L.E. Wilson Case Gage Depth Micrometer Tool Hands-On Tool Review by F-Class John
Are you looking for a better way to measure shoulder bump when sizing brass? When it comes to measuring your shoulder bump there has traditionally been just one way to do it and that’s with a set of calipers and some type of tool attached to a calipers jaw which contacts the case shoulder. While this method has worked well for decades there’s always been some inherent lack of consistency and repeatability. While a minor issue, the inability to get the exact number in completely dependent on the user’s pressure applied and the angle at which the jaws push on the brass.
Enter the L.E. Wilson Case Gage Depth Micrometer with its simple but effective use of Wilson case gauges to ensure a perfect measure of shoulder bump every time. The unit comes with the micrometer top as well as a check gauge which allows you to easily calibrate the micrometer whenever needed. On top of the micrometer unit, you’ll also need to purchase the appropriate case gauges for each of your cartridge types and then you’re ready to go. No other measuring instruments are needed (yep, no calipers are required).
Using the Wilson Depth Micrometer (perhaps a better name is Shoulder Bump Micrometer) is a straightforward process. Simply take your fired brass and insert it into the case gauge and place the micrometer top onto the primer side of the gauge. While holding the micrometer top firmly against the case gauge in one hand, slowly turn the micrometer until you feel it stop. You can back off and turn it again to verify the stop point and once you have it, look at the measurement on the micrometer. Now insert a sized piece of brass and repeat the procedure. Take note of the new number and subtract it from the fired brass number and you now have an exact amount of shoulder bump. Continue to adjust your sizing die until you have the correct amount of shoulder bump and you’re ready to size all your brass.
Watch Video to See how Shoulder-Bump Measuring Micrometer Tool Works
Guys, in this case a VIDEO is worth more than a thousand words. In may not be obvious from the photos how this system works. In fact, it is fast and easy. Drop brass into cartridge-specific case gauge, then put the Micrometer unit on top, and dial to touch. The video shows how this works.
SUMMARY — Tool is Fast, Precise, Repeatable, and Easy to Use — We Like It
The beauty of this tool is the simplicity with which it works. It uses a very accurate micrometer to simply measure how much further your brass is sitting forward inside the case gauge. After a couple uses, you’ll find that this tool is fast, accurate and incredibly repeatable. That gives you confidence that your brass is being sized properly. Ultimately, I found that using the micrometer top really became a joy as I set up a new set of dies and as I sized my brass, I could easily check the consistency as brass came off my press. If you’re looking to improve your sizing game, give the L.E. Wilson Case Gage Depth Micrometer a try. MSRP is $110.00.
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This week two major outdoor trade shows slated for early 2021 were canceled: Great American Outdoor Show in Pennsylvania, and the Safari Club International Show in Las Vegas. And the PGA recently cancelled the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, the largest event in the golf industry. The big question is whether SHOT Show 2021 will go forward in Las Vegas in January 2021. The biggest guns/hunting trade show on the planet, SHOT Show is a major Las Vegas event, attracting over 60,000 attendees in recent years. But the signs are not promising for SHOT Show — more on that below.
CANCELED 2021 Outdoor Trade Shows
Safari Club International Convention (Original Dates: February 3-6, 2021)
NRA Great American Outdoor Show 2021 (Original Dates: February 6-14, 2021)
SHOT Show 2021 Doubtful without Nevada State Policy Changes
Given Nevada state governmental restrictions on capacity of large gatherings, it appears that SHOT Show 2021 could not go forward, at least not as currently planned. IF (and that’s a big IF), Nevada relaxes its current health/safety rules on trade show health/safety, then SHOT Show might go forward, but with new precautions in effect.
The Shooting Wire analyzed the prospects for SHOT Show 2021, and suggested that the event would probably NOT go forward unless health regulations are changed/relaxed by order of the Nevada Governor. And any such changes are not likely to be announced before the November election. Here is part of The Shooting Wire’s SHOT Show Commentary:
The restrictions in Nevada right now would make SHOT impossible. The current 250/1,000 maximum occupancy regulations wouldn’t adequately staff the booths in a single exhibit hall, much less the three major halls and assorted ballrooms of SHOT Show. But there’s still a chance that Nevada Governor Sisolak will relax the restrictions. And Las Vegas hospitality and trade events officials have done their best to convince him it is possible to have a trade show under the same [50% Capacity] regulations applied to casinos, restaurants and bars in Las Vegas.
