Over the past year, this was one of the TOP TEN most-read Daily Bulletin articles. We are reprising it today for readers who may have missed it the first time around…
When shooting pistols do your shots normally land smack dab in the middle of the target? If not, you may have some technique problems that are causing your shots to move off center. Top Shot Champion Chris Cheng has produced a good video for the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) that helps handgunners diagnose accuracy issues. By shooting 3-shot groups and looking at the pattern and location of the shots, you can see what you’re doing wrong (or right). Here are some examples. Note, this process works best for shooters whose shots fall typically in one target zone. If your shots are all over the target, your form is inconsistent and problems will be harder to diagnose.
1. Low Left — Jerking Trigger: Here we see three (3) shots at the 7 O’clock position. This shows that the shooter is jerking the trigger, meaning that the shooter is pulling the trigger too quickly and therefore forcing the barrel to drop when breaking the shot. This is a very common problem, particularly with novices who are reacting to the noise/recoil of the pistol.
2. 9 O’Clock — Too Little Trigger Finger: If we see three (3) shots at the 9 O’clock position, what this can be indicative of too little trigger finger on the trigger. And therefore with every shot, the shots are getting pushed to the left. Try moving your trigger finger on to the pad of your index finger. Also try dry firing drills.
3. High Left — Anticipating Recoil: In this next example, we see three shots around the 11 O’clock position. What could be happening here is that the shooter is anticipating the recoil, and is actually lifting the gun up when he shoots. We recommend slowing down, working on your breathing, and, again, do dry-firing drills.
4. 3 O’Clock — Too Much Trigger Finger: Finally, if you see three (3) shots at the 3 O’clock position, this can indicate that there is too much trigger finger on the trigger. Therefore when the shot breaks the shooter is pulling each shot to the right. Note: Each of these descriptions is for a RIGHT-handed shooter. If you are a left-handed shooter you’ll want to reverse those descriptions.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every 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.
Q: How Good Are These Deals? A: The Savings Are Significant — Get Some Items at Half Price.
Here are two examples. Last week we featured a MidwayUSA Pro Series Shooting Mat at $29.99. The same mat is priced now at $59.99, DOUBLE our Deals price. Likewise, late last year we featured the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Reloading Kit for $224.99 after Rebate. That deal sold out and now you’d have to pay $297.69, nearly one-third more! We work hard to find these deals, with savings of 25-50%. Save hundreds of dollars on firearms and big-ticket items.
1. Sportsman’s Guide — Stevens 320 12 GA Shotgun, $179.99
Every ranch, farm, or household can use a defensive 12 Gauge shotgun. We like ghost ring sights on our self-defense scatterguns, and this Stevens 320 Security model has that feature. This shotgun is a steal — get one now for the amazingly low price of $179.99 ($170.99 Buyer’s Club price). You won’t find a quality, American-made, ghost-ring 12 gauge pump for less money. At this price you can afford to buy two or three. This Stevens 320 Security shotgun is made by Savage Arms.
2. Natchez — Up to 63% Off Popular Riflescopes
Natchez is slashing prices on many popular scopes, including the 46x48mm side-focus Weaver favored by many benchrest competitors. The savings are impressive. That 46X Weaver is marked down 63%, while the Weaver 6-24x42mm Classic is 60% off. If you need a fixed-power comp scope or a reliable medium-magnification zoom scope for a varmint rifle, check out these deals. You could pay twice as much and not get better optics. There are also big savings on Nikon and Leupold Scopes.
3. EuroOptic — Sako 85 $1098.00 ($900 Off)
Sako 85 rifles enjoy a reputation for outstanding quality, reliability, and ergonomics. The Sako 85 is a top-tier rifle prized by hunters. Now you can get a handsome, wood-stocked Sako 85 for just $1098.00 — a huge $900.00 savings off the normal price. Chambered in 7mm-08, this “Bavarian” model features a traditional curved-comb stock with nice checkering on grip and fore-arm. This stock shape is quick to mount and works well from a variety of positions in the field. The Bavarian model also comes with back-up iron sights. This is a very nice hunting rig for fans of traditional wood stocks.
