With the price of premium scopes approaching $3500.00 (and beyond), it’s more important than ever to provide extra protection for your expensive optics. ScopeCoat produces covers that shield scopes with a layer of neoprene rubber (wetsuit material) sandwiched between nylon. In addition to its basic covers, sold in a variety of sizes and colors, ScopeCoat has a line of heavy-duty 6mm-thick XP-6 covers that provide added security. CLICK HERE to review the full line of ScopeCoats on Amazon (#ad).
Triple-Thickness XP-6 Model for Added Protection
The XP-6 Flak Jacket™ is specifically designed for extra protection and durability. The 6mm-thick layer of neoprene is three times thicker than the standard ScopeCoat. XP-6 Flak Jackets are designed for tall turrets, with sizes that accommodate either two or three adjustment knobs (for both side-focus and front-focus parallax models). To shield an expensive NightForce, March, or Schmidt & Bender scope, this a good choice. XP-6 covers come in black color only, and are available for both rifle-scopes and spotting scopes.
The heavily padded XP-6 Flak Jacket is also offered in a Zippered version, shown at right. This is designed for removable optics that need protection when in storage. The full-length, zippered closure goes on quick-and-easy and provides more complete protection against dust, shock, and moisture. These quality XP-6 scope covers are available on Amazon for $21-$38 (#ad).
Special Covers for Binos and Red-Dots ScopeCoat offers other specialized protective products, including oversize covers for spotting scopes, protective “Bino-Bibs” for binoculars, rangefinder covers, even sleeves for small pistol scopes and red-dot optics. There are also custom-designed covers for the popular Eotech and Trijicon tactical optics.
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. Bullet Central — Save 7% Site-Wide
⏺ Save on ammo, bullets, brass, dies, actions, optics, barrels, and more
Bullet Central is a great source for products for competitive shooting and game hunting. Bullet Central carries top products and now you can save 7% off EVERYTHING with code FCLASSJOHN7. This is a great time to pick up components, actions, and more and save money on items you rarely see on sale.
2. CDNN Sports — Ruger American Gen II with Scope, $599.99
⏺ Great deal on modern hunting rifle with Bushnell scope
Need a rifle for your fall hunt? Save $199 on this Ruger American Rifle at CDNN Sports. For $599.99 this gray-stocked rifle comes complete with a 4-12x40mm Bushnell hunting scope, and 20″ fluted barrel (with brake). Choose .204 Ruger, .223 Rem, .243 Win, .308 Winchester, or .450 BM chamberings. In addition, for the same $599.99 price, there are versions with FDE tan stock or green stock and 16.1″ or 16.4″ barrels offered in .223 Rem, 300 Blackout, and .450 BM. All these Ruger American Gen II rifles come with 4-12x40mm Bushnell scope and rings, adjustable trigger, and Cerakote metal finish.
3. Creedmoor Sports — Peterson Cartridge Brass Sale
⏺ Large selection of strong, long-lasting cartridge brass
Peterson crafts quality, long-lasting made-in-USA cartridge brass. Right now you can get major savings with the Peterson Brass Sale at Creedmoor Sports. You’ll find a wide selection of cartridge types, many offered at 15% Off — a significant discount.
4. Natchez — Reloading Press and Press Kit Sale
⏺ Major savings on reloading presses, combo kits, and progressives
Natchez is running a big Reloading Press and Press Combo sale. Save up to $155 on Press Combo sets from RCBS, Hornady, and Lyman. These combos can include press, scale, priming tools, powder measures and more. There are also deals on multi-stage progressive presses from Lee and Hornady. And if you just need a single-stage press, there are big savings on RCBS, Lee, Redding, Lyman, and Hornady presses. For example, you can get the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme for $199.99, $42 off the regular price.
5. Midsouth — .308 Cal 168gr BTHP Bullets, 250 for $64.99
⏺ Good .308 practice bullets for just $26 per 100
Quality .308-caliber bullets can be expensive. If you practice frequently with a .308 Win or .30-06 rifle, consider these Classic Match Bullets from a major American bullet-maker. These bullets are a good choice for Garand or Modern Military rifle shooters who practice often. And the price is great — just $64.99 for 250 bullets. That works out to just $0.26 per shot. NOTE: If you want to test these bullets first, you can get a 25-count Sample Pack for just $9.00.
