SHOT Show 2023 takes place January 20-23, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. You can get a sneak peek of new-for-2023 products on the official SHOT Show New Products webpage.
As of this morning November 30, 2022, there are 149 products featured on the New Products site. Here are six notable new items. CLICK HERE to view 143 more.
Bilson Arms Pivotal Buttstock
The Patent Pending Bilson Arms Pivotal Buttstock is a unique design that allows the rear buttpad section to revolve around its axis. This allows a more comfortable hold in a variety of shooting positions. It also permits a rapid change from primary to secondary sights. For example you can rotate the rifle to move from a top-mount telescopic sight to a side mount red dot. Bilson Arms says: “During tactical shooting, it allows the butt end to stay stationary and not be affected by your protective vest. In competition shooting, it allows the shooter to move through the targets, twisting the gun as you move, but allowing the butt end to stay firm against your shoulder.” The Bilson Arms Pivotal Buttstock is manufactured from 6061-T6 billet aluminum. Price: $239.00
Real Avid Master Gun Workstation
New from Real Avid, the Master Gun Workstation is a versatile, sturdy, and effective firearm workstation. The workstation secures rifles for cleaning, scope mounting, and basic gunsmithing tasks. The clever design allows one-handed setup for firearms. And there is built-in storage for chemicals, brushes, jags, and cleaning rods. This is not yet on Real Avid website. Price: $199.99
Advantage Arms .22 LR MOD Optics-Ready Glock Conversion Kit
Advantage Arms has been the top-selling .22 LR Conversion Kit for the Glock, XD, and 1911 since 1998. Advantage Arms recently introduced its new MOD kits, all of which come optics-ready with a threaded barrel and 15-rd magazines. MSRP is $395.00. Advantage Arms also has .22 LR conversion kits available for other pistols — XDs, 1911s, and the PSA Dagger.
Otis Technology Shooting Bundle
This $99.99 Shooting Bundle from Otis includes everything you need at the range: Eye protection, 26 dB Ear Shield Ranger passive earmuffs, 10-pack of targets, gun cleaning mat, and a Tactical Cleaning Kit for proper Breech-to-Muzzle cleaning from .17 cal through 12 gauge. Price: $99.99
Target Tacks for Attaching Paper Targets to Various Materials
TargetTack’s patent pending Multi-Use TargetTacks allow paper or scroll targets to be secured to a variety of backers and supports. Available in 1″ and 3″ lengths, TargetTacks work great to attach paper-based targets to a variety of materials including cardboard, styrofoam blocks, polyfusion blocks, poly-wrap bags, foam blocks, and hay bale substrates. The TargetTack multi-use variety pack retails for $27.95.
Non-Lethal 12 Gauge Shotgun Ammunition
The new 12-gauge “less-lethal” shotgun rounds from Byrna Technologies are a significant innovation in shotgun ammo. Designed for self-defense, crowd-control, and training, the Byrna 12-gauge round provides defensive stopping power with non-lethal effect. Effective range is listed as 75 feet (23 meters). These rounds are compatible with most 12-gauge shotguns with standard Cylinder Bore Choke. Byrna also produces “less-lethal” guns and launchers.
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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.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. MidwayUSA — Cyber Week Sale, November 21-28
⏺ Major savings all week long on reloading gear, optics, tools, accessories
MidwayUSA’s big Cyber Week Sale kicks off Monday, November 21 and runs through Monday, November 28, 2022. There are deep discounts on popular shooting, hunting, and outdoor products. You’ll find really great deals on select shooting gear, ammunition, optics, hunting clothing and more from brands like Vortex, Sightron, RCBS, Browning, MidwayUSA, Magpul, and IMI just to name a few. Select products will also be eligible for FREE shipping. New products go on sale every day during the Cyber Week promo. On 11/21/2022, deals include Vortex Viper PST FFP Milrad 5-25x50mm scope at $649.99 (35% Off), and MidwayUSA Competition Shooting Mat at $29.55 (50% Off). CLICK HERE for ALL current specials.
2. Longshot — Bulletseeker Mach 4 Onboard Radar, $100.00 Off
The Bulletseeker Radar unit is a new radar chronograph that mounts directly to your rifle. The advanced Bulletseeker features 120 Ghz radar with a beam-forming lens. Developed in Europe, with made-in-Germany core components, this unit is sold in the USA by Longshot, trusted maker of long-range target cameras. Now through early December, as an intro promotion, the Bulletseeker is $100.00 off the normal $1000.00 price. You’ll see the discount when adding the item to your online cart. The price is for a bundle which includes the Bulletseeker Mach 4 Chronograph plus a Parabolic Mounting Bracket. We think this is a game-changer. You get advanced radar ON YOUR GUN, with no need to haul around a bulky LabRadar.
