At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. Midsouth — Garmin Xero C1 Pro Radar Chronograph, $599.99
⏺ Advanced new compact radar chronograph — testers are impressed
The new Garmin Xero C1 Pro chronograph has hit the market. Initial reports have been very positive, and the price is attractive — $599.99. The new Xero C1 Pro radar chronograph, measuring just 3.03″x2.38″x1.36″, is compact and easy to transport. Using Doppler radar, the Xero C1 Pro accurately records velocities from 100 FPS to 5000 FPS, so it works with all kinds of projectiles. Setup is simple and intuitive, thanks to the button-operated design. SEE FULL RecoilWeb Review (many photos).
⏺ Amazingly low prices on 16″ barrel AR-15 — good basis for varmint rifle
If you’re in the market for an AR15-platform rifle, here’s a great deal. For just $399.99 you can grab this Radical Firearms SOCOM AR15 5.56 rifle. That’s less than you’d pay for a Glock. This Radical Firearms 16″ barrel AR rifle uses MIL-STD Upper and lower receivers and has a 16″ barrel with flash hider. A full accessory rail extends along the upper receiver and modern RPR free float handguard. The buttstock is adjustable for length.
3. Powder Valley — Factory Second Bullets
⏺ Save 30-50% on major brand bullets
Right now Powder Valley is running a sale on major-brand bullets in a wide range of calibers and styles. With this promo you save save up to 50% on factory second bullets. You can recognize some makers from the bullet styles and tips. With these bullet discounts you can do a lot more rifle and pistol practice. This factory second bullet sale will expire soon so don’t delay.
4. Sportsman’s WH — Leupold Gold Event Sale + Gift Cards
⏺ Major savings plus Sportsman’s Warehouse gift cards
If you’ve been shopping for riflescopes, spotting scopes, rangefinders, and/or binoculars head over to Sportsman’s Warehouse for the Leupold Gold Event. There are major discounts on a wide range of quality optics. Along with the sale price reductions, Sportsman’s Warehouse gives buyers a FREE gift card with many Leupold products. The value of the gift card is based on the purchase price with a max $300 card value. This gift card deal runs through 10/31/2023.
5. Creedmoor Sports — ADG Brass Sale
⏺ ADG brass is high quality and handles strong loads.
Great ammo starts with good brass. American-made ADG Brass is high-quality stuff, used by many top shooters. ADG brass has a reputation for consistency and long life cycle, and it holds up with with strong competition loads. If you haven’t tried ADG brass yet, this Creedmoor Sports sale is a good opportunity. There is a good selection of modern and magnum cartridge types including 6.5 PRC, 7 SAUM, 7 PRC, 28 Nosler, 7mm Rem Mag, 300 WSM, 30 Nosler, 300 PRC, 338 Lapua Mag and many more.
6. Amazon — Lyman Case Trim Xpress, $114.99
⏺ Very good trimmer — quick adjustments; 10 bushings provided
Precision reloading demands consistent brass trim length. However, with many case trimmers it’s a pain to adjust trim length, plus the hand-cranking becomes tiresome. A better, more efficient case trimming solution is offered by the Lyman Trim Xpress. We like this case trimmer for good reason. The smart design allows for fast .001″ trim length adjustments with the click of a dial. The tool ships with 10 bushings that cover the most popular neck sizes on the market.
1911 style single-action pistols have always been popular because they are accurate, and can be easily customized. If you’re looking for a modern 1911 that’s quite affordable, consider the SDS Imports 1911 Devil Ray Carry on sale now at Palmetto State Armory. This 1911 Devil Ray .45 ACP pistol boasts a forged steel frame with Ed brown-style bobtail frame cut. This design makes CCW carry easier.
8. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Brass Tumbler, $47.99
⏺ Sturdy, effective tumbler at a very attractive price
For removing dirt, fouling, and sizing lube, a brass tumbler is a very useful tool for hand-loaders. We like the Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-EZ Vibratory Case Tumbler (#ad). The Frankford Tumbler’s bowl is designed to increase brass agitation for fast, aggressive cleaning that reduces wear on reloading dies and extends brass life. It has a clear lid for monitoring tumbling action with cord-mount ON/OFF switch for safety and convenience.
9. Amazon — Cleaning Patches and Swab Set, $13.99
⏺ Very complete cleaning set with 600 patches, 400 swabs
Proper gun maintenance requires cleaning bore, chamber, and the little nooks and crannies. Many key cleaning tasks can be done with this Cleaning Package (#ad) with 600 2″ Cleaning Patches and 400 6″-long Gun Cleaning Swab pack. The patches will work with all types of firearms and can be trimmed for smaller diameter barrels. The swabs are great for cleaning inside of actions and mag wells.
As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. Creedmoor Sports — American Bullet Company Sale
⏺ Excellent prices on .224 (5.56) and .308 caliber bullets
American Bullet Company offers quality bullets at very attractive prices — as much as 40% less than some name brands. Starting at just $24.95 per 100, these are a good choice for service rifle shooters and Garand/Springfield competitors. These bullets are made in the USA by major manufacturers. They are all first-run bullets — no blems or seconds. These bullets are packed in 100-ct and 500-ct boxes, with all bullets in each box coming from a single lot. These value-priced bullets let you shoot more without breaking the bank.
2. Midsouth — Peterson Brass Sale
⏺ Large variety of cartridge brass, including hard-to-find types
We have found that Peterson Brass is consistently very good, and lasts a long time. Right now Midsouth has a large variety of Peterson brass in stock at competitive prices. Available types include: 22 Creedmoor, 6.5 Creedmoor, .260 Rem, 6.5 PRC, .280 Ackley Imp, 28 Nosler, 7mm PRC, 7mm RemMag, .300 WinMag, .300 Rem UltraMag, 30 Nosler, 33 Nosler, and .338 Weatherby (rebated).
