If you’ve considering a big purchase at Brownells, here are money-saving codes. Brownells is offering $140 Off a $1000+ purchase, $55 Off a $500+ purchase, $20 Off a $200+ purchase, 10% (or $15) Off a $150+ purchase, and $10 Off a $100 purchase. 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. You can also use CODE CARTSHIP to get FREE Shipping for orders over $149 (with some restrictions).
Listed below are the Codes to use. Simply use the appropriate Code for your purchase at Brownells.com. NOTE: Most of 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.
Coupon Code: JULY140 — $140 Off Orders $1000+
(Excludes Firearms and Ammunition)
Expiration date: 7/2/2023
Coupon Code: JULY55 — $55 Off Orders $500+
(Excludes Firearms and Ammunition)
Expiration date: 7/2/2023
Coupon Code: JULY20 — $20 Off Orders $200+
(Excludes Firearms and Ammunition)
Expiration date: 7/2/2023
Coupon Code: CART30 — $30 off $200
Expiration date: Unknown
Coupon Code: CART20 — $20 off $175
Expiration date: Unknown
Coupon Code: POSSUM10 — 10% Off $150+
Expiration date: Unknown
Coupon Code: TTB10 — 10% Off $150+
Expiration date: Unknown
Coupon Code: TA10 — 10% Off $150+
Expiration date: Unknown
Coupon Code: HOME10 — $10 OFF $100
Expiration date: Unknown
Coupon Code: SMSAVE — $10 off $100+
Expiration date: Unknown
Coupon Code: GIFT10 — $10 OFF $100+
Expiration date: Unknown
Note: There are limitations. Codes JULY20, JULY55, and JULY140 do not apply to firearms and ammunition. And these brands are excluded from most discounts: Aimpoint, B&T USA, FN USA, Franklin Armory, Galco Int’l, Glock, Holosun, Kahles, Kestrel, LabRadar, Leica, Leupold, Modlite Systems, Nightforce, Raven, Ruger, Sig Sauer, Smith & Wesson, Sturm & C., Swarovski, Trijicon, Zenith Firearms, and Zermatt Arms.
Free Shipping with EDGE Program
NOTE: If you join the Brownells EDGE Program for $49.95 (12 months) you’ll get FREE 2-DAY SHIPPING on most orders. There is also discounted overnight shipping for many items.
With a $49.95 EDGE Membership, orders ship directly free of charge — every order, no matter how many. Most orders qualify for FREE 2-DAY SHIPPING. Your membership will pay for itself after only a few orders! Also Brownells typically charges a $10 processing fee on orders containing FFL items. However, with an Edge membership, the $10 FFL processing fee is waived every time.
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.
⏺ Fast, programmable, accurate dispenser at great price
The Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper is a high-quality powder scale/dispenser. It’s accurate to +/- one-tenth of a grain, dispenses in seconds, and can be controlled by a handy mobile App that stores charge weights for different cartridges. This unit has a 7000-grain capacity with both auto and manual trickle capability. This is a fine deal — you save $41 (18%) off the regular $229.99 price. The same Intellidropper is $189.14 at MidwayUSA with FREE Shipping using Code RELOADING071823.
2. Precision Reloading — 12% Off Sitewide Summer Sales Event
⏺ Significant savings on nearly all products in stock with $100+ order
Now through Thursday, July 27th, you can save 12% on nearly all in-stock items at Precision Reloading with a $100 minimum order. This Summer Sales Event includes loaded ammo, reloading supplies, brass, bullets, presses, optics, tools, gun cleaners, and much more. To save 12% use Coupon Code 72123 at checkout. And through 11:59 pm on Monday 7/24/23 you can get FREE hazmat with a $150 or more powder purchase. Use code FREEHAZ.
3. Palmetto SA — AR Upper and Lower with Vortex Optic, $809.98
⏺ Great deal for AR upper WITH Scope and complete lower
Are you looking to build an AR-platform rifle but want better performance than a .223 Rem? If so, check out these AR bundle packages at PSA. For just $809.98 you get a complete upper, Vortex optic, and a complete lower (with adjustable buttstock). This AR bundle includes the PSA lower, .224 Valkyrie-chambered 20″ 1:6.5″-twist barrel, complete upper with M-Lok handguard, PLUS a Vortex Eagle 1-8x24mm scope with cantilever mount. You can also grab the 6.5 Grendel upper with Vortex 4-12x44mm riflescope (and mount) for only $579.99.
⏺ Great spotting scope for the price with rock-solid warranty
Having a quality spotting scope can help when in the field, at matches, or just having fun at the range. We found a great deal on the Vortex Diamondback 20-60x60mm spotting scope, now just $324.99 at MidwayUSA, an amazing bargain. This spotting scope has good light transmission throughout the magnification range. Sharpness is good, and the spotting scope’s construction stands up to rough field use. This spotter is protected by Vortex’s VIP Unlimited Lifetime Warranty.
