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April 24th, 2024

Pistols at Perry — Registration INFO for 2024 Nat’l Pistol Matches

Camp perry bullseye pistol championship

Camp perry bullseye pistol championshipThe CMP has opened Registration for the 2024 National Matches at Camp Perry, Ohio. CLICK HERE for Pistol Games Matches INFO Page.

In 2024, the CMP Pistol Matches at Camp Perry will include Air Pistol Nat’l Championships, Small Arms Firing School, M9 EIC Match, Rimfire Pistol Matches, Centerfire Pistol Matches, Revolver EIC Match, .45 Pistol Matches, National Trophy Matches, GSSF Glock Nat’l Challenge, Military/Police Pistol Match, and 1911 As-Issued Match.

Since the turn of the 20th century*, Camp Perry has hosted major marksmanship events. While the rifle competitions get the most coverage, the National Matches also include bullseye pistol competition. Bullseye pistol shooting can bring nearly a thousand competitors to Camp Perry each summer, as part of the CMP National Championships. For these Camp Perry pistol matches, targets are set at 25 and 50 yards. The shooting position is standing, with most events firing one-handed in slow fire, timed fire, and rapid-fire.

Since their inception over a century ago, the National Matches have become a major shooting sports festival with over 4,500 annual participants. Held at the Camp Perry Nat’l Guard Training Base, the National Matches now include both indoor and outdoor events. Adult and junior athletes are welcome.

2024 Camp Perry Pistol Schedule | Pistol Online Registration | Pistol Registration Form PDF

CLICK HERE for CMP National Pistol Matches INFO PAGE »

Camp Perry Pistol bullseye

Camp Perry Bullseye Pistol Competition
Camp Perry is synonymous with the oldest and most prestigious annual trophy matches in our nation’s history. And in a venue renowned for service rifle matches, the sport of precision pistol is no less important, no less challenging, and no less respected. The National Trophy Pistol Matches is all about traditional handgunning — the stance, the intense concentration, and of course, the one-handed grip. It’s all unmistakable as the game of Bullseye Pistol. Every year there are no fewer than 24 separate match trophies for the top Bullseye Pistol shooters, both military and civilian. And the very best will claim National Match Trophies and receive the President’s 100 Tab.

This video shows .45 ACP centerfire pistol competitors at Camp Perry

NTT National Trophy Team Pistol Match Camp Perry Gold Cup
Civilians and military shooters competed together at the 2019 NTT Pistol Match.


* The first National Matches at Camp Perry were held in 1907. SEE: A Short History of Perry and the National Championships by Hap Rocketto.
This content is Copyright 2024 AccurateShooter.com. No reproduction on any other website is authorized. Use of this content without payment of licensing fees is a violation of Federal law.

Permalink Competition, Handguns, News No Comments »
April 23rd, 2024

Ten Essential Tips for Concealed Handgun Carry

Beretta CCW Ten Tips Concealed Carry Guide Instruction book

Do you often carry a concealed handgun? Then you can benefit from Beretta’s FREE 15-page e-book, Ten Essential Tips for CCW Holders. This eBook, in handy PDF format, helps gun owners select an appropriate handgun (and holster), understand legal obligations and responsibilities, and train effectively with the firearm. This short PDF eBook offers many useful tips to consider, in particular for gun owners who are contemplating the pros and cons of everyday carry for themselves.

CLICK HERE for 10 Essential Tips for CCW Holders »

As the Beretta CCW booklet says, “Carrying a concealed handgun requires a certain amount of confidence. You need to be confident in your knowledge of laws and regulations. You have to have confidence in your accuracy, and you need to trust that you can carry a gun effectively, securely and comfortably. If a gun is a burden for you to carry, you probably won’t.”

Surprising Facts About Actual Defensive Handgun Use
You may be surprised to learn when and how handguns are actually used for self-defense. Most defensive uses are at very short range and the incident only lasts a matter of seconds. You need to be prepared, and train to be proficient drawing and aiming your weapon. And remember, shooting is a last resort, when a safe retreat is not available.