⏺ Top choice for PRS/NRL competition, plus 15% Off Code
For NRL22 or PRS/NRL matches, you’ll want a FFP scope with 0.1 Mil clicks. While you can spend over $2k on a suitable optic, we suggest getting the Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56mm for $799.99. This has good glass, a handy EBR-7C “Xmas Tree” reticle, and great owner reviews: “You cannot find a better scope for this price. Great glass and built sturdy with 34mm tube”; “Best bang for your buck. Clear glass, turrets track extremely well”; “[Great] for NRL22 … consistently repeatable when dialing for distance. Highly recommend.” To make this deal even better, EuroOptic offers free 2-day shipping, PLUS you get 12% Off with Code VTX12. That lowers your net cost to $703.99, a $96 savings.
7. Palmetto State Armory — TaurusTX 22 .22 LR Pistol, $249.99
⏺ Amazingly low price on rimfire pistol with good accuracy and ergonomics
With .22 LR rimfire pistols you can enjoy target shooting for a fraction of the ammo cost of centerfire handguns. And the low rimfire recoil is good for developing your shooting skills. Right now, the nicely-designed TaurusTX 22 Pistol is on sale at a bargain price — just $249.99. This gray-framed pistol has a good ergonomic grip and a crisp trigger. Owners report the TX 22 is very reliable and quite accurate.
Having a reloading scale with a built-in trickler makes loading faster and more efficient. If you need a compact scale, consider this Reloading Basic ERS2000 Electronic Scale (#ad). This unit reads up to 2000 grains with 1/10th grain accuracy. The included powder trickler mounts securely on the top of the blue scale housing. This ERS2000 scale comes with a convenient powder tray plus check-weights. NOTE: This unit has a power cord that plugs into a wall socket — it is NOT battery-powered.
9. TargetSports USA — Self-Inking Stamp for Targets, $5.99
⏺ Handy tool to stamp your own 2″ bullseyes on target
Are you tired of buying targets or wasting expensive printer ink just to shoot holes in paper? Consider this Self-Inking Target Stamp. With an easy-to-fill ink reservoir, you can stamp a grid of multiple targets or add 2″ red bullseyes to a printed target. NOTE: This target stamp is listed at 51mm, so it makes bulls 2 inches in diameter.
10. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Hinged Ammo Box Sale
⏺ Good plastic ammo boxes with hinged lids that open completely
Built for stacking and available for wide range of cartridges, Frankford Arsenal Hinge-Top Ammo Boxes (#ad) work well for factory and/or hand-loaded ammunition. These boxes have a good hinge that prevents the lid from inadvertently closing. The lid clasp also provides a secure closure. Made from high-density polymer, these boxes are strong and durable so they can be stacked.
As an Amazon affiliate, this site can earn revenues through sales commissions.
Today, .30-06 M1 Garands and classic military rifles will fill the firing lines at Camp Perry. The National John C. Garand, Springfield, Vintage and Modern Military Match (GSMM) concludes today, Sunday, August 4, 2024. (See CMP Camp Perry 2024 Calendar.) Some participants will shoot just one rifle type, but there is also a combined GSMM 4-Gun Aggregate. This GSSM Agg encompasses a series of position shooting matches on NRA SR targets at the CMP Nationals. Match scores will be posted on the CMP National Matches Results Page.
This video shows the Garand Match at Camp Perry. The rifles are still the same a decade later…
The annual GSMM event is one of the most popular events at Camp Perry, drawing participants from around the nation. One of America’s top GSSM shooters is Brian Williams, who was profiled in our Daily Bulletin. The 4-gun Aggregate includes Garand, 1903 Springfield/1917 Enfield (or similar bolt rifle), M1 Carbine, and AR-type rifle for “Modern Military”. Remarkably, Brian won the GSMM 4-Gun at the CMP National Matches in Camp Perry three years in a row — the inaugural 2017 4-Gun Agg, plus 2018 and 2019. Below, Brian offers some thoughts on the classic wood-stocked rifles used in GSMM competition: M1 Garand, 1903 Springfield, and M1 Carbine.
M1 Garand Service and Maintenance
Shooting Sports USA (SSUSA) published an excellent article on Service and Maintenance of M1 Garand Rifles. This offers some smart tricks, such as using smoke from burning masking tape to darken the front sight post. There is also an older SSUSA article that covers basic cleaning and servicing and also explains how to upgrade the performance of your Garands. READ Article HERE.
M1 Garand Disassembly, Cleaning, and Lubrication
This Brownells video shows how to disassemble your M1 Garand.
This TekMat video explains how to clean and lubricate your M1 Garand.
