Bushnell unveiled a new set of 15-power binoculars at SHOT Show 2023. These have a MilRad reticle for ranging and determining shot locations. The new Match Pro ED 15×56 Binoculars with Shot-Call reticle combines a high-magnification binocular with an MRAD-based reticle for ranging, target sizing, and shot correction. The benefit is that this 15X binocular optic could replace a bigger, heavier reticle-equipped spotting scope. This Match Pro ED Binocular can be quickly mounted on a tripod for enhanced stability. We recommend that because it is pretty hard to hold a 15X optic very steady with hands alone.
The Match Pro ED’s offset SHOT-CALL reticle, located in the right barrel, has a dedicated focus adjustment and can be rotated for leveling after IPD (interpupillary distance) adjustment (i.e. how far the eyepieces are spread apart). Users can secure their preferred IPD with the included BRIDGESET stabilizer, which ensures the binocular is set for quick use and is stable when mounted on a tripod. Claimed light transmission is 92%. Suggested MSRP for the Match Pro ED 15×56 binoculars is $699.99.
Our friend Jonathan Ocab reviewed the new Match Pro ED 15x56mm binoculars: “Bushnell Optics showed off their new Match Pro ED 15×56 binocular, which is based off of their Forge binocular design. The Forge 15×56 has a good reputation as a budget-friendly binocular with good performance at its price range. The Match Pro ED 15×56 is a hefty binocular with a magnesium chassis coming in at 51 ounces with what is dubbed the SHOT-CALL MRAD reticle. The reticle [rotates in the right barrel] so that it can be leveled for the user’s eyes after the barrels are adjusted to the pupil distance.”
Jonathan added: “My initial impressions of this binocular are positive. It is definitely a bigger, heavier binocular and is not going to be one for field use. This is definitely the type of binocular one would employ on the range at NRL/PRS matches to spot for a shooter.” CLICK HERE for full SHOT Show 2023 Optics report by Jonathan Ocab.
Recoil Web also did a review of these new 15×56 binoculars stating: “The new Bushnell Match Pro ED 15×56 binoculars [offering] is a big deal, but maybe just to a niche crowd. For a long time, spotting scopes have often come with a MIL or MOA reticle in the eyepiece so one could spot shots at long range and call corrections or for use in ranging a target if a laser rangefinder wasn’t available. With a reticle in the right barrel, you get a MIL grid for ranging and shot correction like a spotting scope but the [wide] field of view and outstanding glass of the binoculars.”
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. Midsouth — Hornady Get Loaded Promo with 500 Free Bullets
⏺ Get 500 or 100 Free Bullets with Hornady hardware
Hornady is now running its 2023 Get Loaded® promotion. Now through 12/31/2023 get up to 500 FREE BULLETS with qualifying purchases of Hornady reloading products. You can also get significant up-front savings and/or FREE Shipping when you buy Hornady reloading presses and other products at Midsouth. For example, you can save $90 on the Hornady Iron Press Kit. Depending on the products purchased, customers can get 500 or 100 free bullets, valued up to $234.33.
⏺ Quality USA-made hunting rifle at good price; many chamberings
Looking for a good hunting rifle with a sub-MOA accuracy guarantee? Right now the Weatherby Vanguard with synthetic stock is ON SALE for just $499.97 at Sportsman’s Warehouse. This Vanguard model features a gray, Griptonite Monte Carlo composite stock. For this $499.97 bargain price, many chamberings are offered: .223 Remington, .22-250 Remington, .243 Winchester, .25-06 Remington, .270 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, and .240 Weatherby Magnum. Overall weight (without scope) is 7.75 pounds.
3. Midsouth — Fiocchi .223 Rem Ammo with V-Max Bullets
⏺ Good deal on factory ammo with quality Hornady V-Max bullets
Here’s excellent varmint ammo on SALE at a bargain price. If you’re planning a Prairie Dog safari this spring, but don’t want to handload, grab some Fiocchi Field Dynamics .223 Rem ammo. Choose the 40gr V-Max, 50gr V-Max, or 55gr V-Max versions, all with 50-rd boxes for just $34.99 on SALE. That’s $0.70 per round, a darn good price. This Fiocchi .223 Rem ammo has earned very positive reviews from purchasers.
