Bigger is normally better — when it comes to light transmission and field of view. Kowa has introduced an all-new, high-end spotting scope, the TSN-99 Prominar, which has a huge 99mm front objective lens. This 99mm spotting scope features a pure Fluorite XD (eXtra-low Dispersion) lens for maximum light transmission, with superior edge-to-edge sharpness, and minimal chromatic aberration.
The TSN-99’s primary TE-11WZ II eyepiece provides a 30-70X range of magnification and there is also a 40X extreme-wide-angle eyepiece. That would be very effective for wind-reading. Existing accessories for Kowa’s 88/77 series are compatible with the new TSN-99 series spotters.
Who needs a spotter this big? We expect this will be popular with wind coaches and shooters involved in the ELR game. And guys who started with a 60mm, then graduated to an 80mm or 88mm, may decide to step up to this big new optic. It will certainly offer better low-light performance. That 99mm objective equals 3.898 inches.
With a 100% magnesium alloy structure, this big spotter is lighter than you might expect. The angled model weighs 3.99 lbs. (1810 grams) while the straight version weighs 4.04 lbs. (1835 grams). With the magnesium body, Kowa claims the TSN-99 series is “one of the most compact and lightweight in its class … making it more portable than many other models.” The objective lens boasts a protective Kowa KR coating which actively repels dirt, moisture and dust.
Avaliable accessories include: TE-11WZ II 30-70X wide zoom eyepiece, TE-80XW 40X extreme-wide-angle eyepiece, TSN-EX16 1.6x extender, plus Digiscoping adapters.
The TSN-99 PROMINAR spotting scopes will be available for pre-order starting August 2, 2021, with product distribution beginning on September 9, 2021. Click HERE for product information. Sorry, no official pricing is available at this time.
Kowa’s 88mm TSN-880 Prominar spotters have finished at the top of many spotting scope comparison tests, so we expect the new 99mm TSN-99 to raise the bar even higher. Kowa explains: “The TSN-99 Prominar Series is the evolution of over six decades of Japanese optical design and technology. It utilizes the very best from our optical heritage and benefits from features, technology, and engineering developed by generations of Kowa optical experts.”
Kowa states that the TSN-99 Prominar Spotter was created to deliver “the brightest and widest view of nature[.] We created TSN-99 PROMINAR series because we wanted to deliver one of the most immersive and detailed views of the natural world.”
This short 1.5-minute video shows the TSN-99 used in the field:
This 7.5-minute video provides details of the TSN-99’s design, lens properties, and controls:
TE-80XW Extreme-Wide-Angle 40X EyePiece: 37M at 1000M
Along with a 30-70X zoom eyepiece, Kowa offers the Kowa TE-80XW eyepiece for the TSN-99 spotter series. The TE-80XW offers an 80-degree view, one of the widest field of views ever offered with similar magnification. This provides a view of 37 meters (40.5 yards) width at 1000m distance. That would allow you to see a very long line of targets or wide spread of wind flags with 40X magnification.
The optical design incorporates a field flattener lens maintaining a flat resolution throughout the entire 80-degree field of view. The Kowa TE-80XW is 100% waterproof, sealed against the elements, and protected against dirt, moisture and dust by Kowa’s unique KR coating.
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If you’re looking for a space-saving handgun storage system, consider the Easy Use Gun Hangers from USA GunClub. These vinyl-coated, wire hangers organize handguns below the shelves in your gunsafe, freeing up storage space above the shelves. To use the handgun hangers, simply slide each hanger on the shelf and then slip your pistol’s barrel over the lower rod. Handgun Hangers are intended for guns with an overall length of 10 inches or shorter. They will fit shelves that are at least 11 inches deep and 5/8-1 inch in thickness. Handgun Hangers will hold handguns .22 caliber and up, though the fit is a bit snug on .22s. A four-pack of Handgun Hangers costs $9.99. This product has been Amazon’s #1 Best Seller among handgun storage accessories.
WARNING — Always Make Sure Handgun is UNLOADED when using Handgun Hangers!!
USA GunClub also offers an Over-Under Hanger that holds two handguns — one above the shelf, and one below. A two-pack of Over-Under Hangers (capable of holding four handguns) costs $9.99. This may be a good solution for you. This editor personally prefers the standard model, so I can use the upper surface of the shelf to hold odd-shaped items such as cameras, binoculars, and miscellaneous valuables.
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The .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) is the planet’s most popular ammunition type and firearm chambering. The .22 LR is used in the Olympics by 3P marksmen, but it also serves benchrest competitors, NRL22 shooters, backyard plinkers, small-game hunters, and tactical trainers. With the expansion of NRL22 matches (and the PRS equivalent), the humble .22 LR is undergoing a major resurgence in the USA. And with centerfire powders and reloading components so difficult to find these days, many folks are shooting less centerfire, but way more rimfire.
With the growth of rimfire tactical competition and the rising popularity of rimfire silhouette shooting, the .22-Caliber rimfire rifle is more popular than ever. This new Gun Digest book covers the latest trends in rimfire hardware. Every major gun manufacturer has brought at least one new rimfire rifle to the market in the last two years. These new models are covered in detail. Other Key topics included in this new, full-color book include: rimfire semi-autos and how they work; bolt-action accuracy; match shooting skills; DIY precision gunsmithing; hunting with rimfires; and the future of the rimfire market.
This 272-page book also covers .17-caliber rimfire cartridges: 17 HM2 (Mach 2), 17 HMR, and 17 WSM. These are all excellent varmint rounds, with the 17 WSM effective out to 250 yards. The 17 HM2 will run in a normal .22 LR action and feed from standard .22 LR magazines. So, for most rifles, all you need to do a .22 LR to 17 HM2 conversion is a barrel switch. That gives your rimfire rig twice the versatility. Shoot .22s and .17s with the same gun.
NRL22 — Challenging Practical Competition with .22 LR Rifles
The USA has seen a big growth in rimfire tactical matches over the last four years. Right now there are probably ten times as many rimfire tactical matches as actual sanctioned PRS and NRL centerfire matches. The reason is simple — ammo is much less costly, and you run a challenging rimfire tactical match at nearly any shooting range that allows shooting out to 200+ yards.
