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. Grafs.com — All Lapua Products on Sale — Brass, Bullets, Ammo
If you want to win, and want brass that lasts, think Lapua. Over 90% of all modern benchrest records have been set with Lapua brass. What’s more, Lapua makes outstanding bullets. Lapua Scenars have delivered superb accuracy in our site’s benchrest and tactical rifles. As for factory ammo, again Lapua is hard to beat. We got our hands on some Lapua 90gr 6mmBR factory ammo a few seasons back. That stuff was amazing. It delivered honest 5-shot, quarter-MOA groups! If you want these superior Lapua products, now is a great time to buy. Grafs.com is running a giant sale on all Lapua-brand products, including brass, bullets, and loaded ammo. You’ll save at least 10% on everything, with many items 20-24% off, and select loaded ammo up to 59% off. Lapua 6.5 Creedmoor SR brass is discounted 22%, a great deal. Plus, if you spend $250 or more you’ll get a free box of Lapua Center-X.
Get a Ruger Precision Rifle in 6mm Creedmoor for $788.00 complete. That price, which includes rings, is great for a Gen 2 model. If you’ve been thinking of purchasing a Ruger Precision Rifle (RPR) chambered for the 6mm Creedmoor cartridge, this is a killer deal. Right now GunPrimer.com is offering this popular tactical rig for under $800.00, in the 6mm Creedmoor chambering. This shoots faster and flatter than the 6.5 Creedmoor — so many PRS guys have switched to it. 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. Heck of a bargain boys — you can pay $1200 or more elsewhere for the same rifle.
3. Midsouth — 6.5mm 123gr Match Bullets, $119.99 for 500
This is a great option for PRS and tactical shooters. These 6.5mm bullets work great with the popular 6.5mm cartridges such as 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 Grendel, and 6.5×47 Lapua. With a shorter length than the 140s, these fit magazines better. Plus we’ve found you can run these significantly faster than the 140gr class 6.5 mm bullets, so you are not giving up that much in drop or windage. G1 Ballistic Coefficient is .510
Reloading information is interchangeable with 6.5mm Nosler Custom Competition bullets with the same grain weight. NOTE: These Match Monster Bullets are NOT BLEMS!
4. Al’s — Vortex Razor HD 20-60x85mm Spotting Scope, $809.99
AMAZING DEAL — save $390.00! Other vendors sell this very same Razor HD spotter for $1199.
Here’s a great deal on a high-quality spotting scope from a top optics maker. AL’s Sporting Goods has last year’s model Vortex Razor 20-60x85mm spotter for only $899.99, including eyepiece. This impressive HD-glass spotter sells elsewhere for $1200.00. But it gets better — use Code ALS10 for another 10% Off, bringing the final price down to $809.99. This is a very good spotter for the money and Vortex has one of the best warranties in the business.
5. Powder Valley — Hodgdon Powders In-Stock at Great Prices
H4895, Varget, H4350 — these are all great powders for competition cartridges such as the 6mmBR Norma, 6 Dasher, 6.5 Creemoor, and .284 Shehane. Because these powders work so well, they can be hard to find. Right now Powder Valley has a great supply of these and other excellent Hodgdon powders (such as H4198 and H4831sc) in both 1-lb and 8-lb containers. For example H4350 and Varget are $27.35 for 1-pounders, while H4895 and H4198 are just $26.35 for a 1-lb bottle. An 8-lb jug of H4350 is $194.50, a lot less than you’d pay in most retail stores.
6. Sportsman’s Guide — Browning Buck Mark, $279.99 with Code
Everyone should own a nice .22 LR rimfire pistol. 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. We have nothing but praise for the bull-barreled Buck Marks. And now you can get one for a super-low price. Sportsman’s Guide has the Browning Buck Mark Camper UFX with 5.5″ Barrel on sale for $299.99 ($284.99 member price). But it gets even better — if you use Code “WARRIOR” during check-out, you save $20.00, putting your total price at just $279.99 (or $264.99 for SG members). That’s a great deal on a very solid rimfire pistol that can serve you well for decades.
7. CDNN — Cleaning Set and Tool Kit in Wooden Box, $19.89
We doubt $20 spent any other way could deliver more utility (for a gun owner) than this Outers Combo Cleaning Kit and Driver Set. In a nice wooden box there is a 28-piece gun cleaning set, PLUS you get a 51-piece screwdriver and tool kit that includes Flat, Phillips, and Torx heads in multiple sizes. Here’s what you get for just $19.89:
51-Piece Screwdriver Driver Kit
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
8. Stocky’s — LR Stocks with Aluminum Bedding Block, $199.99
Here’s a good deal on a versatile Stocky’s Long Range Stock with aluminum V-block bedding system. For just $199.99, order this for Rem/Rem Clone long actions or short actions, with either narrow or wide (varmint/tactical) barrel channel. This would be a good choice for a varmint rifle. This is also offered with handsome hydrographic or web-pattern baked-on textured finishes for $219.99.