5. CDNN Sports — Ruger Handgun Super Sale, Save 20-42%
⏺ Huge savings on 50+ Ruger pistols and revolvers
Ruger makes fine pistols and revolvers that are rugged and reliable. Right now you can get big savings — up to 42% — on Ruger handguns at CDNN Sports. There are over 50 Ruger handguns on sale. You can save $349.00 on the new Ruger 57 (5.7x28mm) semi-auto pistol or save 42% with the sale price for the .22 LR Ruger LCP II. There are also big savings on single- and double-action revolvers.
6. MidwayUSA — ZEISS Conquest V4 6-24X, $849.99
⏺ Save hundreds on great SFP ZEISS scope — top choice for varmint work
Here’s a great deal on an excellent ZEISS 6-24x50mm SFP optic — a great scope for club matches and varmint shooting. There’s plenty of magnification on the high end, plus a wide field of view at 6X. The glass is great — at the $849.99 sale price, you’ll be hard to beat the quality of this scope which delivers 90% to-the-eye light transmission. With a Second Focal Plane Z-MOA1 reticle and 1/4 MOA clicks this scope has an impressive range of total elevation and windage travel with Zeiss’ Ballistic Stop feature. Here are actual purchaser reviews: “Excellent, A++, Clear glass”; Awesome clarity and the adjustments are spot on — Zeiss V4 scopes are hard to beat for the money”; “Great mid-level scope. Clear Glass with a good no nonsense reticle and easy to operate turrets”.
7. Midsouth — Winchester 9mm Pistol Ammo, $129.99/500
⏺ Very good price on good American-made 9mm FMJ ammo
Right now quality, USA-made Winchester 9x19mm ammunition is $129.99 for 500 rounds at Midsouth. That works out to just $0.26 per round or $12.99 per 50-rd box. This service grade 9mm Luger ammo has 115gr Full Metal Jacket bullets and Winchester brass. This ammunition is new production, non-corrosive, in reloadable brass cases. If you shoot large quantities of 9mm ammo, this is a very good deal.
8. Amazon — MOZETO Shooting Mat, $39.99
⏺ Nice 78″-long padded nylon mat stows conveniently
Whether in the field or at the range, having a comfortable mat to keep you and your gear dry and clean is critical. The Mozeto XL Shooting Mat is made from durable 1000D nylon with EPE padding fabric for long-lasting durability. There is an extra-thick padded section for elbows and knees. This big 78″ x 28.5″ mat has convenient straps and carry handle, plus storage pockets. To transport, just roll it up, fold it over and attach the quick release plastic snap buckles.
⏺ Excellent scope for varminters and grounghog matches
Looking to clean your brass and/or gun parts? The H&B Ultrasonic Cleaning Machine is a bargain at just $84.98 on Amazon. This unit features a heated tank for cleaning of cartridge brass and metal parts. The ultrasonic cavitation lifts and dissolves carbon, dirt, and any residue left on fired cases. Chose cycles from 90 to 480 seconds. Not only can you clean brass, but this unit can clean pistol slides, magazines, jewelry, and silverware. Note: This unit, an “Amazon Choice” with 84% 4- or 5-star reviews, is nearly identical to the unit Lyman has sold for $120+.
10. CDNN Sports — Grid Target Packs starting at $1.89/12
⏺ Great deals on colorful Champion grid target packs
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 Warehouse — Vortex Optics Sale
⏺ Major discounts on Vortex scopes — plus gift cards and package deals
Vortex Optics makes some of the best scopes on the market and they come with a solid lifetime guarantee. If you need a new optic, check out the Vortex Scope Sale at Sportsman’s Warehouse. NOTE: Along with the discounted prices, you can receive Sportsman’s Gift Cards worth up to $200 with Select Vortex Purchases. Plus there are package deals when you purchase another product, such as a Weatherby rifle or Springfield Hellcat pistol. For example save $200 on a Vortex Razor HD LHT with the purchase of a Weatherby Vanguard rifle. (SEE Combo Deals Offer).
2. Creedmoor Sports — Hornady A-Tip Sale
⏺ Popular bullets for PRS/NRL, varminting, and target shooting
Good, highly consistent bullets are key to successful rifle competition and hunting. Hornady A-Tip bullets feature an advanced tip design resulting in improved accuracy and more consistent BCs. Right now these A-Tips are on sale at Creedmoor Sports. You can save 10-15% on already attractive prices. These bullets have very uniform tip length, base to ogive length, and bearing surface.
