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.
1. Midsouth — RCBS ChargeMaster, $244.49 with Rebate
⏺ Great Deal with $75 Cash Rebate from RCBS
Here’s a great way to save on the popular RCBS ChargeMaster Dispenser, currently $314.99 at Midsouth Shooters (vs. $380 elsewhere). RCBS is running a Buy Green, Get Green Rebate currently. Buy ANY RCBS products worth $100.00 or more and you qualify. The more you spend, the more you get back — up to $100.00 total. Buy at least $400 worth of RCBS Products and get a big $100.00 rebate. Spend $250-$399 to get a $75.00 rebate. So if you buy the ChargeMaster from Midsouth you get $75 Cash Back. That lowers your net cost to $244.49!
2. CDNN Sports — Kel-Tec CP33 .22 LR Pistol with 33rd Mags
⏺ 33-rd Magazine, Top Rail, Xlnt Trigger, Great for Gun Games
We shot this Kel-Tec .22 LR pistol at SHOT Show Media Day and really liked it. It balanced well, the trigger is very good, and it functioned flawlessly. This is a great choice for gun games or reactive targets, such as dueling trees. The CP33 comes with built-in Fiber Optic blade sights and has a full-length Picatinny rail to mount a scope or red dot on top. The muzzle is threaded for easy suppressor attachment. This CP33 costs $449.88 with two 33-round magazines. You can pay nearly $500 elsewhere for this unique rimfire pistol.
⏺ Save $75 on Remington Model 700 Rifles, but Act Soon!
Folks — you can save big with these Remington Summer Rebates. But you must act SOON! Purchases must be made no later than July 31, 2020. Repeat: Deadline is 7/31/2020. Get $75 rebate on popular Remington Model 700 Rifles — Long Range, PCR, Magpul, 5R. There are also rebates on some Remington shotguns and Remington 1911 R1 handguns. CLICK HERE for Details and Mail-In Rebate Form.
4. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper, $199.95
⏺ Smart Powder Dispenser, Works with App, Fast and Accurate
There are many good digital powder scale/dispensers on the market. But one of the best new-generation machines is the Frankford Arsenal Intellidroper. This offers excellent controls, good drop speed and +/- 0.10 grain accuracy, plus an easy-to-use Mobile App. Right now on Amazon you can get the advanced Intellidropper for under $200! If you’re looking for a new “smart” digital powder dispenser with advanced features, this is an excellent deal. Intellidropper Review HERE.
5. Palmetto Armory — Savage A22 .22 LR Pro Varmint, $419.98
⏺ Versatile Self-Loader for NRL22, Fun Shooting, and Varminting
Looking for an affordable, versatile .22 LR rifle for NRL22 and PRS rimfire matches, varminting, and fun shooting? The A22 Pro Varmint is an excellent choice at $419.98 on sale. The rifle’s Boyds Pro Varmint stock has good ergonomics. The gun has a nice medium contour barrel and a one-piece Picatinny rail. Savage’s 10-round rotary magazine offers fast cycling. The delayed blowback action is safe and reliable. For gun games where speed counts, we like semi-autos — follow-up shots are way faster than a bolt-action.
⏺ Great Spotting Scope Deal — Hard to beat at twice the price
Whether hunting or target shooting, spotting scopes get you on target faster and easier than bare eyes or riflescope. If you need a good all-purpose spotter, check out the Vortex Diamondback 20-60x60mm angled spotting scope for $399.99. It offers great clarity and rock-solid lifetime guarantee. There’s also a straight version for just $398.95, with same 20-60X power and 60mm objective. If you need more low-light ability, the Vortex 20-60x80mm spotter is $499.00, angled or straight.
⏺ LARGE 53″ Cases hold two long rifles, 30% Off Savings
Do you own long-barreled F-Class, Benchrest, Palma, or PRS rifles? Here are two great Pelican hard cases that will each hold a pair of rifles up to about 51″ OAL. This week you can get 30% Off these quality cases. The Pelican 1750 is now $188.26, marked down from $269.95 — a 30% savings. The sturdy Pelican Vault V800 is even cheaper — $139.96, 30% Off the regular $199.95 price. Choose Black or tan colors for either model. NOTE: You must add these cases to MidwayUSA’s shopping cart to see the discounted prices.