NRL22 Competition — Tactical Rimfire Matches
The NRL22 match format is a great shooting discipline. NRL22 offers a high fun factor at relatively low cost. You don’t have to reload match ammo. A couple of 50-round boxes of .22 LR ammo will get you through the match. While some people bring lots of gear to matches, that’s by choice and not by necessity. You can keep it simple and still be competitive (and win).
Tips for NRL22 Competitors by Jonathan Ocab
I am a match director at my gun club and run our local NRL22 matches. People often ask me for tips for competing in NRL22. First, I recommend getting the course of fire for the month in advance and practicing those stages at the range. Here are other specific tips that should help NRL22 competitors improve their gun-handling and match results.
1. Dry Fire Practice — If you are not able to do live fire practice at the range, I encourage shooters to practice their shooting positions at home via dry fire. Setup props or barricades with pasters or other faux targets on a wall in the garage or inside the house and run through each stage.
2. Scope Magnification Level — The most common issue I see with newer shooters in NRL22 is the tendency to maximize their scope magnification. The timer will start, and the shooter gets into position on a target, but the scope is set to 15x or higher and the shooter can’t find the target. The shooter lowers the magnification, locates the target, and then increases the magnification again, takes the shot, transitions to another target, and repeats the process of decreasing magnification, locating target, etc. Novice NRL22 shooters should try using the mid-range magnification. Try shooting 7x-12x and learn to balance field of view and target image.
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For gun owner who have to move frequently, or who may live in an upstairs apartment or condo, we recommend a modular safe. We have featured modular safes in the past, and now we’re pleased to say there is a new line of made-in-USA modular safes that may work well for our readers. Steelhead Outdoors, based in Minnesota, now offers three different safes: Nomad 26, 32, and Nomad 38. These are good products for sure, but they are also quite expensive. The Nomad 26 starts at $2495.00 while the big Nomad 38 lists for $3495.00. However, when you consider the value of your gun collection, the cost becomes more tolerable if you need a safe you can take down and move.
USA-Made Nomad Series safes come in three sizes — Nomad 26, Nomad 32, and Nomad 38:
Nomad 26 — 25.5″ W x 54″ T, holds 6-15 long guns. Weight 375 lbs. (< 100 lbs. per panel)
Nomad 32 -- 31.5" W x 60" T, holds 8-19 long guns. Weight 500 lbs. (< 135 lbs. per panel)
Nomad 32 -- 37.5" W x 60" T, holds 10-34 long guns. Weight 600 lbs. (< 165 lbs. per panel)
This video explains the features of Steelhead Nomad Series modular, take-apart gun safes:
Steelhead Outdoors states: “Our modular gun safes are easily moved and assembled by two people. Traditional safes require hiring a specialized safe moving company, which is costly, or enlisting buddies on a dangerous DIY adventure each time the homeowner moves.”
Steelhead Outdoors Nomad series safes features some high-end security features. The patent-pending construction features a fully dry insulation system, eliminating the need for a dehumidifier. This system utilizes a radiant heat reflecting coating to reject incoming heat from entering the safe. The metal interior provides additional protection and is made from nearly 100 percent nonflammable materials. The panels are filled with ceramic fire insulation that is rated to 2300 degrees and is non-moisture trapping so it does not require the use of a dehumidifier and will not release steam into the safe in the event of a fire.
This cool time-lapse video shows the entire process of assembly the safe, start to finish.
The video below shows how to assemble a Steelhead Outdoors Nomad series safe. If you have basic skills, these safes can be assembled easily in 60-90 minutes. Steelhead recommends having two people to do the job. The entire safe ships in four (4) boxes. Wrenches are included with the safe.
Features of Steelhead Outdoors Nomad Series Safes
Steelhead Outdoors Nomad Series of premium modular gun safes are designed and constructed to allow for flexibility and mobility without sacrificing safety or durability. Shooters, hunters and gun collectors will appreciate these smart design decisions.
— Double wall construction with 12-gauge welded, powder-coated exterior panels and 20-gauge interior panels, 7-gauge plate door (3/16″), large 1/2″ locking plates.
— Patent-pending construction with dual-stage fire protection with 2300° insulation and radiation-reflecting panels, for enhanced corrosion resistance.
— Drill resistant hard plate features 78 captured, hardened ball bearings to destroy attacking drill bits
— Full-length hinge side locking bar locks door solidly in place, even with door hinges removed
— Cam-Over-Center direct drive lock mechanism with metal bearings at every moving point
— Ships flat and easily assembled in place with one hex key wrench (provided)
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Want to instantly measure your shot groups with precision, just by using your smartphone? You can do this with the excellent, proven Ballistic-X program, which has versions for both Android and Apple (iOS) devices. Ballistic-X is handy, relatively precise, and easy to use. But it does cost $7.99.
If you want to try a group measuring App that is completely FREE, there is a good new Android App called My Shooting from Bokili Production software. This new My Shooting App was created by a match shooter in Europe. It actually offers some cool features not available with most other group-measuring Apps. For example you can measure and display MULTIPLE group sizes on the same screen and keep them all in one file so you can quickly compare group size. There is a radius value in addition to group size (center to center of farthest shots). The App also includes an INFO box where you can display rifle type, sights/optics, ammo caliber, target distance, date, and even wind values and temperature. That’s handy.
FREE APP — You can download My Shooting App from the Google Play Store for FREE. Sorry there is NO Apple iOS/iPhone version at this time.
My Shooting lets you take images and perform all measurements internally within the application. To use the My Shooting App, simply take a photo of the target(s) with your smartphone. Then enter a known dimension on the target (such as the diameter of 10 Ring). Next click a circle on each shot-hole, and then mark the aiming point on the target. The App then does all the calculations, listing the group size in inches or mm (as you prefer). The App also list the Radius of the group, and the group’s Point of Impact (POI) separation from the Point of Aim.*
NOTE: If you enter bullet caliber and target distance, My Shooting App will display the angular measurement in MOA or Milliradians. That can be VERY handy when shooting at long ranges. The “smart” App shows the group’s actual dimension PLUS the equivalent MOA or Mils at your shooting distance. The App lets you choose either imperial (inches/yards) or metric measurements (millimeters/meters).
Bojan Radović, the creator of My Shooting App, is a shooter himself and an AccurateShooter.com visitor. He told us: “I am a shooter and a programmer from Europe. I recently created an Android App that works very precisely to measure a group of hits. The application is free!” NOTE, however, like most free Apps, the My Shooting App does contain small advertisements.