3. Natchez — Burris Scope Sale
⏺ Great deals on large selection of Burris riflescopes
If you’re looking to pick up a new scope check out the Burris scope sale at Natchez. There are numerous scope types deeply discounted now — hunting scopes, target scopes, ballistics calculating optics, Red Dots, spotters, and even crossbow scopes.
4. Graf’s — Hornady L-N-L Iron and LEE Presses, 18%-23% Off
⏺ Major savings on two good reloading presses
Hornady’s Lock-N-Load Iron press is one of our favorites. We like the open front design and the ability to store tools on top of the press. Now just $235.00 at Grafs.com, this is a great deal. The same press is currently $297.60 on Amazon, over $62 more! The compact LEE Breech Lock press is a nice secondary press for your reloading room. Easily transported, this little press works great for bullet-seating chores when loading at the range. The $39.99 price at Graf’s is a steal.
5. Midway — Winchester Ammo Sale PLUS rebates
⏺ Big 20% rebate on large selection of Winchester ammunition
With hunting season around the corner it’s time to grab some high-quality rifle ammunition. You can find a wide range of Winchester Hunting Ammo on sale PLUS up to 20% rebate on top of the sale prices. This is quality ammo to help you make your next hunt successful.
6. Palmetto SA (PSA) — AR-15 Lower with Buttstock, $99.99
⏺ Killer deal on good AR-15 lower — under $100
This PSA Classic Stealth Lower, complete with adjustable buttstock, is now just $99.99. Great deal — you can pay $250 or more for a complete lower from a different vendor. NOTE: Palmetto has offered multiple versions of this basic AR lower. Choose black, gray, OD green, or FDE stocks (price may vary with color). If this particular lower model sells out, go to the PSA Lower Sale Page, and you should find another PSA AR lower priced from $99.99 to $109.99.
7. Amazon — Eylar 48″ Hard Travel Case, $159.99
If you travel by car or plane you need a good hard case to keep your rifle safe from damage. One excellent option is theEylar 44″ TSA-approved case. This has a strong external shell. Inside the case features a customizable, cubed “pull and pluck” foam layer above a foam base layer, with egg-crate foam padding on the upper side. This Eylar rifle case meets TSA requirements, with two padlock fittings for secure storage at home or on the go.
8. Cheaper Than Dirt — HK VP9 9mm, $519.00
⏺ Very good 9mm pistol with excellent trigger and ergonomics
The HK VP9 9mm pistol is an excellent defensive handgun. It features a 4.09″ barrel and 17-rd magazine. The VP’s trigger is very good, with a short, light take-up, crisp break, and a short, positive reset. Interchangeable back straps and side grip panels help mold the VP pistol to your hand. This pistol features a Picatinny rail up front plus ambidextrous controls. NOTE: This is a good price –the same pistol is $635.99 at KYGUNCO.
9. Amazon — RCBS Auto Priming Tool, $115.99
⏺ Durable, reliable bench-mounted priming tool
Seating your primers consistently is critical to accuracy. A quality tool that gets priming duties done very well is the RCBS Automatic Priming Tool. The bench-mounted Automatic Priming Tool is fast and consistent due to a long seating arm with plenty of leverage. Primers feed through a vertical feed tube one by one, preventing potential contamination by oily fingers.
10. Graf’s — Blue Book of AR-15s, $10.00 (57% Off)
⏺ Save 57% on the definitive guide to AR Modern Sporting Rifles
If you own an AR-platform “modern sporting rifle”, we recommend you get this detailed print resource. With 384 pages of information, The Blue Book of AR-15s & Variations is the definitive guide to ARs. Packed with diagrams and technical information, this book provides vital maintenance tips along with guides for starting an AR project. Regularly $22.99, this book is now just $10.00 at Grafs.com — a real steal.
11. Amazon — 10-Pack of Loading Blocks, $9.99
⏺ Great, low-cost loading blocks for high-volume reloaders
Reloading blocks are important for anyone who reloads. If you don’t need a large-format, case-specific loading block, consider this 10 Pack of 50-round loading blocks. These will fit most small-caliber cartridges. These stackable ammo blocks provide a stable base plus a compact storage footprint.
Everyone should have a heavy-duty, thick-walled steel gunsafe for their firearms and valuables. Ideally this should weigh 400+ pounds and offer fire protection for the contents. However, a gun owner may also want more rapid access to defensive arms and security items, in a different part of the home. That is where the “hidden in plain sight” concept comes into play.
Freedom Cabinet Holds Long Arms and Pistols — RFID Access
The unique Freedom Cabinet, shown above, is a patriotic, wall-mounted Stars & Stripes Flag-themed concealment unit. Available in Wood, Steel, or Carbon Fiber, each secure Freedom Cabinet features inlaid steel and Invisible RFID or Biometric locking systems. The Freedom Cabinet regularly costs $229.95. Along with this flip-up Freedom cabinet, there is a “Slider” version priced at $284.95.