Here’s a really good deal on a handy reloading product, the Case Prep Trio. This versatile device features three powered heads and ships with both Inside Chamferer and Outside Chamferer tools. You can add optional accessories such as large/small primer pocket cleaners, primer pocket reamer, case neck brushes, and other 8-32 threaded tools. This $79.99 deal at Natchez is the best price we’ve found (the unit normally sells for $102.00 or more). Plus, this qualifies Hornady’s Get Loaded Promo. But the Case Prep Trio and you get 100 FREE Hornady Bullets. If you figure those 100 bullets are worth thirty dollars or so, that brings your net cost for the Case Prep Trio to around fifty bucks. We have this tool and it definitively saves time and reduces hand fatigue. NOTE: Be sure you follow ALL the directions when submitting your FREE Bullets claim! You MUST submit a sales receipt. You MUST submit the package UPC. And you MUST submit a $6.95 check for shipping. If you don’t pay $6.95 for shipping you won’t get your bullets. Got that?
5. Sportsman’s Guide — Kahr CW9 Pistol, $249.99
This pistol is an excellent carry gun. It weighs just 15 ounces and is 5.9″ overall. The gun is thin and the controls are well recessed so this Kahr is great for discrete carry — it “prints” less than most of the other guns featured here. The striker-fired Kahr CW9 has a nice trigger pull. Take-up is pretty long, but the engagement is smooth without the hitches/spikes you feel on a Glock trigger pull. Many shooters find they can shoot the Kahr more accurately that a similar-sized Glock due to the smoother trigger. The Kahr CW9 is on sale now at Sportsman’s Guide for just $249.99, or $237.49 Member price. SPECS: DAO, 5.9″ OAL, 0.90″ width, 15 oz. weight.
6. MidwayUSA — Norma .22LR Match-22 Ammo 500 Rds $39.99
This Norma Match-22 ammunition is good stuff. In many rifles it shoots as well as $8/box products from other makers. But now you can get Match-22 for the equivalent of $4 per 50-ct box when you buy 500 rounds. MidwayUSA is selling a 500-round case of Norma Match-22 for just $39.99. That works out to just 8 cents per round. We think you’ll be happy with this ammo. It is a good choice for tactical cross-training and fun shooting.
7. Amazon — Jialitte Scope Bubble Level, $10.69
If you shoot long range, you need a scope level. This nicely designed Jialitte Scope Bubble Level is fully CNC-machined to close tolerances for a good fit. It features a 30mm milled inside diameter, plus an inner insert ring so it will also fit 1″-diameter main tubes — that dual-diameter versatility is a nice feature. We also like the way the unit is nicely radiused, and has a low profile in the middle. User reviews have been very positive. You could easily pay $35.00 or more for a 30mm scope level. Purchasers have praised this product: 89% of verified buyers rated this five stars.
You don’t need to spend big bucks for an effective spotting scope to view mirage. You can get the Kowa TSN-501 Angled Spotting Scope is listed at $349.00 from B&H Photo. But, you can actually buy this Spotter for $299.00 — B&H just can’t advertise it that low. They list $349.00 but you get another $50 discount when you put it in the shopping cart: SEE REAL PRICE HERE. That’s a heck of a deal. This is a super-compact scope with 50mm objective and built-in 20-40X eyepiece. Though relatively new, the small, light-weight TSN-501 can perform basic spotting tasks effectively. This doesn’t have the resolution of the $1500+ spotters but this is fine for viewing mirage and shot markers. Put the money you save into barrels and bullets.
9. Bruno Shooters Supply — BAT Actions on Sale
This week, Bruno Shooters Supply is offering significant discounts on In-Stock BAT Machine Actions. Dozens of actions are available right now — no waiting. NOTE: All listed BAT action prices are for check or money order purchase. BAT actions put on a credit card will incur an additional 4% service fee. Additional $40.00 for shipping per action, which can only be shipped to a FFL dealer.
10. Amazon — Top-Rated 43-lb Magnetic Gun Mount, $14.95
This heavy-duty Stamaks Magnet is rated to support a full 43 pounds. That means it can actually hold a shotgun or rifle on a gun cabinet door. For the typical handgun installation, it’s even more secure. An “Amazon Choice”, this magnet has earn 98% Five-Star reviews from customers who say the magnets are powerful and the rubber case is very durable. The magnet installs with four screws. Actual review: “Really good quality! Magnet is an extremely durable and strong. Easy to install, highly recommended.” Very slim, this is a good choice for stowing a handgun in a vehicle interior or under a countertop. NOTE: Before placing in a vehicle, review your state’s laws regarding gun transport. The manufacturer states: “Stamaks Gun Magnet will easily hold an object weighing up to 43 lbs of pulling force.”