55% of gunfights take place in 0-5 feet.
20% of gunfights take place in 5-10 feet.
20% of gunfights take place in 10-21 feet.
95% of gunfights take place in 0-21 feet. (Source: FBI)
The average man can cover 21 feet of ground in 1.5 seconds.
The average gunfight is over in 3-5 seconds.
3 to 4 shots are usually fired.
Most gunfights take place in low-light conditions.
On average, one shot in four strikes someone.

Here are two (2) sample pages from Beretta’s CCW eBook.

Beretta CCW Ten Tips Concealed Carry Guide Instruction book

Beretta CCW Ten Tips Concealed Carry Guide Instruction book

Beretta CCW Ten Tips Concealed Carry Guide Instruction book

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April 16th, 2024

Wheelgun Trio — Miculek Tests S&W, Colt, & Ruger Revolvers

Jerry Miculek smith wesson colt python wheelgun ruger revolver showdown
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.
Jerry Miculek Revolver showdown comparison S&W Colt Ruger

Colt Python (Nickel), 6-rd .357 Magnum/38 SPL, 6″ Barrel.
Jerry Miculek Revolver showdown comparison S&W Colt Ruger

Ruger Speed Six, 6-rd .357 Magnum/38 SPL, 3″ Barrel.
Jerry Miculek Revolver showdown comparison S&W Colt Ruger

Jerry Miculek Revolver showdown comparison S&W Colt RugerTesting 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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April 15th, 2024

Bargain Finder 447: AccurateShooter’s Deals of the Week

AccurateShooter Deals of the Week Weekly Bargain Finder Sale Discount Savings

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. Palmetto SA — Stoeger STR-9 Pistols, $199.99 w/$50 Rebate

stoeger str-9 str-9c 9mm luger pistol sale factory rebate
After rebate, incredible deal on very good 9mm pistols

German gun-maker Stoeger makes excellent pistols. Accuracy and reliability is very good and we like the trigger better than the Glock. Right now 9mm Stoeger STR-9 pistols are on sale at Palmetto State Armory for just $249.99. That’s a great deal — but it gets even better! Through April 30, 2024, Stoeger has a $50 Mail-in Rebate. That lowers your net cost to just $199.99 — a third of the price of a Glock. For this same $199.99 price choose one of three models: Standard STR-9 (4.17″ bbl, 15+1), Compact STR-9c (3.8″ bbl, 13+1), and Sub-Compact STR-9sc (3.54″ bbl, 10+1).

2. Creedmoor Sports — Anniversary 45 Days of Deals

sale discount product
Attractive prices on wide variety of products

Creedmoor Sports is marking its 45th Anniversary this month with a major sale on a wide variety of products including scopes, reloading presses, dies, shooting accessories, competition sights, plus bullets and brass. CLICK HERE to see all the current sale items. If you are looking for brass, many types of quality Peterson and Starline brass are on sale now.

3. Grafs.com — Frankford Arsenal F-1 Press, $122.99

frankford arsenal f-1 single stage press
Versatile press, good primer exit, plus built-in light

Here’s a handy, single-stage press with some cool features. The new Frankford Arsenal F-1 press has an open front for easy case placement, plus a built-in LED lamp at the top (great for inspecting cases). 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. This intro price — just $122.99 at Graf & Sons — is a great deal. NOTE: This press does NOT have priming capability — you must prime cases with a separate tool. Also, the power cord for the LED light is NOT included. For more details see Frankford Arsenal F-1 Press Review.

