Blaser Group will soon be offering a rare selection of Sauer rifles — the J.P. Sauer and Sohn’s 270th Anniversary Collection of rifles. Only 10 sets of this special limited-edition collection were made and only one set is currently available for sale here in the United States. The set includes four rifles: a Sauer 100, Sauer 101, and Sauer 404 all chambered in .270 caliber, along with a Sauer 303 in .308 caliber. Designed to be beautiful, accurate, and museum-grade in appearance, these rifles feature stunning wood stocks (Grade 5 in the Sauer 100 and Grade 7 in the S101, S303 and S404). These Limited Edition rifles boast the most modern materials and technology available, with Sauer’s 270th anniversary logo in black and gold on the custom grip cap.
“These elegant and accurate Sauer rifles represent 270 years of craftsmanship from Germany’s oldest hunting rifle manufacturer, and they are rare with only 10 sets made for the entire world,” said Jason Evans, CEO of Blaser Group. “We are now offering Set Number Three for sale here in the United States.”
Capstone is a respected company that represents world-class ammunition, powder, and component manufacturers Berger, Lapua, Vihtavuori, and SK. At SHOT Show 2022, Capstone showcased new products from all these brands. Here are summaries of new products from Lapua and SK. We will follow with new Berger offerings next week.
New Lapua Centerfire Match Ammunition for 2022
Lapua produces some of the finest, most accurate factory-loaded centerfire ammunition in the world. We have shot Lapua 90gr 6mmBR ammo that produced verified groups well under quarter-MOA. For 2022, Lapua has added three new match loads that promise great consistency and accuracy. For 2022, Lapua has added 6.5 Creedmoor 136 Grain Scenar-L, .260 Remington 136 Grain Scenar-L, and .300 Winchester Magnum 185 Grain Scenar OTM, to Lapua’s highly successful Scenar Match Target ammunition line.
New Lapua Cartridge Brass — 6.5 PRC, .284 Win, .300 PRC, .300 Win Mag
Lapua cartridge brass sets the standard by which quality brass is measured. You will see Lapua brass used by top competitors for all accuracy-oriented disciplines: Benchrest for Score, Benchrest for Group, 1000-Yard Benchrest, F-Class (Open and F-TR), Palma, Service Rifle, Silhouette. And Lapua brass is also favored by varmint hunters who load their own ammo. In 2021 and 2022 Lapua has rolled out new types of top-grade cartrige barss. New offerings available now for 6.5 PRC, .284 Winchester, .300 PRC, and .300 Winchester Magnum. All are available and shipping now.
SK High-Velocity Match Rimfire Ammunitions
SK now offers an extremely accurate, High-Velocity round. For 2022 SK will offer High-Velocity Match .22 LR ammunition. This new SK ammo pushes a 40gr round-nose projectile at a very fast 1,263 FPS muzzle velocity. This high-velocity SK ammunition should work well for PRS/NRL22 matches and long-range rimfire events, some of which have targets out to 300 meters. The new SK High-Velocity Match ammo employs a proprietary clean-burning and high-energy propellant for reliable function in all platforms — shot after shot.
Coming Soon — New Berger Ammo and Bullets for 2022
Berger, another Capstone company, is offering new bullets and loaded ammunition for 2022. The new Berger offerings include Elite Hunter loaded ammunition for the 6.5 PRC and .300 PRC, plus new Berger .30 Caliber 245 Grain Long Range Hybrid Target (LRHT) Bullets. We’ll have a feature on these Berger products soon.
Do you own a LabRadar chronograph, or perhaps you are planning to add one to your range gear this season? With a LabRadar, you don’t have to go downrange to set up the chrono on a tripod and fuss with bore-sighting. LabRadars are excellent chronographs, particularly when paired with an inertial trigger.
Here is an excellent accessory that can be easily fitted to LabRadars. This Edelkrone StandONE all-terrain foldable camera stand can provide a stable base when shooting from a bench or the ground. It can quickly and easily adjust to uneven ground so that your LabRadar sits properly vertical and square to the horizon. The versatile Edelkrone StandONE sells for $119.20 at B&H Camera.
Note how the StandONE can adapt to uneven ground through the multiple hinges on the legs.