* POI (indicated with “X”) is precisely calculated as the mean value of all hits in relation to the center of the target — i.e. the mean distance from Point of Aim. The POI location reference (e.g. “down-left”) states a directional angle for which you can make a correction on your optical sight. POI displays with an actual distance (mm or inches) and the equivalent MOA or MRAD.
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Posting on the F-Class Competition Shooting Facebook Group Page, F-TR competitor Tony H. said he was very impressed with the new JoyPod-X coaxial bipod made by SEB Rests. The upgraded JoyPod-X features an enhanced head unit and new rapid height adjustment for the legs. The new JoyPod-X is also offered now in a variety of colors: Blue (as shown), Red, Green, Purple, Black, and Bronze.
Click to Zoom Photo CLICK HEREto view larger side-view image.
Tony H. stated: “First match today [shot] with the brand new JoyPod-X. What a GREAT bipod — thank you Sebastian Lambang for the outstanding product! Also want to thank Ernie Bishop for the awesome service he provides! Even getting used to the new setup made made that 597-38X even sweeter!”
Leg Height Adjustment System
on New 2021 JoyPod-X
JoyPod-X designer Sebastian Lambang tells us: “Now height adjustment of the JoyPod-X can be much easier quicker and more precise. With a simple, adjustable brake and improved ratchet system. Thanks to Bob Bock for the design suggestions”.
Watch the video to see how this works. You can adjust each leg individually in seconds. You can do individual clicks up and down, with ratcheted steps. Or slide the entire leg unit rapidly up and down for gross elevation changes. So you have the choice of small, precise increments or big movements — whichever you want. This is very slick.
JoyPod-X Is Shipping Now
in Six Bright Colors
The new 2021 JoyPod-X has started shipping with the first units arriving in the USA in late May 2021 (as you can see). The new JoyPod-X is available in blue, red, green, purple, black, and bronze colors.
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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 $219.95 but is discounted to $179.96 this Memorial Day Week (with coupon code). Along with this flip-up Freedom cabinet, there is a “Slider” version regularly priced at $254.95, but now $196.76 (with code).
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 $455.00.
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 $405.00 – $435.00, depending on wood choice.
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Interested in PRS/NRL and other tactical disciplines, but don’t want to spend a fortune on optics? Vortex offers a new scope, the Vortex Venom 5-26x56mm FFP (First Focal Plane) optic with 5X zoom range. Offered with in both MOA and MIL versions, the new Venom ($699.99 MSRP) can be purchased right now for $499.99 “street price” from EuroOptic.com. Choose either the MOA model or MRAD version.
Vortex claims the new Venom allows new tactical shooter to “get into the game at an affordable price without compromising optical quality, or giving up the features they need to be competitive”. You get a 34mm main tube, 85 MOA elevation with 25 MOA per revolution for the MOA version, or 25 MRAD elevation and 10 MRAD per turn for the MIL version. For both models, the scope weighs 35 ounces and is 15.3″ long.
The Venom 5-25x56mm comes equipped with the advanced EBR-7C reticle in the first focal plane (see below). This reticle features a precise center dot with a “Christmas Tree” pyramid of ultra-fine sub-tensions and holdover dots to compensate for bullet drop and wind drift. The Venom 5-25x56mm also features Vortex’s RevStop zero-stop system, allowing the shooter to return to their original zeroing after making finely tuned adjustments in the field.
User Q & A about Vortex Riflescope Options
Q. What is the difference between the new Venom and the Vortex Strike Eagle?
Vortex: The main differences will be that the Strike Eagle has locking turrets, an illuminated reticle, and a slight step up optically compared to the Venom. This VIDEO should explain the differences pretty well: Venom vs. Strike Eagle vs. Diamondback.
Q: Optically what is the difference between the Venom and the Vortex PST Gen 2? Looks like they both use the same lens and different coating.
Vortex: The Viper PST Gen II will be a noticeable step up optically. It will have better clarity, resolution, and low-light performance when compared to the Venom.
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Are you a High Power or F-Class marksman looking for official bullseye paper targets? Here are bulk sets of 25, 50 and 100 targets from Creedmoor Sports. All these can can be used for general practice, fun matches, or official sanctioned events. Choose the official 200-yard SR target with all scoring rings (X,10,9,8,7,6,5), priced at $49.95 for 50. For long-range practice, try the NRA Official 600-yard High Power Target ($58.95 for 25ct), or the Official “Full Face” MR-65 500-Yard F-Class Target ($31.95 for 50ct). Creedmoor also offers a variety of Repair Centers, including the 300-Yard SR-3C Target Repair Center ($34.95), or the 600-yard MR-1 Target Repair Center ($64.95). These target centers can be used on top of full targets, or by themselves for practice on smaller target frames.
Creedmoor Sports also offers match-grade spotter discs. These are used to mark shot locations. They are offered in three diameters: 1.5″, 3.0″, and 5.0″. In addition, you can purchase the spindles used with spotter discs along with orange Golf Tees also employed to mark shots. These are placed in the shot holes by pit workers.
Frankly for practice, we recommend a target cam, or ShotMarker system.
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Q: What is the most popular gun book in the history of the planet?
A: That distinction goes to the Shooter’s Bible, which has sold over 7 MILLION copies since it was first published over 80 years ago.
Released in October 2020, the 112th Edition of this respected resource is bigger and better than ever. This latest Shooter’s Bible boasts 608 pages with 275 color photos and more than 1000 black-and-white photos. The new 112th Edition features many new firearms as well as new optics.
Published annually for more than eighty years, the Shooter’s Bible is one of the most comprehensive firearms reference guides in print. The publishers claim that “nearly every firearms manufacturer in the world” is included. The 112th Edition also contains new and/or enhanced sections on ammunition, optics, and accessories, along with updated handgun and rifle ballistic tables. There are also extensive charts of currently available hunting and match bullets for hand-loaders.
While many shooters are now using the internet to get reloading data and equipment specifications, the Shooter’s Bible remains a valuable resource with a great legacy. As one recent Shooter’s Bible purchaser explains: “While it’s true that much of the information contained in the Shooter’s Bible can be found on the Internet, there are many of us who would first rather relax in our easy chair and page through the book at our leisure. If you find an item that catches your fancy, you can then follow up by going to their Web site.”