4. Midsouth — Rifle Basix Triggers and Trigger Components Sale

Rifle Basix trigger, Howa, CZ, Marlin, Ruger, Winchester spring replacement
Trigger assemblies for Rem, Winchester, Ruger, CZ, Marlin and more

Rifle Basix makes a wide variety of trigger components for custom rigs as well as factory rifles. There are complete trigger sets for Rem 700 and Howa/Weatherby types. In addition there are upgraded parts for factory triggers including: Savage, Ruger, CZ, Marlin, and Winchester and more. Right now at Midsouth you can get major savings on the full range of Rifle Basix triggers. Get complete Rem 7/700 trigger sets starting at $124.99, with Ruger and Marling upgrades for just $89.99.

5. EuroOptic — SIG Sauer Optics Sale, Save up to 42%

sale discount product SIG Sauer optic scope
Huge savings on scopes, binoculars, laser rangefinders, and red dots

Right now EuroOptic.com is running a big sale on SIG Sauer optics products. You’ll find savings up to 42% on quality scopes, binocs, and rangefinders. Along with the items shown above there is a great combo deal with a Sierra 3BDX 3.5-10x42mm riflescope w/KILO2800 Rangefinder for just $449.99, a $200 savings. This is a great package for game hunters.

6. Harbor Freight — Apache 9800 53″ Rifle Hard Case, $169.99

rifle case 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 $169.99, this 53″-long case is $150.00 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”.

7. Bullet Central — ThorroClean Bore Cleaning System, $21.49

thorroclean sale
ThorroClean is ultra-effective, and favored by many top shooters

You can clean rifle barrels faster and more efficiently with the modern twin-bottle ThorroClean System from Bullet Central. We’ve been told by championship-class shooters that this stuff works exceptionally well — way better than most other conventional bore cleaners. The ThorroClean System has two elements. First use the bore cleaner fluid. Then follow with the bore flush liquid. This unique two-part system is extremely effective at removing both carbon residue and copper.

8. Amazon — Caldwell AR-500 Steel Targets, starting at $16.99

Caldwell AR500 steel yellow target gong
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 $16.99 for the 5″ Gong Target.

9. Midsouth — SnapSafe TrekLite TSA Pistol Lock Box, $29.99

Snapsafe treklite XP FDE pistol handgun lock box safe
Good, lightweight pistol box for travel — TSA approved lock

When traveling by air with a handgun, the pistol must be in a case with a TSA-approved lock. The Snapsafe Treklite XL Lock Box complies with TSA rules. It will hold two compact pistols or one larger pistol with magazing (which must be UNLOADED). Made with a strong polycarbonate case, This lightweight (2.2 lb) lock box is one-third the weight of a steel box. Right now the Treklite XL FDE Lock Box is just $29.99 at Midsouth, 25% OFF the regular price.

10. Amazon — NEIKO 6″ Digital Calipers, $24.99

neiko digital caliper sale
Good, reliable digital calipers at attractive price

Every handloader needs to measure shoulder bump, cartridge length, and other dimensions. A good set of calipers is essential. If you need calipers, check out the NEIKO Electronic Digital Calipers (#ad). The tool’s body/frame is constructed of finely polished stainless steel with a knurled thumb roller and locking screw that ensures smooth sliding and accurate positioning. If you’re getting started in reloading or are looking for a back-up set of calipers, this is a good option.

As an Amazon affiliate, this site can earn revenues through sales commissions.

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April 15th, 2024

Lanny Barnes Wins Lady Division at NRA World Championships

lanny barnes oakley nra world shooting championship 3-gun pistol rifle

The NRA World Shooting Championship was held April 3-6, 2024 at Camp Atterbury, Edinburgh, Indiana. Presented by Walther, this challenging event involved rifle, pistol, and shotgun shooting with a dozen disciplines — from short-range action pistol to long-range rifle. Topping the field among lady shooters was the talented Lanny Barnes, a 3-Time Olympic biathlete and professional 3-Gun competitor. We congratulate Lanny for her great 2024 performance at the NRA Championship, which earned Lanny the title of NRA World Shooting Lady Champion!

lanny barnes oakley nra world shooting championship 3-gun pistol rifle

Lanny provided this report on the NRA World Shooting Championship event:

