In response to the rapidly growing number of first-time gun buyers in the USA, the NRA’s Education & Training Division is offering multiple Online Gun Safety Courses that can be done online at home. The six NRA Online Gun Safety Courses ARE:
Each course, lasting from one to eight hours, is available online at NRAInstructors.org. To Access the 0nline training options, first CLICK HERE. Then under the Heading “DISTANCE LEARNING”, you will see options. CLICK the small gray box at the left of the title to select the course. IMPORTANT — Next you MUST SCROLL to the bottom of the NRA webpage to SEARCH. Select your state or Zip code, then you will get a list of the moderated online courses in your area.
Here is the Procedure to Follow:
1. CLICK HERE to Access ALL Course Listings
2. Select a “Distance Learning” Course.
3. Scroll Down and SEARCH for your State or Zip Code.
4. Review Course Dates and Times.
For example, here are the listed NRA online safety courses for Texas only. Elsewhere (in other states), YOUR list will be different!
NRA ONLINE Training Courses Sample List
The listed “blended” courses typically involve an online lecture segment followed by hands-on training at a range at a later time. Though range time is an important part of the classes, there is still a wealth of knowledge available in the online programs. “The NRA recommends that all new gun owners seek professional training at the range, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a head start on learning the basics of firearm safety at home”, said Joe DeBergalis, Exec. Dir. of NRA General Operations.
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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. Peterson Cartridge — New Direct Sales, with 10% OFF
⏺️ Now buy cartridge brass direct from Peterson and save 10%
If you’re looking to grab some top shelf brass consider going straight to source with the Peterson Cartridge ‘Buy Direct’ Sale. Peterson brass is now available direct from the manufacturer and for a limited time you can save 10% on your entire purchase. This 10% Off promo is good through March 31, 2025. With direct sales you also get fast delivery.
2. Graf & Sons — Hornady Lock-N-Load Kit, $526.49
⏺️ Full-featured complete reloading system, now 10% Off
If you are getting started in reloading Hornady makes it easy with its Lock-N-Load Classic Deluxe Single Stage Reloading Press Kit. This combo, the most complete single stage reloading package Hornady offers, includes Single Stage Press, powder measure (with bracket), digital scale, case prep tools, powder trickler, bullet puller, priming tool, reloading manual and much more. This big kit includes 21 different tools — basically everything you need to reload except dies.
3. CDNN Sports — Walther Pistol Sale, plus 3 Free Mags with PDP
⏺️ Sale on centerfire and rimfire Walther handguns, FREE Mags or StopBox
We like the triggers, ergonomics, and accuracy of Walther handguns — both rimfire and centerfire types. And right now you can get major savings (up to 50%) with the CDNN Walther Pistol Sale. Plus, along with a major discount you can get 3 FREE Magazines with a Walther PDP model pistol. Or, with the purchase of a Walther P22 rimfire pistol you get a FREE StopBox locking case ($99 MSRP).
4. Amazon — Vevor 50″ Rifle TSA-Std Hard Case, $134.99
⏺️ Good waterproof hard case with wheels — great value (may be $107.09)
Protecting your firearms requires a good, tough transport case. The VEVOR 50″ Rifle Case features 3 layers of fully-protective foam, solid locking points, wheels, and a IP67 waterproof case. This VEVOR gun case meets all TSA gun case requirements, making it a good choice for marksmen and hunters who travel by air. At just $134.99 this is a good deal — cheaper than other sturdy, wheeled rifle cases of similar size. NOTE: This has bounced down to $107.09 multiple times on 3/17/2025 (See PHOTO). Try to grab one at that $107.09 low price.
⏺️ Quality Electronic muffs plus rest good for rifle sight-in
For sighting-in rifles and load testing a quality rest is important. One affordable option is the Birchwood Casey Alpha Shooting Rest. With a combo sale now at MidwayUSA you can get this Alpha Rest PLUS Walker’s Razor Slim Electronic Earmuffs ($60 value), both for just $139.99 total. This rest works well for sighting-in hunting and varmint rifles and it also can secure your rifle for cleaning and maintenance. This Birchwood Casey rest/muffs combo is now $120.00 off the regular MidwayUSA price — a 46% discount.
6. Midsouth — 2000 Rounds Aguila .22 LR Ammo, $114.99
⏺️ Good reliable rimfire ammo for just six cents a round
Here is one of the best deals on rimfire ammunition that we’ve seen in years. Right now at Midsouth, you can get 2000 rounds of Aguila .22 LR High Velocity 40gr ammo for just $114.99 on sale. As shipped in four 500rd boxes, that works out to just $2.87 per 50 rounds (6 cents per round). This Aguila ammo works well for both rimfire pistol shooting and rimfire rifle plinking.