Another buyer observed: “This latest edition is proof that, even with all the attacks on our 2nd Amendment right over the years, the industry has persevered and grown. I hope the day never comes when there will no longer be a reason to publish the Shooter’s Bible.”
Sample Page from Shooter’s Bible, 112th Edition
Here is a sample product description page from the Shooter’s Bible. Hundreds of firearms are listed with specifications and photos. Products from nearly all commercial gun makers on the planet are included.
More Great Gun Books From Shooter’s Bible Publishers
Here are three other books from the publishers of the Shooter’s Bible that you may want to add to your library: Guide to Cartridges; Gun Trader’s Guide; and Guide to Firearms Assembly, Disassembly & Cleaning. These are all available in softback print and Kindle (digital) editions:
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If you need a heavy-duty, single-stage reloading press, definitely look at the MEC Marksman, a beefy black single-stage unit with many impressive features. MEC, noted for its shotshell reloading machines, now offers the cast-iron MEC Marksman press, offering many features we really like. First, the rugged, cast-iron frame is strong enough for the toughest reloading jobs. Second, the Marksman features an OPEN front — that smart design makes it easier to insert and remove cartridge cases. It also makes it much easier to place your bullets during the seating stage.
This open-front design makes good sense — note that Hornady’s LNL single-stage press also has an open-front layout. Importantly, the MEC Marksman has an innovative, self-centering shell-holder. This patented design should help hand-loaders reload more efficiently.
We were impressed when we first saw the MEC Marksman press. The Marksman combines a sturdy cast-iron frame with a smart, user-friendly open-front design. With a $255.00 MSRP it is more expensive than an RCBS Rock Chucker ($214.16 MSRP), but the MEC Marksman offers some distinct advantages — such as the open front plus the patented floating shell-holder system.
MEC Marksman Press Review by Ultimate Reloader
Our friend Gavin Gear got his hands on a MEC Marksman press and put it through its paces. He came away impressed with the product, saying it delivers excellent performance, and has many impressive features. Gavin tells us: “Cast iron tools and machines are a lifetime investment. The made-in-USA MEC Marksman features ductile cast-iron construction, an open-front frame design for easy cartridge access, a new floating shell-holder design with a unique retention system, and ambidextrous handle setup.”
Gavin liked the Marksman’s system for holding spent primers. A tray sits behind the ram to catch spent primers exiting from a hole near the bottom of the ram. This is more foolproof than the plastic primer cups on some other single-stage presses. Expect less spent primer “spillage”.
The Marksman is sold as a stand-alone unit. However MEC also offers a very nice steel mount/riser for the Marksman. Gavin tested the Marksman with this riser, and he says it was sturdy and well-built. Gavin liked the riser. He said that elevating the Markman press up above the benchtop made it easier to handle cases and to operate the handle. You also get extra left- and right-side die-holders.
Manufacturer’s Product description: The MEC Marksman® is made from ductile cast iron for superior quality and durability. Our patented shell holder self-centers each cartridge. The MEC Marksman® is compatible with all 7/8-14 thread dies to change calibers quickly. Reloading .22 Hornet to .416 Rigby can all be done with one convenient machine.
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At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
1. Creedmoor Sports — Lapua Brass in Stock
⏺ Superb cartridge brass — very uniform, long-lasting
Creedmoor Sports has received a large shipment of long-lasting, high-quality Lapua cartridge brass. Many of the most popular types are available including .220 Russian (for PPC), 22-250, .223 Rem, 6mmBR, 6mm Creedmoor, 6.5×47 Lapua, .260 Rem, 6.5-284, and .308 Winchester and more. Sorry, Creedmoor is sold out of the new .284 Win brass and the 6.5 PRC and 300 PRC. Creedmoor’s Lapua brass is selling fast, so stock up now while you can.
2. Bullet Central — BAT Bumblebee Aluminum and Steel Action
⏺ Ultimate lightweight action for precision hunters
Do you lust for a light-weight, ultra-accurate hunting rifle? Then consider the new BAT Bumblebee Action. Weighing just 23.8 oz (11.4 oz lighter than a BAT VR/TR), the Bumblebee features an aluminum body with Chrome-Moly steel internals. The weight is comparable to Titanium actions. BAT claims the Bumblebee is 31%-42% stiffer than light-weight steel actions and over 130% stiffer than round Titanium actions. The Bumblebee’s modular bolt allows low-cost bolt face changes for different cartridge types. The firing pin, bolt, and shroud are Melonited for smooth bolt movement and low maintenance. On top is a +20 MOA integral 20 MOA Picatinny rail. The Bumblebee is compatible with Rem 700-type bottom metal and magazines. This action is offered with a .308 Win Sized boltface or Magnum boltface for $1699.00.
3. Leupold — Get FREE Tripod with Spotting Scope
⏺ Order high-quality 80mm Leupold Spotter, get Pro Guide Tripod for FREE
Purchase any Leupold SX-5 Santiam HD Spotting Scope and receive a free Pro Guide Tripod Kit, a $399 value. This offer is valid for purchases made from May 3 through June 27, 2021. This 27-55x80mm spotting scope boasts outstanding sharp, HD glass with DiamondCoat2 lens coatings. Boasting great low-light performance, this spotter is also 100% waterproof and fogproof. The SX-5 Santiam HD is offered with either angled body or straight body for around $1799.00, including protective soft-case.
4. Brownells — KRG Bravo Chassis Rem 700, $329.99 with Code
⏺ Versatile internal frame stock for PRS or hunting — tan, black, or green
The Kinetic Research Group (KRG) Rem 700 Bravo Chassis is a good dual-purpose choice for PRS and hunting. This chassis features an internal aluminum frame with polymer exterior in Flat Dark Earth, Sako Green, or Black. The stock fits Rem 700 and Rem clone actions, accepts AICS-pattern mags, and is M-LOK compatible. The 2.9-lb KRG Bravo chassis features adjustable cheek riser and length-of-pull, built-in thumb shelf, plus quick-detach sling-swivel and bipod mounts. The KRG Bravo stock costs $349.99 at Brownells. You can also get $20 Off with Brownells code VSJ, lowering the net cost to $329.99.