“This match definitely is challenging. I was fortunate to shoot with the greatest shooters on the planet and we battled challenging weather, tough stages, foreign to us firearms while shooting 12 different disciplines that tested your skills in picking up a firearm and making the most of it. We shot rifles, pistols, and shotguns and anything from short range to long range to speed to accuracy to shooting on the move to moving targets and everything in-between.

lanny barnes oakley nra world shooting championship 3-gun pistol rifle

If you want to see how well rounded a shooter you are, come out and give this match a shot. Congrats to all who competed and survived this tough event. I want to especially give a shout out to my squad. I learned so much from your guys. My shooting sisters Dianna Muller, Becky Yackley, and Gabby Franco who despite working their tails off with life’s challenges, they are out there pushing themselves hard. Awesome to shoot with Tristin Burris who is just a beast and is really improving her shooting and then there is the guys, Jerry Miculek and Bruce Piatt among many legends who are not only great guys and incredibly humble, they are a rare breed of champions that has set themselves apart and will go down in the history books as the greatest shooters in the world.

lanny barnes oakley nra world shooting championship 3-gun pistol rifle

I also don’t think I’ve laughed as much in the last year as I did the last few days with my squad. Thank you guys. Thank you to the NRA for bringing this match back and focusing on shooting sports and to all those you volunteered and put those into this match. Huge shout out to Walther Arms for putting so much effort and great guns into this match.”

Above Lanny (aka “Lanny Oakley”) is shooting a stage at the NRA World Shooting Championships. Lanny notes: “It was a PRS Stage using a Ruger Precision .308 shooting 8 targets at 411 yards. You were allowed 3 sighted shots but couldn’t touch the scope. I ended up using all 10 shots but was happy to get the hits. Thanks to Ruger for sponsoring the match. I actually won one of their precision rifles from this match[.]”

lanny barnes oakley nra world shooting championship 3-gun pistol rifle

Permalink Competition, Handguns, Shooting Skills 1 Comment »
April 14th, 2024

Historic Colt Python Revolvers — Serial Numbers 2, 3, and 5

Colt Python Snake NRA Museum low serial number pistol
Photos courtesy NRABlog.com.

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.

Colt Python Snake NRA Museum low serial number pistol

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 Royal Blue model for just $125.00! Factory-engraved models started at $245.00, according to this Colt advertisement from June, 1955:

Colt Python Snake NRA Museum low serial number pistol

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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April 12th, 2024

2024 CMP Bianchi Cup Next Month in Missouri

NRA Bianchi Cup Missouri Hallsville Green Valley Dough Koenig Jesse Harrison Duff
Photo from DougKoenig.com.

Mark your calendars for the return of the Civilian Marksmanship Program’s Bianchi Cup International Pistol Tournament! The second longest-running pistol championship in the world, the 2024 CMP Bianchi Cup is set to fire May 21-24, 2024 at the Green Valley Rifle & Pistol Club in Hallsville, Missouri.

Registration for the 2024 Bianchi Cup is now open. Learn more about the 2024 CMP Bianchi Cup and register today at TheCMP.org/bianchicup.

2024 bianchi pistol tournament Green Valley Missouri CMP

The Bianchi Cup is comprised of four events, including:

The Practical Event, where competitors fire at distances from 10 yards to 50 yards under varying time limits from the shooting line.

The Barricade Event, where competitors fire at targets on either side of the barricade at different distances and under varying time limits from within shooting boxes and behind barricades.

The Falling Plate Event, where competitors fire at eight-inch round steel plates arranged in banks of six at distances from 10 to 25 yards under varying time limits.

The Moving Target Event, where competitors fire from within shooting boxes at distances ranging from 10 to 25 yards at a target moving from left to right, with the target exposed for six seconds.

Competitors shoot from both standing and prone positions and are also required to shoot with both strong and weak hands at various stages. There are no makeup shots in the Bianchi Cup, adding to the challenge.