Ever serious shooter should have a handy shooting mat that protects you and your gear on the ground. One very affordable and versatile option is the BZTAC Waterproof Tactical Foldable Shooting Mat (#ad). Lightweight, comfortable and water resistant, this mat has a closed-cell-foam interior plus a sealed surface layer that’s easily wiped clean. Fully extended this mat measures a big 75″ long x 22″ wide, yet weighs just 1.25 pounds. Folded in half it works for sitting or kneeling positions. Conveniently, this mat can fold up into a compact 15″ x 11″ rectangle that’s easy to store and transport.
8. Creedmoor Sports — Hornady One Shot Case Lube, $11.95
⏺️ Very effective and handy case lube favored by users
Are you looking for a easy way to lube a lot of brass without having to manually rub each case with lube? Try Hornady One Shot Spray Case Lube. This popular lubricant has no petroleum, teflon, or synthetic silicone ingredients so it will not contaminate your powder or primers. Just “spray and go” to prep cases for sizing (both in single stage and progressive presses). This One Shot lube is popular with handloaders from many disciplines — F-Class, ELR, PRS/NRL and more.
9. Amazon — Kynup 6″ Digital Calipers, $19.99 with Coupon
⏺️ Digital waterproof calipers for use at home and at the range
Every handloader needs a good set of calipers. One affordable option (now just $19.99 with coupon), is the Kynup 6″ Stainless Digital Calipers (#ad). These “waterproof” calipers have a highly visible screen plus a 6-inch (150mm) measurement range with accuracy to ±0.001 inches or 0.02 mm. The Splash Proof micrometer is constructed of stainless steel and has a strong frame with lockable head. Note: List Price is $29.99, but you can click a $10.00 Off coupon button to lower your net cost to $19.99.
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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.
⏺️ Build a good PRS/NRL rig (that can also hunt) for under $1000
Want to get started in PRS/NRL competition without spending a ton? Here’s a DIY option that can get you a competitive tactical rifle for under $1000 out the door. Choose a Howa M1500 barreled action and a MDT XRS Chassis, both available from Brownells. These Howa 1500 actions have a smooth-running bolt and excellent 2-stage HACT trigger. Choose from a variety of PRS-suitable chamberings including 6mm ARC, .243 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor (and more). The 6.5 Creedmoor barreled action is $409.99 while the MDT chassis is $549.95 so your complete rifle price, is just $959.94. Brownells also has complete Howa-action hunting rifles chambered in .243 Win, .270 Win, 7mm-08, 7mm PRC, .308 Win, and .300 Win Mag. Get a complete hunting rifle for $499.99 to $599.99 — quite a bargain.
2. EuroOptic — Vortex Optics 12% Off Site-Wide Sale
⏺️ Save 12% on Vortex scopes, spotting scopes, LRFs and more
If you’re in the market for a new scope, spotter, rangefinder, binoculars and/or other optics, check out the Vortex sale at EuroOptic.com. For a limited time, save 15% on most Vortex products when you use promo CODE VTX12. There is a wide selection of scopes available for both hunting and competition use, with FFP and SFP models. Vortex also makes very popular spotting scopes, binoculars, and rangefinders.
3. CDNN Sports — Walther P22 Target with StopBox, $244.56
⏺️ Very good .22 LR Target/Training pistol plus FREE security case
All shooters should have a quality .22 LR rimfire pistol with a good trigger, ergonomic grip, and excellent accuracy. With the Walther P22 Target Model, you can get all those things for just $244.56 at CDNN Sports, a great deal. Plus with your purchase (before 4/30/25) you get a FREE Walther Stop Box by mail-in rebate. The Stop Box ($99 MSRP) is a secure transport case with a programmable push button lock system. The P22 Target pistol is a nice rimfire handgun with a 5″ barrel plus forward ported compensator. The ergonomic grip has interchangeable backstraps.
4. KYGUNCO — Hot Deals on .22 LR Ammo, 6¢ to 10¢ per Round
⏺️ Great deals on rimfire ammo — many brands
KYGUNCO has discounted a wide variety of .22 LR rimfire ammo from many reputable manufacturers. You can get reliable, quality rimfire ammo for as little as $0.06 (six cents) per round. There are a wide variety of brands available including Aguila, CCI, ELEY, Federal, Fiocchi, Remington, and Winchester. Great deals include Federal 40gr Champion at $3.70 per 50rd box, and the competition-proven ELEY 38gr Hi-Velocity at just $6.66 per 50rd box.