If SHOT was allowed to operate at [even] 37.5% of capacity, it could still accommodate 50,000 people. [But action from the Governor would be required first.]
Which begs the question: is there a drop-dead date on a final decision about SHOT? Governor Sisolak’s office says there will be an update for indoor parameters in November. The NSSF says “at that time we’ll evaluate whether those parameters will allow us to move forward with SHOT Show.” While we’re all waiting, preparations continue….
Safari Club International Statement of Convention Cancellation:
After much contemplation and exhaustive effort, Safari Club International (SCI) has made the difficult decision to cancel its 2021 Hunters’ Convention. COVID-19-related restrictions imposed by the state of Nevada and city of Las Vegas to ensure a safe event environment during the ongoing pandemic has made it impossible to conduct a successful event for our members and exhibitors, or serve the greater good of wildlife conservation.
For 49 consecutive years SCI has conducted its annual convention, bringing together from around the world, hunters, exhibitors, conservation stakeholders, and generations of SCI members. This annual event celebrates hunter advocacy, raises hundreds of thousands of dollars for wildlife conservation, and enables the planning of hunts that further support conservation on every continent. Despite our disappointment with this development, SCI will be there for our members and exhibitors in 2022 … the 2022 Convention will take place in Las Vegas.
NRA Statement About Great American Outdoor Show Cancellation:
To the great disappointment of tens of thousands of sportsmen and women, COVID-related governmental restrictions in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will prevent the 2021 Great American Outdoor Show from being held as scheduled on February 6-14, 2021.
Since the NRA created the Great American Outdoor Show in 2014, the show has been a much-anticipated annual event and a major boon for the state and local economy. More than 1,100 exhibitors and tens of thousands of people from Pennsylvania and indeed around the country and globe would converge on the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex each year contributing approximately $75 million to area businesses and state coffers, according to official local estimates.
The NRA will certainly miss the opportunity to celebrate America’s great firearm, hunting, fishing and outdoor heritage, but we look forward to seeing old friends and meeting new ones at the Great American Outdoor Show scheduled to be held February 5-13, 2022.
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Jim Borden of Borden Accuracy/Borden Rifles is adding “something extra” to the Borden actions crafted for F-Class Team USA members. These actions feature a Team Name and Team shield thanks to modern computer-controlled laser engraving. Jim Borden posted: “Here is Tony at Endless Laser Art doing his thing. [Team members] James Crofts, Drew Rutherford, Dan Bramley, Keith Trapp here we come!”
Jim is crafting special actions for both the F-TR and F-Open Team USA squads with laser-engraved USA F-Class Team shields. There is a BRMXD-type called USA Open and a BRM-type action called USA FTR. The F-Open serial numbers start USAFOPEN01 while F-TR numbers start USAFTR01. These are offered to members of USA F-Class Teams.
Watch Laser Engraving of Borden Actions
Watch the video above to see U.S. Rifle Team shield laser-engraved on Borden actions for F-Class Team USA and F-TR Team USA.
Don’t Tread on Me — Laser-Engraved Ax Blade for NRL Founder
Here’s a another example of modern, computer-controlled laser engraving. Travis Ishida, one of the founders of the NRL Precision Tactical series, has obtained a laser engraving machine. This can be great for putting identifying marks on tools, metal gunstocks, motorcycle parts — basically anything where you want some words and/or graphics. We like the message Travis printed on his Ax: “Liberty or Death… Don’t Tread on Me”. Travis posted: “Finally got my laser engraver working and now I want to engrave everything in sight! This could be a lot of fun… and a little obsessive.”