8. Midsouth — Lee APP Press with Pocket Swage Kit, $109.99
⏺ Great for Decapping and bulk sizing, Swage Kit Remove Military Crimps
The Lee Deluxe Automatic Processing Press (APP) features an innovative case/bullet feeder with Jaws that automatically open and grasp the bullet or case and move them into operating position. This unique press efficiently handles repetitive functions such as decapping, case sizing, and primer pocket swagging. This $109.99 Combo Pack includes Primer Pocket Swage Kit which removes the military crimp from the primer pocket while swaging the primer pocket of your brass. Kit includes: BOTH .22 and .30 Cal decap/flare dies, swage push die, swage holder, push rod, swage punch, and shell holder adapter.
9. Amazon — The Wind Book for Rifle Shooters, $22.99
⏺ Best Wind-Reading Book — NEW Edition, Released May 2020
Readers often ask: “Is there a good, easy-to-comprehend book that can help my wind-reading?” Many of our Forum members have recommended The Wind Book for Rifle Shooters by Linda Miller and Keith Cunningham. Other books cover wind reading in a broader discussion of ballistics or long-range shooting. But the Miller & Cunningham book is ALL about wind reading from cover to cover, and that is its strength. The book focuses on real world skills that can help you accurately gauge wind angle, wind velocity, and wind cycles. Here’s a video review explaining what makes this book so good.
⏺ Everyone Can Use This — Four Driver types (51 pieces) at Great Price
This Outers-brand, 51-piece set contains all the drivers you could ever need: Flat-head, Phillips, Hex (Allen), and Torx. Priced under ten bucks, this driver set offers great value for the money. Even if you already own high-quality Allen and Torx wrenches, you can buy this as a spare set for your gun room. And this also makes a great holiday “stocking stuffer” for gun guys. These drivers work great for installing scope rings or bases, or everyday use around the home.
• Molded Driver with Magnetic Tip
• 15 Flat Head Bits
• 10 Hex Bits (inch)
• 9 Hex Bits (metric)
• 4 Phillips Bits
• 9 Torx Bits
• 2 Extra Long Phillips Bits
• 1 Hex to Square Adapter
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.
1. Sportsman’s Warehouse — $75-$200 Gift Cards with Spotters
⏺ Deal of Year on Vortex Spotters — get $75, $100, or $200 gift cards
Vortex makes fine spotting scopes with rock-solid, unconditional warranties. Vortex spotters offer great performance for the price, so it is rare to see multiple Vortex spotter models on sale. But right now Sportsman’s Warehouse is running a Vortex Spotter Promo. Prices are slashed, PLUS when you buy a Vortex spotting scope you get a $75, $100, or $200 gift card. This is the best deal we’ve seen on Vortex Spotters in a long, long time. If you’re in the market for a new spotter, definitely check this promo offering discount prices PLUS valuable gift cards.
2. Grafs.com – Lapua Brass and Scenar Bullets Rebate
⏺ SAVE 10% with Rebate Program for Lapua Brass and Bullets
Here is a great deal on great cartridge brass. Check out Graf’s full selection of Lapua brass. With the Lapua Summer Savings Rebate you can then save 10% on your purchases up to $200 max. This is a great deal on top of Graf’s already attractive prices. NOTE: You can also get a 10% summer Savings Rebate on the excellent Lapua Scenar bullets. We have found the Scenars to be extremely consistent in weight and base-to-ogive measurements. The Lapua Rebate Program covers purchases through August 31, 2020.
⏺ Versatile, performs many tasks, integrated concentricity checker
Precision reloading involves taking precise measurements, typically using many different tools. Hornady’s new Precision Measurement System allow multiple measurements to be taken with a single work-station. With this unit you can sort bullets, check cartridge base to ogive location, measure cartridge headspace location and OAL. You can also measure bullet run-out and case concentricity using an adjustable, bearing-equipped concentricity checker. This versatile system comes complete with five headspace bushings (.330, .350, .375, .400, .420), and seven bullet comparators (.224, .243, .257, .264, .277, .284, .308).