Get the 20% discounts this Memorial Day week with CODE “THANKYOU20″. Later, for Father’s Day week, save 20% with CODE “DAD20″
Tactical Walls Shelf Secure Storage Unit
TacticalWalls.com, producers of home security/concealment products, offers clever furniture item that hold defensive arms. We like the big model 1242 Top Locking Shelf. This will hold a long gun plus a pistol and other items, which can be accessed rapidly with magnetic keys. The foam-lined secret compartment measures 12″ Deep x 42″ Wide. Price starts at $540.00.
Tactical Walls also have a smaller model 825 Top Locking Shelf that holds two pistols and some small accessories. This model 82 has a 8″ x 25″ W foam-lined hidden compartment accessed by magnetic keys. The model 825 locking Shelf retails for $473.00 – $405.00, depending on wood choice.
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 — Hornady Press Kit, $319.99 w/FREE Case Prep Duo
⏺ Great Deal on reloading kit with Free Case Prep Machine worth $65
Here’s an excellent reloading package with everything you need to start handloading cartridges. And right now you can save 20%. 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 bonus Case Prep Duo would cost you $64.99 at MidwayUSA by itself, so it’s like getting the whole Kit for $255 — a steal!
⏺ Exclusive Weatherby Vanguard with 12 standard and Magnum chamberings
Here’s a great deal on a quality, American-made hunting rifle with a Cerakote finish, and sub-MOA accuracy guarantee. This Sportsman’s Warehouse Exclusive Weatherby Vanguard is offered in 12 different chamberings all for $879.99, with built-in discount. This rifle has smoked bronze Cerakoting on the action, bottom metal, and hammer-forged, spiral-fluted barrel. It features an excellent adjustable 2-stage trigger with 3-position safety. The handsome Monte Carlo stock is a pale green with gray webbing accents. You could pay twice as much and not get a better hunting rifle than this.
3. Bullet Central — Krieger and Bartlein Pre-Fit Barrels
⏺ Great quality pre-fit barrels, ready to mount to your rifle
Do you own a Kelbly, BAT, or Impact action and need a new barrel but don’t want the hassle (and cost) of having a smith chamber and headspace the barrel? Consider a Krieger or Bartlein Pre-Fit Barrel from Bullet Central. On BulletCentral.com you’ll find a wide range of barrels in various calibers for multiple action types. Place your order for professionally-chambered, custom-grade barrels that you can install yourself.
4. Grafs.com — FREE Shipping and FREE Hazmat Specials
⏺ Get Free Shipping over $75 and Free Hazmat over $150 powder/primers
Graf & Sons is a excellent source for gun parts, tools, and reloading supplies. Right now if you spend $75.00 or more on most items you’ll get FREE shipping in the contiguous 48 states. Note, there are some exclusions including clearance items. The other special deal provides FREE Hazmat, a $23.50 value. If you purchase $150.00 or more of in-stock powders and/or primers, one HazMat fee will be waived per order.
5. EuroOptic — Leica 6X Zoom Scopes, 40-44% Off
⏺ Great deal on superb long-range hunting/varminting scopes
Here are two very high-quality Leica riflescopes at big discounts. These are SFP optics with 0.1 Milrad clicks. With an amazing 6X zoom ration, there is a huge field of view at the 2.5X base magnification. Then you have 15X on the other end for long shots. The 56mm objective version is now $899.99 on sale, a 44% savings off the $1599.99 price, while the version with a 50mm objective is also $899.99, a 40% discount off the regular $1499.99 price. With these deals you can save up to $700 — enough to buy a rifle.
6. Midway — Caldwell Front Rest and Rear Bag, $99.99
⏺ Great price on good set-up for sighting-in hunting rifles
Need a good basic front rest and rear bag to sight-in that hunting rifle or do load development? Here’s a solid, functional benchrest set-up at a great price. This Caldwell Rock BR Rest and Bag Combo is great combo deal for just $99.99. This will more than suffice for testing a hunting rifle or basic bench-work. Upgrade the rear bag later. The front rest adjusts for both windage and elevation. This is a GREAT deal — consider that the Caldwell Rock BR Rest by itself sells for $179.99 at Sportsmans.com.
⏺ Great tool when a large number of cases need bullets removed
This is a very efficient bullet-pulling tool that has earned many positive user reviews. Frankford Arsenal’s Pile Driver Bullet Puller offers efficient processing with plenty of leverage. This unit mounts to your bench or reloading room wall. The lever design uses spring power to pull bullets up to .30-06. An optional magnum carrier (sold separately) will pull bullets up to .338 Lapua length. Bullets and powder are captured in an included trap with optional tube for high-volume. This unit design uses inertia to pull bullets with ease, making it faster, more user friendly and less damaging than traditional bullet pulling methods.