3. Creedmoor Sports — Redding Boss ProPak, $299.95
⏺ High quality Redding press with scale and tools
The Redding Boss is a great press for novices and pros alike and now you can pick up the Redding Boss ProPak for only $299.95 (#ad). That’s a $278 (48%) savings. The Boss ProPak includes: Boss Single-Stage Reloading Press, Model 2 Powder and Bullet Scale, Powder Trickler, Pad Style Case Lube Kit, Deburring Tool, Model 18 Case Preparation Kit, Powder Funnel and Hodgdon Annual Manual. Dies sold separately.
4. Graf & Sons — Nikon Binoculars Sale
⏺ Big savings on Nikon Binocs from 7X to16X, compact and full sizes
A good set of binoculars is great at the range and/or in the field. Binoculars are useful when hiking and hunting and just enjoying nature. Right now Graf’s is running a Nikon binocular sale with prices 30% Off! Nikon makes high-quality binoculars in many sizes and powers, from compact 8X versions to high power 16X. For hikers, we like the 8×25 Travelite Compact now just $76.97.
⏺ Sophisticated wind speed meter at a super-affordable price
Knowing wind speed is critical to making accurate ballistic adjustments both on the line or in the field. If you need a reliable yet affordable wind speed meter, consider the BTMETER BT-100 Handheld Anemometer (#ad). The BT-100’s multi-function capabilities include Wind Speed, Wind Temperature, and Wind Chill factor. The BT-100 portable wind speed gauge can accurately measure wind velocity in 5 units: m/s, km/h, ft/min, knots, mph. The unit also records air temperatures in degrees Celsius and Fahrenheit.
6. Amazon — Allen Deluxe Rifle Case, $75.99
⏺ Quality case for long-barreled hunting rifles, PRS rifles, and shotguns
This Allen Long Gun Case in Mossy Oak Break-Up Country Camo has three large external pockets. This case fits scoped rifles (and other long guns) up to 50 inches overall. Well-made, with lots of features, this gun case has earned 84% 5-Star ratings from verified purchasers. Right now this handsome case is $75.99 on Amazon (#ad), a 22% discount.
⏺ Handy adjustable rest fits nearly all types of pistols and revolvers
A small compact rest definitely helps when doing load development and accuracy testing with handguns. A good choice (at a great price) is the Caldwell Pistolero shooting rest (#ad), now just $27.99 on sale at Amazon. The Caldwell Pistolero rest is durable, and the support surfaces will not mark your pistols. The hand support is comfortable to use. With 5 inches of rear pad movement and and 3 inches of vertical adjustment in the front, the Pistolero rest accommodates virtually all handguns, providing a stable shooting surface.
8. Harbor Freight — 105-Piece Tool Set and Chest, $44.99
⏺ Get a complete tool kit for the price of a couple wrenches
If you’re looking for a very complete tool set at a bargain price check out this Harbor Freight 105-piece tool kit with 4 drawer chest. On sale now for just $44.99, this major tool kit includes wrenches, sockets, screw drivers and more — everything you need to perform multiple tasks at home and in the reloading room. NOTE: Use Coupon 77484334 to get the $44.99 price through 10/29/23.
9. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Media Separator, $46.99
⏺ Very effective Media Separator that works for both wet AND dry media
After tumbling brass, separating the brass cases from cleaning media can be a challenge. You need to separate the brass from corncob/walnut media, or stainless pins and water. The Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Wet/Dry Media Separator (#ad) will get your brass clean quickly and efficiently. For use with wet or dry media it features a sturdy center sphere with handle, a useful cover, and a specially designed corner filter to strain water out. We’ve used this unit and it works well.
Sooner or later, every reloader needs a good bullet puller. Hornady Lock-N-Load Impact Bullet Puller, just $21.59 at Midsouth, will do the job. With a couple smacks the bullet will pop loose and then be captured along with the powder for re-use. The base of the handle has a storage area to hold two extra brass holders (collets). This Hornady LNL Impact Bullet Puller works for most rifle or pistol cartridges up to .45 caliber. For a few bucks more ($25.99), Amazon sells this Hornady Bullet Puller (#ad) with free delivery.
As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. Bruno’s — Krieger Barrels in Stock, Many Calibers/Contours
⏺ Get top quality Krieger barrels NOW without the wait!
Getting new barrels from top suppliers can involve a long wait — up to a year with some barrel-makers. Avoid that long wait by ordering a top-quality Krieger barrel from Bruno Shooters Supply. Bruno’s has a large selection of Krieger barrels in stock in popular calibers, contours, twist rates, and lengths. You’ll find great barrels in .224, 6mm, 6.5mm, 7mm, and .308 calibers suitable for multiple competition disciplines.
2. CDNN — Ruger Rifles with Scope Sale plus $100 Rewards
⏺ Good Rifle/Scope package plus $100 in bonus gear
There is a wide selection of scoped rifles with this deal. Above are three options, but there are 13 other Ruger American rifle/scope combos available at big savings. Choose your favorite chambering and stock configuration. With each rifle/scope combo, buyers get $100 in Ruger Rewards good for magazines, swag, parts, and/or apparel. These rewards can be redeemed at Shop.Ruger.com until March 31, 2024.
3. Midsouth — Big Brand Match Bullets — $22-$32/100
⏺ Great price on Match bullets for Service Rifles, .308/.30-06 Match rifles
Here’s a great deal for service rifle, Palma Rifle, and Garand/Military Match shooters. A major big-name American bullet maker has produced a selection of .224 and .308-caliber bullets at amazing, ultra-low prices. If you shooting an AR service rifle, you can get 69gr HPBT match bullets for just $0.22 each ($54.99/250). And if you shoot an M1 Garand or Springfield you can get 168gr HPBT bullets for just $0.32 each ($79.99/250). Get these Bullet Bargains at Midsouth before they sell out!