4. Amazon — RifleKuhl and BarrelCool Portable Cooling Units
⏺ Get Barrel Coolers for hot summer months, extend Barrel Life
In summer it can be tough to keep your barrel at moderate temperatures. But a handy, compact cooling fan device can really help. Two of the best barrel coolers on the market are the RifleKuhl from Magnetospeed and the original Barrel Cool from BarrelCool. Both of these units can double as empty chamber indicators, feature high power fans and can cool your barrel down to a decent, usable temperature in about 10 minutes.
5. Bruno Shooters Supply — Nosler Brass Sale, Huge Savings
⏺ Wide selection of hard-to-find brass types at very good prices
Did you know that Nosler makes brass for more lesser-known cartridge types than just about any other domestic brass-maker? From .204 Ruger to 375 H&H, Nosler brass is a great choice for any handloader who reloads for specialized, “boutique” chamberings. Head over to Bruno’s for the Nosler Brass Sale and you can pick up hard-to-find brass varieties at remarkably low prices.
6. Brownells — SIG KILO Laser Rangefinders 1800/2200 BDX
⏺ SAVE $150-$160 on quality Sig Sauer Laser Rangefinders
If you’ve been looking for a compact, feature laden and powerful rangefinder head over to Brownells where they are having a smoking Sig Sauer Rangefinder Sale. You can pick up the Kilo 1800BDX for only $249.99. This model is accurate to 1,000 yards off deer or 2,000 yards on reflective surfaces. If you’re looking for even more capability, grab the Kilo 2200 BDX for $339.99 on sale. The 2200 BDX ranges deer to 1300 yards off deer or reflective surfaces to 3400 yards.
7. Cabela’s — Ruger American Rifle Compact Rifle, $279.97
⏺ Great bargain hunting rifle, decent accuracy and Ruger reliability
Right now you can buy a Ruger American Rifle Compact Bolt-Action Rifle in .243 Winchester or 7mm-08 for just $279.97, an amazing price! These reliable compact Ruger rifles are great for smaller stature shooters or those with thicker clothing on because of their shorter length of trigger pull. However they still have all the features of the standard Ruger American Rifle. This would be a great first hunting rifle for a young person.
8. Amazon — Caldwell The Rock Deluxe Front Rest Combo, $67.99
⏺ Super deal for basic rest and rear bag
For plinking, varmint shooting, or sighting in a hunting rig, Caldwell’s The Rock Deluxe Front Rest Combo provides a functional basic setup for $67.99 — a true bargain. Consider that a quality rear bag such at the Protektor Rabbit Ear Hard Bottom model costs $71.65 by itself. But a better bag will improve stability and tracking. Still this Caldwell Combo is way better than what many folks use for sighting-in rifles.
9. Midsouth Shooters — Buy Green Get Green RCBS Rebates
⏺ Rebate Program for ALL RCBS products — presses, tools and more
RCBS Buy Green Get Green promo is simple — buy ANY RCBS products worth $100.00 or more and you qualify. There’s no restricted list of “qualifying” products. Buy from Midsouth or other retailer. The more you spend, the more you get back — up to $100.00 total. Buy at least $400 worth of RCBS Products and get a big $100.00 rebate. Spend $250-$399 to get a $75.00 rebate. Purchase $100-$249 and get $50 back. If you are considering purchasing a single-stage press, electronic powder dispenser, progressive press, or a reloading kit, save big with this promo. It’s good for purchases now through August 31, 2020. Submit RCBS Rebate Forms HERE.
10. Amazon — Hornady One Shot Spray Lube, $13.99
⏺ Dry-Film Lube — not sticky, easy to apply, used by top shooters
If you’re looking for a mess-free way to lube cases before sizing give Hornady One Shot a try. It’s easy to apply and leaves a grease-free, friction-reducing film that works great for full-length case sizing. Here’s a good video that shows application methods with tips to ensure great results with your brass.
Looking to acquire a handgun for personal protection of home and family? There are countless options on the market. Your buying decision may be simplified by seeing what other consumers have chosen, as revealed by nationwide sales trends. You can now check firearms sales figures using “Gun Genius”, a new data-crunching service of Gunbroker.com. On GunGenius.com you can select any type of firearm (handgun, rifle, shotgun)* and see the top sellers for that category. Here are the top-selling semi-auto handguns, new and used. There are separate listings for revolvers.