⏺ Fast, programmable, accurate dispenser at great price
The Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper is a high-quality powder scale/dispenser. It’s accurate to +/- one-tenth of a grain, dispenses in seconds, and can be controlled by a handy mobile App that stores charge weights for different cartridges. This unit has a 7000-grain capacity with both auto and manual trickle capability. This is a great deal — you save fifty bucks (21%) off the regular MidwayUSA price, and the same Intellidropper is now $239.96 on Amazon.
5. Natchez — Frankford Quick-N-Easy Case Tumbler Kit, $79.99
⏺ We’ve used this Combo Kit for many seasons — very good value right now
Keeping your brass clean is important (and essential if you anneal). If you’re looking for a new, affordable setup to clean cartridge brass, consider the Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-EZ Case Tumbler Master Kit. You get everything needed to dry-tumble your brass and remove the media. This is all available now for a very low $79.99. You could pay that much for a good vibratory tumbler alone, yet this combo kit includes tumbler, media separator, bucket, brass polish, and media.
6. Palmetto State Armory — Norma Tac-22 .22 LR 500rds, $32.99
⏺ Very good .22 LR ammo at extremely low price — GREAT VALUE
If you love .22 LR rimfires and want quality ammo at an ultra-low price, grab some Norma TAC-22. Priced at just $3.30 per 50-ct box, this is a true bargain, yet the TAC-22 is good enough for NRL22 matches as well as fun target shooting. We’ve shot this Norma ammo and been very satisfied. You’ll be hard-pressed to find better .22 LR ammo at anywhere near this price. Don’t delay ordering — at this price, we expect this TAC-22 ammo will sell out soon.
7. KYGUNCO — Rock Island Armory TM22 Rifle, $278.00
⏺ Slick, AR-style rimfire rifle with new features
Looking to get started in NRL22 competition, or want a rimfire varmint rifle with familiar AR look and feel? Then check out the Rock Island Armory TM22. This handsome semi-auto .22 LR rimfire rig weighs 6.5 lbs. with its 18″ barrel. The modestly-priced TM22 sports an AR-type grip, commercial buffer tube adapter, top rail, and M-LOK fore-end. The rifle is set up with right-handed controls, but the TM22 can easily be modified for left-handed operation. The TM22 ships with two 10-rd aluminum magazines with aftermarket 15- and 25-round magazines available.
8. Midsouth — 1000 Rounds Federal 9mm FMJ Ammo, $314.99
⏺ Great DEAL on quality Federal 9mm Luger (9x19mm) ammo
Here’s a great ammo offering, with major-brand quality 9mm cartridges from Federal. Get 1000 rounds of 115gr FMJ American Eagle ammo for just $314.99 at Midsouth. This works out to just $15.75 per 50rd box — a great deal. We have shot this ammo in a variety of 9x19mm pistols and it is very reliable. This is NOT loose bulk-pack, there are twenty convenient 50rd boxes.
⏺ Super-low prices on compact binoculars — up to 63% Off
Need a spare pair of compact, lightweight binoculars? Now you can get a decent set of weatherproof binoculars for under $25.00. Choose from Bushnell, Simmons, and Tasco binoculars on sale now at CDNN Sports starting at just $9.99. We like the Bushnell H20 8×25 waterproof binocs at $17.76 — 61% off the $44.99 MSRP. NOTE: None of these are truly excellent binoculars that can compete with a $400+ Nikon, Leica, Sightron, or Zeiss. But these are small, handy, and can fit in a vehicle glove box or a fanny pack. So they can be used regularly when you’re hiking, camping, or game-watching.
⏺ 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 is a good deal — the same combo kit sells for $23.53 on Amazon!
There are some interesting topics covered today, Sunday 1/29/2023, on Tom Gresham’s Gun Talk® Radio, the original nationally-syndicated radio talk show about guns and the shooting sports. The episode covers the acquisition of Barrett Firearms by the Australian NIOA group. In addition, there is coverage of a new gun-related novel and gear from Vertx.
NOTE: If you miss the live broadcast on 1/29/2023 at 2-5 PM, just visit the Gun Talk Podcast archive.
Barrett Firearms recently changed hands. Rob Nioa, CEO of the NIOA group which acquired Barrett Firearms, joins Tom to discuss the recent purchase. The transaction promises to increase the production and visibility of Barrett Firearms while introducing new and innovative product. Rob Nioa assured Tom that Barrett production would remain at Barrett’s Tennessee factory: “We are going to make sure nothing changes in the quality of the product. Nothing changes in where the products are manufactured.”