⏺ Great deals on durable AR500 steel targets — watch video below right
Caldwell’s new bright, easy-to-see steel targets come in multiple shapes and sizes for competition, training, and recreational use. Made of AR-500 grade hardened steel, these bright yellow targets can withstand thousands of rounds. Rated up to a 3000 fps impact velocity and a 3500 ft-lb impact energy, these targets come in seven styles and sizes with three hanging solutions. These bright yellow Caldwell AR500 Steel Targets are on sale now on Amazon, starting at just $16.99 for the 5″ Gong Target.
9. Amazon — RCBC Hand Primer Tool, $59.99
⏺ Handy tool primes all common rifle cases
Do you want to prime your brass without the hassle of something being mounted to a bench? Check out the RCBS Hand Primer and seat primers anywhere you want. The universal shell holder will accept cases from .32 ACP to .45-70 Government and the patented safety gate isolates the primer seating operation from the primer supply virtually eliminating the possibility of tray detonation.
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 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 with a common USB cable. 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).
It’s easy to lust for those rare showpiece rifles at high-end auctions, but the author cautions readers to target the best deals, stick to your plan, and honor your monetary limits.
Buying at Gun Auctions — Be Crazy, Crazy Good
By Dave Buffington
“They’re crazy!” — You hear that all the time about live gun auctions. People love to rant about how people pay too much money for too many guns at too many auctions. It’s natural. And wrong.
I’ve been attending live gun auctions regularly for more than a decade — as many as 40 a year. I’ve learned that for every item that sells for a silly price, several sell for fair money and some — more than a few — have turned out to be great buys.
Two years ago, I bought a competition-grade STI 1911 in excellent condition for $670 at a live auction. And at the height of the gun-buying frenzy a while back, I scored a highly desirable, rarely-found Anschütz 54.18 MSR in new-in-box condition for just $1,800. I then flipped that Anschütz for $3,000 just two weeks later. That $1200 gain represents a 66% profit — not bad for a little savvy shopping at an auction.
This beautiful SAKO L461 Vixen was a great auction buy … and it is half-MOA accurate as well.
Sweet SAKO L461 Score at Auction
Can you score an awesome deal at a live auction? Absolutely. Above is a .222 Rem SAKO L461 Vixen I got at auction for $1500.00 including Leupold Vari-X II 3-9x40mm scope. Note the highly-figured stock. My SAKO L461 is the “deluxe” model with rosewood forearm tip and grip cap. A similar .222 Rem SAKO L46 (below) with fairly plain wood (and no scope) is selling for $3995.95 at the Custom Shop, a Montana purveyor of fine firearms.* I got my SAKO for 38% of the Custom Shop price! SAKO fans will note that the L461 has an internal top-loading 5-shot magazine while the older L46 has a 3-round removable clip. And most folks believe that the newer L461 model (like mine) has a better trigger.
Compare the author’s $1500 Auction-purchased SAKO L461 (above) with this $3995.00 Custom Shop Inc. SAKO L46. This is proof that live auctions can deliver some impressive bargains:
Can you make a mistake? Yes, I’ve bought junk and paid too much for it. But I’ve learned that knowledge is the best vaccine against gun buying mistakes. That’s our next topic.
Know The Auctions
Finding live auctions takes a bit of research, especially during the pandemic. But estates still need to be settled, collections still need to be shrunk and so, guns still need to be sold. Read your local newspaper and shoppers guides. Use online auction search services like AuctionZip.com.
And once you’ve found an auction, know the auctioneer’s rules. Some do background checks. Some don’t. Some charge sales tax. Some don’t. Some charge a “buyer’s premium”. Some don’t. If you’re not sure, ask.
Know Your Targets — Stick to Your List and Avoid Impulse Buys
Especially at the all-gun auctions, it’s easy to be entranced by all the handsome-looking hardware, but some of my worst gun buys have been the impulse buys made at auctions.
So start with a list of guns you want — for target shooting, collecting, whatever — and stick to it. Get to know those guns, research them and for goodness sake, know the potential pitfalls. Some Winchester 52s are prone to the “crack of death”. Certain Brownings from the late 60s and early 70s are afflicted with “salt wood”. You need to know which ones.
Know The Bidding Process
Auction newbies tend to worry a lot about how to bid. I know I did. But don’t. Remember, it’s the job of the auctioneer to get your bid, and once a good auctioneer spots you as a bidder, believe me, he won’t lose you.