5. Natchez — CCI 9mm FMJ Blazer Brass Handgun Ammunition
⏺ Quality 9mm pistol ammo — grab a 1000-ct case while you can
Good name-brand handgun ammunition is hard to find these days. But Natchez Shooters Supplies has scored a large quantity of CCI Blaser 115gr 9mm ammo. We’ve used CCI Blazer 9mm ammo and it proved accurate and reliable. NOTE: This ammo features conventional, reloadable brass cartridge cases (some other CCI ammo is non-reloadable). This ammo is shipped in a single large carton with 1000 rounds inside. Price is $549.00 for 1000, or $0.55 per round — a decent price these days.
6. Midsouth — Bulldog 54″ Long Range Rifle Case, $69.99
⏺ Good deal on excellent case for long rifles up to 52.5″
Highly rated by purchasers, the Bulldog Long Range Rifle Case fits rifles up to 52.5″ long. This premium 54″ soft case is on Sale Now for $69.99 at Midsouth, 18% off the regular $84.99 price. The Bulldog LR works great for long-barreled match rifles. This versatile case boasts a tough 600-dernier water-resistant outer shell, plus quilted inner lining with Velcro tie downs. There are two zippered center pockets plus an external zippered pocket at front. The main compartment zippers are lockable. Choose tan version as shown, or the 54″ Bulldog in black.
7. EuroOptic — Vortex Razor HD LH 1.5-8x32mm and 2-10x40mm
⏺ Very lightweight — 5X zoom range good for hunters
Here are two good optics for hunters. We like the Vortex Razor HD LH at $429.99, a bargain. With a 5.3X zoom ratio, you get a very wide field of view at 1.5X (Field of View is 72.2-13.2 ft @ 100 yards). Then, when you spot your prey, you can instantly zoom up to 8 power. This scope is compact (11″) and lightweight — just 13.2 ounces. If you want more magnification, choose the Razor HD LH 2-10x40mm for $449.99. (NOTE: This 2-10X scope is $599.00 on Amazon.) The 2-10X model has a bigger objective, and Field of View ranges from 56.2-10.8 ft @ 100 yards. Both of these fixed-parallax scopes have excellent HD glass with high light transmission.
8. Sportsman’s Warehouse — Henry AR-7 Rifle, $269.99
The Henry AR-7 Survival rifle is a unique rifle. Weighing just 3.5 pounds, this little semi-auto rimfire can perform pest-control duties for a farmer or rancher, or serve as a utility rifle carried in a truck or ATV. The cleverly-designed AR-7 is affordably priced, just $269.99 at Sportsman’s Warehouse. The Henry AR-7 breaks down for easy carry in a backpack or a vehicle. The barrel, receiver, and magazines all fit INSIDE the buttstock. That’s handy. And this little 3.5-pound rifle offers surprisingly good accuracy.
9. Amazon — Tipton Best Gun Vise, $84.99
⏺ Versatile, stable, works with all rifles, including ARs
When cleaning long guns, you need a secure, stable platform. We recommend the Tipton Best Gun Vise, now $84.99 on Amazon. This vise was designed to accommodate the widest possible array of firearms for cleaning, maintenance, or gunsmithing. This vise is easily configurable to handle bolt-action rifles, break-open shotguns, AR-15s, and handguns. You can also purchase the Best Gun Vise for $89.99 at Midsouth. NOTE: Midsouth also sells the Tipton basic gun vise for just $39.99. That is lighter and still works well.
9. Amazon — 12″ x 12″ Splatter Grid Targets, 10 for $10.99
⏺ Popular Grid Target — easy to estimate group size
This 12″x12″ Splatterburst Target combines splatter shot marking with a grid background, with five aiming points. The bright neon shot circles make it easy to see your shots. And the handy grid lets you quickly estimate your group size. Get a 10-pack for $10.99, or a 25-pack for $18.99 (better deal). This particular target has earned rave reviews — 87% of verified buyers gave this a FIVE-Star rating. One example: “Excellent quality and durability. The adhesive is really strong and the splatter contrast is [great].”
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Meet the new T-Rex front rest from Rodzilla. In the world of front rests there have been many innovations over the past decade, but this new front rest from Rodzilla really represents significant innovation. The new T-Rex offers impressive capabilities that can truly take your shooting experience to the next level.
At first glance the new T-Rex may resemble some other coaxial front rests. The T-Rex has a joystick, three points of ground contact, and a platform for the rifle. But look closer and you’ll see this isn’t your typical rest. Designer/builder Rod Brakhage (the Rod in Rodzilla) has started from the ground up to create the most user-friendly, match-ready, modular front rest on the market. The new T-Rex is already in high demand, but currently Rodzilla has been fulfilling orders in about 8 weeks. T-Rex MSRP ranges from $1895.00 to $2305.00 depending on options.
The T-Rex weighs just over 21 pounds — about the same as many mid-sized rests. However the T-Rex has a large footprint, rivaling the largest rests on the market. Rod tells us: “The T-Rex has a similar footprint to the SEB MAX… 12.5″ wide X 11.25″ front to back. However, at just over 21 lbs. my rest weighs less than a SEB NEO.” This combination (wide base with moderate weight) allows for an incredibly stable platform that is still quite portable.
Rugged Carry Case Makes Transport Easy
Rodzilla delivers the T-Rex in a custom-designed hard carry case that fits it perfectly and still has room for additional feet and accessories. This sturdy case makes taking the T-Rex to matches easy. The case is strong enough that I can stack things on top of it in my truck. One side note, if you plan on storing your rest in the case between matches, it’s wise to put a desiccant pack in the case to absorb moisture.
The T-Rex boasts an adjustable joystick that extends from 15.5″ to 21″ in length. With this adjustability, no matter what your stock length or design, you can find a comfortable position without having to stretch uncomfortably. And you won’t have to shop for a joystick extension.
Using the T-Rex is a pure pleasure when shooting prone F-Class or from the bench. That’s because of its revolutionary ability to make large vertical adjustments without getting out of position. This is accomplished with a detachable arm/handle you can actuate while behind the gun. (This is the long T-handle on the right side of the rest).
The simplest way to show why this is a game changer is to consider when you’ve just left the 800-yard line during a match. You head up to the 900-yard line, get all set up, the range officer calls a hot line and suddenly realize you didn’t adjust your elevation for the new yardage. Normally you’d have to turn your scope dials then get up from your position to adjust your front rest, or at best stretch uncomfortably in hopes of reaching your rest adjustments. With the T-Rex, you simply turn the right-side gross elevation handle while still in position, move to your new hold point, and begin firing.