5. Precision Reloading — FREE HazMat with $249+ Orders
⏺️ Spend $249+ to get FREE HazMat for powder and primers
We’re pleased that many popular powders such as Varget, H4350, and IMR 8208 XBR are now available again. In addition, more types of large and small rifle primers are in stock now. It makes sense to buy powder and primers now before the next supply shortage. As a bonus, if you spend $249+ with Precision Reloading, you can get FREE HazMat by using Code FREEHAZ at check-out. This is a good deal — other vendors charge up to $70 for HazMat. This FREE HazMat deal is good through 3/17/2025.
6. Palmetto SA, Blackhawk Shooting Mat/Rifle Case, $49.99
⏺️ Multi-Function Shooting Mat/Rifle Case now $100 Off
Here’s a great deal on a multi-function Mat/carry case. The Blackhawk Stalker Drag Mat Carry Case functions as a nice padded shooting mat, AND it serves as a rifle carry case and drag bag. Length is 50.5″ and width (in rifle case mode) is 9″. This mat/case is made from durable 1000 denier nylon and closed-cell foam. It has carry straps plus a shoulder strap.
7. Palmetto State Armory — AR15 Lower Receiver, $49.99
⏺️ Amazing Deal on quality AR lower receiver
With the election just a month away, and Biden/Harris slamming through anti-gun executive orders, you want to get that AR15 build started while you still can. If you need an AR lower, here’s a great deal. Palmetto State Armory (PSA) now has stripped AR15 lowers for just $49.99. With this lower as the core, you can build up your AR for any discipline you choose: 3-Gun rifle, service rifle competition, varmint rifle, or even “race gun” for the PRS Gas Gun Series. These PSA lowers are forged using 7075-T6 Aluminum and have a durable, mil-spec anodized hardcoat finish.
8. Creedmoor Sports — Sierra MatchKing Bullet Sale
⏺️ Big discounts (up to 25%) on match-winning Sierra MatchKing Bullets
Need top-quality bullets for your Palma rifle, Service rifle, or F-Class rifle? Then check out the Sierra Bullets Sale at Creedmoor Sports. Many popular bullet types are discounted including the competition-proven .223 69gr and 90gr MatchKings, 6mm 95gr and 110gr MatchKings, 7mm 180gr MatchKing, and .30-Cal 168gr, 169gr, 190gr and 220gr MatchKings.
9. Amazon — Waterproof 200rd Rifle Ammo Case, $49.99/$35.99
⏺️ Great high-capacity waterproof ammo transport case — three versions
Keep 200 rounds of ammo securely stored in this Waterproof Ammo Case (#ad), now $49.99 on sale. Made of high-strength ABS plastic, this 11.5″ x 9.5″ x 4.5″ ammo transport case can withstand harsh environments, resist impact, and protect against scratches. Shown above is the version that holds 200 .308 Win-sized rounds. If you are traveling long distances to a major match, this is a good option. The ammo is very secure with a foam base surrounding every round.
Another model holds 200 .223 Remington rounds in the same-size waterproof case. This .223 Rem version — great for varminters or service rifle shooters — is priced $35.99 on Amazon (#ad). There is also a $35.99 double-decker KingHardCase (#ad) that holds 350 rounds of pistol ammo.
10. Amazon — NEIKO 6″ Digital Calipers, $24.99
⏺️ 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.
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High-contrast targets make aiming and seeing bullet impacts easier. EZ2C Targets, a family business in Pennsylvania, has developed a series of very bright, high-contrast targets printed with eye-popping fluorescent red/orange, bright green, and Deep Black Inks. These are available from the EZ2C online store. A set of 11″x17″ Hi-Viz targets printed on quality white paper costs $11.95 for either 25 or 40 sheets, depending on target design. A wide variety of designs are available — Bulleyes, Grids, Silhouettes, and Diamonds as well as many specialty targets, including mini self-adhesive targets.
EZ2C Fun Challenge Targets
EZ2C’s Battleship Target (Style 22) would be great for precision rifles at 100 or 200 yards. The red circles are about 3/4″ in diameter. That’s 0.36 MOA at 200 yards. That’s a good test for an accurate rifle (and for any shooting pals who boast that their guns can shoot “1/4 MOA all day long”.) The Dartboard target is great for a two-man shooting competition. You can shoot the numbers in order, or for more challenge, shoot the red rings (for each number), from the outer diameter to the middle. Just as in a real darts game, there are many variations.
Here are some other EZ2C Targets. The pistol diagnosis target (second from left) shows how to correct your aim and hold, based on where your errant shots fall. The decreasing dots target is a fun challenge for rimfire cross-training. Set it at 200 yards for centerfire.
EZ2C also offers 20 types of 3.5″ x 3.5″ Mini stick-on targets. These are printed with Black Ink on Fluorescent Red or Green Self-Adhesive Label Stock.