Recommended M1 Garand Service Manuals
Among the many M1 Garand manuals available, we recommend the CMP’s U.S. Rifle, Caliber .30, M1: ‘Read This First’ Manual. This booklet covers take-down, reassembly, cleaning, lubrication, and operation. The manual comes with CMP rifles or can be purchased for $3.25 from the CMP eStore. The author of Garand Tips & Tricks says: “It’s one of the best firearms manuals I’ve seen and I highly recommend it.”
The Classic Wood Guns of CMP 4-Gun Competition
Perspectives on M1 Garand, M1903A3, M1917, and M1 Carbine
CMP 4-Gun ace Brian Williams provides perspectives on the “Wood Gun” game, with suggestions on how to improve your performance with the M1 Garand, M1903 Springfield, M1917 Enfield, M1 Carbine, and other 20th Century military rifles. Brian explains what to look for…
Q: What should one look for when acquiring older rifles for CMP 4-Gun Games — M1 Garand, M1903/1903A3, M1917, M1 Carbine? What are realistic budgets for these firearms? What kind of accuracy can one expect? What upgrades are important?
Brian: All of these military surplus rifles are out there, but they are getting harder to get your hands on. And, just like everything else, the prices continue to rise. Not that long ago you could get your hands on a M1 Garand for four or five hundred dollars. In today’s market they are usually about double that price. But understand that these rifles are all unique and all have a story to tell. No two are alike, or have the same story. Just like the guns themselves, there are fewer and fewer dedicated gunsmiths for these vintage rifles. But I promise if you look for a good smith, they are out there and they are some of the most interesting people you will ever meet.
M1 Garand — Of the four (4) centerfire guns I shoot in the CMP games, my favorite has to be the M1 Garand. There were over 6 million of them produced in a very short time period, and every single one has its own unique story, and that is just cool. M1 Garands are capable of good accuracy. I believe that a well-maintained M1 with at least a replacement barrel is capable of shooting between 1 and 1.5 MOA.
M1903A3 Springfield — I find that the sights on a M1903A3 are a little easier to see than the sights of the M1903, but both are very accurate rifles. Like most military rifles in the current climate the prices have risen dramatically, but there are some gems out there that can be had for far less than $1000. The nice thing about the Springfield rifle is that almost all of the accuracy than you would want can come from just replacing a worn out 80-year-old barrel. In terms of accuracy, I think a good M1903A3 can shoot 1 MOA most of the time.
M1917 Enfield — This rifle is the newest of my collection and it shoots very well, with just a new Criterion barrel — again about 1 MOA with iron sights. These rifles are very close in price to the M1903 Springfield. But if you do your homework and keep your eyes open, there are always great deals to be found. I actually prefer shooting the M1917 to my M1903A3, due primarily to the M1917’s cock-on-close bolt which allows smoother cycling.
Public domain photo from Armémuseum (The Swedish Army Museum).
M1 Carbine — By 1945 there had been more M1 Carbines built than Garands. Today the Carbine can be harder to find, and due to the scarcity the price has shot up and most military M1 Carbines are going for more than $1000 at this point. The great thing about the M1 Carbine is that as long as you have a good ammo supply this rifle can shoot. Honest. I have had countless numbers of people that tell me that there is not an M1 carbine that will shoot. I can tell you from experience that they will, but you are going to have to put in some time with one to learn how to get it to shoot where you want it.
The M1 Carbine shoots the .30 Carbine round, with 110gr bullet going about 1990 FPS. In comparison, the .30-06 Springfield round used in the M1 Garand is almost three times more powerful than the .30 Carbine.
A while back, RifleShooter online magazine published a list of the purported Ten Best Bolt-Action Rifles of All Time. Ten classic rifle designs (including the Remington 700, Winchester Model 70, Weatherby V, and Mauser 98) were featured with a paragraph or two explaining their notable features.
“Best” Lists Stir Controversy…
These Top 10 lists are always controversial. While most readers might approve of half the entries, there are always some items on the Top 10 list that some readers would challenge. Here is RifleShooter’s Top 10 list. What do you think? Are there some other bolt-actions that are more deserving?