3. Midsouth — Rock Chucker Supreme Reloading Kit, $369.99
⏺ Kit includes press, powder measure, scale, manual and many tools
Everything you see above can be yours for just $369.99. Right now, Midsouth is selling the Rock Chucker Supreme Master Reloading Kit for $369.99, a fine price considering all the hardware you get: Press, Primer Tool, Scale, Powder Measure, Loading Tray, Reloading Manual and more. This is good starter kit for any reloader, with sturdy items (such as the Rock Chucker press), that will last a lifetime.
4. Sportsman’s Warehouse — Pre-Black Friday Sale
⏺ Save on rifles, optics, hunting gear now through November 24, 2022
5. MidwayUSA — Electronic Muffs with Walkie-Talkie, $59.99
⏺ Dual-function electronic muffs — great for range communications
Electronic earmuffs protect your hearing while allowing you to hear range commands. With these Walkie-Talkie muffs you also get 2-way communication capabilities. That lets you talk to folks in the pits or at a different section of your shooting club. The Walker Razor Slim Low Profile Electronic Earmuffs (NRR 23dB) with Walkie Talkie allows you to communicate with other FRS radios. That lets you give range commands or talk with friends without the need for a second radio. If you don’t need the two-way functionality, MidwayUSA also has the NRR 26 Walker’s Alpha Power Electronic Muffs for $49.99, and the slimmer NRR 23 Razor Slim Patriot Electronic Muffs for $43.99. All these options are excellent bargains.
6. CDNN Sports — Crimson Trace Brushline Scopes, Save 45%
⏺ Save 45% on excellent hunting scopes with BDC reticles
Crimson Trace makes excellent riflescopes that perform way above their price categories. These scope have good glass, reliable turrets, and smart reticles. Right now you can save 45% on Crimson Trace Brushline SFP hunting scopes with lifetime warranty. Get the 4-12x40mm version for $199.99 or the 3-9x40mm model for $179.99. Both feature 1″ main tube, 1/4-MOA clicks, and custom BDC Predator reticle. These are great bargains.
7. Amazon — BOG Deathgrip Aluminum Tripod, $134.99
⏺ Versatile tripod mounts quickly, securely — use for PRS/NRL or hunting.
This is a great tripod for long-range hunters and PRS/NRL competitors. The Clamp-type head quickly secures to your rifle’s forearm for a secure shooting solution. The BOG Deathgrip Aluminum Tripod is on sale now on Amazon for $134.99. If weight is critical, there is also a lighter BOG carbon fiber tripod for $222.99. For the extra $88 you save a pound in total weight (7.5 lbs for carbon vs. 8.5 lbs for aluminum).
8. EuroOptic — ZEISS Terra ED 10×42 Binoculars, $349.99
⏺ Superb German Schott glass, great for low-light, distinctive orange body
These outstanding ZEISS Terra ED 10×42 binoculars are now $349.99 — $250.00 (40%) off the regular price! The ultra-sharp Schott Glass and multicoated lenses deliver superior optical clarity, and outstanding 88% light-transmission. These Terra ED binoculars feature comfortable ergonomics and a compact design for easy carry in the field. A recent purchaser declared: “The Zeiss Terra ED 10×42 is the best glass that I have ever looked through for its price range. And with EuroOptic having [these] on sale it was a no-brainer to buy another one.”
9. CDNN Sports — Grid Target Packs starting at $1.99/12
⏺ Great deals on colorful Champion grid target packs
10. Palmetto SA and MidwayUSA — Sierra Loaded Ammo REBATE
⏺ Quality Sierra-made ammo now with significant rebate
If you need defensive pistol ammo or .223 Rem ammo, Sierra is offering an end-of-year rebate of up to $5.00 per box (max rebate $50). This is a good way to get top-quality American-made 9mm Luger and .45 ACP ammo at Palmetto State Armory. Or get rebates on .380 ACP, .40 SW, and .223 Remington at MidwayUSA. SEE REBATE Details Page.
⏺ Versatile eye protection — 4 colors of lenses plus adjustable frame
Walker’s Adjustable Sport Glasses feature FOUR interchangeable lenses made of high-grade polycarbonate that exceeds ANSI 287.1-2003 High Impact Requirements. The interchangeable lenses come in four colors (Smoke Gray, Amber, Yellow, and Clear). The frames adjust for length and angle. These safety glasses ship with a soft carrying pouch that holds the extra lenses. This combo kit is on Amazon for $22.70.
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Savage recently released an innovative version of its popular A22 rimfire rifle. The new A22 Takedown separates quickly and easily into two units, with a simple quarter-turn (90-degree) rotation of the fore-end. This allows the A22 Takedown to easily transport in a pack when camping or hunting. Or stow the gun conveniently in your vehicle. Separating this A22 Takedown into two parts is as simple as a twist.