Doug Koenig will exchange the Smith & Wesson hat for one with the Ruger logo this season. The 18-time Bianchi Cup Winner has joined Team Ruger, and will shoot Ruger pistols and rifles in 2018.
Doug Koenig, one of the greatest pistol shooters of all time, has a new team. The long-time Team Smith & Wesson stalwart has joined newly-formed Team Ruger as its Team Captain. Doug will shoot Ruger 1911-style handguns and Ruger polymer pistols. Interestingly, Koenig will also field a Ruger Precision Rifle for some PRS-style events. Doug has actually done pretty well in the past shooting long guns. He won the 2015 NRA World Shooting Championship — a multi-day event featuring rifles and/or shotguns in most of the stages.
This is the first time Ruger has ever fielded a full-fledged pro team. It is an interesting development for Ruger, which has a product mix suitable for a variety of disciplines: Rimfire Challenge, Cowboy Action, IDPA/USPSA, Steel Challenge, and even PRS (Factory Class and Gas Gun Division).
Why is Koenig leaving Smith and Wesson? It’s mostly about being “on the same page”. Talking to Jim Shepherd of the Shooting Wire, Doug explained: “I’ve been with Smith & Wesson for a very long time — and I want to be really clear about this – they’ve always been good to me.” But, there had been changes at S&W in recent years: “We were going in different directions, and I’d already told them I wasn’t re-signing this year. And when I was approached by Ruger, they were interested in my thoughts on guns.” Read Shooting Wire Report.
Though best known as a pistolero, Koenig is a great long gun shooter as well. Doug won the 2016 NRA World Shooting Championship, beating a field of talented 3-Gun aces. Photo DougKoenig.com.
Doug was impressed with Ruger’s design staff. He said they have already incorporated upgrades he wanted: “When I talked with Ruger engineers, they asked me what I thought — instead of telling me what they were going to do. So, I told them what I would like to see in a Ruger competition pistol, and it seemed like they were really listening.” In fact, Ruger immediately made upgrades: “A few days after Christmas I got a pair of Ruger pistols with the exact changes I’d talked about already done to them. That is exciting”.
Doug Koenig’s List of Championships:
10-time World Champion
18-time Bianchi Cup winner
2016 NRA World Shooting Champion
More than 70 National Championships
6-time World Action Pistol Championship Winner
3-time World Speed Shooting Champion/Steel Challenge
Watch Doug Koenig’s Championship Season TV show on the Pursuit Channel: Wednesday 5:30 pm (Eastern); Friday 9:00 pm (Eastern); Saturday 1:30 am (Eastern) West Coast prime-time.
Wouldn’t it be cool if you could see a streak of light following your bullets into the target — like a tracer round, but without the fire risk. Now this is a possible with the new STREAK line of “visual ammunition”. STREAK ammo is something completely new — it is NOT a conventional tracer. Instead, it employs a glowing bullet base to create an “illuminated, non-incendiary projectile”. These rounds are fun to shoot, particularly in indoor ranges (where most handgun shooting is done).
STREAK’s patented formulation incorporates a non-flammable phosphor material that utilizes the light emitted during discharging of the round to make STREAK glow. The manufacturer states: “STREAK is not on fire and does not generate heat, therefor making STREAK safe for indoor range use where the illumination is best seen.”
Watch Streak Ammo Fired in Indoor Low-Light Range
Video has loud, annoying music track — you may want to turn down speakers before playback.
STREAK Ammo Popular with Shooters
“STREAK adds a whole new dynamic to target shooting,” said Bren Brown, of the Frontier Justice Range in Kansas City. “Our clients loved it so much that we have decided to do a weekly STREAK Shooting night at our ranges.”
STREAK ball ammunition is currently available in 9mm Luger, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP in both red and yellow/green illumination colors. In the near future it will be offered for other pistol and rifle calibers, and with hollowpoint bullet types.