1. Springfield M1903
2. Mauser 98
3. Winchester Model 70
4. Remington Model 700
5. Weatherby V
6. Sako L61/AV
7. Savage Model 110
8. Ruger M77
9. Tikka T3
10. Mannlicher-Schonauer
Forum member F-Class John is an avid F-Class competitor and expert handloader. John reviews reloading hardware and shooting-related products for his popular F-Class John YouTube Channel, which now boasts 500+ videos. John also does important product testing for AccurateShooter.com. Through his YouTube channel, John has reviewed many of the latest and greatest reloading tools and accessories. For today’s Video Showcase, we selected seven F-Class John product reviews. Products tested include Ingenuity Products Powder Dispenser, AMP Mark II Annealer, Multiple Joystick front rests, Micron Reloading Dies, SEB Neo-X and Rodzille T-Rex (with field tests),
If you like these informative videos, consider joining F-Class John’s Patreon Channel for live video meetings, more in-depth videos, and detailed explanations. Join Patreon via Patreon.com/fclassjohn for full length videos, live chats, and more.
Ingenuity Precision Automated Powder Dispensing System
The innovative new Ingenuity Precision powder dispensing system is a true rival to the popular AutoTrickler system. F-Class John worked with the team at Ingenuity Precision during the development of this advanced, computer-controlled powder dispensing system and he is impressed with the results. John shows the Ingenuity Products unit in action with a variety of popular powder brands. He also demonstrates how the system can be conveniently controlled via an App on your cell phone. If precision powder dispensing is your goal, you should watch this video start to finish. When fine-tuned to the powder type, this machine can deliver exceptionally repeatable results. It is now available for PRE-ORDER.
AMP Annealing Mark II DB Annealer
The AMP Mark II DB Annealer is the latest and greatest microprocessor-controlled induction annealing machine from Annealing Made Perfect in New Zealand. This machine provides precise, exact annealing for your cartridge brass. Precision annealing can both improve reloading consistency and extend brass life dramatically. We know some 30 BR shooters with AMP annealers who have reloaded their cases over 20 times. In this video F-Class John explains the features of the AMP Mark II DB machine and shows how to create a “profile” for your brass that can be logged in the machine’s memory.
Rifle Front Rest Reviews — For F-Class and Benchrest
If you need a front rest for Benchrest or F-Open competition, this is a must-watch video when you are starting to shop. F-Class John reviews the features of numerous modern joy-stick front rests: SEB Neo-X (2:00 time-mark), SEB Min-X (tripod rest, 10:10 time-mark), 21st Century Hybrid Rest (19:54 time-mark), Rodzilla T-Rex (26:13 time-mark), Lenzi (33:58 time-mark), Caldwell Fire Control (37:26 time-mark). John has shot off most of these rests and his describes optional features on the products. The price range is significant — from about $249.99 for the Caldwell to $2000.00+ for some of the premium rests.
Micron Micrometer Seating Dies from Bullet Central
Micron dies are made with high quality and superb functionality. If you are looking for a premium micrometer-adjustable seating die, the Microns are definitely worth considering. These dies are offered by Bullet Central for a wide variety of cartridge types from .22 up to .30 calibers. Along with standard cartridge types such as .284 Win, 7mm WSM, 7mm RSAUM, .308 Win, and 300 RSAUM, Micron makes seaters for popular competition cartridges such as 22 GT, 6mm PPC, 6mm BR, 6 Dasher, 6 BRA, and 6 GT. At $325.00, these Micron dies are very pricey, but you can use Code MICRON15 at Bullet Central to save 15% on your Micron die purchase.
SEB NEO-X and Rodzilla Raptor Front Rests
This video covers two outstanding front joystick rests, the SEB Neo-X and the Rodzilla Raptor. Both of these rests work great for both benchrest and F-Class shooters, centerfire and rimfire. Build quality is outstanding for both rests. Tester F-Class John observes: “Both are great units and user preference will really dictate which to get. I own both and find they give me consistent target acquisition.” To learn more about these two excellent front rests, visit TheRodzilla.com and/or SEB Rests USA.
AutoDod IDOD Powered Neck-Turning Machine
Here is F-Class John’s review of the impressive AutoDod IDOD machine, the most sophisticated neck-turning machine on the planet. This F-Class Products machine uses twin precision cutter tips to turn case necks inside and out quickly and efficiently, with superior precision. The cases are held securely in a precision-machined spindle attached to an electric motor. Twin blades move precisely during the cutting process, milling the necks inside and out. The turned necks come out perfect every time, with the shoulders trimmed exactly (with doughnut removed) as well.
Bix’N Andy Dakota Triggers
This video reviews the popular Bix’N Andy Dakota Triggers sold by Bullet Central. These triggers can do double duty — working for competition AND field use. Starting at $199.99, the Dakota triggers offer excellent performance for the price, and there are models suited for popular factory actions including Remington, Tikka, Sako and more. These triggers are available with integrated safeties. The Dakota trigger is also built to perform in all weather conditions, a nice feature for hunting rifles. For most of the Bix’N Andy Dakota triggers, the pull weight adjusts from 0.88 lbs (400 grams) to 4.41 lbs (2000 grams).