9. Amazon — Jialitte Scope Bubble Level, $10.99
All serious rifle shooters need a scope level. This nicely designed Jialitte Scope Bubble Level 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. Price is just $10.99 with free shipping. User reviews have been very positive. You could easily pay $35.00 or more for a 30mm scope level. Purchasers have praised this product — nearly all verified buyers rated this five stars.
10. Amazon — 12″ x 12″ Splatter Grid Targets, 10 for $9.99
This 12″x12″ Splatterburst Target combines splatter shot marking with a grid background, with five aiming points. The bright neon shot circles make it easy to see your shots. And the handy grid lets you quickly estimate your group size. Get a 10-pack for $9.99, or a 25-pack for $17.99 (better deal). This particular target has earned rave reviews — 87% of verified buyers gave this a FIVE-Star rating. One example: “Excellent quality and durability. The adhesive is really strong. High contrast makes down range targeting easy and the splatter contrast is [great].”
Where in the USA are guns most popular, on a per-capita basis? Look at this chart. The states with darker purple have the most background checks per capita. The Top 10, in order, are:
Kentucky has a far higher number than any other state — 1012 per 1000 residents, and 4,508,298 overall per year. That’s not because the Bluegrass State has more avid gun owners (per capita) than elsewhere in the country. Rather, Kentucky has more background checks per capita because it is the only state that requires all concealed carry permit holders to undergo automatic monthly rechecks. That means 12 checks per year. Other states might have a single background check when the firearm is acquired.
Trends in Background Checks and Gun Ownership
The total number of background checks has risen steadily for nearly the past 20 years (though there was a slight decrease in 2017). In 2018, Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealers initiated more than 23 million background checks, with significant variations in how many requests came in from each state.
Gun Control Legislation on the Rise Nationwide
In 2018, the 50 U.S. states passed 69 new gun control measures. Those 69 new laws are more than three times the number passed in 2017.
The struggle between gun rights and gun control continues on both a state and a national level. Seeing this wave of new legislation makes one wonder, “how many of these new laws will really reduce crime or enhance personal safety?” Or, rather, are the vast majority of these laws merely intended to restrict the rights of law-abiding citizens, banning new classes of arms or creating new costs (and hassles) for gun owners. The anti-gunners’ strategy is to work incrementally, banning one type of firearm after another. The goal, ultimately, is to ban handguns altogether, and to ban all semi-automatic rifles.
GunsAmerica.com has published very extensive coverage of SHOT Show 2019, releasing dozens of articles over the past two weeks. Lead by GunsAmerica Digest Editor True Pearce, a large team of writers/reporters has provided detailed reviews (most with videos) of many interesting new products.
Here are some of the most notable GunsAmerica.com product reports. You can find many more in the GunsAmerica Digest SHOT Show Archive. Click each title to read full stories.
Comment: We like the Bravo stock, and the Seekins action used in this gun has some interesting features, such as four locking lugs with 90° bolt throw. Definitely read this report.
Comment: We used the new Sensight and think this represents a significant new technology. It is basically a camera with a digital screen that includes a reticle. With the Sensight you can actually record your shooting session or live-stream it to another device. That makes it great for training.
Comment: You can buy a darn nice used 4×4 truck for what this rifle (along with spare equipment and shipping case) costs. The “Deployment Kit” includes many spare parts, magazines, bipods, and much more. We doubt many private buyers will part with the $20K, but that’s small change for Uncle Sam.
Comment: This new Keltec CP33 is quite large for a .22 LR pistol, but balances well and is not too heavy. It has a very, very good trigger — crisp with a light pull weight. Honestly this trigger is way better than you’d expect. The Picatinny rail on top makes it easy to mount optics. The clear magazine holds 33 rounds.
Comment: Very interesting new .22 LR rimfire that has some significant advantages over the venerable Ruger 10/22, though it does take 10/22 magazines. The trigger is crisp at 4-5 pounds and the entire “action group” is easily removed from the bottom of the stock with the push of a button. This allows the barrel to be cleaned from the breech.
Comment: Umarex has really entered into new territory with the Hammer, a .50-caliber air rifle. This appropriately named Hammer, we are told, is the most powerful airgun ever produced.