Optimal Conditions for STREAK Ammo Sessions
STREAK ammunition is intended for use in areas free of natural sunlight when the human eye pupil is most open. Dusk-till-dawn and indoor lighting permits the pupil to open enough to see STREAK ammunition. Contrast is what permits you to see a glowing object moving at the speed of a bullet. The darker the backdrop and target the better you’ll see STREAK.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every 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.
1. Sportsmans Outdoor — T/C Rifle with Vortex Scope, $324.99
Here is a truly great package deal. Right now get a Thompson/Center Arms (T/C) Compass rifle with Vortex 4-12x40mm Diamondback scope for $399.99. But there’s more — this package qualifies for a $75 T/C factory rebate. That lowers your net cost to just $324.99, so you’re effectively getting the rifle for under $200.00! Available chamberings are: 22-250, 6.5 Creedmoor, 7mm-08, .308 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, .300 Win Mag. If you don’t need a scope, you can also get the Thompson Center Compass for just $224.99 (after Rebate) in a variety of calibers. The Thompson/Center Arms Aim To Save Rebate program is valid from 1/1/2018 until 4/30/2018. REBATE TERMS HERE.
Ruger Precision Rifle, 6.5 Creedmoor, $998.00 complete — what’s not to like? If you’ve been thinking of purchasing a Ruger Precision Rifle (RPR) chambered for the 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge, here’s the best deal we’ve found in recent months. Right now Gunprime.com is offering this poular tactical rig for under $1000.00, in the high-demand 6.5 Creedmoor chambering. Heck of a bargain boys — you can pay $1300 or more elsewhere for the same rifle. This is a good choice for the PRS production class, or you can take in to another level of performance with a Pre-Fit 26″ cut-rifled barrel from Krieger. This is the lastest RPR Gen 2 version with the upgraded handguards. NOTE: GunPrime also has the RPR in 6mm Creedmoor for $1018.45.
3. Amazon — Plano Tactical Rifle Case, $67.99
This Plano All-Weather Tactical Rifle Case is an Amazon Best Seller for good reason. It offers the functionality and durability of an SKB-type hard case for HALF the money. This is under $70.00, while the equivalent SKB is around $220.00, so you can buy three Planos for the price of one SKB. The 43″-long interior will fit most ARs and many hunting/varmint rifles (measure your own rifle to make sure). The handles are convenient and beefy and the wheels make this case easy to move through airports and parking lots. This is a very tough, roomy case for the money. Dimensions: 43″ X 13″ X 5″ (Interior); 46″ x 16″ x 5.5″ (Exterior).
Bushnell’s highly-regarded Elite 4500 Series scopes offer good performance and reliability for the price. Here’s a great deal on a Demo Bushnell 8-32x40mm Elite 4500 with Multi-X Reticle and 1″-diameter main tube. This would be a good choice for an F-Class or long-range varmint rifle. We’ve used this scope in a 600-yard Benchrest match and it worked well, though we would prefer a reticle with MOA-based hold-off marks. We do like the 1/8-MOA clicks for precision target work. NOTE: Natchez also has 6-24x40mm Bushnell 4500 Elite zoom scopes on sale now for just $329.99 (with Multi-X Reticle). That’s a crazy low price for an optic this good.
5. MidwayUSA — Pro Series Padded Shooting Mat, $29.99
Here’s a heck of a deal on a good shooting mat. MidwayUSA has slashed the price on its Pro Series Shooting Mat (in Olive Drab). Get this 73.5″ x 35.5″ padded mat for just $29.99. This Mat has nice features, such as a Bipod Pre-load Web, 0.35″ thick padding, multiple pockets, and 6 grommets for staking. It’s easy to transport, rolling up to about nine inches in diameter and fitted with a nice carry strap. Midway normally sells this Pro Series Mat for $59.99, so the current $29.99 price is a great deal. If you need a good basic shooting mat, check out this deal.
6. Midsouth — Nosler Factory Seconds, Save up to 30%
Nosler Factory Seconds are now available at Midsouth Shooters Supply. These bullets are completely functional (with correct weights and dimensions), with only minor cosmetic blemishes. You’ll find slight tip discolorations, water spots, and little else. The Accubond and Ballistic Tip bullets will work great for hunting — your prey won’t care about the water spots. Available bullets include popular calibers: 55gr 6mm Varmageddon, 140gr 6.5mm 140 tipped Accubond, 168gr and 175gr 7mm tipped Accubond, and 180 gr .308 caliber Spitzer Accubond. NOTE quantities are limited and these factory seconds blems always go fast. Once they are gone, they’re GONE!