This same principal applies to other situations that require adjusting vertical without breaking your shooting position. All of this is accomplished in conjunction with an incredibly sensitive, yet easy-to-adjust counterbalance system. Once set, the counterbalance ensures that smooth and fluid motion occurs in any direction without any resistance or fear of backlash that might affect your shots.
Very Wide Horizontal Range is Useful in Matches
When it comes to looking downrange, the T-Rex can deliver nearly twice the range of horizontal motion as that of some other rests. (In high ratio mode, there is about 70 MOA of horizontal travel.) This means you can quickly scan a wide expanse of targets/flags without having to change magnification or go to your spotting scope. The huge field of view is a great help when shooting in a condition that is switching and you want to view targets on either side.
Rodzilla offers a number of options for the T-Rex. The first choice is the top. Select the Rodzilla 5-Axis roller top or the new 5-Axis IBS-legal sandbag top. Or, if your budget permits, you can order both — they are easily interchangeable in minutes. The video below shows the easy top-swap procedure:
This video explains how to exchange tops on the Rodzilla T-Rex
5-Axis Top Advantages
Rod Brakhage tells us: “This innovative new 5-Axis top rotates independently of the base plate so no matter how the rest is set on the line you only need to move your rear bag to pan across the row of targets with no binding of the rifle. Also, the sides of the rifle run against vertical Delrin rollers.”
Color Choices for Rodzilla T-Rex Base
In addition to the choice of tops, there are four (4) standard colors on the website, but for an additional fee you can have it made in just about any color you want, which is pretty cool.
Choose Standard Feet, Sand Feet, or Both
When you order a T-Rex, you can choose standard bench feet or large, gorgeous sand/dirt feet. Or order them both, as I did. I use the bench feet at my regular club where I shoot from wood and concrete platforms, but the sand feet are great for matches held on dirt, gravel, sand, or grass. These sand feet provide an incredibly stable platform on the ground.
Linear Bearings Allow Ultra-Smooth and Precise Adjustments
Rodzilla’s Rod Brakhage is a smart, innovative designer committed to improving the shooter’s experience. One of Rod’s key innovations in the T-Rex is the use of linear ball bearings for both X and Y axis: “The horizontal/vertical assembly, or X-Y block, moves on 6 double-sealed ball bearings that travel on hardened shafts for effortless movement”.* This system delivers a smooth, fluidity of movement that lets you aim quickly and efficiently. Gone are the days of having to move PAST your aim point and then come back (to get the aim right), or resetting your joystick position after every shot. With the T-Rex, you make one smooth, precise move and your aim is set. And it stays set after the shot.
The T-Rex allows you to position your crosshairs with pinpoint precision every time and if you need to move them just a hair, you can do it with ease. In F-Class, we often hold between the target’s scoring lines to correct for wind variations (without touching the scope’s windage knob). With the T-Rex, I could make those holds quickly and precisely without wasting time bouncing back and forth.
Overall, I’ve come to really enjoy the repeatable confidence the T-Rex has given me whether I’m doing load development, practicing at the range, or shooting a match. So, if you’re in the market for a superb front rest that just might give you an edge or, at minimum, make your life easier, head over to TheRodzilla.com and learn all about the impressive, new T-Rex Front Rest.
* Rod Brakhage explains: “The bridge travels up and down on double-sealed ball bearings on 1” hardened shafts. My design utilizes a rack and pinion with an 18″-long drive shaft for adjusting the height of the bridge. This system allows you to stay in shooting position and looking through the scope while adjusting the vertical placement of your crosshairs. Precisely dial your vertical to the center of your target with the joy stick at the exact height you prefer. A 1/4 MOA movement is very easy to accomplish with this design. Also, there is no need to lock the bridge as there is an adjustable clutch to hold the vertical position. The long drive shaft utilizes a scalloped hand wheel on the shooters side and a quick coupling adapter on the rest side. Once adjusted you merely pull back on the drive shaft and remove it or just set it on your shooting mat out of the way. The geared rack and pinion can be placed on the right for right-handed shooters or on the left.”
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Rimfire tactical matches, the NRL22 series in particular, draw more shooters than all centerfire PRS and NRL matches combined. It’s not surprising when you think about it — with rimfire PRS/NRL you still get the fun of tactical stages and hitting steel. But that all comes with a much lower overall cost. You can definitely win matches with an affordable rimfire rifle, and .22 LR ammo is a fraction of the cost of centerfire ammunition. Plus, the rimfire barrel can last for tens of thousands of rounds. By contrast a centerfire barrel can lose competitive accuracy after just a couple thousand rounds.
Seeing the rapid growth of the tactical rimfire game, Volquartsen now offers a semi-auto .22 LR in an MDT modular stock — the new VF-ORYX rifle. This rig, priced at $1944.00, features a CNC-machined stainless steel receiver with integral +20 MOA rail. The CNC-machined bolt includes a titanium firing pin and tuned extractor for improved function. The VF-ORYZ features a TG2000 trigger with a crisp 2.25-pound break.
The 20.5″ (1:16″ twist) fluted, free-floated barrel is threaded into the action just like on a centerfire rifle. This improves barrel rigidity and accuracy.
This rifle is also available as the VF-ORYX-S model, delivered with Zeiss Conquest V4 6-24x50mm scope with rings. MSRP is $3269.00.
MDT ORYX Aluminum Modular Chassis
The VF-ORYX features an ORYX Chassis from MDT. This chassis has earned high marks and is well-suited for practical/tactical competition. This integrated aircraft-grade aluminum chassis and buttstock are designed to improve the consistency and accuracy of your rifle. The chassis features a contoured fore-end, adjustable cheek riser, and overmolded pistol. Spacers in the buttpad permit adjustable LOP.
Here are two video reviews of the ORYX Chassis Systems for centerfire rifles. MDT’s rimfire ORYX chassis is essentially identical, but just configured for Volquartsen’s semi-auto rimfire action.
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When is a single-stage reloading press worth close to a thousand bucks? When it’s made in Germany with CNC technology and crafted to aero-space precision standards. UltimateReloader.com’s Gavin Gear recently got his hands on a Turban 120mm Heavy Präzipress. This unit retails for about 715 Euros (714,27 €), which is $858.88 U.S. Dollars at current exchange rates*. Gavin put the Präzipress through its paces, and came away VERY impressed. READ FULL REVIEW HERE.