The new A22 Takedown ($479.99 MSRP) has some other cool storage features. The cheek-piece lifts up to provide storage for three, (3) 10-round rotary-style magazines. In addition, the A22 Takedown has a dry storage compartment in the pistol grip that can hold patches or other small accessories, such as earplugs.
What Are the Advantages of a Takedown Rifle?
The first big advantage of a takedown rifle is that it can be stored in a smaller space and you don’t need a long case to carry in the field. Fully assembled, the Savage A22 Takedown is 36.875″ long. As separated into two sections, each section is about 18″ long, so each segment can fit inside a small day-pack. When transported in a vehicle, the two segments may fit in an on-board storage area, or even in the spare tire compartment (with appropriate padding).
The Savage A22 Takedown rifle can also be transported in an ultra-short 24″ Discrete Carry Case that doesn’t look like a typical rifle case.
Assembly and Disassembly of Savage A22 Takedown
The Savage A22 Takedown can be separated into two sections in a matter of seconds. First make sure the gun is unloaded, the magazine is removed, and the bolt is pulled back and locked. Make sure the muzzle is pointed away from you, and the safety is activated. Double-check to make sure there is no round in the chamber! Then holding the gun horizontally, grab the fore-end and rotate one-quarter turn clockwise. Then ease the barrel/fore-arm section forward gently. This will expose the front of the action and reveal the .22 LR chamber in the fore-end section. You can see how this works in the video below.
To re-assemble the A22 Takedown, bring the fore-end towards the action with the rear sight at the 3 0’clock position (right of center looking towards muzzle). Push the fore-end back gently until is seats properly. Then rotate the fore-end 90-degrees counter-clockwise. Again, watch the above video to see this re-assembly procedure, starting at 00:27 time-mark.
NOTE: Savage provided these studio photos, but the magazine should be REMOVED before disassembly.
On-Board Storage Under Cheek-Piece and in Grip Section
The Savage A22 Takedown has two very innovative and unique storage systems built into the synthetic stock. First the cheekpiece is hinged at the front, and lifts up to reveal a special compartment that holds three (3) of the A22’s rotary magazines. This is a very clever design — unique among rimfire rifles we believe. In addition, there is storage area INSIDE the pistol grip. This is accessed by removing a detachable plastic cover that snaps into the bottom of the grip section.
Performance in the Field
With an 18″ barrel, expect your .22 LR rimfire ammo to deliver good velocities in the A22 Takedown. After some adjustment of the Accutrigger, other A22s we have shot have performed well and been reliable so long as you make sure to fully seat the rotary magazines. This would be a good starter rifle, and has unmatched versatility for easy packing. The weight, before optics, is just 6.3 pounds. One nice design feature is a sight channel in the Picatinny rail. The adjustable rear sight is attached to the barrel immediately forward of the action.
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Shooters starting rifle projects now have a great, high-quality option — Christensen Arms barreled actions. Available exclusively at Brownells, these Christensen Arms barreled actions are available for popular rifle cartridges such as 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, .308 Win, 300 PRC, and .300 Win Mag. All barreled actions are ready to drop into the stock or chassis of the customer’s choice. These Christensen Arms barreled actions are offered in two configurations, Mesa and Ridgeline:
Mesa: Stainless steel barrel and installed muzzle brake
Ridgeline: Carbon fiber-wrapped barrel and threaded muzzle
Rem 700 Footprint Barreled Actions
Because Christensen Arms barreled actions have a Remington 700 footprint, customers can select compatible stocks and parts from a large range of manufacturers, also available at Brownells.
In addition, Customers can easily complete their rifle build with a wide variety of Christensen Arms stocks, bottom metals, muzzle devices, and other parts. To see the full lineup of Christensen Arms parts, visit Brownells.com.
Christensen Arms BARRELED ACTIONS exclusively at Brownells:
Halloween (aka “All Hallows Eve”) is three weeks away. The pumpkins are starting to arrive a local marketplaces. Why not head to the range and shoot some Halloween-themed targets this October amidst the fall foliage. The folks at the NRA Blog have created a series of “spook-tastic” Halloween targets. Writer Kyle Jillson says, “In addition to stocking up on candy and finding great costumes, we thought you might like to have some fun at the range, so we created these spooky targets for you to use.”
Just click an image to launch its full-size version. You can then download the target and print it out on regular 8.5″x11″ paper. Now you have fun Halloween-themed targets to bring to the range this week.
Hornady recently unveiled a variety of new products for 2023. There are new ammo and bullet types, new firearms storage products, a new ammo storage locker, and an impressive new Precision Lab Scale with a 0.01 grain readout and hi/lo sensitivity settings. Among Hornady’s new ammo products, the new 7mm PRC is the most notable. This new 7mm magnum cartridge will initially be offered with three bullet types: 160gr CX Outfitter, 175gr ELD-X Precision Hunter, and 180gr ELD Match.
The new ammunition, bullet, reloading and security products will be available from stocking dealers, major retail sporting goods stores and their websites.