Here are the FIVE (5) top-selling NEW semi-auto handguns for JUNE 2020:
Here are the FIVE (5) top-selling USED semi-auto handguns for JUNE 2020:
It’s notable that three of the top five used handguns are Glocks: G17, G19, and G22. Glocks are rugged and reliable, though we don’t like the ergonomics.
*Chose semi-auto pistols, revolvers, semi-auto rifles, bolt-action rifles, lever-action rifles, single-shot rifles, semi-auto shotguns, pump shotguns, and more. You can also filter for sales trends (upwards and downwards). Drill down to see detailed product specifications and current prices.
The riots and civil unrest are driving sales, which were already spiking because of concerns over the COVID-19 Pandemic.
According to the NSSF: “June 2020’s adjusted National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) figures were nearly off the chart. It was the highest figure ever recorded in June and the second highest on record since instant background checks began more than 20 years ago. The June 2020 NSSF-adjusted NICS figure of 2,177,586 is an increase of 135.7% compared to June 2019.
“The eye-popping numbers began at the beginning of the year and continued to crush records amid the nation’s crises. So far, this year has seen half of the 10 busiest days on record and seven of the 10 busiest weeks — half of them in June.” — AP News
“These figures aren’t push polls,” said NSSF’s Mark Oliva to media. “They are representative of Americans from all walks of life who are taking action and taking responsibility for their rights and their safety.” Total background checks for 2020 now exceed 10 million. The strongest year recorded for adjusted NICS figures was 2016, when checks topped 15 million.
APNews.com has provide more details on the remarkable rise in gun sales, as logged via FBI background checks. AP News Reporter Julie Pane writes:
“Historic numbers of background checks to purchase or possess a firearm were done in June, a trend in a year marked by uncertainty over the Coronavirus pandemic, a subsequent economic recession, protests over racial injustice and calls to reduce police funding.
FBI numbers released Wednesday show that 3.9 million background checks were conducted last month, the most since the system was created in November 1998 [NOTE: these are non-adjusted figures.] The previous monthly record came in March, when 3.7 million checks were done. Each week in June is now in the top 10 weeks for background checks.
Halfway through 2020, just over 19 million checks have been done, more than all of 2012 and each of the years before that.” (Emphasis added.)
How accurate can a .45 ACP pistol be, in the hands of an expert marksman? Take a look at that target. This was shot off-hand (no rest) with ONE HAND at FIFTY (50) Yards. That’s TEN shots at 50 yards all inside the 3.36″ 10-Ring with eight shots in the 1.695″ diameter X-Ring.* We bet most folks would have trouble matching that with a scoped rifle shot standing.
Amazing Handgun Accuracy at 50 yards
This remarkable feat of precision pistol shooting — a 100-8X group at 50 yards — was accomplished this week by PFC Jason Gregoire, a talented young USAMU pistol marksman. And yes, that was done shooting one-handed!
On its Facebook Page the USAMU posted: “Check out this impressive target by PFC Jason Gregoire of the USAMU Service Pistol Team! This was shot one-handed, with a .45 pistol, and at 50 yards during the Centerfire Match in Columbus, Ohio [on 7/1/2020]. The score was 100-8X. Now that is some marksmanship!”.
How to Improve Your Pistol Skills
Want to improve your bullseye pistol shooting skills? Then watch a series of videos hosted by Brian “Gunny” Zins, a 12-time National Pistol champion, and retired U.S.M.C. Gunnery Sergeant. Here is one the Fundamentals of Bullseye Pistol Shooting videos that Zins produced with the NRA and Shooting Sports USA.
12-time National Pistol Champion Brian Zins Explains Aiming and Trigger Control.
Pistol Competitors (.45 ACP) at 2019 NTT Match at Camp Perry, Ohio.
* This 10-shot group was shot on the NRA B-6 50-yard Pistol Target. Here are the ring dimensions as stated in the NRA Precision Pistol Rules (p. 15):
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.