Comment: We were quite impressed with the new First Focal Plane 7-25x56mm Leupold. The glass is excellent, controls are precise, and it enjoys a weight and price advantage over some competitive scopes such as the Nightforce ATACR. GunsAmerica notes: “This front focal scope is available in MOA or MIL adjustments and reticles. The Mark 5HD 7-35×56 will retail for $2,299 – $2,799 depending on reticle choice and illumination.”
Everyone should own a nice .22 LR rimfire pistol. 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. We have nothing but praise for the bull-barreled Buck Marks. And now you can get one for a super-low price. Sportsman’s Guide has the Browning Buck Mark Camper UFX with 5.5″ Barrel on sale for $299.99 ($284.99 member price). But it gets even better — if you use Code “WARRIOR” during check-out, you save $20.00, putting your total price at just $279.99 (or $264.99 for SG members). That’s a great deal on a very solid rimfire pistol that can serve you well for decades.
The accurate and ergonomic Buck Mark Camper UFX was selected as an NRA Gun of the Week last year. This video explains the pistol’s features in detail.
This video shows how to Field Strip and disassemble the Buck Mark Camper UFX. To Field Strip the pistol, you need to remove three screws.
Browning Buck Mark Camper UFX Features:
• Blowback, Single Action Only
• Tapered 5.5″ Bull Barrel
• Alloy receiver w/matte black finish
• Overmolded Ultragrip FX ambidextrous grips
• Pro-Target™ adjustable sights with Fiber Optic
Caliber/Cartridge: .22 LR (22 Long Rifle)
Capacity: 10+1
Safety: Manual
Sights: Fiber Optic
Weight: 2.12 lbs
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. Brownells — MEC Marksman Press $164.99 with CODE “NCS”
The MEC Marksman is an outstanding single stage press — very strong, with convenient open front and a patent-pending self-centering shell holder (that can improve loading consistency). Right now, with discount CODE “NCS”, you can get this beefy USA-made Marksman from Brownells for just $164.99, including FREE Shipping. That’s a bargain — this press sells elsewhere for up to $208.00. The MEC Marksman has strong, cast-iron construction and offers plenty of leverage. It is compatible with all 7/8-14 thread dies, so you can reload from .22 Hornet to .416 Rigby. If you are looking for a premium single-stage press you won’t be disappointed. Act soon as this Brownells discount offer may expire soon.
2. Bullet Central — Kelbly Atlas Tactical Action, $895
The rifle action is the cornerstone of accuracy in any rifle build. If you don’t start with a strong precision made action then all your other money will be wasted. That’s why so many people choose Kelbly Actions. They’re make the most rugged action possible for practical, tactical, or hunting. Using a Black Nitride finish from H & M Metal Processing. This allows you to use this action “dry” or without lubrication for extreme environments. In addition to the Black Nitride process they use a fluted bolt, to help move dirt into the flutes allowing better function of the action. Magazine wells use the Accuracy International single stack magazines. Another key feature of this action is the TG ejector, it is a mechanical ejector that does not put any chamber pressure on the round. It is also a “never fail” setup, meaning that there are no springs to get gummed up and stop working. Actions rarely go on sale which is why we couldn’t resist highlighting this Kelby Atlas Tactical Action over at Bullet Central for the low price of $895.00.
The Walther Creed offers excellent ergonomics, good accuracy, and well-designed controls at a killer price — $249.99 at CDNN Sports. This gun, designed to be a value-leader, emulates Walther’s more expensive PPQ model (MSRP $649.00) at a much lower price. The Creed’s frame size and shape is the same as the PPQ, but the Creed lacks interchangeable backstraps. Slide and trigger are very similar. The Creed features a snag-free bobbed hammer. Testers have praised the new Creed, saying that, despite the bargain price, it “sacrifices little to nothing in… ergonomics, accuracy, and reliability.”
4. Midsouth — CCI Rimfire Ammo Rebate, up to $200
The days of .22 LR shortages are over, and now there is ample supply of rimfire ammo at reasonable prices, and the ammo-maker are even offering REBATES. Right now, Midsouth Shooters Supply has a great selection of CCI 22LR, 17 HMR, and 2 WMR Rimfire Ammo. Plus, for every five boxes of CCI rimfire ammo you buy, you get a rebate for the value of one box. That basically works out to buy 4 get 1 free. The limit is $200.00 in rebates per household. CLICK HERE for the CCI Rimfire Rebate Program.
Finding the right tools to work on your guns, scopes, rings and other items can often be frustrating. Regular tools from the hardware store work in a pinch but often aren’t hollow ground to protect your screws and the sizes are rarely correct for the firearms parts we work on. Solve your tool dilemma with the Lyman Master Gunsmith Tool Kit. This handy kit includes nearly all the common sizes and shapes to fit just about anything in your gun safe, all in a convenient case.