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Montana-based PROOF Research has released a revealing video showcasing carbon fiber firearms technology and the company’s barrel-making process. Viewers will find the 8-minute film an intriguing introduction to composite barrel-making, which employs aerospace carbon fiber wrapped around a steel barrel core. The video showcases the high-tech machines used at PROOF’s production facilities.
This video shows how PROOF Research employs aerospace-grade, high-temperature composite materials to build match-grade carbon fiber-wrapped barrels.
Dr. David Curliss, General Manager of PROOF Research’s Advanced Composite Division, and former head of the U.S. Air Force High Temperature Composites Laboratory, explains how aerospace expertise helps in the development of PROOF’s firearms-related products: “We are able to provide premier materials for PROOF Research for firearms barrels applications as well as the aerospace market. We’re probably the only firearms technology company that has composite materials in orbit around the earth.”
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Ammoland is a popular website hosting tons of gun-related content. Every day Ammoland releases multiple stories about new firearms, gun industry trends, and important Second Amendment legal and political developments. Along with gun news, Ammoland now offers regular tests of new rifles and pistols. Here are four recent Ammoland video reviews of new-for-2022 handguns, two 9x19mm pistols, and two rimfire handguns (one .22 LR and one .22 WMR). Ammoland feature articles supplement all four videos.
SIG Sauer P365 X-Macro 9mm
AmmoLand recently tested the 17-round Sig Sauer P365 X-Macro pistol. It determined that this is a very good pistol, as are other P365 variants, including the basic P365 and the P365XL. Ammoland’s tester, Jim Grant, was very impressed: “The P365 X-Macro 9mm is just a great all-around handgun. In my opinion, the new SIG P365 X-Macro is a must-have concealed carry piece for shooters who still carry either a micro sub-compact and want more rounds or guys who carry the larger P320 9mm pistol. The Macro is a level-up upgrade over SIG’s other concealed carry guns yet still allows shooters to customize it to meet their exact needs completely.” CLICK HERE for full review on Ammoland.com.
Kel-Tec PMR-30 .22 WMR Pistol
Kel-Tec’s innovative PMR-30 .22 WMR pistol has a huge 30-round capacity. You read that right — this new semi-auto rimfire holds THIRTY rounds. Ammoland’s reviewer, Jim Grant, notes: “While a firearm chambered in the low-recoil .22 Win Magnum Rimfire will never have the fight-stopping ballistic efficacy of a big-bore caliber… the capacity of the rimfire round shouldn’t be discounted either. That’s why Kel-Tec’s introduction of both PMR-30 and CMR-30 is so revolutionary. It makes short work of any varmints within range and is a great pistol for teaching new shooters that isn’t terribly expensive to shoot and has very soft felt recoil.” CLICK HERE for full review on Ammoland.com.
Taurus GX4XL T.O.R.O. 9mm
The Taurus GX4XL T.O.R.O. 9mm pistol boasts a low price, good ergonomics, and high capacity. Ammoland notes: “On paper, it should be the go-to concealed carry gun — but in a market saturated with solid alternative carry pistols, can Taurus’ latest iteration of its GX series of handguns hold its own?” Tester Jim Grant concluded: “So, is the new Taurus GX4XL T.O.R.O. EDC worth its $420 MSRP? If you already own the original Taurus GX4, no. The XL is harder to conceal and, while easier to shoot, doesn’t increase performance to a large enough extent to warrant buying a new pistol. But if you don’t have a good subcompact pistol and aren’t flush with cash, the GX4 XL will do the job.” CLICK HERE for full review on Ammoland.com.
Hands-On P322 Testing by Ammoland’s Jim Grant
Ammoland’s Jim Grant did a very thorough review of SIG’s P322 rimfire pistol. Grant shot hundreds of rounds both with and without a suppressor. He concluded that the P322 was extremely reliable and fun to shoot: “SIG P322 Verdict — Is the SIG P322 worth a buy? Abso-freaking-lutely yes. The P322 ships with two mags, a threaded barrel, two triggers, and an optic cut. That is an already impressive package but add… that the gun is literally peerless in terms of reliability and you have a recipe for total market dominance. What’s even better is that the gun has a MAP of $399.” CLICK HERE for full review on Ammoland.com.
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Here’s great news for F-TR and long-range competitors. SEB Joy-Pods are getting ready to ship. Produced by SEB Rests in Indonesia, these superb joy-stick controlled bipods are favored by top F-TR competitors. They also work great for informal bench shooting and varmint shooting from the ground or a truckbed. We also know some folks who use Joy-Pods with .22 LR rifles at rimfire benchrest matches.