This Sunday, Tom talks with Pulitzer-prize winning author Steven Hunter about his new book The Bullet Garden. This just-published novel features legendary Marine and father of literary icon Bob Lee. The book visits battlefields of World War II as Earl Swagger embarks on a top secret and deadly mission. CLICK HERE to read FREE 49-page preview of The Bullet Garden. Or listen to FREE Audio Sample on Amazon.
In hour three, Tom talks with Dan Groce of Vertx about concealed carry equipment. Vertx sells backpacks, duffles, cases, and cloth pouches designed to carry guns, ammo, and accessories.
In its 26th year of syndication, Tom Gresham’s Gun Talk Radio show airs live on Sundays from 2:00 to 5:00 PM Eastern and runs on more than 270 stations weekly. Listen to a Radio Station near you or listen via internet Live Streaming. All Gun Talk shows can be later accessed and downloaded for free as Podcasts online. Below is last week’s Gun Talk Radio Podcast which covered recent ATF rulings about AR pistol braces:
GetZone.com has released its annual “What’s Hot at SHOT” video series covering notable new products. There are now nearly 30 new product videos available on YouTube and the GetZone website. You’ll find three of these videos below, featuring the Christensen Arms MHR Rifle, Mossberg Patriot Rifle, and Hornady 7mm PRC cartridge. You’ll find more product videos on GetZone.com and the GetZone YouTube Channel.
Christensen Arms Modern Hunting Rifle
The Christensen Arms Modern Hunting Rifle (MHR) is a versatile, modular design built on an aluminum mini-chassis with V-block bedding. The maker claims that the “MHR provides the accuracy potential of a chassis rifle and the ergonomics of a hunting rifle all while offering exceptional modularity.” The MHR’s stock, forearm, and grips can be swapped out to create a variety of different configurations. You could have one forearm/grip for field carry and another for varmint shooting from a portable bench. This versatility doesn’t come cheap — the MHR starts at a very serious $3499.00 MSRP.
New Mossberg Patriot LR Tactical Rifle
Mossberg showcased a new rifle that should prove popular — the Patriot LR (Long Range) Tactical. This $1085.00 rifle has many excellent features: MDT chassis with V-Block, 20 MOA Picatinny rail, 22″ or 24″ barrel pre-threaded for suppressor, and adjustable cheekpiece and LOP. And like all Patriot rifles, the Patriot LR Tactical has Mossberg’s patented LBA™ (Lightning Bolt Action) user-adjustable trigger with 2 to 7-pound adjustment range. Priced at $1085.00 MSRP, the rifle is currently offered in 6.5mm Creedmoor and .308 Win with 22″ barrel, and 6.5 PRC with 24″ barrel. FULL Specs HERE.
Hornady 7mm PRC Cartridge
The 7mm PRC cartridge is the newest offering in Hornady’s Precision Rifle Cartridge series. The 7mm Precision Rifle Cartridge from Hornady delivers long, heavy caliber bullets in a standard long action. Fitting the niche between the 6.5 PRC and the 300 PRC, the 7mm PRC features temperature-stable, magnum speed propellants for consistent velocity and longer barrel life. Factory rifles are already available or simply swap the barrel on your 7mm Rem Mag or 300 Win Mag and reap the benefits of this long-action, centerfire rifle cartridge. For more details on ballistics and loading, watch this Ultimate Reloader.com video:
VIEW More GetZone SHOT Show Product Videos
Now in its 6th year, What’s Hot at SHOT is featured on GetZone.com, the online video destination that takes you from targets to trophies — and everywhere in between. Additionally, episodes air across the Media Lodge Platform of websites, on social media, and on GetZone’s YouTube channel.
At SHOT Show 2023, Legacy Sports Int’l introduced a new line of Howa rifles that should be popular with hunters as well as PRS/NRL Factory-Class competitors. The new Howa Hera H7 rifles features an internal aluminum V-block chassis with modern composite external stock body. The forearm (aka “forestock”) is aluminum with M-LOK slots. The rear half of this German-engineered stock is fiberglass-reinforced polymer. These rifles are VERY affordable, with an $839.00 base MSRP.
The stock features a removable cheekpiece plus adjustable length-of-pull with 3 LOP inserts. The butt panel itself can be removed, allowing a bit of internal storage. The rifle ships with two AICS-compatible 5-round magazines.