The key is to get spotted. So don’t be shy. The auctioneer will likely start the bidding at some reasonable number. As a matter of theater, he’ll then start going down until someone actually bids. Then he’ll start going up again. When you’re ready to jump in, raise your hand and make sure the auctioneer spots you. If you’re not sure, shout something. (“Here!” works fine.) After that, don’t fuss about technique. Just nod yes or no the next time the auctioneer looks at you. (Ziegler Auction photo by Nathan Merkel)
Do understand one small but important detail: The price the auctioneer calls is the price he is looking for, not the price he has. For example, if you’ve bid $250, you’ll then hear him calling for the next increment up — such as “$300, $300, do I hear $300?”.
Misunderstanding that process can lead you to bid against yourself. 99% of auctioneers won’t let it happen, but as I can attest, it’s still embarrassing.
Know Your Price Limits
Auction fever is much like buck fever. You’re struggling to be still while you’re heart is doing its best rendition of “Wipe Out”. So you must, absolutely must, agree with yourself on the maximum price you’ll bid for a gun before the bidding starts. And be sure that maximum price reflects the true purchase cost, including sales tax, background check fees, and the buyer’s premium, if any.
Sticking to that limit is critical. First, because you don’t want to end up spending the mortgage money, but also, because there’s always another opportunity around the corner.
For example, on a cold, damp day last fall, I went to a small outdoor auction in hopes of getting a good buy on a Mauser-made, numbers-matching K98k. Ha! Despite the fact there were fewer than 50 bidders braving the drizzle, the gun sold for a whopping $3,200. (I bailed at $1,500.)
Is this the K98k that sold for $1,200? Or $3,200? The Karabiner 98 kurz (German for “carbine 98 short”), often abbreviated Kar98k or K98k, is a bolt-action rifle chambered for the 7.92×57mm Mauser cartridge.
But just two weeks later, I went to a warm, dry indoor auction with more than 200 bidders in the building. Yet I still managed to get a Mauser-made, numbers-matching K98k for just $1,200, a difference of a whopping $2,000. Crazy? Yes… Crazy good.
*Custom Shop, Inc. is featured on the Outdoor Channel’s “The Gunfather” TV Show. Located in Hamilton, Montana, Custom Shop has hundreds of rare and collectible guns — high-end rifles, pistols, and shotguns. In addition to used guns, Custom Shop, Inc., is also an Authorized Colt Dealer.
Powder Valley, a leading distributor of reloading supplies, is pleased to announce the launch of a major update and enhancement to its PowderValley.com website. The enhanced website now has a completely updated look, improved search and browse features, along with a streamlined checkout experience. The updated website is also mobile-friendly so it works great with smartphones and mobile devices. And right now the Powder Valley website features special discounts, with some items up to 50% Off. For big savings, click the Weekly Deals tag on the home page.
There are convenient, one-click product category links for:
“We’re excited to provide our customers with a new website that is fast, easy to navigate, and helps them make an informed buying decision” said Bill Clinton, CEO of Powder Valley. “The new website is the first step in a series of strategic changes at Powder Valley which will improve our ability to implement significant improvement in how we serve customers, from enhanced product information to increased breadth and depth of our product offering.”
To learn more about Powder Valley and its full lineup of reloading supplies, visit PowderValley.com. On the updated website, as you scroll down the home page, you’ll see convenient major feature categories for:
1. Sales and Clearance | 2. New Arrivals | 3. Popular Products
About Powder Valley
Powder Valley began in 1984 as Dexter Automotive, the first master distributor of Accurate brand powder. In 2000, Bryan and Noel Richardson purchased the company and moved operations to Winfield, Kansas. Since then Powder Valley has become the single largest distributor of canister powder in the USA, stocking nearly every brand of Smokeless and Black Powder offered in the nation. Powder brands include Hodgdon, IMR, Vihtavuori, Alliant, Ramshot, Winchester, Hornady, Shooters World, Goex, Schuetzen, Swiss and more, along with an ever-expanding offering of bullets, brass, wads, shot, gun care items, and reloading equipment. Powder Valley also carries a wide selection of rifle, pistol, and shotgun primers.
With the price of premium scopes approaching $3400.00 (and beyond), it’s more important than ever to provide extra protection for your expensive optics. ScopeCoat produces covers that shield scopes with a layer of neoprene rubber (wetsuit material) sandwiched between nylon. In addition to its basic covers, sold in a variety of sizes and colors, ScopeCoat has a line of heavy-duty 6mm-thick XP-6 covers that provide added security. CLICK HERE to review the full line of ScopeCoats on Amazon.