The Joy-Pod has been a huge success around the world. And while the the Joy-Pod’s geometry has worked exceptionally well, designer Sebastian Lambang has made some minor updates to the main support arms. The angle of the horizontal arms is slightly flatter (more horizontal). This allows the entire unit to ride lower if desired. Compare the two types of Joy-Pods in the photo below. The older design is in the rear while the updated Joy-Pod is in the front. The new Joy-Pod rides about 1.2″ lower at lowest setting.
Order Joy-Pods through SEB USA
Joy-Pods, Mini-X, NEO and other SEB Rest products are sold in the United States by SEB USA, run by Ernie Bishop. Contact Ernie for the current pricing and the projected delivery dates. Visit Sebrests-USA.com for ordering information.
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What are the top-selling new rifles in the USA? You might be surprised — there are no Remingtons among the Top 5 bolt guns. In the bolt-action category, the Ruger American is on top, followed by the Tikka T3X and the CZ 457. Among semi-auto rifles, a Ruger AR is in third place, the Springfield M1A is ranked second, and the venerable Ruger 10/22 is still the best-selling self-loading rifle.
Shopping for a rifle? Your buying decision may be simplified by seeing what other consumers have chosen, as revealed by nationwide sales trends. You can now check firearms sales figures using “Gun Genius”, a data-crunching service of Gunbroker.com. On GunGenius.com you can select any type of firearm (handgun, rifle, shotgun) and see the top sellers for that category. Here are the top-selling NEW bolt-action rifles and semi-auto rifles. On the Gun Genius site you’ll find links for gun specifications. There are separate listings for used rifles. The chart are based on May 2022 sales data.
Here are the FIVE top-selling NEW bolt-action rifles for May 2022:
Here are the FIVE top-selling NEW semi-auto rifles for May 2022:
Get Sales Rankings for Other Categories of Firearms
On GunGenius.com, in addition to the categories above, you can chose lever-action rifles, single-shot rifles, semi-auto pistols, revolvers, semi-auto shotguns, pump shotguns, and more. You can also filter for sales trends (upwards and downwards). Drill down to see detailed product specifications and current prices.
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Nammo Announces Plans for Vihtavuori Primer Factory in Finland
During Vihtavuori’s recent 100th anniversary celebration, Nammo Group CEO Morton Brandzaeg announced plans for the construction of a new Vihtavuori primer factory in Vihtavuori, Finland. The new Vihtavuori factory was mentioned in Brandzaeg’s keynote speech to strategic partners in military and civilian markets. The new factory should commence production in 2025.
The €33 million Euro investment will help ensure the security of supply needs for Nordic defense forces and will bolster the resilience of Nammo’s supply chain. The new primer factory is scheduled for completion in 2025 to meet military needs, with consumer sales as early as 2027.
The new primer factory could eventually produce a projected 400 million primers annually. The factory will employ up to 50 new personnel. Nammo states the new primer factory “will help ensure the security of supply needs for Nordic defense forces and will bolster the resilience of Nammo’s supply chain”. The decision to establish the factory was made to ensure primer supplies for the Nordic Defense Forces and respond to the current high demand for commercial ammunition components.
Nammo CEO Brandzaeg stated, “Following Russia’s war with Ukraine, a credible and resilient defense is increasingly important in the Nordic region. This significant investment for Nammo underlines our commitment to supporting defense forces in the Nordic region to secure the future.”
About Vihtavuori: Since 1922, Vihtavuori has produced high-quality smokeless powder for civilian, military, and industrial markets. Vihtavuori propellants are world renowned for their temperature stability, clean burning characteristics, and excellent lot-to-lot consistency. Vihtavuori is imported by Capstone Precision Group, exclusive U.S. distributors for Vihtavuori, Lapua, Berger, and SK-Rimfire products. For more information, visit Vihtavuori.com.
About Nammo: The international Nammo Group is a Nordic defense company whose main markets are North America, the Nordic countries, and Europe. The Group operates in 12 countries with 28 different production facilities and employs approximately 2,700 people.
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To shoot tight groups and high scores from the bench, or in prone F-Open competition, a quality front rest is essential. And a good rest is also very valuable when zeroing rifles, testing loads, and shooting varmints from a portable bench. Today’s Saturday video showcase includes multiple video reviews of some of the best front rests on the market — great products from SEB, Rodzilla, 21st Century, Lenzi, and Sinclair Int’l. In addition, the lead-off video from F-Class John covers some of the less expensive rests as well as SEB Joy-Pod coaxial bipods.
Review of Many Popular Front Rests from $250 to $2200
If you are shopping for a front rest, definitely watch this comprehensive 42-minute video from start to finish. This is probably the most informative video about premium shooting rests available on YouTube. Top F-Class shooter and video-maker F-Class John covers a wide selection of front rests, with some observations about coaxial bipods as well. John covers the impressive new SEB NEO-X, the easy-to-transport SEB Mini-X, the excellent Rodzilla Rest, the innovative 21st Century Hybrid Rest, the sleek Italian Lenzi Rest. And at the end of the video John reviews the very affordable Caldwell Fire Control Rest ($249.99 on Amazon), explaining how it can be a decent choice for shooters on a limited budget.