Impressive Test Results
Sizing once-fired 6.5mm Creedmoor cases with the Präzipress, Gavin achieved great results for shoulder “bump” consistency. The sizing results were nothing short of spectacular. After zeroing the first of ten cases, the remaining nine were essentially identical, showing as “0.000”, meaning less than half a thousandth of variation.
The Präzipress also delivered ultra-low run-out when seating bullets using a Forster die. On all ten test cases, the run-out was +/- 0.001″ (one-thousandth) or less.
Is this kind of press worth the money? Gavin says “yes” if you demand the highest level of precision in sizing and seating: “When you use this press, it’s immediately clear that there are no details neglected, and I can’t imagine one of these presses ever wearing out. Based on the precision tests I did with ammunition loading, it’s clear that this level of precision DOES make a difference for ammunition dimensions and consistency.”
According to Gavin, the “Heavy” 120mm version of the Präzipress is massive and boasts many notable design features:
— Three guide rods with linear roller guides (I have not seen these on any other press)
— Ambidextrous operation (handle can be mounted on left or right side)
— Positive snap shellholder retainer (secure, but easy to insert/remove shellholder)
— 120mm opening accepts cartridges up to .408 CheyTac Size length
— Enclosed spent primer catch system which contains debris
— Optimized leverage (VERY powerful mechanical advantage for sizing)
— Oversized handle (bar diameter) that minimizes flex
There are now three (3) triple-column Präzipress sizes. Along with the 120 model press featured above, there are even larger 140 and 150 models:
* Stated price does NOT include shipping to USA and other fees. The Turban-shop.de website states: “In the case of delivering to a non-EU country, there can be charged extra tolls, taxes, and fees. Packaging costs will be charged separately.”
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SIG Sauer just released a video featuring the U.S. Army’s Next Generation Squad Weapons (NGSW) Program. In this video, SIG Sauer President/CEO Ron Cohen talks about the challenges in developing new hybrid ammo, along with a new NGSW Rifle and lightweight belt-fed machine gun (NGSW-AR). These new military guns will employ 6.8×51 hybrid ammunition that combines a brass case with a steel alloy base. This allows significantly higher pressures and velocities, compared to conventional ammo.
“The Army’s Next Generation Squad Weapons program is the most audacious effort in decades. It is the ability to participate in writing history and whatever happens now will dictate the next twenty, thirty, forty years”, said Cohen. This program is a result of the Army’s push for a transformational change in small arms to achieve greater lethality and capability.
The SIG Sauer NGSW system features new 6.8×51mm hybrid ammunition — a lightweight cartridge designed to handle signficantly higher pressures for increased velocity and terminal performance. With this high-velocity 6.8mm round, SIG’s new Lightweight Belt-Fed Machine Gun (NGSW-AR) doubles the effective range of the current M249 while being 40% lighter in weight. SIG Sauer even claims reduced felt recoil.
The SIG Sauer NGSW-R rifle offers advantages over current U.S. military rifles. The new SIG rifle is built on the MCX platform with the added firepower of the 6.8×51 round. Both the NGSW-AR and NGSW-R feature familiar AR-style ambidextrous ergonomics for easy transition from the legacy weapons to the SIG NGSW system. The weapons will also employ SIG Sauer “Next Generation” Suppressors.
SIG Sauer is hoping to win a big military contract with its NGSW weapons. The company stated that it “has committed virtually every part of the company to develop the NGSW weapons, engineering resources, manufacturing resources to develop the most advanced system possible.” SIG Sauer CEO Ron Cohen adds that: “We are the only company that makes the ammunition and the weapons so we were able to harness the engineers on the weapons side with the engineers on the ammunition side. SIG has the engineering resources, manufacturing resources, asset base and commitment to do this.”
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Tomorrow is the first day of May. The 2021 outdoor season is well underway. Do you have a good first-aid kit in your vehicle to deal with possible injuries to family members of all ages? For just $20.00 you can get an excellent kit from Be Smart/TRI, the #1 maker of First Aid Kits in the USA.
TRI’s Be Smart Get Prepared First Aid Kit has 201 items inside a sturdy case with shoulder strap and carry handle. There is also a handy, detachable mini pouch with key essentials for first aid on-the-go. You can easily bring the mini-pouch along on a bike ride or hike.
This multi-purpose First Aid Kit includes:
• 50 – Bandages 3/4 x 3
• 30 – Bandages 3/8 x 1 1/2
• 6 – Bandages Closure
• 3 – Knuckle Bandages
• 1 – Tapes – .5 x 2.5yd Waterproof
• 10 – Cotton Tips – 2.75″”/10 Pack
• 4 – Finger Splints
• 1 – First Aid Guide
• 4 – Gauze Pad – 2 x 2 / 4 ply
• 4 – Gauze Pad – 4 x 4 / 4 ply
• 1 – Gauze Pad – 5 x 9
• 2 – Nitrile Gloves
• 1 – Instant Cold Pack – 5 x 6
To help ensure that outdoor adventures remain safe and trouble-free, the CTD Shooters’ Log has a helpful Essential Summer Survival Guide. This is worth reading before you venture away from civilization.
Here are some highlights of the article with links for MORE INFO:
First Aid Kits for Campers
You should never venture outside without a first aid kit close at hand. While exploring the outdoors, all types of accidents can occur—from cuts, scrapes, and burns to broken limbs and severe allergic reactions.
Basic Survival Skills
Basic survival skills are a necessity if you plan to spend any amount of time outdoors. These five tips, plus a how-to on what to pack in a lightweight, basic survival kit will help if you are ever stuck, lost, stranded or injured in the field.
How to Treat Burns
Fireworks, barbeques and campfires — in the summer we are frequently around fire, which increases our chance of getting burned. A first-degree burn is most likely home treatable, while a third degree burn requires immediate medical attention. Learn how to spot the differences between minor and severe burns.
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F-TR and varmint shooters know about the outstanding JoyPod coaxial bipod created by Sebastian Lambang of SebRests.com. This popular design provides a stable, low-COG platform that allows instant aiming changes with a handy joystick. Over the years the JoyPod design has been refined, and now the enhanced Gen 2, 2021 JoyPod-X will soon be available. The 2021 JoyPod-X offers improved feet plus a new, rapid leg adjustment system that is a real break-through. For this new JoyPod-X, specific enhancements have been made to internal plates, the locking lever, and the more radiused top and feet. Plus now you have a choice of six anodized colors: blue, red, green, purple, black, and bronze.