1. Palmetto Armory — Savage A17 .17 HMR American Flag Model
The 4th of July is just five days away. What better way to celebrate the nation’s birthday (and your Second Amendment freedoms) than with a new rifle sporting the Stars and Stripes. With its handsome American Flag-theme stock, this semi-auto Savage A17 features a 22″ barrel chambered for the .17 HMR rimfire round (10-rd magazine). We’ve used A17s and they are fun and surprisingly accurate. This American Flag model A17 is $440.98 at Palmetto State Armory.
2. Grafs.com — Free Reloading Scale with $75 Sierra Purchase
⏺ FREE Scale — Great for Loading at Range or Weight-Sorting Components
Even if you have a high-end force restoration scale and/or a electronic powder dispenser, it’s great to have a compact digital scale for weight-sorting components and loading at the range. Right now Graf’s will give you a FREE Frankford Arsenal DS-750 Digital scale with a modest Sierra purchase. Buy at least $75.00 worth of Sierra bullets (all types) or Sierra loaded ammo and you get the DS-750 scale for free.
3. Palmetto Armory — Buck Mark Camper UFX Pistol, $299.99
⏺ Very Accurate, Legendary Reliability, Great Ergonomics
The Browning Buck Mark is a classic, and for good reason. These pistols are reliable, well-balanced, have a good trigger, and they are very accurate. And now you can get one for under $300.00. Palmetto State Armory has the Browning Buck Mark Camper UFX with 5.5″ Barrel on sale for $299.99, discounted from $340.89. This Buck Mark Camper UFX is a great .22 LR pistol, at a very attractive price.
⏺ Read Wind Speed and Direction, Peak Gust, Temp, Humidity, and More
Very popular with Amazon buyers, the impressive Kestrel 3000 enjoys 86% 5-Star Ratings. This versatile Weather Meter records wind speed, wind gust, average wind speed, temperature, humidity, dew point and more. Every precision shooter should have a wind meter, and this is an affordable entry-level unit. NOTE: This Kestrel 3000 does NOT include built-in Applied Ballistics software (to get that feature you’ll have to pay $599.00 for a Kestrel 5700). No worries — you can run a separate mobile App on your phone, such as Ballistic, which uses the JBM Ballistics engine and costs just $12.99.
⏺ Gauge Tool plus 5 Bushings, Essential for Precision Hand-loading
Are you checking your headspace to ensure you’re pushing your shoulders back the correct amount? If you’re not using a tool like the Hornady Headspace Gauge with 5 bushings then you are just guessing and you’ll never know for sure. Using one of these headspace gauges is one of the best ways to control your full-length sizing and thereby improve the consistency of your handloads.
Here’s a very good mat for just $29.99. This NcStar Vism shooting mat boast decent padding, and reinforced areas for elbows and knees. Full dimensions are: 69″ Long x 35″ Wide. This mat has straps for pre-loading your bipod. When you’re done simply fold in the edges, roll it up into a compact 19.50″ W x 8.50″ H package — the size of a sleeping bag. You can pay twice as much for a shooting mat and not get much more quality. This mat has earned 85% Five-Star buyer ratings on Amazon.
7. MidwayUSA — Dual Steel Gong System with Frame, $71.99
⏺ Twin AR500 Steel Gongs, Easy Set-Up and Take-Down
Who doesn’t like shooting steel? The “clang” of hitting a steel target at long range provides instant gratification. This patented Viking Solutions Gong Target System features two 3/8″-thick, AR500 Steel Gongs (8″ and 10″) suspended by chains. The support frame consists of 2 leg stands and 2 crossbar sections. Assembled, the crossbar is 32″ above ground level. Right now this unit is on sale for $71.99 — 20% off the regular price.
8. Amazon — Long Range Shooting Handbook, $19.85
⏺ Most Popular Practical LR Training Book, Respected Author
Ryan Cleckner’s Long Range Shooting Handbook is the best-selling modern book on practical rifle skills. Ryan Cleckner’s Long Range Shooting Handbook is designed as an intro to important fundamental concepts such as MOA vs. Mils, External Ballistics, and Environmental Effects. Included are personal tips and advice based on Cleckner’s years of experience as a sniper instructor and special operations sniper. You can view Sample Chapters on Amazon.com.