Forum member X-47B found this stand and he says it works great with his LabRadar. He is a commercial photographer, so he is familiar with the latest and greatest camera stands. In our Shooters’ Forum he posted: “Working in commercial photography and video I come across all different equipment. When I got this Edelkrone StandONE folding base, I realized it is the perfect base for a LagRadar. Works on friction, no ball-head needed. It works on any terrain and folds up tiny, so it’s perfect for prone or the bench.” Stated load capacity is 15 pounds, and this is made to hold expensive camera gear, so there’s no problem placing a LabRadar unit on top.
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.
Extended New-for-2022 Product Showcase Shooting Industry Magazine offers a very comprehensive 2022 New Product Showcase. This major product feature highlights products from more than 100 manufacturers. The first 58 items were featured in the December 2021 New Product Showcase Part I. Another 70+ products were featured in the January 2022 New Product Showcase Part II. The third and final New Product Showcase Part III (February 2022) was just released. CLICK HERE for Shooting Industry Digital Magazine Archive with current and past issues.
Since the acquisition of Marlin Firearms by Ruger, things have changed for the better. Some reviewers are saying that the first Ruger-built Marlin, the model 1895 SBL, may be the best-built, large-caliber lever gun in Marlin history.
Outdoor Life reviewer John Snow, who has used the new 1895 SBL on a successful hunt stated: “The Marlin 1895 SBL in .45/70 Gov’t is the first rifle out of the gates since Marlin was acquired by Ruger, and after … taking it hunting, I am breathing a huge sigh of relief. Ruger has done right by the beloved brand … it is making the best lever-actions in Marlin’s history. Put simply, Ruger has successfully reincarnated Marlin as a modern gun company.” The 1895 SBL features a lengthy scope rail, threaded “suppressor-ready” muzzle, and enhanced finish on the stock and fore-end.
Creedmoor Enhanced Press Head for Redding T-7 Press
The new Creedmoor Enhanced Press Head for the Redding T-7 Turret Press is a direct upgrade that offers many advantages for precision, ease of use, and reloading. Made from solid 416 Stainless Steel, this Press Head boasts precision cut threads, integral detent/track system, and seven threaded handle position. Creedmoor states: “A machined stainless steel head, rather than one made from cast steel, allows for tighter tolerances, an improved surface finish, and ultimately makes a better product for our customers.” The Creedmoor Enhanced Press Head has a premium finish, offers higher corrosion and wear resistance, and incorporates a thread quality second to none.
The Redding T-7, already a good turret press, functions better with this press head, which is precision-machined to ensure flatness of both upper and lower surfaces. The Enhanced Press Head, which can be installed in a matter of minutes, is available now from Creedmoor Sports for $179.95.
Volquartsen recently introduced a cleverly-designed new hunting/varminting rig, the VT2 Takedown rifle. With an easily-removed barrel, this semi-auto rimfire rifle can be tucked into a backpack for quick accessibility. This is currently offered in 17 HMR and 22 WMR chamberings, starting at a pretty pricey $2352.00 MSRP.
Utilizing a unique button and lever combination, the VT2 requires no tools, no twisting, and no tightening. Simply depress the takedown button, release the locking lever by pulling down, and the barrel slides effortlessly out of the receiver. The rifle can be stowed, or you can swap the barrels to easily switch between the 22 WMR and 17 HMR calibers. For reassembly, simply slide the barrel back into the receiver, the push the locking lever back up into position, and you’re ready to go. The VT2 is available in both 6” and 12” handguard lengths both with the M-LOK mounting system for bipods and other accessories.
New Colt Python with 3″ Barrel in .357 Magnum
The new Colt Python with 3″ barrel is chambered for the potent .357 Magnum cartridge. The frame and barrel are finished in semi-bright, stainless steel with checkered walnut grips. The ribbed top strap and full underlug are unchanged from the original Python’s design, retaining a classic look. The six-chamber cylinder is carefully fitted and rotates smoothly. This DA/SA revolver features a spurred hammer and the rear sight adjusts for both windage AND elevation. With an 8.5″ OAL, the new 3″-bbl Python weighs 40 ounces. The new Python has more steel in the frame for added strength.
“After more than a twenty-year production hiatus, in 2020, Colt relaunched its famous Python revolver with two-barrel length options: 4.25-inch and 6-inch. However, collectors still longed for the 3-inch model. The wait is officially over — Colt … is bringing back the production 3-inch-barrelled Python. Cosmetically, the new Python models look like the original revolvers. The grip’s shape, deep checkering and inlaid golden Colt logo are reminiscent of the classic. The silky-smooth trigger pull on the Python is part of why these revolvers have such outstanding accuracy.” — From American Hunter magazine 1/5/2022.