This video includes a range demo segment where John shows how Dakota triggers function in two of his match rifles. If you think a Bix’N Andy Dakota trigger will work for you, use code FCDAKOTA20 to save 20% on the Dakota purchase price for a limited time.
“Science tells us that exposure to continuous noise of 85 dB for eight hours is enough to cause permanent hearing loss, and worse, spikes of 130 dB and more can result in permanent hearing damage instantly.” Source: NRA Blog.
The Risk of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can be progressive and irreversible. If you are a shooter, this is serious business. As the NRA Blog cautions: “You may not even realize you’re harming your hearing. Hearing loss occurs gradually, and can go effectively unnoticed until symptoms become severe. By then, the damage is done.”Effective hearing protection is a must whenever you are shooting firearms or when you are in the vicinity of gun-shots. For ultimate protection, we recommend a good set of tapered foam earplugs, topped by ear-muffs. However, there are situations when you may prefer lighter-weight hearing protection that can be quickly removed. For example, if you are standing well behind the firing line as an observer, or if you are working as a rangemaster or waddie some distance away from the shooters.”
Sound Levels for Common Noises:
9mm Luger pistol: 160 dB
Jet aircraft engine (near): 140 dB
.22 LR pistol: 134 dB
Normal human pain threshold: 120 dB
Noisy Nightclub: 110 db
Riding Motorcycle at 65 mph: 103 db
Power Lawnmower: 95 dB
Hearing damage possible: 85 dB (sustained for 8+ hours)
Ringing Telephone: 80 dB
Normal conversation: 60 dB
What about suppressors? If you use a suppressor is it OK to dispense with hearing protection? Not really. Even the most effective suppressors, on the smallest and quietest calibers (.22 LR), reduce the peak sound level of a gunshot to between 110 to 120 dB. To put that in perspective, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), that is as loud as a jackhammer (110 dB) or an ambulance siren (120 dB). For normal caliber handguns and rifles, suppressed sound levels routinely exceed 130 dB, just shy of OSHA’s “hearing safe” threshold of 140 dB. Accordingly, we recommend use of hearing protection even when shooting suppressed.
Compact, Low-Profile NRR 27 dB-Rated Ear Muffs
Many hunters and competitive shooters prefer low-profile ear muffs. As these typically have a lower Noise Reduction Rating, perhaps NRR 22-27, we recommend running earplugs under muffs. If you use low-profile electronic muffs, such as Howard Leight Impact Sport Muffs, you should still be able to hear range commands even with plugs underneath.
Another good option for hunters and range visitors are hearing bands, basically earplugs connected with a semi-rigid plastic band. These banded products provide “quick access” hearing protection for hunters. You can keep them handy around the neck while spotting game, and then insert the plugs before shooting.
Howard Leight MAX NRR 33 Earplugs, Just $8.44 for 20 Pairs
These Howard Leight NRR 33 Max-1 Plugs are your Editor’s favorite foam earplugs. Between shooting, motorcycling and mowing lawns, I probably have Howard Leight foam plugs in my ears 3-4 days a week. They are comfortable and the flared outer edge helps the NRR. You can get 20 pairs for $8.44 on Amazon. There is also a Max-30 corded version, with the same excellent 33 dB Noise Reduction Rating. Get five pairs of Max-30 Corded Plugs for $5.99 on Amazon, or 100 pairs of Max-30s for $27.99.
Note, if you prefer thin, light-weight earmuffs, we recommend running earplugs underneath for double protection while shooting firearms (or when you’re on the firing line). Sound experts tell us that running plugs and muffs together can effectively improve your effective noise reduction by 4-7 dB NRR.
Watch this video to see how a sound suppressor (aka “silencer”, “moderator”, or “can”) is constructed, start to finish. It’s more complicated than you might expect — there are quite a few stages in the process. The video below shows the fabrication of a SilencerCo Octane 45 suppressor:
SilencerCo writes: “What, exactly, goes into making a silencer? It may be more than you’d expect. From cutting metal to chemical baths, to extensive quality control every step of the way, our streamlined process is more than just a few steps. Watch our newest video, HOW IT’S MADE: Octane 45, to catch a glimpse behind SilencerCo’s doors.”
How Loud Are Unsuppressed Rifles?