2024 bianchi pistol tournament Green Valley Missouri CMP

The annual competition is popularly called the Bianchi Cup — from the trophy named for one of the founders, John Bianchi. Since it’s launch over 30 years ago, the match has become the richest handgun tournament in the world.

NEW FOR 2024! A Rimfire Division has been added to the Bianchi Cup to encourage participation from juniors not shooting centerfire pistols as well as adults who want to warm up for the Bianchi Cup in a less expensive manner. The Rimfire Division offers a memorable Bianchi Cup experience at a fraction of the ammo cost. This division will encompass the same basic rules for each of the current setups — Open, Production/Production Optics, Metallic and Revolver.

Bianchi Cup Open Class Pistol — Features in Review

The Bianchi Cup has been called the most prestigious pistol tournament in the world. Due to the high accuracy required in each stage of the Bianchi Cup, the tournament is considered one of the most difficult handgun championships on the planet.

NRA Bianchi Cup Missouri Hallsville Green Valley Dough Koenig Jesse Harrison Duff

Bianchi Cup — the Richest Handgun Match on the Planet

Over the past 30+ years the Bianchi Cup has become the richest handgun event in the world, with cash and prizes for the best scores on four stages of fire for both revolver and semi-auto pistol divisions.

Bianchi Cup — Classic Course of Fire
The Bianchi Cup is a combination of Speed and Accuracy. Competitors shoot from both standing and prone positions and are also required to shoot with both strong and weak hands at various stages. Stages may combine stationary and moving targets. The Course of Fire consists of four separate matches:: Practical, Barricade, and Moving Target, and Falling Plates. Each of the four events requires 48 shots to complete. 480 points are possible on each event. Three of the four are scored on the NRA tombstone P1 target. You must hit in the 10-ring or inner X-Ring on EVERY shot to shoot a “clean” 1920.

Bianchi Cup pistol target tombstone silhouette doug koenig

About the Green Valley Rifle & Pistol Club
The Green Valley Rifle & Pistol Club, formerly the Chapman Training Academy, has been the annual host of the Bianchi Cup since its inception. The origin of the club days back to the 1930s and has played a major role in the creation of the practical shooting discipline. The facility holds several ranges, including two movers, a Bianchi barricade, two 50-yard Bianchi practical ranges, a 250-plus yard rifle range and a falling plates range. CLICK HERE for range information.

Permalink Competition, Handguns, News No Comments »
April 9th, 2024

Great FREE Resource — Shooting Sport USA Articles Archive

Shooting Sports USA

NRA publication Shooting Sports USA (SSUSA) has thousands of articles online, all free for the reading. Many of these stories have been written by top competitors, including National and Olympic Champions. You will find SSUSA articles spotlighted every week on the NRA Competitive Shooting Facebook page. We recommend you bookmark that page as a valuable resource. Here are four notable SSUSA articles that have been featured on Facebook this month. Go to SSUSA.org to see even more current articles, with new content every day.

Shooting Sports USA Mirage Read optics scope

Here is an insightful, fairly lengthy 1850-word article about the phenomenon we call mirage. The article explains how and why mirage appears, how it can best be monitored, and how mirage can indicate both wind velocity and direction. Top competitors follow the adage “Mirage is your friend”, because mirage can often be the most important indicator of wind variables — sometimes even more important than wind flags. “The mirage is more sensitive than the flags since it has less inertia and momentum”, wrote Desmond T. Burke, in his book, Canadian Bisley Shooting, an Art and a Science.

Well worth reading, this SSUSA article talks about the properties of mirage. Here is a sample:

“Mirage — can make all the difference between a shot landing squarely in the X-ring or being victimized by an undetected downrange breeze. The true power of mirage is found in its ability to betray the subtlest of breezes downrange. Its fluid movement… can not only provide wind direction, but speed as well.