6. Bruno Shooters Supply — Bore Tech Cleaning Rod SALE
Cleaning rods are a way of life for anyone who shoots. No matter the caliber or brand, every gun needs to be cleaned and using quality rods will help prevent your barrel from being damaged. Most cleaning rods on the market using metals that can react with your cleaning solvent causing false readings on your patches. Bore Tech has solved that problem by using a non-reactive tip ensuring that copper shows up if you have it and doesn’t if you don’t. These Bore Tech rods are very stron and feature one of the best ball-bearing handles, which provides a smooth motion that really lets you feel the barrel. You can get the excellent Bore Tech Proof Positive cleaning rods from Bruno Shooters Supply and treat your barrels to a new level of care.
7. Natchez — Fed GM Match .308 Win + Range Bag, $84.99
Show up to any range and .308 Win is still one of the most prolific rounds available, for good reason. The .308 Win is good for both hunting and target shooting and you’ll get excellent barrel life. In the .308 Win world, a top ammo brand is Federal. Right now Natchez offers 80 rounds (four 20rd boxes) of Federal Gold Medal Match 168gr SMK along with a FREE range bag for the sale price of $84.99. We’ve shot this ammo and it delivered outstanding accuracy in an M1A and a bolt gun.
8. Amazon — Steiner Military-Marine 8x30mm, $193
Steiner is a quality optics brand with practical features. The very popular, highly-rated Steiner 8x30mm Military-Marine binoculars are now on sale for just $193.00. With 8x magnification, the Steiner Military-Marine 8×30 binoculars are a rugged design with a unique focus system that puts everything from 20 yards to infinity in focus. These Steiners use flexible silicone lens mounts to absorb severe shock, impact and abuse without damage. NBR rubber armoring shields a lightweight, rugged chassis that withstands 11 Gs of impact. Your Editor personally owns and uses the Steiner Military-Marine. The glass is excellent considering the price, and the focus system is a huge advantage — once you set the individual eye-pieces, no fiddling with focus knobs required — everything beyond 20 yards is sharp.
9. Amazon – Proster Wind Meter, $16.99
Wish you had a modern impeller-style wind meter but only shoot a couple matches a year and can’t justify spending $150 (or more) on one? This Proster wind meter has a very impressive 4.5 star overall rating (with hundreds of reviews), so buy with confidence. Now on sale for just $16.99, this is a very useful tool for a bargain basement price. Get this affordable Wind Meter to ensure you have reliable wind readings for ballistics calculations. And unlike a costly Kestrel, with this low-priced wind meter, you won’t feel too bad if it gets lost or misplaced some time.
One of the most interesting new pistols at SHOT Show 2019 was the SIG Sauer P320 XCompact, the latest in the P320 X-Series. What is most noteworthy about this pistol (and other X-Series guns) is that the TRIGGER GROUP, not the frame, carries the serial number. That means that after you process one SIG P320 X handgun through an FFL, you can put that same trigger group in different frames. So you could have a full-sized pistol for slow-fire target work, plus a compact version for concealed carry. Or you can have a 9mm AND a 40 S&W version of the same pistol. SIG calls this “unprecedented modularity”. We agree — this is very, very clever. Glock, Walther, Ruger — take note!
SIG’s P320 XCompact is a modular, striker-fired pistol with a serialized trigger group that makes it adaptable to multiple calibers, size, and grip options. The P320 XCompact is available in 9mm and features X-RAY3 day/night sights, a flat trigger, and night sight rear plate making it optic ready. There are both a striker safety and a disconnect safety. The P320 XCompact comes standard with two, 15-round magazines.
P320 XCompact is Comfortable in the Hand, Like Classic P226/P228 Pistols
At SHOT we tried the P320 XCompact and found it very comfortable in the hand — with ergonomics similar to our much-loved metal-framed P226. SIG says the XCompact has a “completely redesigned grip module with an improved beavertail and fastback profile, contoured magwell, and a deep trigger guard undercut”.
“The P320 XCOMPACT redefines what a compact pistol should be by combining concealability with full size XSERIES features. Through extensive end-user feedback, the P320 XCOMPACT provides for smoother handling and optimizes the user experience,” said Tom Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President, Commercial Sales.
There is so much to see at SHOT Show, with nearly 2000 exhibitors showcasing tens of thousands of products. SHOT Show is the largest trade show of its kind in the world, attracting 60,000+ attendees from more than 100 countries.
Thankfully there are many teams of reporters who covered SHOT Show this year, and they’ve now posted a wide selection of video reports. In today’s SHOT Show video showcase, we post our “pick of the litter” — ten of our favorite video reports from SHOT Show 2019, plus one great video “blast from the past”.