The Long Range Shooting Handbook is divided into three main categories: What It Is/How It Works, Fundamentals, and How to Use It. “What It Is/How It Works” covers equipment, terminology, and basic principles. “Fundamentals” covers the theory of long range shooting. “How to Use It” gives practical advice on implementing what you’ve learned, so you can progress as a skilled, long range shooter.
⏺ Everyone Can Use This — Four Driver types (51 pieces) at Great Price
This Outers-brand, 51-piece set contains all the drivers you could ever need: Flat-head, Phillips, Hex (Allen), and Torx. Priced under ten bucks, this driver set offers great value for the money. Even if you already own high-quality Allen and Torx wrenches, you can buy this as a spare set for your gun room. And this also makes a great holiday “stocking stuffer” for gun guys. These drivers work great for installing scope rings or bases, or everyday use around the home.
• Molded Driver with Magnetic Tip
• 15 Flat Head Bits
• 10 Hex Bits (inch)
• 9 Hex Bits (metric)
• 4 Phillips Bits
• 9 Torx Bits
• 2 Extra Long Phillips Bits
• 1 Hex to Square Adapter
10. Amazon — Howard Leight MAX Earplugs, $8.60/50 Pairs
20 Pairs
50 Pairs
⏺ Best NRR (33 dB), Very Comfortable, Great Value
These Howard Leight NRR 33 Max Plugs are your Editor’s favorite foam earplugs. Between shooting, motorcycling, and mowing lawns, I probably have Max plugs in my ears 2-3 days a week. This is a very good price for a bulk pack of 50 pairs. NRR 33 is the best Noise Reduction Rating you’ll find for plugs alone. And if you act soon, you can get free shipping to boot.
With the civil disorder, rioting, and looting happening in major U.S. cities, many Americans are getting very serious about armed self-defense. But if you own defensive firearms, you definitely need to train with them. Indoor ranges are most convenient for those who live near urban centers, where the biggest threats to public safety currently exist. This article talks about 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.
BAD RANGE BEHAVIOR — Five Things NOT to Do at the Range
Here are the five worst behaviors we’ve seen at indoor ranges. These behaviors are both dangerous and inconsiderate. Any one of these behaviors can get you permanently banned from an indoor range.
1. Sweeping other individuals after loading a weapon behind the firing line is very bad. All your weapons should be empty until you reach your shooting station.
2. Turning the handgun sideways while trying to clear a malfunction or insert/remove a magazine. This will point the muzzle at a fellow shooter. Or, after shooting a gun, the shooter fails to clear the weapon and then places the gun somewhere near the shooting station with the muzzle in an unsafe position.
3. Reacting unpredictably when firing a high recoil handgun. We’ve seen people take a second shot by accident with the muzzle way off target.
4. Not obeying range commands — in particular continuing to shoot during called cease-fires.
5. Poorly aimed shooting that hits target frames or carriers, causing ricochets.
Double-Up on Hearing Protection When Shooting Indoors
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 plugs underneath.
For pistol shooting, we like the latest Howard Leight Impact Pro Muffs. These offer an impressive 30 dB Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). In addition, 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 a good value. They are currently offered for $39.50 on ALLMAX.
With the recent riots and civil unrest in the USA, many Americans are taking a much more serious look at armed self-defense. Hopefully the disturbances in cities will diminish with time (and better civic leadership), but we understand why citizens in large cities are more concerned than ever with the need to protect themselves, their families, and their homes and businesses.
Shotgun vs. Handgun — which is better for home defense? That’s a question that inspires strong opinions on both sides. We think the best answer may be “both”. There are some situations where a pistol is most handy, while there are other situations where the power (and lethality) of the shotgun clearly wins out. Some would argue that the shotgun offers an “intimidation” factor that may better resolve a threat without a shot being fired.
The NSSF, in cooperation with Thunder Ranch Training Center, has created an interesting video that examines the Shotgun vs. Handgun debate. As the Cheaper Than Dirt Blog notes: “The primary argument against the shotgun is a longer length leading to less maneuverability. On the other hand, the pistol offers better maneuverability, but lacks the stopping power of a shotgun”. Moreover, the pistol may be less accurate, according to some critics. This NSSF video looks at the question from a logical standpoint — making some surprising points.