The Hera H7 is offered in three colors: Tan, Black, or OD Green. Notably there are THREE barrel options: 24″ Carbon-wrapped, 24″ Heavy Contour, and 22″ Light Contour. These all have “suppressor-ready” threaded muzzles. We expect hunters will chose the Carbon-wrapped barrel, while PRS/NRL shooters will choose the Heavy-barrel configuration.
All the Hera H7 models feature a smooth-running Howa action fitted with the excellent HACT 2-stage trigger (see below). We’ve used this adjustable 2-stage trigger and it is among the best factory triggers you’ll find. These rifles all come with a Sub-MOA guarantee and a Lifetime Warranty. Two chamberings are currently offered: 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Winchester. We hope Howa eventually offers a 6mm chambering in the future — 6mm Creedmoor, 6XC, 6GT, or 6mmBR.
We like all the key features of the Howa Hera H7 rifle — the action, the barrel options, the excellent 2-stage trigger, and the very affordable price (MSRP starts at just $839.00). However, we question the design of the lower part of the rear stock section. This starts with a downward angle like a normal hunting stock, but then it angles upward to the butt-pad. That V-shaped design might not work so well with a conventional rear bag. We suspect some owners will add a straight piece of Delrin or aluminum to act as a bag-rider.
Hera Arms H7 Chassis System
The Hera Arms H7 Chassis is a modern and easy-to-use stock system for the Howa (short action) system. Made of fiberglass-reinforced polymer, with aluminum V-block and aluminum forestock, this stock system comes with two spacers, a polymer cheekpiece and an AICS-compatible, 5-round magazine. The H7 stock system has M-Lok mount points for mounting various accessories. Shown above is the Tan version with carbon-wrapped 24″ barrel.
Howa 1500 HACT 2-Stage Trigger
Howa 1500s feature the very nice Howa HACT trigger. This is an adjustable, two-stage trigger, set for about 3 pounds (combined stages). Crisp and repeatable, this is an excellent trigger for a factory gun. There is no annoying Glock-style safety lever in the middle of the trigger blade. The 2-stage design and pull weight range works well for a hunting rifle or a rig for PRS competition. Rifleshooter.com says the Howa trigger is “one of the best factory triggers, along with Tikka. I’ve found the Howa trigger superior to a Remington 700 — the Howas doesn’t need to be replaced.”
Writing for the Western Outdoor News, WONews.com, Steve Comus has field-tested the HACT Trigger. Steve writes: “I always liked two-stage triggers, because of the way I could take-up the slack and then actually know when the rifle was going to go off. The take-up on the [HACT] trigger was fast and easy. The crisp, positive release when pressure was put on during the second stage [reminded me] of some of the target rifles I shot through the years.”
Here’s a radical new product from Accu-Tac — the first-ever Hydraulic Bipod. It works via a hydraulic piston in the top center of the bipod. The upper part of the piston attaches to a rifle’s fore-arm. The piston is connected via a hydraulic hose line to a remote cylinder with a red crank handle (dial) on top. When the shooter rotates the 4-pronged red dial this raises the rifle up/down slightly by moving the piston.
There is a full write-up GunsAmerica Digest (GAD) with more photos. GAD Reviewer Levi Sim explains:
“The big deal about this bipod is that red column under the rifle mount. It’s a piston that moves up and down with a dial that sits on the table.
This dial uses hydraulic pressure with oil in the hose to raise the rifle mount. Each 180° turn of the dial raises the piston 19mm. This precise adjustment should allow a shooter to make minute adjustments to the rifle’s elevation without shrugging their bodies around and should lead to greater precision.”
The new Accu-Tac Bipod has an adjustable leg spread which can extend to 27″. At the end of the legs are F-TR type skids that allow the rifle to slide back during recoil. These skids are bolted in place so it appears they do not rotate. This new bipod should be available for sale later in 2023 with an anticipated price around $800.00. SEE Other Accu-Tac Bipods.
The year 2022 is now behind us. We wondered — “What new firearms did Americans purchase the most last year?” Well Gunbroker, via the GunGenius.com site, answered that question based on its 2022 sales data. GunGenius.com publishes a monthly Top Sales Report featuring the Top 5 Best Sellers for each major category of firearms on GunBroker.com. This culminates in a year-end report listing the Top Selling Firearms of the Year. Just recently, GunGenius.com released its gun sales report for 2022. Across all gun categories, the report ranks the Top 22 Best-Selling Guns of 2022. Check out the list below.