NEW SEB NEO-X — Set-Up in the Field
Still in its final prototype stage, the innovative SEB NEO-X raises the bar for transportable coaxial front rests. An innovative design with hinged legs allows the 20-lb NEO-X to be transported in a small case. Once the legs are extended however, the NEO-X has proven to be very stable. And this new coaxial rest offers very precise, easy-to-use controls. A swivel head speeds up deployment, as the allows you to quickly align the rest top to the target. Users have confirmed the NEO-X works great and is very stable. In the video above ace F-Class shooter Erik Cortina (below) shows how to quickly deploy the NEO-X in the field.
Rodzilla T-Rex — High Quality, Big Footprint, Advanced Features
The impressive Rodzilla T-Rex front rest offers outstanding stability with smooth, precise performance. Designer/builder Rod Brakhage (the Rod in Rodzilla) started from the ground up to create a user-friendly, match-ready, modular front rest on the market. The T-Rex weighs just over 21 pounds, and the T-Rex has a large footprint, rivaling the largest rests on the market. That provides exceptional stability, even with heavy-recoiling rifles.
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. 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. The T-Rex can be ordered with excellent Sand Feet.
21st Century Hybrid-X Front Rest
Lateral Control Arm, Vertical Elevation Knob
The innovative 21st Century Hybrid-X front rest offers the “best of both worlds”. It allows precise lateral movement (for wind holds) with no elevation change. The entire center section of the rest rotates as one unit for fast, perfect horizontal alignment to target. Then adjust vertical precisely with the rotary knob on the outboard end of the control rod. Our Daily Bulletin Hybrid-X article has a full description with multiple photos of this unique rest. See additional Hybrid-X Video.
Sinclair Int’l Competition Front Rest — Sturdy and Stable Design
The Sinclair Int’l Competition Rest is a classic heavy and very stable rest that works great on the bench. Weighing 30+ pounds, with a 1″-thick steel base, this rest has a very low center of gravity and is ultra-stable. Currently priced at $699.99, the Sinclair Competition Rest is less than half the cost of the more exotic front rests.
Horizontal (windage) movement is controlled with a large rear knob which uses dual sets of twin tapered roller bearings for a non-binding windage operation. Nearly four feet of windage adjustment is offered at 100 yards. Elevation changes are made with the large wheel. With its mass and low COG, this Sinclair Rest is very stable. And because of its ability to hold elevation shot to shot, this rest has been popular with long-range benchrest competitors who often shoot quick strings of 5 or 10 shots.
SEB Mini-X and SEB Mini — Transportable Joystick Tripod Rests
The original SEB Mini was an innovative collapsible tripod rest with a coaxial top. On its introduction the SEB Mini became immediately popular with varminters, F-TR shooters, and anyone who wanted an affordable, easy-to-transport front rest that offered easy, precise and rapid adjustment of windage and elevation with the Joystick. Building on the success of the original SEB Mini, the new SEB Mini-X offers an improved head design, and new adjustable “ankle” units on all three legs. This makes it easier to level the Mini-X on uneven ground. The Mini-X has proven very successful in competition, winning major F-Open matches. Folding into a very compact package, it is easy to transport in airline luggage. Yet it offers a very stable shooting platform with precise, effortless joystick control of elevation and windage.
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What’s old is new again. The metal-framed pistol is making a comeback. Smith & Wesson has just introduced its new M&P9 M2.0 METAL, S&W’s first full-size M&P pistol in an all-metal configuration. Built with a T6 aluminum frame finished in Tungsten Gray Cerakote, this 9mm Luger pistol includes a 4.25″ barrel, M2.0 flat face trigger, and optics-ready slide.
Why go to a metal frame? The T6 Aluminum frame is heavier than polymer. This increases the overall weight of the pistol and lowers the center of gravity considerably. The gun therefore has less perceived recoil (less “snap”) and noticeably less muzzle flip. The new M&P M2.0 METAL is listed at 30.0 oz. unloaded, while the polymer M&P M2.0 is 24.7 oz. unloaded.
New M&P9 M2.0 METAL is 43% More Expensive Than Polymer M&P9 M2.0
The new M&P9 M2.0 METAL has a $899.00 MSRP, making it 43% more expensive than the polymer-framed M&P9 M2.0 which has a $629.00 MSRP. Is the aluminum frame worth the extra money? It depends. With a lower center of gravity and more mass, the M2.0 METAL will definitely be a better “gun games” pistol. But it will also be 5.3 oz. heavier — not so great for all-day carry.
For persons who use their M&P mostly for target work and gun games, the heavier weight and reduced muzzle flip is a plus. Owners may also like the rigidity of the Cerakoted Aluminum frame. S&W has a new enhanced sear for this model, which delivers a “shorter take-up, and cleaner break”. That also should help action pistol competitors.