Sightron S6 1-6x24mm Scope in Both FFP and SFP Versions
For 2022 Sightron offers the S6 1-6x24mm scope in both First Focal Plane (FFP) and Second Focal Plane (SFP) versions. This new optic employs premium Japanese glass, and proprietary MC-777 multi-coating for clarity accuracy and enhanced sharpness. Sightron designed this new optic with a forgiving eye box to allow fast target acquisition. The low-profile windage and elevation turrets feature ExacTrack for positive, repeatable clicks. There is plenty of elevation travel — 140-MOA (SFP) and 35-MRAD (FFP). The reticle boasts an illuminated center dot — that’s handy for low-light situations. These new S6 models are all O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, making them fog-proof and rain-proof. The SFP version is listed as 30mm while the FFP version has a 34 mm configuration. CLICK HERE for more information.
SilencerCo Harvester EVO Suppressor — Light “Can” for Hunters
SilencerCo’s new Harvester EVO suppressor is a tough, lightweight, and reasonably-priced unit optimized for hunters and precision shooters. Evolved from SilencerCo’s Harvester 300, the new Harvester EVO suppressor is notable for its compact size and VERY light weight. Constructed with cobalt-6, inconel and 17-4 heat treated stainless steel, the new EVO weighs just 10.8 ounces and retails for $680.00.
The Harvester EVO can work with chamberings from .223 Rem up to .300 Win Mag. Consumer feedback on the previous Harvester models led SilencerCo engineers to make the EVO shorter, lighter, and more affordable. The smaller size makes the Harvester EVO less likely to get caught on bushes and brush in outdoor environments.
Savage Stance Micro-Compact 9mm Pistol
The Savage Stance handgun is the first all-new pistol sold by Savage Arms in a century. The “micro-compact” 9mm Stance boasts a configurable grip, with two 18-degree interchangeable backstraps. Weight is 1.375 lbs. without ammo. The Stance has an ambidextrous mag release and slide catch. The stainless steel slide has a corrosion-resistant Melonite finish and a beveled slide for easy holstering. The slide is ported for weight savings, with prominent front/rear serrations for better grip when racking. The new Stance sports a 3.2″ stainless steel barrel. There are three frame color options — gray, black, and FDE tan. Starting at $479.00 MSRP, the Stance ships with two magazines and a hard case. A deluxe model with Viridian E-Series Red Laser is offered for $561.00 MSRP.
Looking for a slim, compact carry pistol but have a tight budget? Here’s one of the best deals we’ve seen in many months. The compact 9mm Taurus G3c is on sale now for just $267.99 cash price ($276.03 CC price) with FREE Shipping. Plus this Taurus 63c pistol qualifies for a $25 Taurus factory rebate. That lowers your net cost to $242.99. That’s half what you might pay for a similar Glock.
KYGUNCO has the Taurus G3C 9mm 3.26″ Pistol on sale for just $267.99 (cash price) with a $25.00 rebate and FREE Shipping. This pistol ships with THREE 12-rd magazines and features a tough Tenifer-finish slide plus Teflon coatings on all operational controls. Buyer reviews have been positive: “I bought this pistol for my wife to carry. It is a great option for that purpose. It is reliable [and] easy to shoot. The pistol is easy to operate, clear, and the re-strike capability is nice. Great gun and not just for the money.”
A large selection of new handguns have been introduced in recent months, with manufacturers racing to meet unprecedented high consumer demand. Millions of Americans have joined the ranks of gunowners in the past two years. At least 5.4 million people purchased a firearm for the first time in 2021 based on NSSF retailer surveys and NICS background checks adjusted data. And, for most new firearms owners, their first purchase was a handgun, most likely a 9mm compact. Here are nine notable new handguns* introduced over the last 12 months. Many debuted at SHOT Show 2022, while others were introduced in 2021.
The Taurus TX22 SCR (Steel Competition Ready) was designed as a fun rimfire for steel plate competition and action pistol games. We like the balance and ergonomics of this pistol, and the integrated forward compensator does reduce muzzle flip, allowing faster follow-up shots and better split times.
In this video, watch Jessie Harrison, the world’s best female action pistol competitor, shooting the TX22 on steel, starting at 0:14 time-mark.