⏺ Major instant savings on great ZEISS scopes and Binoculars
If you need high-quality optics for a fall hunt, ZEISS has a major promotion for ZEISS Conquest V4 riflescopes and ZEISS SFL binoculars. With this promo, good through 11/30/2023, you get INSTANT SAVINGS of $150 or $250. Get $250 instant savings on ZEISS SFL binoculars: 8×30, 10×30, 8×40, and 10×40. Or get $150 instant savings on Conquest V4 riflescopes: 3-12x44mm, 3-12x56mm, 4-16x44mm, 4-16x50mm, and 6-24x50mm. Get these deals at EuroOptic or other authorized ZEISS dealers.
5. Midsouth — 1500 Fiocchi Small Rifle Primers, $129.99
⏺ High quality primers in bigger quantity 1500 pack
You may not have tried Fiocchi primers before, but these are effective and very reliable. These primers are manufactured on modern equipment using the best available materials. Folks, please note, this is for 1500 (one thousand five hundred) primers. Fifteen hundred. Nearly all other primer sellers ship packs of 1000 primers. So you get 50% more than normal. This is the equivalent of $86.66 for 1000 primers — a very good deal these days. NOTE: They are somewhat harder than average and work well for military firearms with floating firing pins.
⏺ Very handy conversion — shoot .22 LR with your AR15
Save money when training with your AR15 by using this CMMG AR15 .22 LR Conversion Kit. You get a complete new rimfire bolt mechanism plus three (3) magazines that fit .22 LR cartridges. Right now this kit is on sale at Brownells for $169.99. Then use Brownells Code BUILD15 during check-out to lower the net cost to just $147.99. That’s a great deal. You can get decent .22 LR ammo for under ten cents a round. Centerfire .223 Rem ammo can easily cost $0.75 per round (or more), so this kit will pay for itself after just 230 rounds. CMMG recommends Federal 36gr plated round-nose ammo for best performance.
7. Sportsman’s Warehouse — Camo Hunting Gear Sale
⏺ Save up to 40% on full range of camouflage clothing and gear
As part of its fall Great Hunt Sale, Sportsman’s Warehouse has a wide selection of camouflage outdoor clothing on sale. You’ll find pants, bibs, shirts, vests, hoodies, jackets, neck gaiters and more discounted up to 40%. CLICK HERE to see the full selection of discounted camo clothing.
8. Dick’s Sporting Goods — Fortress Safes on Sale
⏺ Great prices on Fortress safes — the big safe is a real bargain
Here are two great gun safe deals. The jumbo-sized Fortress 64+4 Gun Safe will hold up to 64 guns in the main interior, plus four more on the door. It is currently $200 off, discounted to $999.98. With scoped guns, or those with wide forearms or pistol grips, knock that max number down to about 35 guns. That’s still an impressive capacity. This big Fortress-brand safe weighs 545 lbs., measures 56.5″ H x 41″ W x 25″ D, and is fire-rated at 1400°F for 30 minutes. If you are looking for a smaller, secondary safe, the Fortress 12-gun Fire Safe is currently $449.98 on sale ($150 off). This weighs 247 lbs. and is 55.1″ H x 19″ W x 15.3″ D. It is fire-rated at 1200°F for 30 minutes.
9. EuroOptic — ZEISS Terra ED 10×42 Binoculars, $339.99
⏺ Superb German Schott glass, great for low-light, distinctive orange body
These outstanding ZEISS Terra ED 10×42 binoculars are now $339.99 — $260.00 (43%) off the regular price! The ultra-sharp Schott Glass and multicoated lenses deliver superior optical clarity, and outstanding 88% light-transmission. These Terra ED binoculars feature comfortable ergonomics and a compact design for easy carry in the field. A recent purchaser declared: “The Zeiss Terra ED 10×42 is the best glass that I have ever looked through for its price range. And with EuroOptic having [these] on sale it was a no-brainer to buy another one.”
⏺ No more batteries to buy with good rechargeable NRR 23 muffs
How many times have you grabbed your electronic earmuffs only to find the batteries are dead. To avoid the hassles (and cost) of battery replacement, consider Walker’s Rechargeable Razor Slim Ear Muffs. These rechargeable muffs have an estimated 80 hours of run time. That’s enough to get through several DAYS at the range. Then you can recharge the muffs conveniently at home or in your vehicle. To hear range commands clearly, the muffs have HD speakers. Plus there’s a handy audio jack. These muffs are comfortable and boast a 23 dB Noise Reduction Rating (NRR).
If you need high-quality optics for your fall hunt, check this out. Now through November 30, ZEISS will offer a fall hunting promotion through participating ZEISS authorized retailers. The promotion includes two popular ZEISS product lines, the Conquest V4 riflescopes and SFL binoculars. With this promotion you get INSTANT SAVINGS of $150 or $250.
$150 Instant Savings on ZEISS Conquest V4 Scopes
Now through 11/20/2023 you can get $150 instant savings on ZEISS’s best-selling riflescope family, the Conquest V4 line. ZEISS offers a total of 21 unique configurations within the Conquest V4 riflescope portfolio. There are five models available, all with 30mm main tubes: 3-12x44mm, 3-12x56mm, 4-16x44mm, 4-16x50mm, and 6-24x50mm. ZEISS V4 scopes deliver 90% light transmission, have a great amount of elevation adjustment, and are designed to handle up to 1500 g-force of recoil. Select models feature the ZEISS External Locking Windage Turret, as well as illumination and a Ballistic Stop.