Get Customized Targets for Your Club or Business
EZ2C targets can be customized with the name/logo of your gun club or business. This is an excellent way to promote your organization or store. Here’s a suggestion — have your gun club print up customized targets to award as prizes at shooting matches.
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The IWA Outdoor Classics event in Germany is Europe’s leading outdoor, hunting, and target shooting trade show. The event, often called the “Euro Shot Show”, ran February 27th through March 2nd, 2025 in Nuremberg, Germany. The 2025 IWA Outdoor Classics event showcased a vast collection of products for hunting, target shooting, and the outdoor adventure market. The IWA Outdoor Classics trade show is a huge event, drawing over 1,080 exhibitors from 53 countries. CLICK HERE for descriptions/images of over 500 products on display at the IWA show this year.
Manufacturers and vendors from the hunting, shooting sports, and outdoor segments showcased a vast range of products this year. From hunting, sport shooting, and airsoft firearms to optics and technologies, ammunition, knives, hunting accessories, clothing and outdoor equipment, there was plenty to discover in the nine halls at IWA Outdoor Classics 2025. IWA Outdoor Classics allows buyers and retailers from around the world to see thousands of products from hundreds of manufacturers.
Along with the firearms, optics, stocks, and reloading products, there were many booths featuring outdoor clothing, hunting gear, and shooting accessories.
Many VIPs attended the 2025 IWA Outdoor Classics event. Here is Joachim Herrmann, Bavarian State Minister for the Interior (Bayerischer Staatsminister des Innern).
Here is a stunning, custom Walther pistol with engraved, fancy blued metal and deluxe grip.
For more than 50 years, outdoor and shooting industry companies have come together in Nuremberg to showcase the products and services for hunting and shooting sports. This past week Europe’s leading outdoor trade show hosted more than 1,080 German and international exhibitors in nine exhibit halls. In addition, there was a wide variety of seminars and interactive demonstrations.
The 2025 IWA Outdoor Classics show was a great success. We look forward to next year’s event which will be held February 26 through March 1, 2026. Auf wiedersehen for now — see you next year!
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Rimfire .22 LR pistols are great training guns for both novice and seasoned shooters. The minimal recoil and reduced muzzle rise of .22 LR pistols makes them easy to handle, and fast to get back on target. This allows novices to build their basic pistol skills, and helps seasoned competitors upgrade their performance. Even experienced centerfire handgun shooters can improve their skills by cross-training with .22 LR pistols. We feature seven semi-auto pistol videos, with a bonus wheelgun video featuring the Colt King Cobra Target .22 LR Revolver.
Today’s Saturday Showcase features 7 videos covering a large selection of rimfire pistols. Along with these video reviews, serious shoppers should read some articles on the web. Pew Pew Tactical has a good online article that’s definitely worth reading: 9 Best .22 LR Handguns. As the author notes: “Every gun owner should own at least one .22 LR firearm. The ammo is ubiquitous, and affordable at around 5 cents a round.” And BackFire TV has published another good article covering eight popular .22 LR handguns.
Smith & Wesson Model 41 .22 LR Pistol Review
The S&W Model 41 is a classic American rimfire target pistol. Beautifully crafted, the Model 41 boasts a superb trigger, comfortable grip, and excellent accuracy. New or used, a Model 41 would be a fine addition to any firearms collection.
Browning Buck Mark Pistol Review
Taurus TX 22 Competition — Optics-Ready
The TaurusTX™ 22 Competition model is built on the same full-size polymer receiver as the Taurus TX 22 but has a newly engineered slide and barrel assembly designed to work with red dot optics. The Taurus TX 22 Competition features a “skeletonized” slide with a cutout between the ejection port to just behind the front sight. The mounting system allows the use of the following (but not limited to) sight models: Trijicon RMR, C-More STS 2, Vortex Venom, Doctor Noblex, Burris Fast Fire, Sightmark Mini, Holosun HS507C, Leupold Delta Point Pro.
Eight Popular .22 LR Pistols Reviewed
When initially shopping for a pistol, it’s wise to try a variety of guns from multiple manufacturers. You’ll want to try polymer vs. metal frame, iron sights vs. optics. And try to test-fire the pistols on the type of targets you’ll be using for competition and/or fun shooting. This helpful review video features eight (8) popular .22 LR pistols. In order of appearance these eight rimfire handguns are:
1. Browning Buck Mark Hunter (0:28)
2. Ruger SR22 (1:30)
3. Sig P322 (2:21)
4. Walther WMP (3:30)
5. Taurus TX22 Compact (4:36)
6. Smith & Wesson SW-22 Victory (5:48)
7. KelTec CP33 (6:56)
8. Ruger Mark IV (7:54)
Among the most popular .22 LR pistols are the Browning Buck Mark series. Buck Marks are very accurate and very reliable. This rimfire pistol is available in a variety of models starting at under $350.00. Reliable, accurate, and well-crafted, a good Buck Mark will serve you for a lifetime. The tester for the Sootch00 Channel says the “Browning Buck Mark UDX 22 [is] one of the highest quality production .22 LR pistols on the market.” This in-depth, 19-minute Sootch00 Channel review has been viewed over 560,000 times.