Firearms Are Loud — 140 dB to 175 dB. ASHA explains: “Almost all firearms create noise that is over the 140-dB level. Exposure to noise greater than 140 dB can permanently damage hearing. A small .22-caliber rifle can produce noise around 140 dB, while big-bore rifles and pistols can produce sound over 175 dB. Firing guns in a place where sounds can reverberate, or bounce off walls and other structures, can make noises louder and increase the risk of hearing loss. Also, adding muzzle brakes or other modifications can make the firearm louder. People who do not wear hearing protection while shooting can suffer a severe hearing loss with as little as one shot[.]” Source: ASHA, Recreational Firearm Noise Exposure.
How Much Does a Good Suppressor Really Reduce Firearm Sound Levels?
That depends on the rifle, the cartridge, and the effectiveness of the suppressor. American Hunter explains: “Suppressors retard the speed of propellant gases from the cartridge that rapidly expand and rush out of the barrel. It’s these gases that produce the loud boom that’s heard for miles. A suppressor’s series of internal baffles slows these gases so they are not all released at once, thereby muffling the sound.” Many good commercial suppressors can achieve 30-35 dB sound suppression. However, Zak Smith of Thunder Beast Arms says: “There are a bunch of manufacturers who publish values that are not reproducible, or use an ad-hoc test instead of a mil-spec test. In many cases we’ve tested the exact same suppressors they’ve advertised with 30-40 dB reductions and found they are actually in the high 20s instead.”
Again, for this reason, we recommend that hunters use ear protection, such as electronic muffs, even when shooting suppressed.
Bushnell Match Pro ED 15×56 Binocular with MRAD Reticle
Bushnell’s impressive Match Pro ED 15×56 binoculars are designed for precision and competition rifle shooters. These 15-power, high-magnification binoculars offer ED Prime glass and a proprietary, rotating Shot-Call MRAD reticle. This reticle allows fast shot calls and corrections — something important for PRS/NRL competition. Bushnell says these new 15×56 binoculars, when mounted securely, have “enough power to effectively replace your spotting scope with a wide field-of-view that puts less stress on your eyes and allows you to more easily observe projectile flight.”
Early prototype versions of the Match Pro ED 15×56 binocular proved their worth in PRS/NRL competition. Bushnell pro shooter Robert Brantley has used the Match Pro ED binocular in PRS matches where he won four consecutive Tactical Division titles. In this video, Brantley explains the key features of Bushnell’s 15X, reticle-equipped Match Pro ED binoculars:
“The … Match Pro binos offer the perfect setup for spotting and calling shots on the range,” said Brantley. “They offer … the ability to fine tune corrections with the Shot-Call reticle. It truly does offer the best of everything and I’m not ever going back to shooting without them.”
Two important features of the Match Pro ED binoculars are the Shot-Call reticle and BridgeSet Stabilizer. The offset MRAD reticle is designed for target sizing, ranging and follow-up shot correction. The reticle has a dedicated focus adjustment and can be rotated for leveling after IPD (interpupillary distance) adjustment. Users can lock in their preferred IPD with the integrated bridge-lock, which ensures the binoculars are set for quick use.
This unit has some cool features. The BridgeSet IPD stabilizer provides a barrel angle stop that keeps your inter-pupillary distance constant in the field. A first of its kind, the BridgeSet is like a zero stop for your binoculars. These binoculars also have dual adjustable diopters to keep both barrels perfectly focused. This is important because many folks have slightly different vision in their left vs. their right eyes.
Bushnell’s 15-power Match Pro ED binoculars boast fully multi-coated ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) Prime objective lenses and BaK4 Abbe-Koenig roof prisms with PC3 dielectric phase coatings to ensure 92% light transmission. These Match Pro ED binoculars also feature Bushnell’s EXO-Barrier for high resolution regardless of weather conditions. A rugged magnesium housing protects the internal mechanisms while IPX5 waterproof sealing shields the optics from moisture. Another very good feature is that you can mount a tripod adapter to either the front or rear bridges based on your preference. That’s handy. These binoculars weigh a hefty 56 ounces (3.5 pounds), so you’ll definitely want to mount them on a tripod.
These Bushnell Match Pro ED 15×56 binoculars are available for $699.99 at EuroOptic.com and other leading vendors. Plus EuroOptic is currently offering FREE shipping with orders over $250.00. The Match Pro ED 15×56 binocular is backed by Bushnell’s 20-year Lifetime Ironclad Warranty. CLICK HERE to see full product profile on Bushnell.com.