Full Compatability with Existing M&P9 Magazines and Holsters
The M&P9 M2.0 METAL will accept any M&P9 M2.0 17-round 9mm magazine and will fit any normal M&P9 fullsize compatible holster. Notable features include enhanced sear for lighter, crisper trigger break, an optics-ready slide, and new “flat face” trigger.
M&P9 M2.0 METAL FEATURES
T6 Aluminum Frame with Tungsten Gray Cerakote® Finish
Optics-Ready pistol slide has mounting recess for red dots
Four interchangeable palmswell grip inserts: S, M, ML, L
Textured polymer front strap
Wide slide stop and reversible magazine release
M2.0 flat face trigger for consistent finger placement
Forward slide serrations and Picatinny-style frame rail
Enhanced sear for lighter, crisper trigger let-off
Fits all standard M&P9 compatible holsters
Accepts any 17-round 9mm M2.0™ magazine
Comes with two 17-round magazines.
Jerry Miculek Tests New M&P9 M2.0 Metal Pistol — Says It Shows Exceptional Accuracy
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Sebastian (“Seb”) Lambang, the brilliant designer/builder of SEB Shooting Rests, is also one darn good shooter, as demonstrated at a recent major rifle competition in Australia. Shooting at multiple yardages from 300 to 1000 yards, Seb won the Queens Series F-Open title, and finished third overall in the Duncan & Queens Series Grand Agg. That’s mighty good marksmanship considering it was done with an F-Open rifle Seb had just acquired and never shot before! Congrats to Seb for his outstanding performance!
One of the factors in Seb’s success was an all-new front rest that Seb designed and crafted himself. This new SEB NEO-X rest has many advanced features including a swivel-adjusting head, a wide footprint, and the ability to fold-up for easier transport. We have a full report on the impressive NEO-X rest in this story, with bench testing videos by F-Class John.
The 2022 QRA Duncan & Queens Series in Australia
Report by Sebastian Lambang
This was my first overseas travel since the Berger Southwest Nationals in early 2020 [right before the COVID-19 shutdowns]. Three years ago I participated in the WARA Queens 2019 in Perth shooting the F-TR, and this was my second F-Open match in Australia. Usually I shoot the F-TR division. However this year I was invited to shoot the F-Open in the QRA Queens 2022 by Jason Mayers, my Australian dealer. Jason has been my “Little Big Brother” and my best friend in Australia. So why not? Let’s just do it!
Jason has two, twin F-Open guns. I bought one and used it during this match. Chambered for 7mm RSAUM, this F-Open rifle features a Barnard action, Marty Lobert trigger, Bartlein barrel with a large tuner in the front, McMillan Kestros ZR stock, and a Nightforce scope. I was shooting 7mm 180gr Berger bullets.
Jason did all of the load development, provided the ammunition and all equipment needed to shoot. The rifle shot and tracked very well — I loved it! Yes, I used a NEO-X prototype unit during the Queens match, i.e. the one that Jason used during the Duncan matches. The second unit just came in the day before the Queens started, it is set for left-handed shooter like him. I used his NEO rest during the Duncan Series.
We had various conditions during the match, from sunny, misty and rainy, to dead calm conditions and switchy wind. I was very fortunate to be able to pick the right time and shot well in the final 900 and 1000-yard stages, winning both yardages! With those results at 900/1000 I finished first in the Queens Match in F-Open. I then finished third overall in the Duncan & Queens Series F-Open Grand Aggregate.
Jason Mayers (L) and Seb Lambang (R). Seb had never shot this F-Open rifle before he piloted it to victory in the 2022 QRA Queens match.
Overcoming Challenges — Rifle Suffers Trigger Failure
I had a trigger failure which caused my score to drop by at least 2 points in the 1000-yard session just before the final day. I dropped 4 points in a good condition and it made me really upset! But huge thanks must go to Mark Fairbairn. Mark helped me to fix the rifle and loaned me a trigger so I still had a few minutes to finish the string!
After that trigger problem I chose to not give up! I hoped for a miracle, to be able to choose the right time to start to shoot (wind wise), to be good enough in reading the current conditions and to get the best possible scores! Jason’s encouragement in the morning that I could still win the match really helped boost my motivation! I do not know why or how but I retained confidence to shoot well and to win the match.
Thanks to Family, Friends, and Fellow Competitors
My sincere thanks to my lovely wife Lily who always supports and loves me as what I am all the time! Thanks again to my Little Big Brother Jason Mayers who has always helped and supported me genuinely! Without his help and support I wouldn’t have been able to win the match so it’s a more about him than me. My Thanks to QRA and all of the Match Organizers, Range Officers, Staffers, and Volunteers during the championship. My thanks also to all competitors and for the warmth and generous welcome!