SIG P322 Comp Review by 22Plinkster
If you are looking for a well-crafted, .22 LR pistol for action pistol competitions, the SIG Sauer P322 Comp is an option you should definitely consider. The new .22 LR rimfire P322 Comp offers excellent ergonomics and 20+1 capacity, making it good for cross-training and fun rimfire shooting. Note how fast 22Plinkster can hit multiple targets with this new brake-equipped pistol. He observed: “The trigger is really nice and you just want to run it fast”. No question this rimfire pistol would be fun to shoot on steel targets.
Though it may look like a striker-fired pistol, the SIG P322 is a hammer-fired, single-action-only design (the hammer is enclosed by the rear of the slide). The P322 is blow-back operated with a fixed (non-tilting) 4″ barrel. This helps contribute to excellent accuracy and reliability.
S&W Victory Vs. Ruger Mark IV Pistol Shoot-Off
In this video, popular YouTube host 22Plinkster tests two rimfire pistols — the Smith & Wesson Victory and Ruger Mark IV. He favored the grips on the Ruger while preferring the S&W’s trigger. He felt the Ruger’s iron sights were best for precision work, but he noted that the green dot fiber optic sights on the S&W Victory worked better for speed work.
FN 502 .22 LR Tactical Pistol Review
The FN 502 is a modern, hammer-fired design with an optics-ready slide. The barrel is threaded for a suppressor. In this video, popular YouTube gun reviewer Colion Noir tests a FN 502 with suppressor. He was impressed, stating: “This is the best tactical .22 LR handgun I’ve ever shot.”
BONUS Wheelgun — Colt King Cobra Target .22 LR Revolver
In 2022 Colt introduced an impressive new rimfire revolver — the King Cobra Target 22 LR. Colt states: “From competition to plinking and small game hunting, this baby Cobra does it all and packs 10-rounds of .22 LR in its cylinder”. The King Cobra Target .22 LR is available with 4.25-inch and 6-inch barrel lengths, both with 1:16″ RH twist. Like the respected S&W Model 617, this Colt .22 LR wheelgun offers minimal recoil, great reliability, and a nice sight radius. In addition, if you shoot single-action slow-fire, the trigger pull is light and crisp — better than the vast majority of semi-auto pistols.
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The IWA Outdoor Classics, aka “Euro Shot Show”, is Europe’s leading outdoor, hunting, and target shooting trade show. The event opened today February 27th, and runs through Sunday, March 2nd, 2025 in Nuremberg, Germany. For the next four days, the Nuremberg metropolitan region will once again focus on hunting, target shooting, and the outdoor adventure market. The IWA Outdoor Classics is a huge event, drawing over 1,080 exhibitors from 53 countries. CLICK HERE for descriptions/images of over 500 products on display at the IWA show this year.
For more than 50 years, outdoor and shooting industry companies have come together in Nuremberg to present the latest products and services for hunting and shooting sports. For 2025, Europe’s leading outdoor trade show will host more than 1,080 German and international exhibitors in nine exhibition halls. In addition, there will be a wide variety of seminars, meetings, and interactive demonstrations.
Manufacturers and vendors from the hunting, shooting sports, and outdoor segments offer a vast range of products this year. From hunting, sport shooting, and airsoft firearms to optics and technologies, ammunition, knives, hunting accessories, clothing and outdoor equipment, there is plenty to discover in the nine halls at IWA Outdoor Classics 2025. IWA Outdoor Classics allows buyers and retailers from around the world to see thousands of new products from international manufacturers all in one convenient setting.
Rifles — Centerfire and Rimfire
Wheelgun Showcase at Korth Arms
Modern Scopes and Optics on Display
Suppressors and Ammunition
Along with the firearms, optics, stocks, and reloading products, there were many booths featuring outdoor clothing, hunting gear, and shooting accessories.
Official INTRO Video for IWA Outdoor Classics 2025
Headed to the 2025 IWA Outdoor Classics? Here’s an interactive map of Nuremburg, site of the event.