Girsan MC P35 Hi-Power from EAA
This is the year of the Browning Hi-Power revival. Springfield Arms brought out the SA-35, FN Herstal has a new High Power, and the Turkish company Girsan now produces the MC P35 (sold in the USA by EAA). Based on the original John M. Browning pistol design, EAA’s MC P35 by Girsan pays homage to one of the most widely-used military handguns in history. The steel-framed MC P35 boasts a 15+1 capacity in a staggered column magazine. With classic styling, good machining, and a sub-$600 MSRP, this MC P35 may be the best bargain among the latest generation of Hi-Power clones. It is offered in three finishes: Two-tone (gray/black), Black, and Dark Earth.
Uberti 9mm Single-Action Classic Revolvers
Italian gun-maker Uberti expands its portfolio of classic single-action revolvers with the addition of new 9mm wheelguns. For 2022, Uberti offers select El Patrón and Cattleman Brass single-action revolvers chambered for the 9mm Luger (9x19mm) cartridge. These revolvers headspace at the cartridge mouth without the need for moon clips, allowing cartridges to be loaded individually into the cylinder and ejected in the regular fashion. With 9mm Luger ammo being available at a lower price than many other handgun cartridges, revolver shooters can put more rounds on target without breaking the bank.
Stoeger Introduces STR-9SC subcompact
Based on the original STR-9 compact 9mm introduced in 2019, Stoeger’s new STR-9SC Sub-Compact series offers three models: SSTR-9SC Sub-Compact Optic-Ready, STR-9SC Sub-Compact with Tritium night sights, and base model TR-9SC Sub-Compact. All come with a medium backstrap, left- or right-side mag release, trigger safety, accessory rail, front post/square notch rear sight configuration, and a 10-round magazine. These are all very affordable — the basic STR-92C Sub-Compact has a $329.99 MSRP.
Shadow Systems DR-920P Pistol with Integral Compensator
Shown at the top of this article, the new Shadow Systems DR920P 9mm Luger pistol features a built-in, multi-port compensator at the end of the barrel. This reduces felt recoil and muzzle flip allowing faster split times on multi-target scenarios. NOTE that the front sight is mounted on the forward compensator so it does not reciprocate with the slide.
If you are an 3-Gun or Steel Challenge shooter, you may want to consider this new pistol. The DR920P fits Glock 34 holsters, and ergonomics are similar to Glock, but we like the Shadow DR920P’s trigger better than a standard Glock trigger.
Savage Stance 9mm Compact Pistol
This is the first compact pistol produced by Savage Arms in a century. Outdoor Life notes: “For the first time since 1920, Savage is back in the pistol market, diving right into the most competitive category — the micro 9mm. The Stance is an ultra-thin, polymer-frame semi-automatic striker-fired 9mm with a 3.2-inch barrel. It’s less than an inch thick, but an abrasive stipple finish on the grip and interchangeable back straps should make this one a pleasure to shoot.”
Kimber R7 Mako Optics Installed
Released in 2021, the R7 was Kimber’s first Polymer-framed handguns. The latest optics-installed R7 Mako ($799.00 MSRP) features a factory-installed CTS-1500 reflex sight for fast target acquisition and accurate shot placement. Capacity is 12+1 with flush-fit mag or 14+1 with extended. This little pistol features co-witnessed tritium night sights, and Hooded ejection port to vent gasses/brass away from the optic. For other features see this video review from Colion Noir:
Taurus Defender 605 3″-barrel .357 Magnum Revolver
The new 3″-barrel Taurus Defender 605 wheelgun comes in four versions, starting at $472.63 MSRP for matte black stainless with rubber grip. Show is the Altamont wood grip model with Tungsten Cerakote finish (MSRP $517.33). These are significantly less expensive than similar S&Ws. Unlike many 3-inch barrel revolvers, the Defender 605 comes with an extended ejector rod for quicker reloads. The Defender 605s come with factory-installed tritium front night sight with an orange outline.
Ruger PC Charger 9mm Large Format Pistol
Pistol brace, sling, suppressor, optic, and Glock Magazine NOT included.