Here Are the Top 10 in Each Major Category:
Here are the 22 Top-Selling Firearms in 2022:
1. SIG Sauer P320
2. Remington 700
3. SIG Sauer P365
4. Smith & Wesson M&P9
5. Ruger 10/22
6. Mossberg 590
7. Remington 870
8. Glock G19
9. Ruger American Rifle
10. Springfield Armory XD
11. Glock G43
12. Beretta 90
13. Colt Python
14. Ruger Mark IV
15. SIG Sauer P226
16. Springfield Armory Hellcat
17. CZ-USA CZ 75
18. Winchester Model 70
19. Ruger Mini-14
20. Glock G17
21. Henry Arms Big Boy
22. Mossberg 500
New for 2023 — 36 NEW Firearms Showcased at SHOT Show
This 17-minute Backfire Channel video covers three dozen firearms from multiple manufacturers. There are tactical rifles, hunting rifles, modern sporting rifles, plus a wide selection of new-for-2023 handguns from major manufacturers including S&W, Beretta, and Canik. Here are the firearm brands covered, with the respective times in the 17-minute backfire video. NOTE: More than one rifle per brand was reviewed so there are 36 guns covered among 22 manufacturers. For rifle fans we recommend Tikka (4:12), Howa (7:00), Bergara (10:11), and Browning (12:05).
New Rifles with Notable Features at Attractive Prices
Most of the 2022 best-selling bolt-action rifles* are traditional rigs such as the Remington 700 and the Winchester Model 70. Will some new rifles challenge these classics? Mossberg has a semi-tactical style Patriot rifle with a very attractive $1085.00 price. And Bergara has some nice, lightweight hunting rifles with advanced carbon stocks. These are priced competitively compared to carbon-stocked models from Gunwerks and Christensen Arms.
New Mossberg Patriot LR Tactical Rifle
Mossberg’s new Patriot LR (Long Range) Tactical looks like a winner. This $1085.00 rifle has many cool features (MDT Chassis, 20 MOA Rail, threaded muzzle). Get a Patriot in 6.5 Creedmoor for local PRS-style events, and it can serve for deer hunting also. Then slip on a .22-cal barrel and use the rifle for varminting. We like the ergonomics of the stock and it offers an adjustable cheekpiece and Length of pull (with spacers). Like all Patriot rifles, the Patriot LR Tactical has Mossberg’s patented LBA™ (Lightning Bolt Action) user-adjustable trigger with 2 to 7-lb adjustment. Priced at $1085.00 MSRP, the rifle is currently offered in 6.5mm Creedmoor and .308 Win with 22″ barrel, and 6.5 PRC with 24″ barrel. FULL Specs HERE.
Bergara Carbon-Stocked B-14 Squared Crest Rifle
Bergara’s new B-14 Squared Crest is an ultralight rifle for demanding backcountry hunters. It features a proprietary carbon-fiber monocoque stock with an internal spine for greater strength and rigidity. The new 100% carbon fiber stock is crafted using CF-RTM technology, a state-of-the-art method used in the aerospace industry. This manufacturing process consists of assembling dry carbon fibers by hand with an injected resin. With grey Cerakoted stainless steel 20″ barrel, unloaded weight is approximately 6.8 pounds. MSRP starts at $1999.00.
* We were curious about the Top 10 sellers among bolt-action rifles. There were some surprises. Here is the GunGenius.com list of the Top 10-selling bolt-action rifles: Ruger American Rifle, Browning X-Bolt, Savage 10/110, Savage Axis, Remington Model 700, Tikka T3, CZ-USA 457 Rifle, Ruger Precision Rifle, Mossberg Patriot, and Savage Model 93. We note this is somewhat inconsistent with the Top 22 list above. For example, if the Browning X-Bolt ranks higher among bolt guns than Rem 700s, then why is the Rem 700 higher on the overall list? We can’t really explain that. Perhaps the overall ranking is based on new AND used sales, but GunGenius doesn’t really give an explanation.
If you couldn’t attend SHOT Show 2023, don’t despair. You can now access complete digital editions of the official SHOT Show Daily Magazines provided to SHOT Show attendees and exhibitors. CLICK HERE to access all the SHOT Daily magazines distributed at SHOT Show 2023. In addition, you will find FREE digital issues of SHOT Business magazines from 2022.