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Are you in the market for your first handgun, for target use or for self-defense? The Winchester Blog has a good article for handgun buyers. This story, “Things You Should Know When Purchasing Your First Pistol”, provides many smart tips that can help you choose the right handgun, and save money in the process. In addition, the article explains how to train with your new pistol and handle it safely. READ Full Article.
If possible, you should test a variety of different pistols, to determine which works best for you. Check the feel, the ergonomics, the sight picture, and the controls. And, if possible, test the pistols with live-fire at a range which rents samples.
How do you know if your choice is right for you?
Once you’ve narrowed down choices, try to get time shooting the pistol(s) you are considering. You can usually rent guns at commercial ranges. This is an excellent way to “try before you buy.” NSSF has a list of places to shoot[.] When looking for a range that rents firearms, an online search and then a phone call to confirm what options are available is a solid plan. If you have friends and family who own a model you are interested in, ask if they will go to the range with you so that you can try it.
Take pistols for a test drive
First, dry-fire and manipulate the pistol. Can you easily lock the slide open? Are the sights suited to your vision? Then, fire a magazine or two of ammo [in a supervised range facility]. — Winchester Blog
The Winchester Blog article lists techniques that can help you get the “feel” for a particular firearm:
1. Practice the 4 Rules of Firearm Safety and make sure the gun is empty.
2. [After confirming the gun is empty] manipulate the slide, safety, magazine release, and dry-fire.
3. Perform a dry or empty magazine change — make sure you can hit the release and also reload a new magazine easily.
4. Perform a draw, or if you’re at a range where that is not allowed, simply pick the pistol up off the table and bring it up to your eye level and align the sights. Do this a few times. Can you acquire the sights quickly?
5. How does the backstrap fit your hand? Can you get both hands on the gun with enough “purchase” that you can really grip it well?
This Winchester Blog article is by Becky Yackley. Becky has competed in 3-Gun, Bianchi pistol, Service Rifle, NCAA air rifle, smallbore and air pistol events around the world since 1989.
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Over 22 million carry permits have been issued in the United States according to a recent study. Overall 8.5% of American adults now have carry permits. Along with CCW permit holders, millions of other gun owners may carry defensive pistols in “open carry” states. Carrying a defensive pistol is a big responsibility. That’s why all those who carry handguns for self-protection should definitely practice regularly. For many, pistol practice is an indoor experience. Indoor ranges are most convenient for those who live near urban centers, where the biggest threats to public safety currently exist. This article covers indoor firearms training and the proper procedures you should follow at indoor ranges.
This Video Covers Basic Gun Range Safety Rules and Etiquette
FIVE IMPORTANT SAFETY PROCEDURES for Indoor Ranges
1. Follow the Three Fundamental Rules for Safe Gun Handling
ALWAYS keep the gun pointed in a safe direction. ALWAYS keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot. ALWAYS keep the gun unloaded until ready to use.
2. Follow ALL Range Officer Instructions
ROs are the first and final authority on any range and their decisions are generally final. Arguing with a Range Officer may just get you thrown out.
3. Don’t Bother Others or Touch Their Guns
Respect other shooters’ privacy unless a safety issue arises. Do NOT engage other shooters to correct a perceived safety violation unless absolutely necessary – inform the RO instead. NEVER handle or touch another shooter’s firearm without their permission!
4. Know Your Range’s Rules
Review and understand any and all range rules and requirements/expectations. For example, what is the range’s maximum rate of fire? Are you allowed to collect your brass?
5. Know What To Do During a Cease Fire
IMMEDIATELY set down your firearm, pointed downrange, and STEP AWAY from the shooting booth (or bench). Range Officers do not want shooters trying to “secure/unload” their firearms in a cease fire situation — they want the shooters separated from their guns instantly.
Double-Up on Hearing Protection When Shooting Indoors
Howard Leight states that Impact Pro muffs are “designed for handgun and pistol shooters looking for high NRR … for indoor ranges, covered ranges or other extremely loud shooting environments.”
When shooting indoors we recommend quality muffs with earplugs underneath, offering double protection. When inside an enclosed range, with other shooters blasting away right next to you, you really need effective hearing protection. But you also need to hear range commands and be able to communicate. That’s why we recommend electronic muffs with quality plugs underneath. We recommend the NRR 33 Howard Leight Max-1 Plugs. These tapered plugs are comfortable, easy to insert, and have a flared end for better sound seal.
On top of those plugs, run high-quality muffs. For indoor ranges where sound levels can be extremely high, we recommend Howard Leight Impact Pro Muffs. These offer an impressive 30 dB Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) and the effective noise reduction can be improved by 4 decibels or more by running plugs as well.* These muffs are pretty comfortable and offer Headphone Functionality so you can connect to your smartphone, MP3 player, or other audio device. These muffs are an Amazon’s Choice for $91.54.