$250 Instant Savings on ZEISS SFL Binoculars
Enjoy a $250 instant savings on the ZEISS SFL line of binoculars. With the SFL 30 and 40, memorable moments can be experienced with ease. Optimized to be as lightweight and compact as possible, the SFL line features the Ultra-High-Definition (UHD) Concept which ensures true-to-life color reproduction and the highest level of detail. Thanks to its SmartFocus Concept, the focus wheel is perfectly positioned and enables fast and precise focusing – even with gloves on. The lightweight magnesium housing provides long lasting durability that will endure for generations. The SFL binocular comes in four models: the 8×30, 10×30, 8×40, and 10×40.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. Sportsman’s WH — Savage Axis w/ Scope Combo, $399.99
⏺ Great price on hunting rifle with scope
Need an affordable scoped rifle for a fall hunt? Check out the Savage Axis w/ Bushnell Combo. For just $399.99, you get the Savage Axis XP Rifle with mounted Bushnell 4-12x40mm scope. Chose from a variety of popular chamberings including: .223 Rem, .243 Rem, 6.5 Creedmoor, ,270 Win, .308 Win, 350 Legend, and .30-06 Springfield. Most feature a 22″ barrel, but some come with 18″ or 20″ barrels. The AXIS XP features a tough synthetic stock and detachable box magazine.
2. Amazon — Kestrel 1000 Wind Meter, $79.00
⏺ Excellent basic Kestrel at a great price
Sometimes all you want to know is the windspeed so you don’t need other fancy wind meter features. The Kestrel 1000 is a great no-frills wind meter. This unit measures and displays maximum, current and average wind speed in m/s, ft/min, km/h, mph, and knots on a large, clear LCD screen. Priced at just $79.00 on Amazon, this rugged unit floats, is waterproof (IP-67), and is drop-tested to military standards (MIL-STD-810G).
3. Precision Reloading — Ammo Sale Up To 37% Off
⏺ Major savings on big-name hunting and match ammo
If you need quality ammunition for that fall hunt, check out the October Ammo Sale at Precision Reloading. You’ll find a large range of cartridge types from Federal Hornady, Berger, Winchester and more with discounts up to 37%. This is a great opportunity to get quality ammo for that deer or varmint rifle. Precision Reloading also has Fall Hunter discount codes: CODE 1623 for $10 off $100 and CODE 2623 for $25 off $250.
4. Midway USA — Vortex Viper PST 5-25x50mm, $659.99
⏺ Save $440 on good scope for PRS/NRL matches and varminting
Looking for first focal plane (FFP) scope for PRS/NRL competition? Here’s a great deal on the Vortex Viper PST 5-25x50mm FFP scope. The sale price is just $659.99, marked down from $1099.99. That’s a whopping $440 savings — a full 40% off. This Viper PST scope features zero stop and illuminated reticle. The 5-25X magnification range is just about ideal for PRS/NRL competition. Vortex offers one of the best scope warranties around, so buy with confidence.
⏺ Very affordable option for a good, basic Black Rifle
AR15-platform rifles are great for self-defense, varminting, and service rifle competition. This week Palmetto State Armory, a leading AR vendor, is offering complete finished PSA PA-15 rifles for just $469.99. You could pay that much for an upper alone. Listed as “Blem” models, with slight finish imperfections, these PA-15 rifles are durable and function well. The forged 7075-T6 aluminum lower mounts an 6-position adjustable buttstock. The hard-coat anodized upper features a full-length upper rail and lightweight M-Lok free float handguard. The barrel is 1:7″ twist.
6. EuroOptic — U.S. Optics Scope Sale
⏺ Very high-quality scopes with huge savings
U.S. Optics makes some great optics but they usually come with a hefty price tag. But right now EuroOptic is running a sale U.S. Optics TS Scopes with some incredibly low prices. Select among three power ranges: 1-8X, 3-12X, and 5-25X. If you’re putting together a PRS/NRL competition rig we recommend the U.S. Optics TS 5-25x50mm FFP scope. The sale price is just $499.00, HALF the regular $995.00 price.
7. Amazon — ShootingTargets7 AR500 Steel Targets
⏺ Good selection of AR500 steel targets with durable zinc coating
Steel targets are great for fun shooting and tactical training. Right now Amazon offers a line of USA-made Zinc-plated, laser-cut AR500 Steel Targets starting at just $7.97 (for 3″ diameter gong). Choose from a variety of sizes ranging from 3″ to 16″ diameter and thicknesses 1/4″, 3/8″, or 1/2″. There’s also a 12″x23″ torso target. The Zinc plating on the steel prevents rust. The maker says the zinc “is far more durable than paint or powder coat.”
⏺ Popular hunter’s target with grid and deer image
Before you head out hunting, you should sight-in your rifle and do some practice. A good target option is the Pro-Shot Products 25″ x 25″ Whitetail Deer Sight-in Target. Priced at just $9.19 for a 5-pack, this is a good sight-in target with a grid background and four prominent sighting diamonds. This target shows key animal vitals and the deer image is very realistic — providing good preparation for your hunt.
9. Amazon — Lyman Universal Case Prep Set, $63.95
⏺ Handy kit with 8 useful tools with molded handles
Proper brass prep includes deburring, chamfering, cleaning primer pockets and more. The Lyman Universal Case Prep Tool Kit has all the key prep tools you’ll need. This kit includes both large and small primer pocket reamers, primer pocket cleaners, outside deburring tool, inside (VLD) chamfer tool and large and small primer pocket uniformer tools. All individual items have their own molded handle with rubber insert for sure grip. The kit includes a nice, zippered case for storage and/or transport. For $64.88 you can get all the same tools in a rugged Lyman Hard Case Prep Tool Kit.
10. Amazon — Hornady One Shot Lube, $22.99
⏺ Very effective case lube, popular with our Forum members
Sizing brass can be a chore without the right lube. One of our favorites is Hornady One Shot. This lube spreads evenly and works well with sizing dies. Many top shooters use this lube both with single stage and progressive presses.