As you can see in this still frame (above) from the video, the shooting stance of the pistol shooter (Clint) is NOT much more compact than that of the two shotgunners (compare actual muzzle positions). So a shotgun may actually be more handy inside a home than some people realize. Clint concludes that the gun selection debate “is all very easily solved by only one question: ‘If someone was going to run across a bedroom at you and they had a big knife, would you rather shoot him one time with a pistol or one time with a shotgun?’ When you answer the question you figure out why this [shotgun length] doesn’t really bother us. We simply take these [shotguns] and use them in a slightly different manner…”
In this video, Thunder Ranch Director Clint Smith explains why the overall length of a shotgun, as held in firing position against the shoulder, is not really that much greater than the “shooting stance length” of a handgun held in a proper firing position (with arms extended). Accordingly gun length/size should not be the deciding factor when choosing a firearm for home defense.
Whatever Weapon You Choose — Train with It
Fundamentally, you should use the firearm that is 100% reliable, and with which you have trained regularly. Mastery of a defensive firearm — whether shotgun or handgun — needs to be second-nature. You should be able to operate all the controls (safety, pump, decocker, slide, bolt handle etc.) by “instinct” based on hours of training. Likewise you should know how to operate the light/laser if your defensive firearm is so equipped. Importantly, you should be able to reload in darkness, and clear malfunctions without panicking.
The Gun Digest 2020 Annual, 74th Edition, is on sale now. This 560-page resource covers rifles, shotguns, handguns, muzzleloaders, airguns, optics and more. We like the print edition, but there will also be an eBook version releasing later in the year. Both provide hundreds of photos with new product roundups, in-depth product tests, and scores of articles and stories. The Gun Digest 2020, paperback edition, is now ON SALE for $21.37 at Amazon.com. That’s a 41% savings over the regular $35.99 price.
Articles by top writers cover long-range shooting, personal defense, hunting, gun-making, and collecting. Reports from the Field provide details on newest firearms and accessories. There is a cool photo essay showcasing fine custom and engraved guns. Among the many gun feature stories is “Finland’s Finest — Sako and Tikka”. There are also many historical gun articles.
Gun Digest 2020 also includes: Testfire reports, Firearms Catalog by Manufacturer, Optics Buying Guide, and Updated Ballistics Tables.
Other Good Books from Gun Digest Media
Gun Digest Media produces numerous other quality books for rifle, pistol, and shotgun owners. Here are four volumes we recommend. These are offered in both paperback and eBook versions:
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.
1. CDNN — DPMS A15, Magpul Stock, Match Trigger, $499.89
The DPMS A15 is a good basis for a .223 Rem varmint rifle. It’s an excellent value at $499.89, given the components. The Magpul stock works well with a rear bag. And we like the 1:9″-twist 24″ stainless barrel with target crown. For varminting, it’s nice to have a 24″ barrel for extra velocity. Be aware this barrel has an unusual triangular profile forward of the handguard. This DPMS rig also features a 2-stage Bushmaster target trigger and durable Cerakote finish. NOTE: This is NOT a complete rifle — you need to supply a bolt carrier group and charging handle. But if you already own an AR15, you can use those components.
2. MidwayUSA — Dual Steel Gong System with Frame, $71.99
Who doesn’t like shooting steel? The “clang” of hitting a steel target at long range provides instant gratification. This patented Viking Solutions Gong Target System features two 3/8″-thick, AR500 Steel Gongs (8″ and 10″) suspended by chains. The support frame consists of 2 leg stands and 2 crossbar sections. Assembled, the crossbar is 32″ above ground level. Right now this unit is on sale for $71.99 — 20% off the regular price.
3. Natchez — Big Weaver Scope Sale, Save Hundreds
Weaver makes very good optics for a variety of disciplines — hunting, tactical, even benchrest. With Natchez’s June Weaver Optics Sale you can save up to $585! For centerfire benchrest the 48X T-Series XR scope can do the job at 1/3 the price of a Leupold. And for rimfire benchrest rifle, the 24X Weaver T-Series XR is a fine choice. Hunters will find suitable Weaver zoom scopes at crazy low prices. The 3-9x40mm Kaspa Hunting Series scope is just $79.99 on sale.