* Four decibels may not sound like much, but remember the decibel measurement system is logarithmic, so four decibels is VERY significant. We have discussed the merits of “doubling up” hearing protection with Ph.D. sound engineers. They told us that a combination of muffs and plugs could reduce effective noise levels by up to five decibels compared to plugs alone. In addition, good muffs will block bone conduction sound energy better than plugs alone.
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Shooting USA TV will broadcast a great show today, 2/19/2025. Shooting USA’s Wednesday Night episode features the NRA World Shooting Championship held last year at Camp Atterbury. This unique competition features multiple disciplines shot with firearms supplied by sponsors. All of the guns were provided and when the match finished the stage firearms become prizes. There were also cash prize awards for the top Pro Class competitors. SEE NRA World Championship Program.
Shooting USA SHOW TIMES: This Shooting USA Episode airs Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at 9:00 PM Eastern and Pacific; 8:00 PM Central. If you miss the regular broadcast, you can stream the show online at any time on Vimeo for $0.99 per episode.
The 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!
The NRA World Shooting Championship
This championship is designed to test individuals through multiple different disciplines over a period of three days of shooting. Competitors compete in Professional and Amateur categories for cash and prizes of over $250,000. Walther and other sponsors supplied ALL firearms equipment and ammunition required for the 12 stages of competition.
To do well, competitors must be highly proficient in all shooting skills — rifle, pistol, shotgun, both rapid fire and precision. The stages were: Sporting Clays, Precision Standing Air Gun, NRA Americas Rifle Challenge, NRA Precision Pistol, FITASC, 3-Gun, Mid-Range AR-Tactical, Biathlon, SASS (Cowboy Action), PRS, Scholastic Action Shooting, and USPSA.
There were also seven (7) side matches with different disciplines including falling plates.
A.P. Lane’s Gold Medal-Winning Colt Revolver
This Colt Officer’s Model revolver, factory-fitted with a skeletonized hammer, belonged to legendary Olympic shooter A. P. Lane, who was known as the “Pistol Wizard”. Lane used this Colt Revolver to win FIVE Olympic Gold Medals — three in 1912 and two in 1920.
A.P. Lane was one of the greatest pistol shooters of his generation. He shot scores that were typically 25-50 points higher than those of his competitors. And he exhibited true Corinthian spirit. At the 1912 Olympics, Lane shared his match ammunition with another competitor who used that ammo to capture the Silver Medal (Lane won the Gold).
This revolver, factory-fitted with a skeletonized hammer, was used by American A.P. Lane in winning five Olympic Gold Medals in the 1912 and 1920 Olympic Games. It’s a .38 caliber, Officer’s Model centerfire revolver from the early 20th century. Olympian A.P. Lane’s Gun can be found in Gallery 13, Firearm Traditions for Today, at the NRA National Firearms Museum in Fairfax, Virginia. The Museum exhibit includes a panoply of Lane pieces – his revolver, his five Gold Medals, and the five Olympic certificates that went along with them.
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Watch Video History of the A.P. Lane Revolver
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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. Brownells — President’s Day Sale, 15% Off on Uppers, Lowers, Barreled Actions, Optics, Triggers and more
⏺️ Get 15% off orders of $250+ with code PRES15
You can get major savings on a vast variety of products with Brownell’s President’s Day Sale. If you spend at least $250, you can get 15% off with Code PRES15. This 15% savings applies to thousands of products site-wide on Brownells.com. On top of that 15% savings, many popular items have additional discounts including Crimson Trace Scopes, Geissele Triggers, Bergara Rifles, Colt Revolvers, and SIG Sauer Scopes.
2. Palmetto SA — SAR9T Sport 9mm Pistol, $199.99
⏺️ Save $300 off MSRP on good full-size 9mm pistol
This is a great deal for a modern, reliable 9mm pistol with better ergonomics than a Glock (at 40% of the price). The lightweight polymer-framed, striker-fired SAR9T pistol points naturally and has three interchangeable back straps to customize fit. We like the 20-degree grip angle which points well for most users. This version with 4.4″ barrel is a good choice for personal defense and IDPA-type matches. The listed $199.99 sale price is $300.00 off the original $499.99 MSRP. The slide has two threaded holes that allow an optic to be attached, but it does NOT have a removable plate like some newer pistols.