Do you have an Eliseo Tubegun that you use for sling-shooting competitions, but would like to try your hand at F-Class Open matches? Well here is a low-cost, yet very effective add-on that can transform your TubeGun into a serious F-Open rifle. The bolt-on rails also work great for load development if you want to use a front rest with 3″-wide front bag for greater stability and repeatability.
Competition Machine’s Gary Eliseo is a very smart designer as well as a talented shooter. The inventor/builder of the popular Competition Machine Tubegun chassis systems, Gary offers a bolt-on bag-rider accessory. Gary call this his PickleFork fore-end extension. The Pickleforks are rails that fit to the sides of the tubular fore-end/handguard on his chassis systems. This allows you to use a pedestal-style front rest for F-Class competition.
Pickleforks also provide a much more stable platform for load testing, varmint hunting, or any kind of rest-assisted precision shooting. These PickleForks transform a Tubegun into an ultra-stable, straight-tracking rig when used with a competition-style front rest.
Gary explains: “Now you can have the same super low-boreline, long ‘wheelbase’ and vertical sides of our innovative F1 F-Class chassis system for your tube chassis. The new PickleForks attach directly to the sides of the F-Class/Tactical fore-ends, no modifications are required. They are very rigid with no flex or twist and make the rifle track like it’s on rails.” The new Eliseo Competition Machine PickleForks are offered for a very reasonable $70.00 per pair, with Cerakote finish. (You get two metal units, one for each side of the fore-arm). For more information, visit www.GotXRing.com or call (928) 649-0742.
Product Tip from EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
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. Creedmoor Sports — American Bullet Company Sale
⏺ Great deals on .224 and .308 bullets for training
Creedmoor Sports offers American Bullet Company bullets, made in the USA by major manufacturers. The “practice” bullets are factory seconds, sold at very attractive prices– up to 50% compared to first-run offerings. You may want to sort these practice bullets by weight and/or base-to ogive measurement. We think these are a good choice for M1 Garand, M1A, and 1903 Springfield shooters running .30-06 or .308 Win chamberings. And the .224 Cal 77gr Practice bullets are excellent for service rifle shooters. NOTE: There are also first-run (non-blem) 155gr and 175gr .308 Caliber “Match” Bullets on sale.
⏺ Excellent, rugged rifle case at a very good price
When flying or driving it’s vital to protect your rifles. A good hard case option (at a great price) is the APACHE 9800 Weatherproof Protective Rifle Case. On sale for $149.99, this 53″-long case is $190.00 less than an equivalent-size Pelican case. Constructed from durable polypropylene, this quality hard case can protect long guns from from impact, moisture, and dust. The built-in purge valve equalizes pressure so you can open the case after changing elevations. NOTE: Case interior dimensions are 50⅜” by 13⅝”.
3. Grafs.com — Frankford Arsenal F-1 Press, $103.99
⏺ Versatile press, good primer exit, plus built-in light
Here’s a handy, single-stage press with some cool features. The Frankford Arsenal F-1 press has an open front for easy case placement, plus a built-in LED lamp at the top. And after decapping, spent primers go straight down a tube into a handy, clear, twist-off catch cylinder (as on a Forster Co-Ax). We think this would be an excellent secondary press used for decapping or bullet seating. Priced at just $103.99 at Graf & Sons — this press is a GREAT deal, but act quick, supplies are limited. NOTE: This press does NOT have primer seating capability — you must prime cases with a separate tool. Also, the power cord for the LED light is NOT included. CLICK HERE for full Frankford Arsenal F-1 Press Review.
4. CDNN Sports — Winchester .22 LR Wildcat, $193.67
⏺ Fun rimfire rifle complete with optic — good owner reviews
Here’s a fun semi-auto .22 LR rifle at a crazy low price — $193.67 complete with a mounted Red Dot Reflex optic. That’s a steal for a reliable rimfire rig for plinking and NRL22 matches. The Winchester Wildcat takes Ruger 10/22 mags, and has some great features, such as field-removable lower receiver, ambidextrous controls, integral Picatinny rail, and rear barrel access. It has a good trigger and shoots well. In many respects the Wildcat beats the Ruger 10/22 while costing a lot less. If you don’t need the optic, you can get a basic Wildcat for $179.99 with Strata camo stock or $157.66 with OD Green stock.