7. Stocky’s Stocks — M50 Hunting Stock with AccuBlock, $219.00
Here’s a very new product from Stocky’s Stocks, at a very good price. This new M50 Monte Carlo-style hunting stock for Rem 700-type actions offers great features you won’t find on some other stock costing three times as much. The action is supported by a built-in Aluminum Accublock chassis. The comb is adjustable for height, and the stock comes with a nice “Softkick buttpad”. A variety of premium finishes are available. If you are thinking of re-stocking your Rem 700 rifle or building a new hunting rig with a Rem 700 clone, this is an excellent choice — an outstanding value.
8. Amazon — Jiallite Scope Bubble Level, $11.29
If you shoot long range, you need a scope level. This nicely designed Jiallite Scope Bubble Level is fully CNC-machined to close tolerances for a good fit. It features a 30mm milled inside diameter, plus an inner insert ring so it will also fit 1″-diameter main tubes — that dual-diameter versatility is a nice feature. We also like the way the unit is nicely radiused, and has a low profile in the middle. User reviews have been very positive. You could easily pay $35.00 or more for a 30mm scope level. Purchasers have praised this product: 89% of verified buyers rated this five stars.
9. Brownells — Save Money Codes plus Free Shipping
Planning to do some shopping on Brownells.com? You can save up to $60.00 on your purchase with these discount codes. Plus you get free shipping — can’t complain about that. For orders $200+ use code M2H to save $20. For orders 400+ use code M2J to get $40 off, and for orders $600+ use Code M2K to save $60. NOTE: Don’t dawdle if you want to take advantage of these savings. The discount codes expire 1/8/2018 at 11:59 pm CST.
Big Bucks. Serious Money. Walther Arms is making a whopping $450,000 in contingency awards available to pistol shooters in 2018. If you shoot pistol games such as USPSA and IDPA, and you “Win with a Walther”, you can go home with a nice check in your pocket. For example the winner of the USPSA Production Nationals will get $6000.00 if he shoots a Walther, while the winner of the IDPA U.S. Nationals will earn $4000. There are prizes for dozens of other competitions as well, with awards in multiple classes for both first and second places. The biggest payout is $6000, the smallest is $150.
Watch Video to Learn How to Win:
Walther has made it easy for shooters to participate in the “Win with Walther” program. For specified classes, Walther will reward top finishers in major pistol tournaments:
1. You must Finish First or Second using a Walther pistol in a Qualifying Tournament.
2. A Walther pistol must be used for the entire tournament. Proof of equipment is required.
3. You MUST email shootingteam@waltherarms.com with proof of your placement and a picture of your winning smile while holding the Walther Pistol you used to win or finish second!
CLICK HERE to learn more about the Walther Contingency Program. Click that link for a list of all qualifying shooting matches (with prize values), plus all the rules and “fine print”.
“We are very excited to not only continue but increase the contingency program for 2018. Walther Arms [will] build on the success of the 2017 contingency program, and increasing the approved events will allow more competitors to participate,” says Kevin Wilkerson, Walther Arms Marketing Manager.
Thousands of new products will be on display at SHOT Show 2018, the huge gun industry trade show held each January in Las Vegas. Some of the most highly-anticipated products (such as new Lapua ammo with Berger bullets) have not yet been revealed. However, the SHOT Show Product Planner offers a “sneak peak” at 338 new-for-2018 products. More will come in the weeks ahead. For the time being, however, here are ten interesting new products. Since these are all completely new items, we haven’t been able to test them yet. All product descriptions are provided by the manufacturers. We also spotlighted six other new products in November. CLICK HERE for November Product Preview.
Starline Brass has recently added the 6.5/6mm family of cartridges to their growing line of rifle cases. Starline is now producing 6.5 Creedmoor (available in both Large Primer pocket and Small Primer pocket versions), 6mm Creedmoor, and 6.5 Grendel.
Here is the Ultra HD version of the 2d Gen long range camera system from TargetVision. The LR-2 Ultra HD works the same as the LR-2 model, but the Ultra-HD has enhanced 5 megapixel resolution (2492 X 1944) instead of the standard 1.3 megapixel resolution (1280 X 960). Also the range is reduced from 1 mile to 1200 yards. The LR-2 Ultra HD is a portable, battery-powered, wireless target camera system that can be viewed from a phone or tablet. This target camera has a range of 1200 yards with run time of 12+ hours.