Typically, the ability to detect mirage is maximized on warm, sunny and sultry days. Expect mirage to be most pronounced in mid-morning or early afternoon, although it ignores these rules with regularity[.]

Mirage is extremely powerful at identifying winds of less than 12 mph, particularly those gentle breezes subtle enough to not even bother moving the flags.

When there is no wind, or a gentle head or tail wind, mirage will appear to be ‘bubbling’ directly up from the ground. Many call this ‘boiling’, and it is probably the easiest of all to detect.

As a general rule of thumb, when wind speed increases, overall height of the waves produced by the mirage is reduced. Large peaks and valleys in the waves mean that particular mirage is being driven by a very slight breeze. Conversely, crest size is reduced with wind speed, making it harder and harder to detect, until the mirage disappears entirely at somewhere around 12 miles per hour. In other words, the taller mirage’s waves appear, the slower the breeze.”

South Texas Mirage Reading article
Diagram from SouthTexasShooting.org.

Shooting Sports USA barrel maintenance break-in procedures Glen Zediker

Authored by the late Glen Zediker, this article covers barrel break-in procedures. It is particularly useful for dealing with factory barrels. We CAUTION readers — with outstanding, hand-lapped custom barrels from top barrel-makers, you may want to do very little break-in — clean sparingly and keep barrel heat low. Do NOT use abrasives aggressively. On our Krieger and Brux barrels, we simply wet-patched every 2-3 rounds for 20 rounds and the barrels shot superbly from the start with minimal fouling. But for factory barrels, a moderate break-in process may prove beneficial.

Zediker explains: “Lesser, lower-cost barrels are going to have more pronounced … imperfections within the bore[.] These imperfections are largely tool marks resulting from the drilling and rifling processes. And if it’s a semi-automatic, like an AR-15, there might be a burr where the gas port was drilled. The goal of break-in is to knock down these imperfections, thereby smoothing the interior surface.”

Shooting Sports USA pistol cartridge kaboom safety blowout

As one who has experienced a cartridge case-head blow-out with a 9mm pistol, this Editor is very conscious of the risks involved and the damage a blow-out can do to the pistol, to the magazine, and (worst of all) to the shooter. Even with new brass, the possibility of a case failure is always present. And even if the case remains intact, we’ve seen primer failures that create a dangerous jet back towards the pistol shooter. That’s why shooters should always employ protective eyewear whenever they shoot.

Shooting Sports USA revolver forcing cone repair damage

We love our wheelguns, but there’s no doubt that forcing cone damage can occur, particularly with hot loads and if your cylinder-to-barrel gap is excessive. This article explains how to inspect your revolvers, and how to mitigate the likelihood of forcing cone damage. The article also explains how to clean your revolvers properly. This is very important to avoid build-up of lead and powder residues.

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April 8th, 2024

NRA Pistol Markmanship Training Course Available Online

nra pistol basic shooting training course
This 12″ Bullseye Pistol Diagnostic Target helps improve handgun marksmanship. The target diagnoses common problems with one-handed shooting based on shot impact zones. While this target is designed for righties, left-handed shooters can use the target too. Just observe the opposite tips.

Do you know someone who wants to get started in pistol shooting? Here’s a helpful resource. The NRA now offers its Basics of Pistol Shooting Course in an online format. That makes it easy to cover the “classroom” phase of the course on your own time. The $60.00 online course includes 11 step-by-step lessons (to be followed by live range training). CLICK HERE to enroll in online Pistol Training Course. (Note: An initial NRA age verification screen may appear first).

nra pistol basic shooting training course

Train Online, Then Register for a Range Session
For the NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting course, Phase 1 is conducted in an online environment, completed on your own time (cost is $60.00, non-refundable). After successfully completing the online exam, students can register for Phase 2, the instructor-led training session. Phase 2 is conducted at your local range with an NRA-Certified Instructor. NOTE: There will normally be an additional fee for Phase 2. You must successfully complete BOTH Phase 1 and Phase 2 in order to receive your NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting course certificate.

nra pistol basic shooting training course

Designed and developed by experts to accommodate busy schedules, the web-based course takes a blended learning approach to firearms training with both online and physical components. Students have 90 days to work through 11 online lessons before registering for Phase 2, the NRA Certified Instructor-led phase at a local range.