5. Natchez — Norma TAC-22 .22LR Ammo, 50 rounds, $3.49
⏺ Very good .22 LR ammo at extremely low price — GREAT VALUE
If you love .22 LR rimfires and want quality ammo at an ultra-low price, grab some Norma TAC-22. At $3.49 for 50 rounds, this is a true bargain, yet the TAC-22 is good enough for NRL22 matches as well as fun target shooting. We’ve shot this Norma ammo and been very satisfied. You’ll be hard-pressed to find better .22 LR ammo at anywhere near this price. Don’t delay ordering — at this price, we expect this TAC-22 ammo will sell out soon. NOTE: On the Natchez website there is a reference to $0.17 per round. That is a TYPO. You get 50 rounds for $3.49, which works out to SEVEN cents per round ($0.0698 to be exact).
6. Amazon — Midland-EX37VP Radio Kit (Set of 2), $49.99
⏺ Quality Walkie-Talkies with good range and special Emergency functions
Having a good 2-way communication system is vital when hunting or wilderness hiking. And a pair of walkie-talkies really helps during shooting practices when a buddy goes downrange to set targets. A very good 2-Way radio system is the Midland-EX37VP E+Ready Emergency Two-Way Radio Kit (#ad). These walkie-talkies have a 26 mile range and feature 22 FRS (Family Radio Service) channels, along with channel scan. With this kit you get vital E+Ready Emergency functionality, plus NOAA weather alerts — important in the event of a natural disaster.
7. Amazon — Caldwell AR-500 Steel Targets, starting at $14.92
⏺ Great deals on durable AR500 steel targets — watch video below right
Caldwell’s bright, easy-to-see steel targets come in multiple shapes and sizes for competition, training, and recreational use. Made of AR-500 grade hardened steel, these bright yellow targets can withstand thousands of rounds. Rated up to a 3000 fps impact velocity and a 3500 ft-lb impact energy, these targets come in seven styles and sizes with three hanging solutions. These bright yellow Caldwell AR500 Steel Targets (#ad) are on sale now on Amazon, starting at just $14.92 for the 5″ Gong Target.
8. Amazon — Deyace Extra Large Shooting Mat, $37.99
⏺ Nice, relatively big shooting mat with good padding
When shooting prone, you need a good shooting mat. The Deyace Extra Large padded shooting mat (#ad) is a great value for just $37.99. Measuring a generous 78″x28.5″, this XL mat has nice padding for elbows and knees, and the mat folds up nicely for transport. This mat is offered in four colors: Green, Tan, Tan Camo, and Black. For transport, we like this mat’s integral straps and carry handle.
How many times have you grabbed your electronic earmuffs only to find the batteries are dead. To avoid the hassles (and cost) of battery replacement, consider Walker’s Rechargeable Razor Ear Muffs (#ad). These rechargeable muffs have an estimated 80 hours of run time. That’s enough to get through several DAYS at the range. Then you can recharge the muffs conveniently at home or in your vehicle. To hear range commands clearly, the muffs have HD speakers. Plus there’s a handy audio jack. These muffs are comfortable and boast a 21 dB Noise Reduction Rating (NRR).
10. Amazon — 6 Inch Calipers w/ Extra Large Screen, $29.98
⏺ Big screen is a big plus with these Digital Calipers
Every handloader can use a good set of digital calipers (#ad). With an extra large, high-contrast LCD display, these Jiavarry digital calipers show bigger numbers that are easier to read. That help ensure you don’t make mistakes. These calipers have a good Lithium battery and offer ample 0-6 inch (0-150mm) measuring range with ±0.02 mm/0.001″ resolution.
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With the price of premium scopes approaching $3500.00 (and beyond), it’s more important than ever to provide extra protection for your expensive optics. ScopeCoat produces covers that shield scopes with a layer of neoprene rubber (wetsuit material) sandwiched between nylon. In addition to its basic covers, sold in a variety of sizes and colors, ScopeCoat has a line of heavy-duty 6mm-thick XP-6 covers that provide added security. CLICK HERE to review the full line of ScopeCoats on Amazon (#ad).
The heavily padded XP-6 Flak Jacket is also offered in a Zippered version, shown at right. This is designed for removable optics that need protection when in storage. The full-length, zippered closure goes on quick-and-easy and provides more complete protection against dust, shock, and moisture. These quality XP-6 scope covers are available on Amazon for $21-$38 (#ad).
Today, .30-06 M1 Garands and classic military rifles will fill the firing lines at Camp Perry. The National John C. Garand, Springfield, Vintage and Modern Military Match (GSMM) concludes today, Sunday, August 4, 2024. (See 
The Risk of Hearing Loss