SHOT Show 2019 kicked off Tuesday, with tens of thousands of exhibitors, media members, and invitees streaming into the Sands EXPO Center in Las Vegas. This firearms industry trade show just gets bigger every year. We visited many of our favorite vendors including Capstone Precision Group (Berger, Lapua, SK, Vihtavuori), McMillan Fiberglass Stocks, Zeiss Optics, Redding Reloading, SIG Sauer, Smith & Wesson, Anschutz, and Target Vision/Longshot.
Here are some quick highlights from Day One of SHOT Show, a little bit of everything: Rifles, pistols, ammo, reloading gear, and some notable shooters.
Capstone Precision Group: Berger, Lapua, SK and Vihtavuori
Capstone Precision Group showcased new products from its four companies: Berger Bullets, Lapua, SK, and Vihtavuori. Lapua showcases cartridge brass and loaded ammo, including new 6.5 Creedmoor ammo with the ultra-consistent Scenar-L bullets. Capstone also told us to expect large quantities of brass to be arriving in the USA soon, including the high-demand 6mmBR brass.
Berger will release new loaded ammo in Lapua brass. Options will include 6mm Creedmoor, which should be popular with the PRS crowd. In addition, Berger will offer an impressive new line of solid projectiles. These ultra-high-BC ELF Match Solids have optimal shapes to stay supersonic at longer ranges. They are an impressive option for the Extreme Long Range game.
McMillan — 6012-Yard Shot with ELR Rifle
At the McMillan booth, members of the Global Precision Group (GPG) Team showcased an impressive .416 Barrett ELR rifle. Team leader Paul Phillips explained how the team managed (on the 22nd shot) to hit a 48″x32″ target at the incredible distance of 6012 yards. Our friend Derek Rodgers, reigning F-TR World Champion, told us that this shows how the ELR sport has evolved. The rifle features a McMillan ELR Beast stock with a Bartlein Barrel on a massive BAT 50 action.The .416 Barrett rounds were loaded with 550 grain Cutting Edge bullets.
A Tacom Charlie/Delta TARAC prism system was fitted in front of the Nightforce scope, allowing the team to put over 625 MOA of elevation on the shot while still being able to see the target. The ballistics numbers for this 6012-yard shot are pretty mind-boggling: 625 MOA of elevation was required, and the bullet was in the air for 17.1 seconds!
New Products from LongShot Target Cameras (aka TargetVision)
Our first stop at the show was at the LongShot Target Cameras booth. Here we met with company founder, Clay Rhoden, the bright young man who has created the best-performing wireless target cameras on the market. Most folks know Rhoden’s company as TargetVision, but Clay said they are re-branding as LONGSHOT Target Cameras, to help emphasize the extreme range capabilities of his latest systems (the top tier Longshot cameras can operate out to one mile and beyond). Clay showed us two new products, the latest target camera (with easy-to remove battery pack), and a special camera that will transmit video from a spotting scope to your mobile devices. See the latest products at www.longshotcameras.com.
Light-Weight Camo Hunting Rifles from Weatherby
Hunters can spend hundreds of dollars on the latest camouflaged clothing in order to blend in to their environment, so why do gun makers continue to produce shiny hunting rifles? Well, this is one thing Weatherby has gotten right with the latest Weatherby Mark V ultra lightweight rifles. The rifle has the option of a rugged, matte Cerakote finish on action, bolt, and barrel, effectively eliminating glare. And did I mention it’s light weight? The full rifle weights a mere 5.75 pounds for non-magnum calibers. Weatherby guarantees sub-MOA accuracy with factory ammunition out of the box. Add a decent lightweight scope and this rifle is ready for a long backcountry hunt.
Hot New Sub-Compacts from SIG Sauer, Kimber, Walther
For shooters who carry concealed or simply prefer a more compact pistol, three new handguns really stood out at shot show 2019: the SIG Sauer P365, Walther CCP M2, and the Kimber EVO. All three guns had a similar weight and feel at roughly 1” width, 6” length, and 1 lb when empty. The P365 has an advantage with a 10 + 1 round capacity, compared to the 7/8 of the EVO and CCP M2, but the CCP M2 is more competitively priced with an MSRP starting at $469. Retail for the P365 starts at $599 and the Kimber a surprising $925. Expect to see these guns in stores between spring and summer of 2019.