Price: $899.99
The Caracal Enhanced F pistol is a striker-fired, polymer-framed 9mm handgun. It is offered with either standard 3-dot dovetail sights or the acclaimed Quick Sight System, which places both front and rear sights on a single focal plane, enabling the shooter to acquire a much faster sight picture. The Enhanced F pistol has 18+1 capacity and is available in 12 configurations.
Price: $599.00
The PhoneSkope Adaptor lets you record everything you see through your riflescope. Unlike other smartphone adaptors, the PhoneSkope lets the shooter look through the scope normally — through the eyepiece. Your eye and the phone camera view the same image. Record a target string or hunt. The PhoneSkope fits nearly all riflescopes and can adapt to most bolt-action rifles. PhoneSkope also offers adaptors for spotting scopes.
The innovative BipodeXt TAC III increases the stability of any rifle / bipod configuration. Moving the bipod far forward extends the rig’s “wheelbase”, creating a more stable platform. The BipodeXT TAC III mounts to the rifle’s fore-end. Expect less bipod hop, recoil that is more “straight back”, and faster follow-up shots. The BipodeXt’s telescoping 3-tube design is made from carbon fiber and aluminum.
Price: $599
For 2018, Berry’s has upgraded the VersaCradle™ Gun Vise. Star knobs allow you to switch from one configuration to another without tools. With the VersaCradle 360° Ball & Case you can adapt to a shooting rest, multi-use vise, or a stock checkering cradle in seconds. Available C-clamps allow easy mounting to table or bench up to 2” thick. Other accessories include floor stand and table-top base.
Price: $166.24
The new Sicario is a two-piece, integral handgun suppressor that can be quickly detached without tools — use the factory magazine to disassemble the suppressor. The monocore is constructed from anodized 2024T351 aluminum with stainless insert. Alignment is easy with “fast attach 28” thread mount system. This suppressor is offered for all Ruger MK I,II,III,IV pistols as well as Browning Buckmarks, S&W Victory, and Colt Cadet.
Price: $699.99
The GPS M/L Range Bag features an internal foam cradle for 5 medium-sized handguns. The lid is reinforced to provide a stable location for eye and ear protection as well as a space for tools. The front compartment holds 6 magazines and comes with two ammo cups. The bag is made from HD 600 denier material and all stress points are boxed stitched and bar tacked.
Price: $129.00
Convenient, top-loading design loads your rifle from top (like a toaster). The unique, soft-sided hard case won’t scratch your vehicle. Extra-thick foam interior keeps gun protected and secure zipped pocket holds extra shells, cleaning kit, or accessories. This TSA-compliant rifle case features external D-Rings for tie downs or locks, plus a shoulder strap. Size: 49″ L x 4″ D x 11″ H.
Price: $199.99
Mark 7 Revolution™ Reloading Press
Company: Mark 7 Reloading
The first new, automatic reloading press in over 15 years, the Mark 7 Revolution is a modern, computer-controlled, automatic machine capable of loading up to 3,500 rounds/hour. Microprocessor monitored and controlled, the new Mark 7 is fully automated. It features, smooth, gear-based machine movement and 10 stations that can use off-the-shelf reloading dies.
Ruger is working to get new people involved in shooting sports through a new 10-part video series. Ruger’s American New Shooter Academy focuses on firearms safety and handgun skills training. There are ten, 5-9 minute episodes, all available now on GetZone.com and YouTube.
Watch Episode One of New Shooter Academy:
In the New Shooter Academy series, Firearms trainer Daniel Shaw starts from “square one” with four participants with little-to-no handgun firearms experience. Shaw works with the students to build good fundamentals and follow recommended safety procedures. “Recruiting new shooters and making sure they are properly trained is critical to the future success of shooting sports” said Jeff Siegel, CEO of Media Lodge, the company that produces the videos for Ruger.
CLICK HERE to watch Ruger’s American New Shooter Academy Series (All Episodes)
During their training sessions, participants used the Ruger American Pistol compact model chambered in 9mm Luger, with a manual safety. Additional products for the series were provided by CrossBreed Holsters®, TMG Target Systems, and Hornady.