The Ruger PC Charger pistol was is a handgun version of Ruger’s PC Carbine. This pistol was actually introduced last year, but now it is being sold without the legally problematic folding stock (err, make that a “pistol brace”). The 2022-model PC Charger still has a quick detachable barrel system, MLOK rail, and a 1913 rail up top for accessories. The PC Charger runs Ruger pistol magazines, and there is a handy, drop-in conversion for Glock magazines. This is hardly a carry pistol, but we can see how someone might favor this for home defense or fun shooting on steel.
Good Handgun Transport Case — Discrete Gun Luggage
Here’s a sensible transport option for range trips with handguns. This discrete, double-sided unit from Elite Survival Systems allows you to transport four pistols — as well as eye protection, cleaning kits, magazines and ammunition — no more conspicuously than a laptop. There are two identical 2-gun compartments for pistols, plus a top section for your muffs, targets, and other accessories. This bag system earned the U.S. Concealed Carry Magazine Editor’s Choice Award.
* We count the two Uberti single-action revolvers as one new design because they are nearly identical in layout and operation. However there are some differences (e.g. the brass-frame option on Cattleman model only).
Now that SHOT Show 2022 has wrapped up, we’ve had a chance to sort through the thousands of new products on display and spotlight some notable new items — some that may surprise you. Nosler is now selling suppressors, and there’s an affordable new Howa hunting rig well under five pounds. And 3-Gun and pistol shooters should definitely check out the New Kestrel KST1000 Shot Timer.
Nosler Suppressors — Advanced Design and Metallurgy
At SHOT Show 2022 Nosler unveiled its new line of Nosler Suppressors, designed to be very light but also very rugged. With both all-titanium and aluminum/Ti models, the new Nosler Suppressors incorporate cutting-edge materials and construction. Weighing just over 13 ounces, the all-titanium family includes the SR-22Ti (.22 caliber) and SR-30Ti (up to 30 caliber) with MSRP of $899.99 and $949.99 respectively. They are designed to strike an ideal balance between size, light weight, and sound mitigation.
The hybrid aluminum/titanium family has two models each weighing just NINE ounces. The 22-ALTi (22 caliber) and 30-ALTi (30 caliber) are engineered to offer the same balance of size, light weight, and sound mitigation for $649.99 and $699.99 respectively. All the ALTi and all-titanium Nosler suppressors are compatible with 5/8-24 (30 caliber models) and 1/2-28 (22 caliber models) threaded muzzles. All four models can also attach over a Nosler muzzle brake.
ZEISS DTI 3/25 Thermal Imaging Camera
Along with its excellent riflescopes, binoculars, and rangefinders, Zeiss displayed an impressive night vision system for hunters. The new ZEISS DTI 3/25 Thermal Imaging Camera “provides a view in total darkness, especially at close range,” says Tammo Lüken, Head of Category Management Hunting at ZEISS. The 25mm focal length offers an enlarged field of view of 26 meters at a range of 100 meters and provides a decisive advantage when hunting in wooded areas. The high-resolution HD LCOS display combined with a 0.5 zoom increments deliver detailed images for reliable spotting. The the new DTI 3/25 as well as the ZEISS DTI 3/35 thermal imaging cameras can be connected to the ZEISS Hunting app via Wi-Fi to share photos and videos and even livestream from the field.
Berger .30 Caliber 245 Grain Long Range Hybrid Target Bullets
Berger displayed an impressive new .30 caliber 245 Grain Long Range Hybrid Target (LRHT) bullet. This ultra-heavy projectile is optimized for use with large-capacity cartridges such as the .300 Norma Magnum, .300 PRC, and .300 Remington Ultra Magnum. Berger notes that “the 245 Grain LRHT is a heaviest-in-class solution for the longest of .30-caliber target and tactical applications.” The 30 caliber LRHT boasts a high BC, jump-tolerant hybrid ogive profile that is Doppler Radar verified with less than 1% BC variation. The new 245 Grain LRHTs was developed with the U.S. Military to increase long-range target hit percentage at 1,500+ meters. These new 245-grainers boast Berger’s innovative Meplat Reduction Technology which ensures ultra-consistent Ballistic Coefficients (BC).