4. Midsouth Shooters — SK .22 LR Rimfire Ammo Sale
Right now Midsouth is running a big SALE on SK .22 LR Rimfire ammo. This quality ammo has shown fine accuracy in our rifles. A variety of types are offered starting at $5.59 for 50 rounds. For target rifles we recommend SK Flat-Nose Target ammo at $7.10 per box or $64.79 for 500 rounds. For many folks it performs close to high-end match ammo costing much more. Also, if you are looking for bulk .22 LR ammo, you can get 1000 rounds of Browning BPR 36gr copper-plated HP ammo for just$44.99 at Cabela’s. That’s just 4.5 cents per round.
Varminters rejoice! Here is a killer deal on excellent “dogtown” bullets. These 55gr .224-caliber V-Max bullets deliver explosive results on ground squirrels, p-dogs, and other small varmints. The BC is pretty low, but you can drive these V-Maxs over 3300 FPS with a standard .223 Rem cartridge using Varget or CFE223. With this sale, you can grab these excellent bullets for less than $17 per hundred — that’s a steal. If you’re a V-Max fan, act soon before this deal sells out.
6. Amazon — The Wind Book for Rifle Shooters, $22.99
This is the NEW May 2020 Edition, Just Released!
Readers often ask: “Is there a good, easy-to-comprehend book that can help my wind-reading?” Many of our Forum members have recommended The Wind Book for Rifle Shooters by Linda Miller and Keith Cunningham. Other books cover wind reading in a broader discussion of ballistics or long-range shooting. But the Miller & Cunningham book is ALL about wind reading from cover to cover, and that is its strength. The book focuses on real world skills that can help you accurately gauge wind angle, wind velocity, and wind cycles. Here’s a video review explaining what makes this book so good.
Need a small vertical safe for your workshop, loading room, remote cabin, or RV? This Legend Range & Field 4-Gun Safe can fill the bill. It has an electronic lock and backup key, and secures with five 1″ locking bolt. This small safe also includes a bolt-down kit for added security. At $183.30 this safe offers significantly more protection than a thin-walled security locker, for not much more money. Save $37 with this promotion at Gander Outdoors. NOTE: If you have the safe shipped to your house, there is a $50.00 Shipping Fee. Exterior Dimensions: 55″H x 11.6″W x 11″D
8. Cabela’s — Catch-All Gear Bag $12.99, Many Colors
This versatile bag holds lots of gear, and you can’t beat the price — just $12.99. At 16″x10″x6″ it’s big enough to hold rifle ammo, muffs, a Kestrel, and other accessories. It can also serve as a general utility bag for car camping trips. Six exterior pockets, including zippered mesh pockets on top and side, provide multiple storage options.Sturdy 1-1⁄2″ nylon web carry straps can be joined by a hand-friendly wrap handle. Cabela’s Catch-All Gear Bag available in a variety of colors including True Timber Camo, 02 Octane Camo (3 versions), Lt. Gray, Blue, Green, Tan, Orange Gold, and Dark Gray.
Here’s a great Father’s Day gift that you and your Dad can use together. Walkie-Talkies are “must-have” items for long-range shooting. The 22-CH Motorola T100 Two-Way Radio is an Amazon Favorite among FRS/GMRS Handheld Radios. Motorola says the T100 has a range up to 16 miles (with ideal conditions), and the T100 units can receive communications from all FRS/GMRS two-way radios. Price for a Two-Radio T100 Set is just $29.00
10. Brownells — Wipeout Foam Cleaner, $14.99
Walking the firing line of the Berger SW Nationals this year, one cleaning product was mentioned over and over again and for good reason. Sharp Shoot R Wipe-Out foaming bore cleaner is a no-nonsense, easy-to-use bore cleaner that does a great job. We get best results with two applications of Wipe-Out after some wet patches. If you’re tired of long brushing sessions, give Wipe-Out a try — it really reduces brushing required. This is a great deal. The same 5 oz. can is $23.95 on Amazon.
Amazing Handgun Accuracy at 50 yards