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Here is what high-end hunters have been requesting for years — an ultra-lightweight mag-fed action with Benchrest-grade smoothness, engineering, and craftsmanship. BAT Machine has just introduced two impressive new aluminum/steel hybrid repeater actions — the Bumblebee (short action) and the Vampire (long action). These are REALLY light. BAT states 23.8 ounces for the Bumblebee, and Alex Wheeler reports the Vampire is 25.3 ounces. So you get titanium-class weight savings without the titanium hassles.
Both the Bumblebee ($1699 MSRP) and the Vampire ($1765 MSRP) are aluminum/steel designs with integral recoil lugs and +20 MOA Picatinny rail segments. Though they are flat-bottom actions, both are designed to fit most Remington 700-pattern stocks. Gunsmith Alex Wheeler says: “This action shape should be very stable in the bedding — you just need to square up the inlet.”
Both the Vampire and Bumblebee actions feature a modular bolt. BAT does the modular bolt differently than anyone else, and very cleverly. This design allows easier bolt face changes and spring changes. Internal maintenance is also easier. Bat bolts also run super smoothly. Alex Wheeler reports “the Vampire action is very smooth — it feels just like BAT’s all-steel actions.”
Vampire action photos courtesy WheelerAccuracy.com. The Vampire fits a 4″-long CFE-09 magazine box.
Alex Wheeler got one of the first Vampire actions, and he was impressed. This is a long-action repeater, with standard or Magnum bolt. Alex says the mating of steel and aluminum was superb: “I have checked it for straightness and lug contact. It’s very good. I’m impressed with how straight they got this insert.”
Bumblebee Action — State-of-the-Art Lightweight Hunting Action
If you are seeking a very lightweight action with Benchrest-quality smoothness and precision fit/finish, consider the Bumblebee. Weighing under 24 ounces, this new Bumblebee short action may be perfect for hunters, varminters, and tactical shooters who desire a light weight, premium quality action. The new Bumblebee is designed to use 700 Short Action bottom metal. Combining steel and aluminum, the Bumblebee combines 4140 Chromoly Steel and 7076-T6 Aluminum to achieve strength and rigidity at a weight rivaling titanium. According to BAT, the Bumblebee’s advance design makes it “31%-42% stiffer than light weight steel actions and over 130% stiffer than round Titanium actions.”
Bumblebee Action Features and Specifications:
— Action weight is 23.8 oz. as configured in photos (11.4 oz. lighter than BAT VR/TR actions)
— Weight comparable to Titanium actions after including Picatinny rails, recoil lugs, and fasteners
— 31%-42% stiffer than lightweight steel actions and over 130% stiffer than round Titanium actions
— Action body made with aircraft-grade billet 7075-T6 Aluminum and hardened 4140 Chromoly Steel
— Integral +20 MOA Picatinny two-section rail standard
— Modular bolt for lower cost bolt face changes
— .070″ firing pin diameter for maximum accuracy and reliable ignition
— Standard medium aluminum bolt knob, 5/16-24 thread
— LiFe Melonite-treated firing pin, bolt and shroud for smooth bolt movement and low maintenance
— Extended extraction cam for smooth bolt opening
— Uses Remington 700 SA trigger components and bottom metal
— Right-hand and left-hand versions
— Barrel tenon is 1.062 x 18 tpi (CLICK HERE for blueprint)
Product tip from EdLongRange. We welcome reader submissions.
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CCI’s has introduced .22 WMR Maxi-Mag ammo with Clean-22 coating technology. New CCI Maxi-Mag Clean-22 Segmented Hollow Point (SHP) ammo uses an exclusive polymer bullet coating to reduce copper and lead fouling in barrels, without leaving a residue. Shipments of this new product have started.
Editor: We’ve used polymer-coated bullets in larger calibers (.38 Special and .45 ACP), and the coated bullets really do reduce lead fouling in barrels, making barrel cleaning significantly easier.
Segmented Hollow Point (SHP) Bullet for Varminters
The bullet that comes with the new CCI Maxi-Mag Clean-22 ammo should work well for varminters. The 46-grain SHP bullet splits into three equal-size pieces on impact, tripling the number of wound channels. CCI states: “The polymer bullet coating allows this separation at much lower velocities and longer distances than a conventional copper jacket. The bullet’s overall geometry is optimized for accuracy.” Notably, this SHP bullet is currently the industry’s only segmenting hollow-point bullet in .22 WMR.