⏺️ Pre-order new Athlon compact Doppler Radar Chrono for April Delivery
Athlon’s new compact Rangecraft Velocity Pro Radar Chronograph costs $250 less than the popular Garmin Xero C1 Chrono. This new Athlon Chrono employs Doppler radar which offers many advantages. And since the unit is not attached to your rifle, it won’t affect tuning or harmonics. The new Athlon Rangecraft Velocity Pro measures bullet velocities from 65 FPS to 5000 FPS. This Athlon Doppler radar chrono should rival the Garmin chrono at a much lower price — $349.99 at EuroOptic vs. $599.99 for the Garmin Xero C1 Pro. The new Athlon Rangecraft Chrono should arrive in April 2025. You can pre-order now from EuroOptic.
4. MidwayUSA — Burris Fullfield E1 Scopes 30-40% Off
⏺️ Good, very affordable choice for varmint rifles
Here are good, reliable SFP 1/4-MOA scopes for hunting or varmint shooting. And you can get these optics for under $180 — a steal! Choose either the Burris E1 6.5-20x50mm SFP for $179.99 (40% Off) or the slightly smaller Burris Fullfield E1 4.5-14x42mm for $167.99 (30% Off). The 6.5-20X would be best for longer range, while the 4.5-14X would be lighter and more compact for field carry on a game hunting rifle. Both E1 scopes have a 1″ main tube and are protected by the rock-solid Burris “Forever Warranty”.
5. Midsouth — Hornady V-Max Bullet Sale, $19.99/100 and up
⏺️ Great tipped varmint bullet on sale in many sizes/calibers
Hornady makes some of our favorite tipped varmint bullets. These Hornady V-Max projectiles work great on prairie dogs, releasing high energy on impact — creating quite a show compared to ordinary jacketed projectiles. Right now Midsouth is running a big V-Max Bullet Sale with discounts up to 20%. V-Max bullets are offered in a wide range of bullet weights and calibers. Current caliber offerings include: .17, .20, .22, .257, .243 (6mm), .264 (6.5mm), .270, .284 (7mm), and .308. If you’re loading up for a spring varmint hunt, definitely grab some V-Max bullets now at a major discount.
6. Powder Valley — Primers in Stock, Small and Large Rifle
⏺️ Grab some top-quality match-grade primers now — large and small
7. Midsouth — Factory Brass Clearance Sale, Primed & Unprimed
⏺️ Great deals on unprimed pistol brass and primed pistol and rifle brass
Midsouth has great deals on pistol and rifle cartridge brass. Prices start as low as $0.12 per unit for Norma-brand .380 ACP. And there is a large selection of brass already primed — priced less than you might pay for unprimed cases. For example, PRIMED 6.5 Creedmoor brass is now just $61.99 per hundred! Unprimed brass on sale includes: .380 Auto, 9mm Luger (9x19mm), .38 Special, .44 Magnum, .45 ACP. PRIMED brass on sale includes: 9mm Luger, .357 Magnum, .45 ACP, .220 Swift, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.8 SPC, 300 Blackout, .300 WinMag, and .338 Lapua Magnum. NOTE: Some brass types come with FREE Delivery.
8. Amazon — Caldwell Stable Table Deluxe, $212.99
⏺️ Many positive user reviews — good set-up for varminting and home ranges
Need a good platform for shooting in areas other than organized ranges? Check out the Caldwell Stable Table Deluxe. A bolt in the base allows position adjustment of a single leg, aligning the tabletop so that it is parallel with the horizon. The central shaft, seat, and tabletop are able to pivot (rotate) around a center axis as a single unit while keeping the tabletop parallel to the horizon. This is great for varmint hunting. Owner reviews have been very positive.
9. MidwayUSA — Electronic Muffs with Walkie-Talkie, $59.99
⏺️ Dual-function electronic muffs — great for range communications
Electronic earmuffs protect your hearing while allowing you to hear range commands. With these Walkie-Talkie muffs you also get 2-way communication capabilities. The Walker Razor Slim Low Profile Electronic Earmuffs (NRR 23dB) with Walkie Talkie allows you to communicate with other radios. Range is 2-3 miles with 22 channels. These are now just $59.99 (40% Off). If you don’t need the two-way functionality, you can get Walker’s NRR 23 Razor Slim Electronic Muffs for $33.85 (#ad) — 58% off the list price.
10. Amazon — Scope Turret Magnifying Glass with Level, $12.95
Making rapid, yet precise scope turret adjustments can be challenging, especially during fast, timed stages. Most scope turrets have small, thin markings that can be tough to see (particularly with older eyes). To see your elevation turret markings better, try the Monstrum Scope Turret Magnifying Glass with Level (#ad). This simple but effective tool places a magnifier on the shooter’s side of the turret allowing easy viewing. In addition, this handy unit includes a built-in bubble level to help the shooter avoid canting his rifle.
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A.P. Lane’s Gold Medal-Winning Colt Revolver