Smith & Wesson — Handguns Galore and New T/C Performance Center LRR
Smith & Wesson is not just a handgun company. It markets rifles under its own brand name as well as via its Thompson Center Arms (T/C) division. At SHOT Show 2019 we saw the T/C Performance Center LRR (Long Range Rifle). With a $1211.00 MSRP, this offers great “bang for the buck” for shooters competing in PRS production division. These rigs feature a modular aluminum chassis, 24″ barrel, and adjustable cheekpiece. Available chamberings include .243 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .308 Win. And of course S&W continues to make great wheelguns, include some very BIG magnum revolvers:
At the Anschutz Booth with Company President, Jochen Anschutz
The German company Anschutz remains a world leader in rimfire rifles. The company’s match rifles have captured countless Gold Medals in Olympic target shooting and biathlong competition. Here company President Jochen Anschutz (left) shows the latest Biathlon rifle, featuring the impressive Fornter straight-pull action. With Jochen is Steven Bolter, North America Custom Shop Director. We were pleased to hear that Anschutz will be offering a new line of 17 HM2 (Mach2) rifles soon. That is an effective varmint round that’s considerable less expensive than 17 HMR.
For folks in the gun industry, the third Monday in January is the best day of the year. Held in conjunction with SHOT Show, Industry Day at the Range lets us try out dozens of new rifles and pistols, as well as meet top gun designers and friends in the shooting sports. We saw some very great new products this year. Here are some of the most interesting “take-aways” from Industry Day at the Range, held in Bolder City, Nevada on January 21, 2019.
New Guns + Old Friends
Meeting old friends, and shooting new guns. That’s what Monday was all about at the annual Industry Day at the Range, a “hands-on” preview the day before SHOT Show opens in Las Vegas. Your Editor met with old buddy Jason Baney and Hunting Editor Colton Reid at the crack of dawn and headed out to the Boulder City (NV) range.
We were not disappointed — there was plenty to see this year. On display were a bunch of new precision rifles, a slew of new handguns, and some very exotic optics (including a turretless digital camera/riflesight).
Cool New Rifles and Chassis Systems
Our friend Stan Pate let us try out Savage’s latest, greatest Modern Sporting Rifle, the MSR 10 Precision. Offered in 6mm Creedmoor, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .308 Win, this quality rig has many distinctive features, including side-charging handle, adjustable gas system, and convertible dual-angle pistol grip. This rifle proved exceptionally accurate on steel out to 400 yards. It is certainly one of the best AR10-class rifles we’ve tried.
Report from 6.5 Guys
Our good friends the 6.5 Guys (www.65guys.com) kicked off their 5th year of SHOT Show coverage at the Industry Day at the Range. At this event one can check out the latest firearms, putting guns through their paces with live fire demos. Here are two items that caught the eyes of the 6.5 Guys:
PGW Defense Timberwolf
The PGW Defense Timberwolf rifle in .338 Lapua Magnum proved to be a relatively light-recoiling rifle considering the cartridge and overall rifle weight of 14.5 pounds. Even with gusting 7:00 o’clock side winds (with 20+ mph peaks), hitting targets at 1,000 yards was very doable — a reminder of what the .338 Lapua can deliver. Impressive rifle.
Oryx Chassis for Howa, Rem, Tikka, Ruger, and Savage
Oryx (an MDT brand) has introduced a chassis system for Howa, Remington, Tikka, Ruger and Savage actions that retails for $399. While it comes with a grip, the user can bolt on standard AR-15 grips. This affordable system comes with an adjustable cheek piece and length of pull.
Industry Day file photo courtesy CMG Marketing & Events.
Optics — New 7-35x56mm Leupold + Radical Israeli Sensight
Leupold showcased an impressive new scope that should interest F-Class and PRS shooters. Leupold’s new 7-35x56mm Mark 5HD optic had very good glass, and positive controls. At 33 ounces, it is quite a bit lighter than other scopes in this class. We don’t have exact pricing yet, but it should be much less expensive than a Nightforce ATACR scope with the same magnification range.
New Leupold 7-35x56mm Mark 5HD
The new 7-35X Leupold models will be available with either milrad or MOA adjustments and advanced reticles. The milliradian models will be available in six reticle options: H-59, CCH, TMR, Tremor 3, and Tremor 3 Illuminated. The MOA version will be available with an Impact 60 MOA reticle.
Sensight SSR400 digital Riflesight
A big step forward in digital optics is Sensight’s new SSR400 Digital Riflesight, basically a high-resolution digital camera with a microprocessor-controlled reticle. The system is self-contained in a lightweight, compact display that allows the firearm to be held and used as if it held a traditional rifle scope. The digital interface allows users to customize the display, record video, and even livestream the image. The display eliminates eye relief issues, making it easy to acquire targets at distances up to 400 yards. Beyond 400 yards the image becomes noticeably pixelated, but still allowed us to easily hit targets at that distance. The price is moderate.
We viewed hundreds of pistols, shot a dozen or so, and came away with four we really liked. Two were suppressed rimfire pistols, and two were centerfire “Race guns”.