Women are arming themselves — millions of females now have carry permits. What factors should women consider when choosing a handgun for self-defense? What are good choices for a lady’s defensive handgun, suitable for concealed carry? Is a self-loading pistol better than a revolver?
We thought it was best for to hear the ladies’ own perspectives on these questions. After all they are the ones who will be carrying the firearm in a purse or on their person. In this article we include three videos focusing on handgun options for females. The videos cover six key factors: function, size, weight, ergonomics, reliability, and concealability.
Classic Swiss Precision — the Sig P239
The single-stack Sig P239 is an ultra-reliable, compact pistol with a grip suitable for smaller female hands. Weighing 25 oz. in 9mm, it is slightly heavier than polymer-framed handguns, but that may be a good thing. During my handgun training days, this Editor found most women shot the Sig P239 better than Glocks, with more control over recoil. This is a hammer-fired pistol with decocker but no separate safety. There are many other good handgun options for concealed carry — some smaller, thinner and lighter, but the Sig P239 provides a good benchmark for reliability and accuracy. Shown is the .40 S&W model. We prefer the 9mm Luger version. Photo Creative Commons BY-SA 3.0.
Choosing a Self-Defense Handgun — Ladies Explain the Options
Not Just a Guy Thing — 23% of Gun Owners are Women
Here’s an interesting statistic — according to an NSSF survey, the percentage of gun owners who are female has increased dramatically since 2005. Back in 2005, just 13% of U.S. gun owners were women. By 2012 that number had risen to 23% — a huge increase in less than a decade.
The vast majority of first-time female gun buyers acquire a handgun for defensive purposes. However, the statistics also show that many new female gun owners are also getting involved in sport shooting and/or competitive shooting.
In the video below, NRA News host Cam Edwards interviews Celia Bigelow, who has written about the rise of gun ownership among ladies on the Townhall.com website.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every 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.
1. Amazon — Sightron 10-50x60mm SIII, as Low as $939.00
Need a high-magnification scope for long-range competition? Among quality scopes with 40+ power, we think the Sightron SIII 10-50x60mm scope is the best value on the market. These scopes are available through Amazon.com for under $940.00. That’s about half the price of a Leupold 7-42x56mm VX-6, and 40% of the cost of a Nightforce 15-55X competition model. The Sightron is a good product with a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty. And it works — at the 2017 IBS 600-yard Nationals, 4 of the Top 10 shooters (including the 2nd-place finisher) used Sightron 10-50X scopes. Though reasonably priced, this 10-50x60mm optic is definitely good enough to win long-range benchrest and F-Class matches.
MOA-2 Reticle
Target Dot Reticle
Fine X-Hair Reticle
Mil-Dot Reticle
NOTE: There are a variety of reticle options and both 1/4-MOA and 1/8-MOA click versions are offered. Read the product description carefully when ordering to be sure you’ve selected your preferred reticle type and click value.
2. Natchez — Special 5 Reloading Press Kit, $199.99
Looking for a great holiday gift for a family member getting started in metallic cartridge reloading? This RCBS Kit has everything a new reloader needs: single-stage press, powder measure, scale, powder trickler, priming tool, cartridge tray, “rocket” chamfer tool, case lube and more. This is an excellent entry-level reloading kit, on sale for just $199.99 at Natchez Shooters Supplies. We like the relatively compact Special 5 press for most reloading duties. Eventually you may want to add an additional, large heavy press, but this will get the job done. For the combined package, with all the tools one needs to hand-load quality ammo — this is a stunningly good deal at $199.99. This also qualifies for an RCBS Rebate (see next item).
3. RCBS — 2017 Buy Green Get Green Rebate Program
Act quickly — RCBS’s best rebate program of 2017 runs out at 11:59 pm on December 31st. The Holiday 2017 Buy Green Get Green promo is simple — buy ANY RCBS product over $49.99 and you qualify. There’s no restricted list of “qualifying” products. The more you spend, the more you get back — up to $175.00 total. If you are considering purchasing a single-stage press, electronic powder dispenser, progressive press, or a full reloading kit, save big with this promotion. It is good for purchases made through the end of the year, December 31, 2017. Download REBATE Form HERE.