Each of the four (4) issues contains a major product review, and many interesting shorter features. We highly recommend the major feature stories. In the Day 1 Edition, check out the Guns 2023 article starting on page 28. In the Day 2 Edition, look for the Optics 2023 article starting on page 38 and Ammo 2023 on page 22. New Knives are featured in the Day 3 Edition. In the Day 4 Edition, there is a summary of new Accessories starting on page 22. CLICK HERE to see ALL FOUR SHOT Daily 2023 magazines.
Even if you’re not interested in the latest retail trends it’s worth browsing all four issues, because there are a number of articles relating to Second Amendment issues, range operations, hunting, and competitive shooting. In addition, you’ll find many shorter items of interest to rifle shooters.
SHOT Show is one of the biggest trade shows of the year among ALL industries. This year there are thousands of exhibitors spread out over two exhibit halls the combined size of 14 football fields! Thankfully a number of YouTubers have been working hard, finding interesting new products in the miles of aisles. Today we feature some notable videos from SHOT Show 2023. The first video in our showcase comes from Backfire, a popular gun-centric YouTube Channel with over 600,000 subscribers. This video spotlights 36 new rifles, pistols, and shotguns. Keep scrolling to view a dozen other videos highlighting a wide variety of new firearms as well as the all-new Mark 7 GENESYS progressive press.
36 New Guns at SHOT Show 2023
You’ll need some patience to get through this entire 17-minute Backfire Channel video, but it’s worth it. The hosts cover three dozen different firearms from multiple manufacturers. There are tactical rifles, hunting rifles, modern sporting rifles, plus a wide selection of new-for-2023 handguns from major manufacturers including S&W, Beretta, and Canik.
New Bolt-Action Rifle from Stag Arms
Stag Arms, a major producer of AR-type rifles, surprised SHOT Show attendees with an all-new, bolt action rifle, the Pursuit Line Bolt Gun. This rifle features a pivot pin behind the action which allows rapid and easy change of stock types. There are many other interesting features in this new bolt-action rifle.
New Beretta and Smith & Wesson Pistols
This 5-minute video was mostly created at the Beretta and Smith & Wesson booths at SHOT Show. Highlights include the new S&W 5.7 pistol (1:50 time-mark, see also S&W video above), which shoots the high-velocity FN 5.7x28mm cartridge. For CCW, there’s a nice little Beretta BX-4 Compact Carry with factory Red Dot sight (1:12). If you want a “Show-Off” pistol, check out the eye-catching faux-gold finish Girsan Hi-Power clone (0:17). Revolver fans will appreciate the massive S&W 350 Legend revolver (1:29).
New Shotguns and Upgraded LUPO Rifle from Benelli
Benelli showcased new shotguns and an enhanced version of its handsome LUPO Rifle, first introduced in 2020. Benelli expanded the choice of LUPO chamberings to include 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win, .30-06 Springfield, and .300 Win Mag. The LUPO featured Benelli’s proprietary BE.S.T. (Benelli Surface Treatment) which is guaranteed against rust and corrosion for 25 years. BE.S.T. is high-gloss, unlike Cerakote. This proprietary finishing technology is a hybrid Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) and Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD) technology that applies a protective coating to parts. PVD and PECVD processes utilize electricity, radio frequencies, and plasma in a high vacuum environment to deposit a solid coating that precisely and uniformly covers the treated parts.
New Benchmade Knives for 2023
Here is a report from the floor of SHOT Show 2023. The video features a variety of cool new knives for 2023 from Benchmade. Some of these are coming soon, but you can check out all the latest Benchmade knives available at the KnifeCenter website.
New Savage 1911 Pistol
You read that right, rifle-maker Savage Arms is now producing a 1911-type pistol and is looks very good. It has ambidextrous controls, a forward rail, target crown, and nice sights. The new Savage 1911 is built built from stainless steel, has a dual recoil spring, machined sear and disconnector. It is offered in three styles: Black Nitride, Stainless, and Two-Tone (black slide, stainless frame). MSRP is $1499.00.
Lyman Mark 7 Progressive Reloading Press Line-Up
SHOT Show’s Amy Sweezey visited the Lyman booth to look at Lyman’s Mark 7 progressive reloading presses. The Mark 7 line of presses is very advanced. The all-new, automated Mark 7 GENESYS press featured in the video can be set, via a keypad, for a shorter pistol ammo up/down stroke or a longer rifle cartridge stroke. Output is 2500 rounds per hour for pistol and 2000 rounds per hour for rifle! For more info on the GENESYS and other Mark 7 progressives, visit LymanProducts.com.