Ruger .22 LR MARK IV 22/25 Gold With Suppressor
We had fun trying out the Ruger MARK IV™ 22/45™ LITE fitted with a factory suppressor. Ruger had a new “bling” version on hand for test shooting. This was the Model 43926, with gold anodized aluminum upper receiver. This is ported for lightness — this pistol weighs just 25 ounces (without suppressor).
KelTec CP33 Suppressed Rimfire Pistol
We shot a very impressive KelTec pistol derived from the KelTec CMR-30 .22 WMR carbine. This new CP33 pistol is mostly the same as the CMR-30, but with no stock and a different front section. The 33 in the name refers to the fact that the clear magazine holds 33 rounds of .22 LR ammo. The version we shot was suppressed, and it was a pleasure to shoot. The trigger is excellent — noticeably better than most other 22s on the market. With virtually no recoil, it was ultra-quiet and surprisingly accurate. This Editor was surprised that a KelTec was one of his favorite new handguns at Industry Day. KelTec says the first production run should start shipping in March, 2019.
Walther PPQ Q5 Match SF (Steel Frame)
Walther’s PPQ Q5 has been popular with action pistol competitors. Now Walther offers an enhanced SF (“Steel Frame”) version. We like how the pistol balances with the heavier, beefier steel frame. We expect the extra mass of the steel frame will also reduce muzzle flip and perceived recoil. This is available from Walther with iron sights or a Red Dot.
Bul Armory SAS 1911-Type Race Gun
Israel’s Bul Armory offers a wide range of defensive handguns and target pistols, including the SAS series of competition pistols. These impressive “Race Guns” feature compensators, relieved slides, flared magwells, and excellent match triggers. Needless to say these comp pistols are a hoot to shot — with superfast cycle rates for fast shot transitions.
Industry Day file photo courtesy CMG Marketing & Events.
Ammunition — Big News from Sierra and More
Sierra Will Offer Loaded Ammunition
The big news in the world of commercial ammunitions come from Sierra bullets. For the first time, Sierra will be offering Sierra-branded loaded ammo. Our good friend (and multi-time Nat’l Long Range Champion) Michelle Gallagher revealed that Sierra will offer a selection of high-quality factory ammunition in 2019.
Sierra will be releasing its own brand of hunting ammunition. Sierra “Gamechanger” will debut in five popular hunting calibers: .243 Win, 6mm Creedmoor, 6.5 Creedmoor, .270 Win, and .308 Win. The rounds use a new tipped GameKing bullet for match grade accuracy in a hunting round. No details yet on brass, primer, and powder components for this ammo, but if the quality of the bullets is any indication these rounds will serve hunters well.
New Norma Monolithic Hollow Point Ammo
Norma unveiled some impressive new pistol ammunition. The new MHP (Monolithic Hollow Point) offers extreme expansion with major energy transfer. This MHP bullet features a lead-free solid core. This new MHP ammo offers serious performance for regions where lead-core bullets are prohibited. Accuracy is also very good with these new Norma bullets.
Great Products for Hunters and Varminters
We saw some impressive gear for game hunters and varminters. Swagger bipods has introduced a new kind of rifle support that combines the best qualities of both a field bipod and shooting sticks. And we saw a nice swivel field bench that offered very good stability.
Swagger demonstrated its new Stalker QD42 (quick detach) and Stalker Lite bipods. The QD42 is a lighter, more compact design of the already-established hunter series that allows for fast attach and removal via the push of a button. The quick attach/detach is a great feature that allows hunters to carry the bipod in their pack until it’s time to shoot. The Stalker Lite offers similar advantages in that it is extremely light and folds up like tent poles so it can be carried in a pack or side pocket. Both systems demonstrate the maneuverability swagger is known for and are reasonably priced.
Many Industry Day exhibitors were using the well-made and versatile DOA Shooting Bench. These benches feature a strong steel base supporting a very stable top that rotates to change rifle aim points in seconds. In addition, the DOA bench features a swivel seat. We liked the build quality on these DOA benches. Varmint hunters would like this bench — it would work well in a prairie dog field.
About Industry Day and the Range
With two dozen shooting bays, plus an elevated shooting station with targets out to 400 yards, there is plenty of action. Here’s the layout:
We definitely need to remember why we are able to continue to own and shoot firearms in this nation…
Next best thing to being there — this 5-minute video, produced last year, shows Industry Day highlights. It’s a great overview featuring a wide variety of rifles, pistols and shotguns. The biggest commercial, hands-on “live fire” gun demonstration in the world, Industry Day at the Range is attended by over 1700 journalists and buyers.
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.