Triple-Thickness XP-6 Model for Added Protection
The XP-6 Flak Jacket™ is specifically designed for extra protection and durability. The 6mm-thick layer of neoprene is three times thicker than the standard ScopeCoat. XP-6 Flak Jackets are designed for tall turrets, with sizes that accommodate either two or three adjustment knobs (for both side-focus and front-focus parallax models). To shield an expensive NightForce, March, or Schmidt & Bender scope, this a good choice. XP-6 covers come in black color only, and are available for both rifle-scopes and spotting scopes.
The heavily padded XP-6 Flak Jacket is also offered in a Zippered version, shown at right. This is designed for removable optics that need protection when in storage. The full-length, zippered closure goes on quick-and-easy and provides more complete protection against dust, shock, and moisture. The line of XP-6 Scope Covers run $23 – $34 on Amazon.
Special Covers for Binos and Red-Dots
ScopeCoat offers many specialized products, including oversize covers for spotting scopes, protective “Bino-Bibs” for binoculars, rangefinder covers, even sleeves for small pistol scopes and red-dot optics. There are also custom-designed covers for the popular Eotech and Trijicon tactical optics.
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.
This RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Master Reloading Kit makes it easy to get started reloading — with everything you need into one package. The kit includes: RockChucker Supreme Master Reloading Press, Universal Case Loading Block, .17-.60 Debur Tool, M500 Mechanical Scale, Uniflow III Powder Measure, Hand Priming Tool, Hex Key Set, Case Lube Kit, Powder Funnel, and Speer Reloading Manual. Right now this kit is just $335.99, a 34% savings!
2. Sportsman’s — Citadel Stars and Stripes M1911 Pistol, $899.99
⏺ Handsome patriotic M1911-A1 pistol to Celebrate 4th of July
Tomorrow is the 4th of July. What better way to celebrate America’s Independence Day than with a patriotic Stars and Stripes M1911 pistol. Citadel’s full-sized M1911 Government has a handsome Cerakoted American flag finish. This is available by itself or with a matching Stars and Stripes ammo can. As on sale right now at Sportsman’s Outdoor Superstore, this pistol is $899.99 — $310 off the regular price.
3. Natchez — Frankford Arsenal Platinum Intellidropper, $169.99
⏺ Excellent scale/dispenser out-performs other much more pricey units
If you’re looking to upgrade your powder measure system, check out the Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper. It’s one of the most advanced, intelligent, and precise electronic powder measures on the market today. The Intellidropper features a proprietary powder calibration button for fast and accurate powder measurements. Auto and manual trickle capability with up to 250 grains of powder per throw. Holds more than 7,000 grains of powder and offers +/- 0.1 grain accuracy.
4. Creedmoor Sports — Shoulder Datum Tool, $49.95
⏺ Handy tool allows you to gauge bump for multiple cartridge types
Measure your shoulder datum with the NEW Creedmoor Sports Shoulder Datum Tool. Sometimes you just want to bump the shoulder back .002″ to .003″ to preserve brass life while still ensuring it will feed in your rifle. It can also help with accuracy in some cases if the shoulder is already touching the inside of the chamber. It can also be helpful to know how the brass stretches during firing. If it’s being stretched a lot, especially in a bolt gun, this can mean the headspace may be excessive, or that the bolt isn’t making firm contact on the lugs.
5. EuroOptic — SIG Sauer Pistol Sale, Save up to $180
⏺ Excellent, accurate, reliable match and defense pistols on sale
Sig Sauer makes some of the finest pistols on the market for target shooting, self-defense, and concealed carry. Head over to EuroOptic for the Sig Sauer Sale where you’ll find pages of models to choose from all at lower than normal prices.
6. Amazon — Peregrine Magnetic Gun Caddy, $13.17
⏺ Unique accessory for handy safe storage; can be used on vehicle
Keeping your rifles steady and upright in safe, shop, or vehicle can be a challenge. An easy way to keep long guns secure is the Peregrine Field Gear Magnet Gun Caddy. This works great inside a safe, and can also attach magnetically to a vehicle. The magnetic gun caddy is an extra set of hands when you need to rest your unloaded firearm. It’s small and lightweight so it fits in your vest pocket, glove compartment, or range bag.
7. Amazon — Birchwood Casey .22 LR Target Rack, $36.94
Spending the day plinking with a .22 LR can be a lot of fun and relaxing. A great way to practice is with a dynamic target such as the Birchwood Casey Steel Resetting Target. Shoot the four lower plates then hit the upper plate to reset the group. NOTE — This target is designed for .22 LR Rimfire rifles and pistols. This Rimfire Target features a twist design with no welds to break.
8. Amazon — Simhevn Electronic Digital Caliper, $9.49
⏺ Amazing low price on digital calipers — great for a backup unit
One of the keys to accurate reloading is having a good set of calipers for measuring everything from bullets to brass. An inexpensive but effective version is the Simhevn Electronic 6″ Digital Caliper. These budget-price electronic calipers offer a nice LCD display screen, which automatically turns off after 5 minutes of use. These calipers come with a pre-installed battery plus a spare battery.