New Glock Performance Trigger for Gen 5 Pistols
In this episode of TFB-TV, James Reeves interviews champion shooter Shane Coley. The key topic is Glock’s new factory-built Performance Trigger. Yes, Glock is now making a high performance trigger for its Gen 5 pistols. Shane explains all of the relevant details, including a surprisingly reasonable price. This new trigger should be available very soon.
QUICK FLIX
Rise Armament Iconic 2-Stage AR Trigger
Henry Homesteader Semi-Auto 9mm Rifle
LEFT: Rise Armament claims this is the first-ever “mechanically independent” two-stage trigger for AR-platform rifle. The first stage is 1 pound while the second stage is 2 pounds for 3-pounds total pull weight. As you can see in the video, there is a very short reset — good for 3-gun competition and tactical games.
RIGHT: Here is the new Henry Homesteader semi-auto 9mm rifle as displayed at Industry Day at the Range. This PCC (Pistol Caliber Carbine) shoots 9x19mm (9mm Luger) pistol ammo. As you can see, recoil is minimal. Testers really liked this new Henry rifle. READ Full Report.
Shadow Systems Pistols
BONUS Last Year Video of ELR Shooting at Raton in New Mexico
As a “blast from the past”, this 2022 SHOT Show TV video has a great sequence from Cutting Edge Bullets with big-bore rifles shooting at extreme long range in Raton, NM. This is a nice intro to ELR shooting. Look carefully and you can see advanced optics, Doppler Radar, and other high-tech gear.
NOTE: The ELR sequence in the video below starts at 23:48 mark, but if you click the center arrow start button the video should start at 23:48:
Today, January 18, 2023, is DAY TWO at SHOT Show 2023 in Las Vegas. There are huge crowds visiting the thousands of display booths in the “miles of aisles”. Over 52,000 people have registered for the event. As in 2022, this year’s SHOT Show encompasses two facilities — the Venetian Expo AND the new Caesars Forum. Combined, these facilities provide over 800,000 square feet of exhibit space. The two trade show halls are connected by an elevated walking bridge.
CLICK HERE for the searchable database of all SHOT Show 2023 exhibitors.
Interesting Products at SHOT Show 2023
Savage Arms 1911 Pistol
Surprise from Savage — it is now offering a Government-style 1911 pistol with a stainless steel frame and slide. New for 2023, the Savage 1911 features a 5″ stainless barrel with 11° target crown, dual recoil spring, flared and lowered ejection port, titanium firing pin, and ambidextrous slide lock safety.
New Mossberg Patriot LR Tactical Rifle
Mossberg showcased a new rifle that should be popular — the Patriot LR (Long Range) Tactical. This $1085.00 rifle has many excellent features: MDT chassis with V-Block, 20 MOA Picatinny rail, 22″ or 24″ barrel pre-threaded for suppressor, and adjustable cheekpiece and LOP. And like all Patriot rifles, the Patriot LR Tactical has Mossberg’s patented LBA™ (Lightning Bolt Action) user-adjustable trigger with 2 to 7-pound adjustment range. Priced at $1085.00 MSRP, the rifle is currently offered in 6.5mm Creedmoor and .308 Win with 22″ barrel, and 6.5 PRC with 24″ barrel. FULL Specs HERE.
Defenceport AR-Type Mag-Fed 12 gauge Shotguns
If you mainly shoot AR-type rifles, it may make sense to have a shotgun that has very similar ergonomics, balance, and sights. Defenceport offers a variety of Semi-auto, mag-fed shotguns that have the look, feel, and balance of an AR-15. These CORE Series shotguns feature Aluminum upper and lower receivers, with AR-type grip and stock. Most of the controls are ambidextrous. In the photo above, the red shotgun is a Defenceport CORE 12L. The Blue version is the Defenseport CORE 12 PRO. Defenceport is a company based in Konya, Turkey. It specializes in shotguns, and has a variety of semi-auto shotguns with AR-type ergonomics. It also has a line-up of compact, semi-auto bullpup shotguns, the TANK 12 series.