This stunning Westley Richards & Co. shotgun was made for the 1981 nuptials of Lady Diana Spencer and HRH Prince Charles. It is rare, has a unique history of ownership, and is also elaborately decorated.
Jim Supica, Director of the NRA Firearms Museum, has written a trio of articles about gun collecting. If you are thinking of starting your own collection of firearms, you should read Supica’s informative articles. The first talks about the basics of gun collecting, the second explains the five key factors that govern gun values, and the third article explains where to find rare and valuable arms. Today we want to highlight the five factors that contribute most to a gun’s value, according to Supica:
Make and Model, Condition, Rarity, History, Art — These are the five factors that … appeal to collectors and help determine the value of collectible guns.
Make and model tends to be the starting point for evaluating collectible guns for most collectors and will be a basic threshold requirement for those with specialized collections.
Factors here include the quality of a particular manufacturer’s products, the historical usage of the guns in question, and the brand’s aura of romance. As an example of that last (and most intangible) factor, consider that Colt Single Action Army revolvers were for several decades the most prevalent focus for collectors interested in full-size revolvers from the post-Civil War to turn of the 20th Century-era, and there is no question that Colts were widely used during that time. In recent years, there has been a refreshing trend in gun collecting to look at a broader range of guns than the traditional blue chip Colts, Winchesters, and Lugers.
Colt Single Action Army Revolvers remain among the most prized (and collectible) firearm.
2. Condition (and Originality)
Obviously, condition plays a major role in the value of a collectible firearm. The classic advice to new collectors in this regard has always been to hold out for guns in the best condition and pay the extra premium they demand. This condition-emphasis seems to have developed in the 1970s and 1980s. In the early post-WWII years of gun collecting there was more interest in rare variations and history, and fewer collectors to whom a few percentage point difference in remaining original finish was of much concern.
Although the highest-condition guns continue to bring record prices, it seems that the pendulum is beginning to swing back the other way, a trend met with my hearty approval. The appeal of “mint” guns has been largely lost on me, and seems to be more appropriate to coin or stamp collecting than a field in which the possible historic usage of the artifact holds so much interest and significance. There is a definite segment of the collector market that is not overly concerned with perfect condition, so long as the gun is original and has not been messed with in a more recent (and, in my opinion, usually misguided) attempt to enhance its desirability.
3. Rarity
In terms of rarity, the well-worn saying that “just because a gun is rare doesn’t mean it’s valuable” remains true to a certain extent. There may only be five known examples of a particular gun, but if only three people care about it, the market is saturated. However, there does seem to be more interest in cornering the rare variations within established collecting fields. There is a bit of a resurgence of the collecting philosophy of completing a punchlist of models and variations within a specialization, and this lead to vigorous competition for the rarest examples in these fields. In emerging collecting fields, when new research is published revealing the rarity of certain variations there can develop a brisk interest in those guns.
4. History
Individual guns with a known history of ownership by a specific individual or usage in a specific historical event have always captured the fascination of collectors, as well as historians and the general public. This seems to reflect a basic human interest and shows no sign of abatement. A positive trend here seems to be an increase in general understanding of the type of documentation which must accompany a historically attributed firearm to give it the credibility to justify a premium price, and the importance of creating and preserving such documentation.
This Beretta has extra value because it was owned by pilot Chuck Yeager. Photo NRA Museum.
5. Art (Decorative Embellishment)
Fine engraved guns are collected more for their artistic value than for their worth as firearms. Here the market for classic works by the great engravers of the 19th and early 20th Centuries remains strong, as well as for factory-engraved pieces from more recent years. Interest in recent non-factory engraving seems to have diminished, as has… the trend of adding modern engraving to older firearms.
Here is a matching set of three three beautifully engraved pistols by the late Indiana engraving wizard Ben Shostle — a Luger, a Mauser, and a Colt. Photo courtesy Amoskeag Auction Company.
Factory-custom engraving should not be confused with mass-produced, factory-made commemorative firearms, which flooded the market in the 1960s and 1970s. A couple of major manufacturers worked this genre to death, and prices on commemoratives have been stagnant for many years now, although the market for these shows some signs of renewal.
CAUTIONARY WORDS about RESTORATION
With prices for high-condition original finish guns running away from the budgets of many collectors, period-of-use refinished guns and older factory-refinished guns are finding more enthusiastic buyers than they did a few years ago.
The availability of excellent-quality restoration services is another factor that I anticipate may impact collector preferences in the future. The top restoration artists are reworking guns to “as new” condition with such skill that it has become increasingly difficult for even knowledgeable collectors to distinguish mint original finish guns from the best restorations.
When such restoration is disclosed to a prospective buyer (as it ethically should be), the prices the gun will bring are significantly below a similar gun with original finish, and may be less than the original cost of the pre-restoration gun plus the cost of the rework. This creates a mighty incentive for deception by a motivated seller, either by active misrepresentation (a.k.a. “fraud”) or passively by simple failure to mention the modification.
If you’ve been thinking about a big purchase at Brownells, here are some money-saving codes. Brownells is currently offering $30 Off a $200 purchase, $20 Off a $175 purchase, $15 Off a $150 purchase, and $10 Off a $100 purchase. In addition, you can get 10% off all purchases of $150 or more. It’s simple to get these discounts — there are no buyers’ clubs to join, no forms to fill out. Just use the appropriate Discount Code during online check-out.
Listed below are the Codes to use. Simply use the appropriate Code for your purchase at Brownells.com. These codes have no listed expiration date, so Brownells could terminate them at any time. Accordingly, we recommend you do your shopping soon. Also if the highest value code no longer works, try a lesser value CODE.
