answer the phone.
August 9th, 2007
The new Savage Arms Precision Target F-Class Rifle, chambered in 6.5-284 Norma, is now reaching dealers and distributions. Brian Herrick, Savage Marketing Director, told us on 8/8/2007: “The first units have shipped and we expect full production flow by the end of August.” The F-Class rifle, shown below, has a gray laminated stock with a 3″-wide ventilated forend, and 30″ extra-heavy barrel. The stock is straight from the base of the grip back to the buttplate with a flat on the bottom. It is currently available in Right Bolt, Right Port, but Savage might ship Right Bolt, Left Port versions in the future if there is sufficient demand. MSRP on the 6.5-284 Savage F-Classer is $1,211, with “real world” selling prices just under $1000.00.
The production version of the 6.5-284 rifle features the new triple-pillar Precision Target Action (RB/RP) with a “match” Accutrigger that adjusts from about 6 ounces to 2.5 pounds. The F-Class rifle is currently chambered only in 6.5-284, but Savage may consider other chamberings in the future.
Savage also makes an F-TR rifle chambered in .308 Winchester. Weighing 12.65 lbs. with a 30″ heavy barrel, the Savage F-TR features a more conventional-style stock with a narrower fore-end for use with a bipod, and more drop in the buttstock. The F-TR (MSRP $1142) also ships with two polymer cheek-pieces (high and low), similar to those used on Choate stocks. Herrick commented, “The F-TR has been popular–we’ve shipped over 1000 units already.”
August 8th, 2007
 HPS Target Rifles Ltd., Britain’s leading competition shooting supply vendor, offers a new sling design that should benefit smaller shooters or those whose rifles have shallow fore-ends. The HPS AKTIV Flex Sling, made of non-stretch, reinforced PVC webbing, is designed to overcome the problems of the sling fouling on the trigger guard or rubbing on the underside of the stock. The section of the sling that runs under the rifle is replaced with coated wire. The wire center section can be positioned directly under the stock to give maximum clearance. The front strap can be adjusted to the size of hand and to clear the wrist. The arm cuff can be adjusted in length for arm size and position, while sling length is controlled by a buckle that positions the ‘tail’ of the sling so that there is no fouling under the rifle. The HPS AKTIV Flex Sling comes in three colours: blue (shown), dark green and black. The price is U.S. $120.44, or 105.78 Euros.
August 2nd, 2007
New Zealand action-maker Barnard Precision has introduced two new “supersized” actions to complement its Model ‘S’ (Rem 700 footprint), Model ‘P’, and Model ‘PL’ line of three-lug actions. While the Model ‘PL’ can fit up to a .338 Lapua Magnum, the new SuperMagnum ‘T’ action features a new front recoil lug, plus a longer receiver with extended tenon section to better support long, heavy barrels. The massive, new Barnard ‘GP’ action is designed from the ground up to withstand the heavy loads of 50-caliber cartridges.
Measuring 12.4″ in length, and weighing 8.14 lbs. (3.7kg), the new Model ‘GP’ 50-Caliber action is an impressive beast. According to Mac Tilton of MTGuns, the “Barnard 50-Cal is a model ‘P’ on steroids–it shares all the important design features of the Model ‘P’, and the trigger.” Mac adds, “The Model ‘GP’ is unique. Most 50-Cal actions are beefy, but built to relatively loose standards. Barnard’s new 50-Cal is built to precision tolerances all the way around. It is truely a ‘match-grade’ action.” The Model GP features a triple-lug 34mm-diameter bolt, Sako-type extractor, 1.670″ long x 1.50″ diameter x 12 t.p.i. barrel shank thread, four 8mm action screws, and six 5mm scope base screw holes.
Shown below is the new Model ‘T’ action, a special-order “Supermagnum” action designed for the long Ultra Magnum cartridges such as 300 Rem Ultra Mag. On top is a True-Flite +17 MOA steel base for F-Class and 600/1000 Benchrest. The Model ‘T’ features a triple-lug 22mm diameter bolt, 1.5″-long 1.062″ x 16 t.p.i. tenon, extended loading port, and 8mm-thick, double-pin recoil lug. The customer can choose either plunger or blade type ejectors.
One Bolt for both Standard and Magnum Cartridges
True-Flite Ltd. offers a great optional feature for Barnard Model ‘PL’ actions. This is a boltface bushing that lets you shoot both .308-sized cases and Magnum-diameter cases. True-Flite’s boltface bushing allows the use of all cartridge head sizes from .472″ (e.g. 6mmBR and .308 Win ) to .587″ ( 338 Lapua Magnum ), simply by inserting or removing the bushing and changing extractors.
 This option makes the model PL extremely versatile for both target work and long-range hunting. That’s smart engineering–why haven’t we seen this before from other action makers?
Kiwi gunsmith Steve Blenkarne of True-Flite Ltd. says the ‘PL’ is his favorite action for long-range target and hunting rifles: “The ‘PL’ has a 24mm diameter bolt, compared to 22mm with the ‘P’. It’s extended in the middle, with a longer port. We’ve used this action with great success for a number of WSMs, and recently, I’ve built a number of 338 Lapuas on the ‘PL’ action.” Steve noted: “another worthwhile True-Flite option is the vee-block bedding system, available for all Barnard actions. Shooters can have one stock and several barreled actions, all of which hold perfect zeros.”
Barnard Precision has a web site at long last. Hopefully it will be updated with more photos and technical information soon. The site address is: www.barnard.co.nz. You’ll also find good info on Barnard actions at the True Flite Rifle Barrels site, and at MTGuns.com, (Barnard’s U.S. Importer).
Photos courtesy True-Flite Ltd., Mt. Maunganui, New Zealand.