Thoughts about the New NE0-X from its Inventor
I am really happy that the NEO-X works as expected, too. I think my effort to make even a better rest has been paid off. The New NEO-X combines the best features from the NEO rest and Mini rest in one package with a few extra features. The new NEO-X is designed for those who seek a light-compact rest and want the best one!
Great Scores Shot by Seb Lambang with new NEO-X Front Rest
Seb shot superbly to win the Queens Series in F-Open Division and take third overall in the combined Duncan and Queens Series Grand Aggregate. Here are two of Seb’s targets, as electronically logged — 1000 yards on the left, 600 yards on the right. NOTE: In Australia, the maximum numerical ring points value is 6, not 10 as in North America. But the center-most ring does register “X” as here. The match included targets shot at 300, 500, 600, 900, and 1000 yards.
Bench Testing with SEB NEO-X Prototype — VERY Impressive
Our friend F-Class John recently received one of the very first NEO-X prototypes sent to North America. John assembled the impressive new rest and took it to the range for testing. John was very impressed with the new rest to say the least. He told us: “This really is state-of-the art. I’m very impressed with how it folds compactly for transport, yet is extremely stable, with a nice open platform in the rear.” John noted that the swivel top allows precise alignment with your targets, even if the rest is not positioned perfectly on the ground. That helps when a shooter needs to set up quickly at a new yardage during a match.
When testing with his 7mm F-Open rifle, John noted that the rest is very solid on the bench and does not bump or wobble. See his observations in this exclusive test video:
Commentary by F-Class John
Here’s my quick review after shooting off the NEO-X prototype a couple times. It’s AMAZINGLY STABLE. The way it unfolds not only makes for a wide and stable footprint, but it also leaves lots of room for the shooter to work with, while controlling the joystick.
Another cool thing is that you don’t, technically, even have to lock the bridge down. The bridge is 100% stable after moving it up or down and the lock is more academic than anything.
The swivel head is a feature people will have seen on other rests but the way you can shoose to leave it swiveled or locked down is great. This new NEO-X is going to change things, I have no doubt.
Unboxing SEB NE0-X Prototype
John noted: “The way the NEO-X folds up is amazing, perfect for transporting. It weighs under 20 pounds fully loaded with all parts, joystick, and control arm.”
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Fred Zeglin has released a Kindle eBook edition of his popular book Wildcat Cartridges — Reloader’s Handbook of Wildcat Cartridge Design. Gunsmith/author Zeglin explains: “The print edition of Wildcat Cartridges has gone out of print. We have plans to produce a second edition, but that is currently on the back burner. Demand of this book has remained strong so the decision to offer the first edition in a e-book format was made.” The Kindle eBook edition retails for $9.99 on Amazon.com. You can preview a FREE SAMPLE. CLICK HERE then click on “Look Inside” above the cover photo.
This is more than just a history of cartridges. Dimensional drawings and loading data accompany many of the cartridge descriptions. More recent and popular designs are included as well as the “classic” older wildcats. There are chapters about important cartridge designers like P.O. Ackley, Jerry Gebby, Rocky Gibbs, and Charles Newton. (The hardback edition of the book contains 288 pages of stories, illustrations, instructions, and data.)
Gunwriter Wayne Van Zwoll says Zeglin’s book is a valuable resource: “Fred has illustrated his book well, with neat line drawings and photos you probably won’t find anywhere else. It’s a rare technical treatise that draws you in with illustration, or that keeps you with an easy flow of chat that, were it lifted from print, might pop up at any gun counter or handloading bench. Fred Zeglin has done well with this book, giving wildcatters – indeed, all rifle enthusiasts – an overview of a culture often mentioned but little explored on the page.”
Writing about the 2005 Print Edition of Wildcat Cartridges, Big Bore Journal declared: “This is a fantastic book on American wildcats, US loads and much more. A must have for wildcatters and gunsmiths.”
About the Author
An award-winning writer, Fred Zeglin operates Z-Hat Custom, and Hawk Cartridges. Fred has taught classes for the NRA Gunsmithing Schools in Colorado and Oklahoma. He served as production manager for McGowen Precision Barrels for a time, and was a tech advisor for 4D Reamer Rentals. To learn more about Z-Hat and Fred’s Wildcat Cartridges eBook, contact:
Z-Hat Custom Inc.
Fred Zeglin
432 E. Idaho St., Suite C420
Kalispell, MT 59901
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Savage A22 Takedown Key Features:
The new primer factory could eventually produce a projected 400 million primers annually. The factory will employ up to 50 new personnel. Nammo states the new primer factory “will help ensure the security of supply needs for Nordic defense forces and will bolster the resilience of Nammo’s supply chain”. The decision to establish the factory was made to ensure primer supplies for the Nordic Defense Forces and respond to the current high demand for commercial ammunition components.
The 
T6 Aluminum Frame with Tungsten Gray Cerakote® Finish