MDT TIMBR Frontier — Wood Stock with Internal Metal Chassis
The MDT Timbr Frontier has the look and feel of traditional stock with the benefits of a modern chassis with V-block. The buttstock and fore-end are made of clear-coated Birch hardwood laminate attached to an aluminum micro-chassis and bottom metal. The Timbr Frontier stock offers adjustable Length of pull, adjustable cheek riser, and interchangeable rubber over-molded grips. You can easily add accessories to the M-LOK fore-end and buttstock. With a weight of just 4 pounds, the Timbr Frontier stock works for hunting as well as target shooting. The stock can take standard AICS pattern magazines.
ZENK RZMK-357 Modern Revolver
The new ZENK RZMK-357 is a radical new revolver with a patented design. The frame is similar to a semi-auto, but with a rotary cylinder. Zenk states that the patented design allows for a more balanced recoil, and states that the unique design gives the shooter “more accuracy and comfort”. The RZMK fires .357 Magnum ammunition, loaded into a 6-round cylinder like a conventional wheelgun. The top section of the pistol tilts upwards to allow loading into the rear of the cylinder.
Longshot — Bulletseeker Mach 4 Onboard Radar
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. We think this is a game-changer. You get advanced radar ON YOUR GUN, with no need to haul around a bulky LabRadar.
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
NANUK 988 4-Up Rifle Case
Need to move a quartet of rifles or shotguns? Consider the new NANUK 988 4-Up Rifle Case. This high capacity multi-rifle cases is fitted with high-grade custom-cut closed-cell foam engineered to fit four (4) rifles up to 39.75″ in length with different optics installed including scopes, red dots, and everything in between. The center cavities allow storage of up to twelve (12) magazines and two (2) NANUK reusable desiccant containers. The NANUK 988 and other indestructible cases are IP67 rated and built to protect mission-critical gear from repeated blows, drops, and shocks. Price: $699.95
OTTO NoizeBarrier Micro Rechargeable Electronic Plugs
OTTO’s NoizeBarrier Micro Earplugs offer up to 40 dB of impulse noise protection and up to 15 dB adaptive noise attenuation, while allowing shooters to hear range commands clearly. The dual-mode NoizeBarrier earplugs offer active hearing protection as well as 40Hz-16kHz hearing enhancement for extremely effective communication. These rechargeable electronic earplugs offer excellent situational awareness with Accu-Technology® high-definition sound quality. Being rechargeable, NoizeBarrier Micro plugs provide up to 16 hours of continuous use. NRR is 28 dB with Foam Tips and 23 dB with 3-Flange Tips. Price: $452.35
BoreCORR™ Bore Saver and Safety Flag
The BoreCORR™ Bore Saver keeps rust/corrosion from forming in firearms barrels, while also serving as an Empty Chamber Indicator showing that the firearm is unloaded and the bore blocked. The Bore Saver is a flexible vapor corrosion inhibitor attached to an orange safety flag. The BoreCORR can provides protection for 24 months, keeping rust and corrosion from forming in bores. There are short sizes for pistols and long sizes for rifles and shotguns. Price: $6.99 (pistol)
New Product Center
The New Product Center is a “must-see” offering at the Venetian EXPO. There are dozens of interesting and innovative new products all in one convenient location.
The Match Pro ED’s offset SHOT-CALL reticle, located in the right barrel, has a dedicated focus adjustment and can be rotated for leveling after IPD (interpupillary distance) adjustment (i.e. how far the eyepieces are spread apart). Users can secure their preferred IPD with the included BRIDGESET stabilizer, which ensures the binocular is set for quick use and is stable when mounted on a tripod. Claimed light transmission is 92%. Suggested MSRP for the Match Pro ED 15×56 binoculars is $699.99.
We like all the key features of the Howa Hera H7 rifle — the action, the barrel options, the excellent 2-stage trigger, and the very affordable price (MSRP starts at just $839.00). However, we question the design of the lower part of the rear stock section. This starts with a downward angle like a normal hunting stock, but then it angles upward to the butt-pad. That V-shaped design might not work so well with a conventional rear bag. We suspect some owners will add a straight piece of Delrin or aluminum to act as a bag-rider.
Howa 1500 HACT 2-Stage Trigger
As a “blast from the past”, this 2022 SHOT Show TV video has a great sequence from Cutting Edge Bullets with big-bore rifles shooting at extreme long range in Raton, NM. This is a nice intro to ELR shooting. Look carefully and you can see advanced optics, Doppler Radar, and other high-tech gear.