9. Amazon — Boosteady Gun Swabs, $10.99
⏺ Handy swabs for cleaning rifles and pistols — goodo inside actions
Cleaning guns can be challenging enough without worrying about getting gunk out of tiny corner and nooks. For those areas we like BOOSTEADY 6-Inch Cotton Gun Cleaning Swabs. Right now get 300 swabs for just $10.99 on Amazon. These will work for a variety of calibers and can reach into hard to reach places. This makes them great for slides, receivers, chambers, magazine housings, and breeches.
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 — LEE Tools, Presses, Dies on Sale, 10%-30% OFF
⏺ Major sale on full range of LEE products — presses, dies, and more
LEE Precision makes a variety of very useful reloading tools at affordable prices. Some of the latest LEE priming tools and loading presses, with case feeders, are a great addition to your loading bench. In addition, LEE seating dies work great for pistol cases and the LEE collet dies offer unique functionality. Right now, at Midsouth, save 10%-30% on LEE Precision products.
2. MidwayUSA — 15% Off All Qualifying Vortex Optics
⏺ Major sale on scopes, spotters, LRFs, binoculars and more
Vortex offers a full range of scopes for hunters, tactical shooters, and long-range competitors. Right now you can save 15% on a wide range of Vortex products at MidwayUSA. That 15% savings is on top of significantly discounted prices. CLICK HERE to see featured Vortex rifle scopes, spotting scopes, laser rangefinders, and binoculars on sale. Use Code VTX0601023 for the 15% Off Savings.
3. Midsouth — Frankford Tumbler Lite + Depriming Tool, $119.99
⏺ Depriming Tool and Tumbler Work Great, save $45 with COMBO
The Frankford Arsenal Depriming Tool and Tumbler Lite are both excellent products. With the hand depriming tool you can knock out primers while watching TV. Spent primers are collected in the removable clear catch tube — so no mess on your press or loading bench. The Tumbler Lite is great for tumbling with liquid media to get your cases bright and shiny. Right now you can save $45 by getting the $119.99 Combo Pack from Midsouth.
4. Palmetto State Armory — 4th of July Sale, Save 30-50%
⏺ Major savings on 60+ items — lowers, optics, ammo and more
5. CDNN Sports — Winchester Wildcat with Optic, $249.99
⏺ Fun rimfire rifle complete with optic — good owner reviews
Here is a fun little semi-auto .22 LR rifle at a crazy low price — $249.99 complete with a mounted Red Dot Reflex optic. The Winchester Wildcat takes Ruger 10/22 mags, and has some great features, such as field-removable lower receiver, ambidextrous controls, integral Picatinny rails, and rear barrel access. It has a good trigger and shoots well. In many respects the Wildcat beats the Ruger 10/22 while costing a lot less. If you don’t need the optic, you can get a basic Wildcat with threaded barrel for $229.99 on sale.
6. Midsouth — 23% Off SnapSafe Pistol Vaults, $79.99/$99.99
⏺ Major savings on popular handgun safes for home and office
If you have a handgun for security of your home or office, you want it readily available but still ultra-secure. A quality pistol vault serves that purpose. Right now you can save $60 (27%) on the SnapSafe Dropbox Vault, or save $40 (23%) on the SnapSafe Two-Gun Vault. These handgun vaults feature a programmable keypad with back-up mechanical key access. Both vaults are made from strong 16ga steel.
7. 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, a 22% discount.
8. Academy Sports — Sports Afield 64-Gun Safe, $799.99
⏺ Excellent deal on big, 40″-wide safe with six looking bolts
Here’s an excellent, large gunsafe with good user reviews, priced at $799.99. That’s 33% OFF the regular $1199.99 price, a great deal. Rated for 64 guns, this Sports Afield safe measures 55″ high x 40″ wide and comes with a door organizer with 6 handgun pockets and long gun holder. Weighing 374 pounds, this safe rivals other safes costing $1400 or more. It is waterproof and has a 30-minute fire resistance rating.
9. Natchez — Frankford Quick-N-Easy Case Tumbler Kit, $79.99
⏺ Combo Kit works great and is 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.
Know The Bidding Process
Know Your Price Limits
With the price of premium scopes approaching $3400.00 (and beyond), it’s more important than ever to provide extra protection for your expensive optics. 
The heavily padded XP-6 Flak Jacket is also offered in a Zippered version, shown at right. This is designed for removable optics that need protection when in storage. The full-length, zippered closure goes on quick-and-easy and provides more complete protection against dust, shock, and moisture. The line of XP-6 Scope Covers run 