Howa SUPER LITE — Hunting Rifle Weighs Just 4 lbs. 7 Ounces
“Light is right” — that seems to be the trend in the current generation of hunting rifles. For those long treks in search of game, hunters prefer a light-weight rifle. Now with carbon composite stocks and other weight-savings measures, we are seeing rifles that are one-third lighter than typical hunting rifles of the past. For 2022 Legacy Sports Int’l unveiled the new Howa SUPER LITE Series of rifles. These rigs tip the scales, without optics, at a mere 4 pounds, 7 ounces. Yes, well under five pounds! That’s impressive for a sub-MOA accurate, reliable rifle with a $1399.00 MSRP. The new Howa SUPER LITE features a new action that is larger than a Howa Mini Action but smaller and lighter than a standard short action. The Howa SUPER LITE will be initially offered in 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Winchester in Stocky’s Carbon Fiber stocks with choice of Kryptek Altitude or Obskura camo patterns. Measuring 39″ overall, the SUPER LITE comes with the nice HACT 2-stage trigger, Picatinny rail, and flush-fit detachable magazine.
Kestrel Ballistics KST1000 Shot Timer
Kestrel Ballistics released its impressive new KST1000 Shot Timer at SHOT Show. The KST1000 Shot Timer raises the bar, promising to be the most modern, versatile, advanced, and dependable shot timer on the market. And yes it even has Bluetooth capability. Kestrel’s new KST1000 offers five nameable setting presets, two easy-to-use screens, and an extra loud buzzer. The device is compatible with dry fire and suppressed shooting. Backed by a 5-year warranty, this Shot Timer is waterproof, dustproof, and durable (drop tested to MIL-STD-810G standards).
Doug Koenig, world champion shooter, had the opportunity to test out the new KST1000 Shot Timer and stated, “This is a must-have, next-level shot timer for serious shooters!”
Browning X-Bolt Target Pro McMillan
Making its debut at SHOT Show 2022 was the new X-Bolt Target Pro McMillan suppressor-ready model. This is an updated version of the X-Bolt with a beefed up action in a handsome McMillan stock. Features include a stiffer, heavier receiver, fluted stainless steel barrel with Recoil Hawg muzzle brake on 5/8″-24 suppressor-ready threads, new adjustable Target DLX trigger, and extended bolt handle. This model features a handsome McMillan A3-5 carbon fiber stock with adjustable comb, and a fore-end underside rail.
Field & Stream magazine recently released a helpful guide to new ammunition offerings as seen at SHOT Show 2022. The article features 21 different new ammo types for pistols, rifles, and shotguns. Many of the new ammo types, such as Hornady CX and CCI Blazer, feature lead-free projectiles. The Blazer even employs lead-free primers. Among the most notable new ammo selections is the Berger line, which features high-BC projectiles and superb Lapua brass. New for 2022 is Berger 6.5 PRC and .300 PRC ammunition. Here are our selection of four notable, new-for-2022 Ammo products for rifle shooters. SEE all 21 new ammo types on Fieldandstream.com.
Berger 6.5 PRC and .300 PRC Hunting Ammo
Berger has added the 6.5 PRC and 300 PRC cartridges to its loaded ammo line which features great Lapua brass. The 6.5 load features the heavy 156gr Berger Elite Hunter bullet running at 2960 FPS. This bullet boast a very high G1 ballistic coefficient (BC) of 0.679. Packing even more powder, Berger’s .300 PRC load features the 0.631 BC Berger Elite Hunter bullet. Tested muzzle velocity is 2895 FPS.
Hornady Hunting Ammo with Solid Copper CX Bullets
For 2022, Hornady has introduced a new CX™ (Copper alloy eXpanding) hunting projectile. This CX bullet is designed to provide outstanding performance when hunting in areas where solid lead or lead-core bullets are prohibited. Hornady states: “The new CX™ bullet from Hornady represents the most advanced monolithic hunting bullet on the market. Its optimized design offers extended range performance, greater accuracy, high weight retention, and deep penetration.” The CX will be available in a number of calibers/bullet weights: 6mm, .25 Cal, 6.5mm, .270 Cal, 7mm, .308, .338, and .375.
Norma .22 LR Rimfire Ammo — Three New Offerings
Norma announced three new .22 LR rimfire ammo types to be released in 2022: Xtreme LR-22, ECO Power 22, and Hunter Power 22. The Xtreme LR-22 should prove popular in the growing long-range rimfire PRS/NRL disciplines. The LR-22 offers higher BC for better long-range performance. The new ECO Power 22 has a lead-free zinc hollowpoint bullet traveling at a very fast 1700 FPS — on the high end for any .22 LR on the market. Norma’s Hunter Power 22 features a 40gr bullet designed for controlled expansion. This Power 22 ammo runs at 1260 fps with 142 foot-pounds of muzzle energy.