July 29th, 2007
 What is the most-used piece of equipment on this editor’s reloading bench? No it’s not my Rock-Chucker press, or even my calipers. The one item in near-constant use is a small, folding magnifying glass. Mine folds into a square case and offers 4X viewing with an 8X bifocal insert. With this handy tool I can inspect case mouths for burrs, check primer pockets, and look for flaws on bullet jackets. I also use the magnifier to see rifling marks on bullets seated into the rifling, or check my bolt for galling. The number of uses is nearly endless.
Folding magnifiers are so handy yet inexpensive that you should own a couple spares (including one in the range box). I bought my magnifier in a book-store, but you can also find them on the web at Edmund Scientifics and WidgetSupply.com starting at just $1.97.
July 28th, 2007
Lock, Stock & Barrel is currently selling Timney triggers at 25% off normal retail. Triggers are available for most popular actions including Browning, CZ, Mauser, Remington, Ruger, Sako, Springfield, and Winchester. We are impressed with Timney’s new Rem 700 “Tactical” trigger (item TM501T). This Rem Tactical trigger adjusts from 4 to 10 ounces pull weight. It features a knurled Anschutz-style vertical trigger shoe that can adjust for angle (cant) and length of pull. The trigger housing is machined from solid steel, and all contact surfaces are CNC-machined steel that has been hardened, surface ground, and polished. Timney’s Rem 700 Tactical trigger is now just $86.06 at LockStock.com. That’s a great deal. The same trigger sells for $134.95 on Timney’s Online Store, TimneyTriggers.com.
Timney also offers two new AR-15 triggers. The AR-15 Competition trigger is a true drop-in replacement for the standard fire-control system that uses your rifle’s original hammer/trigger pins. Timney claims the trigger module can be installed in ten minutes. It comes in 3- or 4-lb versions and features a crisp, one-stage pull. MSRP is $194.95, and a skeletonized version (shown below) retails for $234.95. Lock, Stock & Barrel does not list the new AR-15 trigger in inventory, but you can call for pricing, (800) 228-7925.
July 16th, 2007
If you don’t own a quality digital camera, or need a second camera to keep in your range kit or vehicle, grab this A550 Canon now. It is available from Circuit City for just $128.99. B & H Photo also has the camera for just $134.99 (item CAPSA550).
We heartily endorse the Canon point and shoot digital cameras. Many of the photos on this website (and all the images in the current Gun of the Week article) were shot with an inexpensive Canon A60. The A550 is a significant upgrade over the A60. Though inexpensive, the Canon A-Series cameras are capable of pro-quality images. They produce sharp pictures with vivid colors and excellent contrast. The built-in flash is very sophisticated, allowing effortless daylight fill-flash–an important feature we use constantly. Automatic color temp control (so you don’t get greenish skin tones indoors) is best-in-class. The Canons also shoot very decent video in 320 x 240 (QVGA) or 640 x 480 (VGA) format, and the audio quality is suprisingly good. Most of the videos posted on this site were created with Canon A-series point-and-shoot cameras.
While the Canon A550 offers an impressive 7.1 megapixel capacity, here’s a tip — if you’re shooting photos for the web, set the resolution at 1600×1200 pixels with the A550. Using that middle resolution will let you store many more images on your memory card. Our only gripe about the Canon A-series cameras is that they can be battery hogs. Always bring spare AAs when photographing an important event. Duracell rechargeable 2650 mAh batteries work great.
July 15th, 2007
Here’s a cool new product from Forum member Kyle Posey. Kyle’s PodPaws add stability to Harris bipods (and similar designs), while reducing rifle sliding and hopping. When used with the optional rubber booties, PodPaws also reduce bounce and chatter on concrete or hard surfaces. PodPaws feature a clamshell (with O-ring) that fits around each rubber bipod foot. The clamshell can move within the PodPaw outer assembly, allowing each PodPaw pad to self-level on uneven terrain. Click HERE for more photos and field reports.
PodPaws inventor Kyle reports: “PodPaws can increase accuracy by allowing the bipod to recoil more like a bench rest rig instead of hopping after a shot and getting stuck in the roots as you try to get back on target or sink in soft soil. They are called PodPaws, will fit all Harris and similar bipods that use a foot like the Harris, install in seconds and require no modification to the bipod. On June 23rd, I shot a 197-6x at 1,000 yards and my shooting buddy fired a 197-10x on the same relay using PodPaws. FTR shooters and F-Open shooters that want a more portable rig as well as varmint hunters should take a serious look. They are made from 6061 aluminum. PodPaws sell for $50.00 per set with a $5.00 shipping fee per set (lower 48 US only), or see me at a match in OK, NM, TX or AR. You’ll find more info on our website, Zephyrdynamics.com.
Details of Swiveling Inner Clamshell:
AccurateShooter Forum members K. Hill and Milanuk have used the PodPaws and agree they function very well:
“These PodPaws really help prevent flexing of the bipod springs that cause vertical stringing. They helped me hold about 4-5″ vertical at @ 1000yds. I was shooting straight .284 with 162 A-Max. If I remember correctly, Kyle and I went #5 & 6 at TX State Champ (F-Open) using PodPaws. I was very happy. Got my Master Classification card the other day as a result. Great product!” –K. Hill
“Got some PodPaw rubber booties in from Kyle the other day… at first blush I must say they seem to solve the main ‘problem’ I had w/ the PodPaws, that being that the metal bottoms tend to slide all over the place on a hard surface such as a paved firing line or a concrete or wood bench. With the booties installed… I can lean into the ‘pod to ‘pre-load’ it a little to stabilize it and minimize the hop a good bit. That and they don’t make as much racket ‘clacking’ on a concrete firing line.” –Milanuk
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