NOTE: None of the above codes include FREE or Discounted Shipping. But Code CARTSHIP offers Free Shipping/Handling for orders over $149.00 (with no other discounts). Depending on the weight/size of the item, this might be a better deal than saving $10-$20.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. Powder Valley — Factory Seconds Bullet Sale, Save 30-52%
⏺ Save up to 52% on major brand factory-second bullets
Powder Valley is running a big sale on major-brand factory seconds bullets. For .22, 6mm, 6.5mm, and .308 calibers you’ll find a good selection of tipped and HPBT bullets on sale at up to 52% off the normal price. There are also some .284, .338, .375, and .416 caliber bullets at big savings. This is a great way to get good quantities of high-quality bullets for rifle training and/or varmint hunting. We’ve generally found “seconds” to shoot very well and be consistent in weight. They may just have a small visual flaw in jacket appearance. In addition, Powder Valley has pistol bullets on sale in 9mm, 10mm, and .45 calibers.
2. Sportsman’s Warehouse — Hunting Gear Sale
⏺ Save up to 40% on hunting gear, packs, and camo attire
⏺ Good prices on brass for hunting, match, and ELR cartridges
If you need good brass for your hunting rifle, check out the Nosler brass sale at Midsouth. Along with the popular .270 Win and .308 Win hunting cartridge offerings, you’ll find a variety of other hunting cartridges at attractive prices. Cartridge types on sale include: .17 Rem Fireball, .204 Ruger, .223 Rem, 22 Nosler, .22 Rem Mag, 24 Nosler, 6mm Creedmoor, .243 Win, .257 Roberts, 6.5 Grendel, 6.5 Creedmoor, .260 Rem, 6.5×55, 6.5-284, .270 Win, .280 Rem, 30-30 Win, .308 Win, 30 Nosler, .30-378 Whby, 325 WSM, 33 Nosler, 8×57, 8mm Rem Mag, 9.3×62 Mauser and more!
4. KYGUNCO — Taurus Judge Home Defender Revolver, $579.99
⏺ Shoot big cartridges or shotshells in 13″ defense weapon
Taurus recently released a compact, new firearm which has significant advantages as a home defense weapon. Officially a 13″ barreled revolver, the new Taurus Judge Home Defender can shoot .45 LC cartridges AND shoot .410 gauge shotshells. That means it can work like as a pistol-grip shotgun. This Judge Home Defender is easy to store yet powerful and effective when used against a criminal intruder. You can order this new defense gun for $579.99 at KYGUNCO.
6. KYGUNCO — Savage 64 Precision Rimfire Rifle, $249.99
⏺ Great deal on good starter rifle for NRL22
Here’s a bargain-priced .22 LR rifle in a nice, modern chassis. The modern Savage 64 Precision houses a semi-automatic action in a chassis with M-LOK slots and an ergonomic pistol grip. The heavy barrel has a threaded muzzle for easy attachment of brake, tuner, or suppressor. This is a good starting rifle for NRL22 — the semi-auto action allows fast follow-up shots. Get this rifle on sale now for $249.99.
7. Palmetto SA — Leupold Binoculars and Harness Kit, $99.99
⏺ Save 50% now on Leupold Binoculars and Harness
Hunters and varminters need binoculars. A great option is the Leupold BX-1 Timberline 10×42 Binoculars with Go Afield Harness. Right now this combo is just $99.99, a 50% savings off the regular $199.99 price. But act soon — we expect this deal to expire soon. These Leupold binoculars offer solid reliability and quality glass in a lightweight package. This combo includes the excellent, adjustable GO Afield binocular harness, that will hold your binocs and other items securely all day long.
8. Graf & Sons — LEE Classic Turret Press, $129.99
⏺ Amazingly low price for a 4-station turret, with many great features
Right now the LEE Classic Turret Press is just $129.99 at Graf’s — an awesome deal. This 4-station Turret Press has earned excellent user reviews: “This cast iron frame model with all-steel linkage is built like a tank”; “Great press — solid as a rock. I originally bought it for reloading pistol ammo but like it so well I use it for almost everything”; “the turret auto-indexes perfectly and locks solid with no effort. I really like how easy it is to still use it as a single-stage when working up a load but not have to change dies, just simply rotate the turret by hand.” With four stations you can keep dies for multiple cartridge types. The long stroke allows rifle cases over 3″ long to be loaded. Spent primers run directly through the ram to an attached clear PVC tube that reliably catches every primer.
8. MidwayUSA — Browning Sleeping Bag, Tent, Blanket SALE
⏺ Great deals on Browning branded camping gear
Many readers will be out in the field this fall on hunting trips. Here are three Browning-brand items that are hugely discounted at MidwayUSA. The Browning Endeavor Sleeping Bag is an amazing bargain at $59.99, 72% off the original price. The Browning Big Horn 5+ SR Tent is spacious, and a great value at $229.99, $270 (54%) off the regular price. We’ve used the 70″x50″ polyester-covered Endeavor Blanket for car camping and boat trips and it worked great. NOTE: This is not thin like typical blankets — it should be considered a polyester quilt.
9. Amazon — GuardTech Plus Gun Cleaning Kit, $48.95
⏺ Excellent full-featured cleaning kit for all types of guns
This big GuardTech Plus Cleaning Kit will work for rifles, pistols, and even shotguns. You get a big selection of brushes, jags, and mops that fit calibers .17 to .50. In addition, there are picks and tooth-brush-style brushes for cleaning your action, plus a pull-through cleaning rope. You get all this, in a nice fitted hard case, for just $48.95 on Amazon. Choose green case (as shown), or black case.