Leg Height Adjustment System
on New 2021 JoyPod-X
Seb tells us: “Now height adjustment of the JoyPod-X can be much easier quicker and more precise. With a simple, adjustable brake and improved ratchet system. Thanks to Bob Bock for the design suggestions”.
Watch the video to see how this works. You can adjust each leg individually in seconds. You can do individual clicks up and down, with ratcheted steps. Or slide the entire leg unit rapidly up and down for gross elevation changes. So you have the choice of small, precise increments or big movements — whichever you want. This is very slick.
JoyPod-X Coming Soon in 6 Colors
The new 2021 JoyPod-X Should be ready sometime in mid- to late-May 2021, according to Sebastian Lambang. The JoyPod-X will be available in blue, red, green, purple, black, and bronze colors.
The head of the 2021 JoyPod-X has been radiused and refined. The design allows the JoyPod-X to fit a variety of fore-arm rails. To secure the JoyPod-X on your rifle, slide on the rail and then tension the clamping lever.
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Useful reloading gear does not have to be costly. Here are ten handy (and very inexpensive) items that belong on your loading bench or in your range kit.
• Magnifying Glass – We use a flat, 2″x2″ pocket 4x-8x magnifier. This folds up on itself. Very handy, we use it to inspect bullets and brass. Use this to check your flash holes for burrs, and check the meplats of your bullets before loading.
• Clear 35mm Film Cannister – Use this to transfer the thrown powder charge to the little measuring cup that sits on your scale. That way you don’t get any kernel splash. Also if the charge weight is obviously off, it’s easy to dump back in the measure. A film canister works pretty well as a trickler too.
• Compressed Air in a Can -- Get these at office supply stores. Use the can (with tube attached) to blow crud out of cases after cleaning the neck with a brush, and blast loose debris out of primer pockets.
• Pin Vise – A simple pin vise with a #53 bit is perfect for deburring Lapua PPC and BR flash holes without reaming the flash-holes any larger. The Lapua PPC/BR flash-hole diameter is 1.5 mm, or 0.059″. Amazon.com sells a handy $8.99 pin vise kit with 10 bits, including the ideal 1.5mm bit. Other vendors offer a #53 pin vise bit that measures .0595″ or .060″ (depending or source). You can find pin vises and bits at hobby stores — here’s an example below with ten bits including 1.5mm. Pin vise sets can be found from $7 to $15.
• Bounce Dryer Sheets – The common dryer sheets eliminate “static cling” on your plastic reloading parts such as powder measure cylinders, powder funnels, and reloading press plastic bins. Thanks to Doc76251 for this tip.
• Ballistol Aerosol – Try using this versatile lubricant/solvent for full-length sizing. Spray some on a patch and you can wipe the carbon off your case necks. Then, continue to apply a very small amount of Ballistol on the case bodies — just thin sheen is all you need. Ballistol is super slippery, and easy to remove. For general full-length sizing (on small cases) it works great and doesn’t leave a gooey, waxy, or chalky residue. For heavier case-forming jobs, we recommend Imperial Die Wax.
• Shotgun Mop – Stick this in the chamber when using Wipe-Out foaming bore cleaner. This will seal off the chamber so the foam doesn’t flow into your action. For long chambers screw on one section of cleaning rod to aid extraction.
• Colored Sharpie Marking Pens – Mark your bullets ahead of the bearing surface, and the color transfers to the target. This way you can shoot multiple loads at the same point of aim and discern which load shoots the tightest. (Recommended for 300 yards and beyond). With colored bullet tips you can test multiple loads “round robin” to equalize wind effects. When testing seating depths for example, you can mark the longer-seated set of bullets red and the shorter-seated set green and shoot them during the same sequence. Just look at the colored marks on the target to see which grouped better.
• Thin Latex Gloves – You should keep a box of inexpensive, disposable latex gloves (the kind doctors use) in your loading room. These will prevent contamination of primers or powder kernels that you handle directly. Also, use the gloves when handling fine blued tools or firearms to prevent transfering body oils and salts that promote rust.
• Plastic Washers for Neck Mic – If you use a Sinclair Neck-wall Micrometer Gauge with integral stand, you can use thin plastic washers to adjust the height of the case on the mandrel. This makes it much easier to measure the same point on the case neck every time. Thanks to MikeCR for this tip (and photo).
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We saw some interesting gear at a 600-yard IBS match at the Piedmont Gun Club (Rutherfordton, NC) a few seasons back. On display were a variety of hand-made wood cleaning cradles designed to fit on table tops. These typically employ a box-style design, with layer of cloth or other padding to cushion the underside of the stock. On display were both single-rifle cleaning cradle/boxes and dual-rifle rigs. This is a good do-it-yourself project that can be built with simple tools.
Click Photos to View Large Versions
Notice that these cradle-boxes feature an extended lower section in the rear. This lower “lip” butts up against the edge of the table so the whole assembly stays in place. In the photo above it appears that the lower section may actually be cut from a rubber block, but we’re not sure.
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Bigger is normally better — when it comes to light transmission and field of view. Kowa has introduced an all-new, high-end spotting scope, the TSN-99 Prominar, which has a huge 99mm front objective lens. This 99mm spotting scope features a pure Fluorite XD (eXtra-low Dispersion) lens for maximum light transmission, with superior edge-to-edge sharpness, and minimal chromatic aberration.
USA GunClub also offers an 
If you need a heavy-duty, single-stage reloading press, definitely look at the MEC Marksman, a beefy black single-stage unit with many impressive features. MEC, noted for its shotshell reloading machines, now offers the cast-iron 
Impressive Test Results
• Magnifying Glass – We use a flat, 2″x2″ pocket 4x-8x magnifier. This folds up on itself. Very handy, we use it to inspect bullets and brass. Use this to check your flash holes for burrs, and check the meplats of your bullets before loading.
• Ballistol Aerosol – Try using this versatile lubricant/solvent for full-length sizing. Spray some on a patch and you can wipe the carbon off your case necks. Then, continue to apply a very small amount of Ballistol on the case bodies — just thin sheen is all you need. Ballistol is super slippery, and easy to remove. For general full-length sizing (on small cases) it works great and doesn’t leave a gooey, waxy, or chalky residue. For heavier case-forming jobs, we recommend Imperial Die Wax.