If you have been waiting to get a Magnetospeed… wait no longer. Priced at just $159.99 at MidwayUSA, 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. READ Magnetospeed Sporter Review. NOTE: You need to add the item to cart to see the $159.99 price. This sells elsewhere up to $190.00.
2. Bruno Shooters Supply — Lapua Brass Sale
This isn’t the first time we’ve featured Lapua brass from Bruno Shooters Supply. But you may want to act soon because prices are going up. Bruno’s is offering very good pricing now for existing Lapua brass inventory. However, Bruno’s managers tell us that future supplies will likely cost more — this will be the last opportunity to get Lapua Brass at low, 2018 mark-down prices. So get ready for the new shooting season and stock up on brass now with Bruno’s favorable pricing.
3. Amazon — Protektor Model Rear Bags
When it comes to rear bags there’s really only a few brands that the pros use and Protektor is always one of them. Protektor leather rear shooting bags are well made, hold up to abuse, and do their job rain or shine. Now you can purchase these quality Protektor rear rest bags from Amazon. That means you’re getting a very competitive price with super-fast Prime Shipping available. if you need a rear bag quickly for that next match, this is a smart option.
4. EuroOptic — Vortex Viper & Razor Close-Outs, Save Hundreds
Here is an awesome deal on the popular Vortex Viper scopes, a top choice for hunters and tactical shooters. EuroOptic has slashed prices on last year’s model Vipers so you can save hundreds. Get the First Focal Plane (F1) 4-16x50mm Viper PST for $499.99. That’s a whopping $400 off the original price. Or, grab the higher-magnification F1 6-24x50mm Viper PST for $649.99, a $300 savings. Both scopes have a great reputation, and the Vortex warranty is second to none. Buy with confidence.
If you want a true high-end tactical optic, there are also great deals on the premium Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56mm scopes — save $650.00.
5. EuroOptic — FN Pistol Sale
Who couldn’t use a quality pistol crafted by a legendary manufacturer for up to 45% off? EuroOptic is clearing out its FN America Pistols at super-low prices. Chose from a wide variety of models in popular chamberings such as 9mm Luger and .40 S&W. There are full-size, compact pistols, and sub-compact FN pistols on sale. For example the FNS-40 Compact NMS (.40 SW) is just $339.00, hundreds less than you’d pay for a compact Glock. If you are looking for a quality semi-auto handgun for targets shooting or self-defense, check out these deals.
6. Graf & Sons — Free Sierra Ballistics Software w/ $75 purchase
Graf & Sons is running a great promotion right now for anyone who is serious about precision hand-loading and long-range shooting. Purchase $75 worth of Sierra Bullets and get the Sierra Infinity Ballistics Software for FREE. That’s a $39.95 value just for buying the bullets you love to shoot anyway. The ballistics program is very sophisticated and includes hundreds of bullet profiles.
Anyone can print out paper targets but what’s the fun in that? For only $22.00 you can grab 100 of these multi-color reactive splatter targets and know exactly where your shots are landing. A bright-colored Hi-Viz “halo” appears each shot in the black bull. These targets are made of a weather-resistant material, so you can use them in light rain without worrying about them getting soggy or falling apart (as would normal paper targets). NOTE: Reactive splatter targets typically cost much more. With this deal each target costs just twenty-two cents, less than a quarter — a real bargain.
Note: You get one set of muffs (either gray or camo, NOT both) for $8.88 plus S/H.
Good muffs that offer 27 db Noise Reduction and won’t spoil your cheekweld — for under ten bucks? Can’t argue with that. Right now CDNN is offering a killer deal on Kryptek Sound Soldier 27 NRR muffs that sell elsewhere for around $24.00. Get these in either Highlander Camo or Typhon Grey for just $8.88. These passive muffs have low profile shells engineered to stay out of the way when shouldering your weapon. The ergonomic headband keeps the muffs aligned, in their proper position. Purchasers report the soft leatherette ear seals are surprisingly comfortable. These muffs provide a pretty high NRR considering the low profile design. And the price, just $8.88 on sale, is hard to beat! NOTE: Other vendors have a more conservative 25 NRR for these type of muffs. That’s still quite good.
A clean gun is a happy gun and since patches are the core of any cleaning regimen why not grab some great patches for a great price? Amazon sells 1000-count packs of Boosteady Professional Cleaning Patches starting at just $8.99 for 1″ square patches — a great bargain for 1000. Now you won’t feel so bad running a few extra patches every time you clean just make sure you got the last bit of crud out. Boosteady patches are very highly rated by purchasers and come in 1″ square ($8.99), 2″ square ($11.99), and 2.5″ square ($13.99) sizes, inside a convenient box.