“Thanks to our online courses and network of more than 125,000 NRA Certified Instructors, it has never been easier to learn basic firearm skills,” said Kyle Weaver, NRA General Operations Exec. Director. The NRA offers other online training courses at Onlinetraining.nra.org. Along with pistol course, these offerings include Rifle Training, Shotgun Training, a Range Safety Office (RSO) course, and a Range Development and Operations course.

Know someone getting started with handguns? Here is a useful video focusing on safety:

Permalink - Videos, Handguns, Shooting Skills 1 Comment »
April 7th, 2024

Optics-Ready Handguns — Popular New Pistol Options

Shooting Industry magazine october 2022 optics read pistol handgun gunsafe

The October 2022 issue of Shooting Industry Magazine covers the increasing popularity of “optics-ready” handguns. These pistols have slides configured to mount Red Dot optics. Some of these new handguns are sold with the Red Dot optics pre-installed, ready to go. For example, the Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 9 Shield Plus (above) is sold with a Crimson Trace Red Dot optic mounted on the slide.

Shooting Industry magazine october 2022 optics read pistol handgun gunsafe
The new FN Five-seveN MRD is an optics-ready pistol chambered in 5.7x28mm. (Image: FN America)

For IDPA and gun games, a Red Dot sight can definitely help with rapid target acquisition. And for a defense gun, the Red Dot assists aiming at night, even in the dark. And unlike a pistol-mounted laser, the Red Dot does not have a bright, visible beam that pinpoints the gun owner’s location.

The Shooting Industry article explains how optics-equipped pistols have become much more popular: “It wasn’t too long ago optics-ready handguns were little more than a novelty. But today, it’s difficult to talk about the handgun segment without delving into the increasing number of guns coming from the manufacturers with optics already installed, or ready to accept one.”

Shooting Industry magazine october 2022 optics read pistol handgun gunsafe

Massad Ayoob, a respected shooting instructor and gun writer, says optics-equipped pistols are now very popular: “Carry optics are burning up the handgun market today. Some of my fellow instructors tell me they have general defensive shooting classes where more than half the students show up with guns wearing carry optics, a compact version of Red Dot sights. Police departments are going to them [optics equipped pistols] in droves.” READ FULL Story.

If you are interested in a wide selection of optics-ready handguns, check out the Modern Carry: Best Optics-Ready Pistols article in the CheaperThanDirt Blog. This highlights ten production pistols from Canik, CZ, FN, Hechler & Koch, Keltec, SCCY, SIG Sauer, Smith & Wesson, Springfield Armory, and Taurus. Below is the Taurus G3 T.O.R.O (Taurus Optic Ready Option), a full-frame pistol with 17+1 9mm capacity.

Shooting Industry magazine october 2022 optics read pistol handgun gunsafe

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April 5th, 2024

Buyer’s Guide to Insurance for Concealed Carry Permit Holders

CCW Law insurance

It is estimated that over 21.5 million Americans are currently licensed/permitted to carry concealed weapons.* And with the 2022 U.S. Supreme Court decision in NYSRPA v. Bruen, we can expect that number to increase significantly. That landmark case stated that the Second Amendment guarantees citizens the right to bear arms outside their homes.