Winchester New Lead-Free Copper Impact Hunting Ammo
Winchester’s new Copper Impact hunting ammunition features a tipped high-BC bullet. Winchester states that the Extreme Point helps create “immediate expansion”. Field and Stream’ reviewer states that “All this, combined with a lead-free bullet that will retain most of its weight, makes for a deep-penetrating big-game stopper[.]” Winchester’s new Copper Impact ammunition for over 12 different cartridge types, including the 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.8 Western, .308 Win, and even the .350 Legend.
Ammunition News — Ammo Inc. Acquires Gunbroker, Builds Wisconsin Ammo Factory
In this interview, Mark Hanish (Pres., Global Sales & Marketing) of Ammo Inc. (Nasdaq: POWW) talks about his company. This enterprise is making significant moves in the firearms/shooting sports industry. Hanish discusses Ammo, Inc’s modern new 160,000-sq.ft. ammunition manufacturing plant in Manitowac, WI, and the company’s 2021 acquisition of GunBroker.com. Through a $240 million merger in May 2021, GunBroker.com officially become an Ammo Inc. subsidiary.
SHOT Show, the huge gun industry trade show, returned to Las Vegas this past week, after a COVID-caused hiatus in 2021. Though attendance was down signficantly this year, it was still a major event, with thousands of companies showcasing products in two massive exhibit halls. There were plenty of new handgun offerings, and notably, some of the big AR-platform black rifle builders are now selling bolt guns. Here is the new Aero Precision A700 bolt-action rifle.
SHOT Show Day 2 Highlights — Nine Companies
This video from the Classic Firearms YouTube Channel spotlights a number of interesting products, both at Industry Day at the Range, and inside SHOT Show 2022. Companies covered include: Zastava (1:00), Kalashnikov USA (6:33), LMT Defense (12:21), Geissele (20:35), SureFire (25:12), Foxtrot Mike (32:20), Maxim Defense (34:15), Great Lakes (44:35), and Sylvan Arms (46.20).
Top Five New Guns from Industry Day at the Range
There were many interesting rifles and handguns on display at the Industry Day at the Range. Savage’s new straight-pull Impulse PRS/NRL rifle attracted considerable attention. Many of the testers at the range were also impressed by the new .44 Auto Mag which is featured in this “Top Five” video from TheGunSnob channel. The tester said this .44 Auto Mag was “by far my favorite [gun] I shot all day.”
Magpul New Products
TFB TV showcases multiple new products from Magpul for 2022. We liked what we saw, including a new $600 Pro 700 Lite chassis, and a new 8-ounce bipod. Magpul also had its radical FDP-9 “enclosed pistols” on display. Magpul explains: “With recently confirmed classification of the FDP-9 as a handgun, the purchaser can enjoy the firearm as a self-enclosing, large-format pistol. They may also choose to file the appropriate ATF Form 1 and, after approval, purchase a conversion kit to legally assemble it into the FDC-9. It will then be classified as a short-barreled rifle (SBR) and subject to all NFA laws.”
Mantis — Advanced Dry-Fire Training System
Mantis makes a variety of firearm-arms mounted systems that monitor muzzle movement and display that through a mobile App. These systems allow dry-fire practice at home — a great way to improve your marksmanship without spending big bucks on ammo. Mantis had a display at SHOT Show 2022. A Mantis dry-fire device fitted to an AR-platform rig (with the Mantis Blackbeard trigger reset system) is featured in this video record at the Mantis SHOT Show booth:
Cutting Edge Bullets — Solid, High-BC Bullets for .22 LR Reloaders
With the growth of long-range rimfire tactical competition, there has been interest in high-BC bullets fitted into the diminutive .22 LR case. This effort has been pioneered by Cutting Edge Bullets, which offers a variety of .22 caliber projectiles created expressly for hand-loaded .22 LR. Cutting Edge also offers dies and special shellholders for reloading the .22 LR case. This video (from 2020) explains how Cutting Edge pioneered long, high-BC lathe-turned solid bullets for the .22 LR cartridge. These bullets and dies were on display at Cutting Edge’s 2022 SHOT Show booth.
New Lapua Cartridge Brass — 6.5 PRC, .284 Win, .300 PRC, .300 Win Mag