⏺ Good compact muffs for the price with a good 26dB SNR
We say it all the time but don’t ever shoot without quality hearing protection. Consider these Vanderfield folding ear muffs. Priced at just $15.99, these come in a variety of colors (black, brown, green, gray, red, purple, pink) so you can easily tell yours apart from others. The 26dB SNR sound protection rating is above average for compact muffs. For maximum protection use plugs under the muffs. (FYI, “SNR” or Single Number Rating, is the EURO equivalent of the NRR noise rating in the USA.)
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. Graf & Sons — Leupold Optics Rebates
⏺ Get big $100 or $50 Rebate on quality Leupold optics
Need a riflescope, spotting scope, or binocs for your fall hunt or shooting match? If so check out the Leupold Optics Rebates over at Graf’s. You can save $50 on BX-2 Alpine HD Binoculars and $100 on SX-2 Alpine HD Spotting Scopes and VX-5HD scopes. The SX-2 spotting scope has earned very positive reviews and the VX-5HD is great for long range hunting. Here are links for qualifying products: BX-2 Binoculars; SX-2 Alpine HD Spotters; VX-5HD Scopes.
2. Powder Valley — Popular Hodgdon, VV, Alliant Powders on Sale
⏺ Most popular accuracy powders in stock now at good prices
PowderValley.com has a large selection of highly desirable powders IN STOCK and discounted now through Wednesday, 9/27/2023. Powder Valley has Varget, H4350, Reloder 16, N133, N320, N550, AR Comp and many more top-tier propellants in stock now. If you need premium powders at very competitive prices, head over to Powder Valley immediately.
3. Midsouth — Lock-N-Load AP Auto Progressive Press, $549.99
⏺ Save $40 with sale and get 500 FREE Bullets
Progressive presses let you load ammo much more efficiently. The Lock-N-Load AP Loader Auto Progressive Press is on sale now for $549.99 ($40 off). This 5-station progressive features automatic indexing, priming, and ejection. The L-N-L AP Loader has a 5-station quick change bushing system that allows quick/easy cartridge type change-overs in less than 5 minutes. And right now, with this press purchase, Hornady provides 500 bullets for free.
4. Palmetto State Armory — 5.7×28 Rock Pistol Sale, $299.99
⏺ Impressive new cartridge in good pistol priced under $300.00
The 5.7×28 cartridge is a high energy defense round with reduced recoil compared to cartridges with big, heavy bullets. The PSA 5.7 Rock Pistol is a full-size polymer frame pistol with excellent ergonomics and great accuracy. Right now it is on sale for just $299.99 — a great price. Made from quality 416 stainless steel and advanced polymers, this 5.7 Rock pistol is a good choice for defense and gun games. Chambered in 5.7x28mm, the PSA 5.7 Rock is fed from a 23-round magazine and has a smooth Glock-style trigger. This pistol will accept Glock-compatible sights.
5. Creedmoor Sports — Crosman Challenger Air Rifle, $649.95
⏺ Accurate, match-proven, excellent starter competition air rifle
Airguns are more popular than ever for good reason. They’re inexpensive to shoot, can be used indoors, and you don’t need an FFL to acquire an air rifle. If you want an affordable, competition-grade air rifle, consider the Crosman Challenger 2021. This Sporter Class air rifle boasts an adjustable stock, swappable sidelever cocking handle, and competition sights. With good components and ergonomics, this Challenge rifle can compete with much more expensive rigs. This is a good choice for 3-position rifle training.
6. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Case Prep Center, $120.30
⏺ Very capable case prep center with handy design
Case prep is critical for proper reloading but it can be a long and arduous process. Speed up your case prep with the Frankford Arsenal Case Prep System. The machine’s HSS cutters stay sharp for thousands of rounds to make trimming quick and easy and the heavy-duty motor and drivetrain are optimized for durability and performance. This prep center includes inside chamfer tool, deburr tool, large and small primer pocket cleaning tools, plus a trimmer with 3 collets and 6 shoulder bushings.
7. Midsouth — Frankford Arsenal Perfect Primer Seater, $61.48
⏺ Excellent Primer Seating Tool with very positive user reviews
Amazon has the Frankford Perfect Primer Seater Tool for $61.48 (14% Off). This is a GREAT primer seating tool. It has good feel, plenty of leverage, and the primer tray works well. Importantly, it has a click-adjust wheel for precise primer seating depth control. Read our Frankford Primer Seating Tool Product Review. The tool comes complete with 12 precision shell holders. A quick thumb release system allows you to switch from small to large primers easily. Plus there is a hard stop so you won’t over-crush a primer.
8. Midsouth — Aguila Rimfire Ammo Sale, from $3.19/50 rds
⏺ Incredibly low prices on Aguila .22 LR rimfire ammo
Shooting rimfire rifles and pistols is fun and affordable. Right now Midsouth is running an Aguila Rimfire Ammo Sale with great deals. Get reliable Aguila .22 LR ammo for as little as six cents per round (with $3.19 50rd box). There are many Aguila .22 LR rimfire ammo types on sale. Choose subsonic and supersonic, with a wide choice of bullet types.
9. Amazon — Digital Micrometer, $39.99
⏺ Good deal on precision inch + metric digital micrometer
A good micrometer is a key tool for accurately measuring cartridge components and gun parts. We found a good Digital Display Micrometer for just $39.99 on Amazon. This tool boasts a 0.0-1.0″ (0 to 25mm) range with with 0.00005″/0.001mm resolution and +/- 0.0001″ accuracy. This micrometer offers two measuring modes and is easy to operate.