CCW Carry permits license

There are now seven (7) major business entities which provide insurance coverage and legal services for CCW holders. These providers are listed below. We suggest, BEFORE you commit to any particular policy/membership, you comparison shop at least three different options. We also recommend you read the full 3400-word GunDigest Article that examines, in detail, the coverage offered by these seven companies:

U.S. Law Shield concealed carry ccw insurance u.s. law shield
U.S. Concealed Carry Assoc. (USCCA) concealed carry ccw insurance u.s. law shield
CCW Safe concealed carry ccw insurance u.s. law shield
Right To Bear concealed carry ccw insurance u.s. law shield
Armed Citizens Legal Defense Network (ACLDN) concealed carry ccw insurance u.s. law shield
Second Call Defense concealed carry ccw insurance u.s. law shield
Firearms Legal Protection concealed carry ccw insurance u.s. law shield

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Gun Insurance Program:

Attorney Fees and Expert Fees
The key benefit of any CCW insurance plan is coverage for attorneys fees. If you need a lawyer for a civil case or criminal defense, the fees pile up very fast. Good lawyers can charge $400-$500 per hour, and a trial can go on for many days. GunDigest explains: “If your case goes to trial you might find a bill that runs up to six figures.” You should check to see if a policy covers lawyer retainer, hourly fees, expert fees, AND potential damages.

Bail Bond Coverage
If you are involved in an incident, and an arrest is made, you want to avoid spending time in a jail cell. That’s why it’s important to have a CCW insurance plan that will quickly provide funding for bail bonds. As GunDigest notes: “bail-bond coverage is typically part of a sound concealed carry insurance policy”.

Multi-State Coverage
Gun laws vary among states, and state insurance laws vary as well. This affects the coverage an insurance program can and will provide. When choosing a policy, ask questions to determine how coverage may vary from state to state. With some programs you can purchase additional coverage for trips outside your home state. These can be time-limited for cost savings.

Policy Limits (Dollar Amounts)
When considering a CCW insurance program you need to look at the policy limits — the amount the program might pay to provide legal assistance and potentially settle a claim. You need to read the fine print here, just as you would with an automobile or home policy.

The detailed GunDigest article on CCW Insurance Coverage, notes that there are some additional factors to consider when choosing CCW Insurance:

“You’ll find there are other areas covered by some concealed carry insurance plans worth contemplating. Many of them fall within the policies themselves, however, some cost extra. In many cases, CCW policies go well beyond legal expenses and cover some other aspects you might not have considered:”

Crime Scene Clean Up
Negligent Discharge
Spouse And Family Self-Defense
Property Damage
Firearms Replacement
Work Loss Coverage
Personal Use Of Firearm (non-defensive)

* According to a recent estimate by the Crime Prevention Research Center (CPRC), over 21.5 million Americans are now licensed to carry a firearm in the United States. And the numbers are growing — the NRA-ILA posted that the number of concealed handgun permits reached 18.66 million in 2019 – a 304% increase since 2007.

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March 26th, 2024

Concealed Carry Items and Gun Accessories for Ladies

GunGoddess.com shooting apparel and accessories

Shooters cuff-links cufflinksGunGoddess.com features a variety of products and shooting accessories especially chosen for lady shooters. You’ll find colorful apparel, carry purses, holsters, and even jewelry crafted from bullet castings.

GunGoddess.com was started by Athena Means, an active IDPA and USPSA pistol shooter. Athena, whose husband Mike served 20 years in the military, was inspired to create the site after searching in vain for shooting apparel and accessories in colors other than black, green, and tan. Athena wanted something with more appeal to the feminine eye: “I set out to find fabulous products that women shooters would love, and bring them all together here. Ladies who love to shoot will find all the traditional gear they need, but in neon pink and leopard print instead of traditional black!”

GunGoddess.com shooting apparel and accessories
GunGoddess.com shooting apparel and accessories

GunGoddess.com Has Gift Items for All Members of the Family
Though it specializes in products for women, GunGoddess.com also offers gift selections that will work for gun guys as well. If you’re looking for a gift for a guy, you’ll find unisex holsters, range bags (for pistols), compact gun safes, ear muffs, shooting glasses, indoor concealment furniture, and more. There are many unique items on the GunGoddess webstore that will make great holiday gifts.

GunGoddess.com shooting apparel and accessories

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