4. PMA Tool — 10% Off Orders Plus Free Shipping
PMA Tool carries some of the very best products for precision reloaders. PMA offers Micro-Die Adjusters, superb case trimming tools, cleaning gear, as well as great products from Kelbly’s, Harrell’s Precision, and Lenzi. Right now you can save on a vast array of products PMA sells. The folks at PMA report: “The Christmas and New Year Holidays are here. Every once in a while it’s nice to give yourself a little something special. As a special thank you to you, our favorite customers, we are offering 10% off your entire order during the Holiday Season. Simply use the code YFVVB46UEWU upon checkout at pmatool.com to receive your 10% discount. We at PMA Tool are also offering FREE SHIPPING within the USA through the end of 2017.”
5. Brownells — Buy Revolver Get $100 Gift Card + $50 S&W Rebate
This is the best promo we’ve ever seen for premium S&W revolvers. First you get a $100 Brownells Gift Card. In addition, Smith & Wesson provides a $50 Rebate in the form of a prepaid Visa Card. That’s $150.00 in value. Wait — it gets even better! On Christmas Day (’til 11:59 pm CST), use Brownells checkout code “NBE” to get another $50 off orders over $500. That’s $200.00 in total savings! (Or use code NBD to get $30 off orders over $300 — details HERE). This promo applies to over 50 different S&W revolvers, not just the ones in the graphic. SEE ALL Revolvers HERE.
6. Amazon — Sig Kilo 1250 Laser Rangefinder, $222.21
Every outdoorsman can use a good laser rangefinder. If you don’t have a quality, compact Laser Rangefinder, here’s a great deal. The 6x20mm SIG Kilo 1250 Camo Rangefinder is now on sale for $222.21 with free shipping. This is a very accurate LRF, that ranges deer-sized targets at long distances quickly. The scan mode is very fast (4X per second) and this offers both line of sight (LOS) or angle modified range (AMR). The unit is compact and light — a bonus for hunters. There are more expensive Laser Rangefinder that can range farther, but this $222 Kilo 1250 will definitely do the job on a hunting trip for one-third the price.
7. Midsouth — 10% Off All Sierra Bullets
We’ve been impressed with recent offerings from Sierra Bullets. Many popular Sierra MatchKing bullet types now come “Pointed” from the factory. That pointing process uniforms the bullet tips, maintaining a more consistent Ballistic Coefficient (BC) among all the MatchKings in a box. That, in turn, can produce less vertical dispersion, because the bullet-to-bullet aerodynamic drag variance is signficantly reduced. We also like Sierra’s Varmint and Hunting bullets. Choose traditional bullets or tipped bullets — Sierra offers both types. Right now Midsouth is offering 10% off all Sierra rifle and pistol bullets in stock. Considering that Midsouth’s bullet prices were very competitive to begin with, this is a good deal.
8. CDNN Sports — HK 416 .22LR Rimfire Rifle, $389.88
If you are looking for an AR-type .22 LR rifle for cross-training and rimfire tactical matches, the HK 416 is a fine choice. Made by Walther under license, these HK 416 D145RS rimfire rifles are accurate and reliable. This is a good deal at $389.88. The HK 416 normally sells for $550.00 to $600.00. One purchaser writes: “Great .22. I have had this gun a couple of months and have put about 500 rounds of 5 different brands of ammo through it. Not one FTE. I have shot other brands that can’t get through one 30-round mag without a failure.” CLICK HERE for Product Details.
9. Grafs.com — Magnetospeed Sporter $178.99
If you have been waiting to get a Magnetospeed… wait no longer. Priced at just $178.99 at Grafs.com, the Magnetospeed Sporter model costs less than half as much as Magnetospeed’s V3 models. This chronograph attaches directly to your barrel so you don’t have to go downrange to position tripods and set up skyscreens. For most people the Sporter Model contains all the features they need. Using Magnetospeed’s XFR adapter (sold separately), data can be transferred easily from the display module to your mobile device. This is also available from Amazon for $179.00 with free shipping. READ Magnetospeed Sporter Review.
We like reactive targets. It’s fun to “ring steel” and see a target move instantly when hit. For just twenty bucks (including shipping), it’s hard to go wrong with this 8″ AR500 Steel Gong. The 8″-diameter size is big enough for zeroing at 200 yards, yet offers a nice challenge at 500 yards and beyond. There is also a 6″-diameter model for just $14.00.