10. Amazon — Wheeler P-Handle Tool Set, $48.71
⏺ Big discount on very complete set of drivers
If there’s one thing everyone needs in the workroom it’s a good set of hex and torq drivers. You can grab the Wheeler 30 Piece SAE/Metric Hex and Torx P-Handle Set for only $48.71 and have everything you need to work on guns and gear. This kit has SAE and Metric hex-type driver, plus Torx drivers, offering the full range of drivers you might need.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
⏺ Superb German tactical 12 gauge — save $532 with this deal
How’d you like to get a super high-quality, $1200 shotgun for under $670? That’s the killer deal offered right now at KYGUNC0. The SL5 3-Gun semi-automatic shotgun by J.P. Sauer & Sohn is a top-tier European shotgun featuring an inertia-driven system, pistol grip stock, and 18.5″ stepped rib, chrome-lined barrel. The SL5 includes sling attachments, Picatinny optics rail, ghost sights, and a 3+1 capacity. Regularly priced at $1199.99 (with a $1249.99 MSRP), this Sauer SLR is now just $667.82 at KYGUNCO. With this deal you save $532.17. That’s a 44% savings.
2. Midsouth — 10% Off all Lyman Products, Sitewide
⏺ Full Line-up SALE — save 10% or more on ALL Lyman products
Here’s an excellent reloading package with everything you need to start handloading cartridges. And right now you can save 21%. With this Hornady Lock N Load Deluxe Classic Reloading kit you get the Classic single-stage press, powder measure with stand, digital scale, hand priming tool, OAL gauge tool, calipers, loading block, bullet release “hammer”, powder trickler, funnel, chamfer/debur tool, shellholder pack, die bushings, lock rings, Hornady Reloading Manual and much more. Folks, this is a great bargain at $319.99! The same Hornady L-N-L Classic Press Kit is $399.99 at MidwayUSA, eighty bucks more! Plus Hornady offers 500 Free bullets with the purchase of this kit. SEE Hornady GET LOADED Promo Page.
4. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper, $149.90
⏺ Save 22% or more on excellent powder scale/dispenser
A good electronic powder scale/dispenser lets you more precisely with greater charge-weight consistency. The Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper delivers 0.10 (one-tenth) of a grain accuracy. This modern, easy-to-use machine also connects via Bluetooth to a very handy App on your phone that stores your loads for various cartridge and bullet types. Priced at just $149.90 on Amazon, this is an awesome deal. This same Intellidropper Platinum sells for $229.99 elsewhere — $80 more than the Amazon price.
5. Creedmoor Sports — Lapua, Peterson, ADG Brass on Sale
⏺ High-quality brass from major makers now available
Right now Creedmoor Sports is running a major Sale on Cartridge brass from Lapua, Peterson, and ADG. If you need a modern cartridge such as the 28 PRC, or need a large magnum for your F-Open or ELR rifle, now is a good time to buy. For example, Lapua-made .300 PRC brass is available now at $159.95 per hundred. Along with these big Magnums, Creedmoor Sports also has Peterson 6mm Dasher brass on sale at $53.50 for 50 cases.
6. Natchez — Frankford Quick-N-Easy Case Tumbler Kit, $79.99
⏺ We’ve used this Combo Kit for many seasons — very good value right now
Keeping your brass clean is important (and essential if you anneal). If you’re looking for a new, affordable setup to clean cartridge brass, consider the Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-EZ Case Tumbler Master Kit. You get everything needed to dry-tumble your brass and remove the media. This is all available now for a very low $79.99. You could pay that much for a good vibratory tumbler alone, yet this combo kit includes tumbler, media separator, bucket, brass polish, and media.
7. CDNN Sports — Field Sport Reflex Dot Sights, $29.99
⏺ Four handy 1X Reflex Dot sights, each just $29.99 — a real bargain
Red/Green Dot sights work well for pistols, rifles, and shotguns. These Reflex-type Dot sights permit fast target acquisition, and work great in low light situations, making them well-suited for home defense use. Right now Field Sport Red/Green Dot (Reflex) sights are on sale for just $29.99. For gun games, we like the model with four reticle types and 5 accessory rail positions. For hunting use, consider the 1×50 model with wide field of view.
8. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Funnel Kit, $26.34
⏺ This static-free funnel kit works great — perfect fit to necks
Handloaders need a good funnel to transfer powder into their brass. Ideally the funnel should closely fit the cartridge necks to minimize spillage. A great choice is the Frankford Arsenal Powder Funnel Kit on sale now for $26.34 (25% OFF). This quality funnel kit offers EIGHT (8) funnel nozzles with diameters that precisely fit nearly all popular cartridge types. Manufactured from static-free aluminum with a black chrome finish, this powder funnel easily slides onto case necks without hang-ups or static.
9. Target Sports USA — One Day Super AMMO+ Sale, 9/19/2023
⏺ Get 16% off ammunition with membership, plus big F150 give-away
Target Sports USA is running its inaugural AMMO+ Day this week. On Tuesday, September 19, 2023, all AMMO+ members will DOUBLE their savings — getting 16% off select in-demand ammunition. That 16% discount is double the regular 8% savings (and FREE shipping) offered to AMMO+ members. In addition, all AMMO+ members will be entered to win a brand-new Ford F-150 truck! NOTE: to get the Double Savings, you must be an AMMO+ member, which costs $95.00, however, no purchase or membership is necessary to enter the contest. CLICK HERE for more information.
10. Locked&Loaded — CCI Blazer 9mm Ammo, $109.99 500 rds
⏺ Quality 9mm brass-cased ammo at lowest price we’ve seen in years
CCI makes very reliable pistol ammo with reloadable brass cases. Right now you can get 500 rounds of CCI Blazer 9mm FMJ ammo for just $109.99 at LockedLoaded.com. That price works out to just $11.00 per 50-round box — a fantastic price. This very affordable 115gr Blazer 9mm ammo is excellent for practice/training, and it is more reliable than commercial reloads.
⏺ Great product we use — cleans well with way less brushing
At major F-Class matches, 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 very good deal. The same 5 oz. can sells for up to $20 elsewhere.