CCI Product Manager Dan Compton states: “I can’t wait to hear stories and see photos from … customers who use this new [.22 WMR] magnum rimfire round on prairie dog towns, in the squirrel woods, and for their fur-trapping efforts.”
CCI Maxi-Mag Clean-22 .22 WMR Ammo Features:
— Polymer bullet coating reduces lead fouling in the barrel without leaving residue
— Industry’s only segmenting hollow-point bullet in 22 WMR
— Allows expansion at lower velocities than copper-jacketed bullets
— Reduces the risk of penetration through the target and beyond
— Optimized bullet geometry for improved accuracy
Factory-loaded ammunition has become very hard to find, particularly pistol ammo. Concerns over social unrest, personal security, and the upcoming election have spiked demand for loaded ammo. Everyone is asking “where has all the ammo gone?”
Pistol Ammo Hard to Find
In particular, 9mm pistol ammo flies off the shelves as soon as it arrives, and even major online vendors such as Midsouth Shooters, MidwayUSA, and Natchez have very limited supplies.
Need Ammo? Load Your Own…
One answer to the ammo shortage is to load your own. And if you want to produce a large quantity of ammo in a short amount of time, the progressive press is the answer. There are many progressive press systems, from modest Lee progressives to high-end, automated systems from Mark 7 (Lyman). In this article we feature the “latest and greatest” progressive press from Dillon — the new eight-station RL 1100 Press with Case-Feeder.
Our friend Gavin Gear of UltimateReloader.com got his hands on Dillon’s impressive new RL 1100. In two videos, Gavin shows how to set up the RL 1100 and then he demonstrates how to produce 9mm pistol ammo with this impressive 8-station press.
Gavin says: “My Dillon RL-1100 is cranking out the 9mm, and in this video we bring it up to ‘full tilt’ speed” [with the MR. Bullet Feeder and the Dillon Case-Feeder]. If you watch the video, you’ll see Gavin produce 9mm ammo at a rate of nearly 50 rounds per MINUTE!
Gavin equipped his new RL 1100 with two cool products from Double Alpha Academy (DAA) — the Mr.Bulletfeeder® as well as an advanced, Magnetic Powder Check. When loading ammo you can never be too safe, so we definitely recommend the use of powder-check dies (we use a conventional RCBS powder-check die on our progressives). The DAA bullet feeding system is an important add-on that significantly increases output rates when used in concert with the Dillon Case-Feeder (blue funnel).
RL 1100 Reloading Stations with Powder Check and Bullet Feeder
RL 1100 Stations shown above:
1. Case inserter
2. Sizer/De-Primer
3. Swager (with hold-down)
4. Priming (no die)
5. Powder charge and expansion (expansion for pistol cartridges only)
6. Double Alpha Magnetic Powder Check
7. Mr. Bullet Feeder bullet feed die
8. Bullet seating and Crimping
Note: In order to accommodate the magnetic powder check die AND the bullet feed die, bullet seating and crimping were combined at the last station.
The RL 1100 has some very impressive features that allow faster and easier ammo production. An Eccentric Roller Bearing Drive System reduces friction. The RL 1100’s heavier frame provides greater rigidity for more efficient cranking. The RL 1100 also boasts an improved shellplate indexing system. Priming is enhanced through a spring-loaded Priming Station Locator and Upgraded Primer Pocket Swager.
Dillon RL-1100 Set-Up Video:
Loading with the “Turbocharged” Dillon RL-1100
Gavin was very impressed with his RL-1100: “This reloading setup is [great]. Every crank of the lever yields a completed cartridge, and the attainable speeds are AMAZING. The case feeder and bullet feeder had no trouble keeping up with my quick pace using this setup. And it is great to know that every powder charge is being checked.
This press is very reliable and smooth, bridging the gap between lower cost home set-ups and six-figure commercial loading equipment packages. What’s next? I’ll be performing a caliber changeover to .308 Winchester.”
The DAA Magnetic Powder Check can be used on a variety of Progressive Presses.
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Benchrest and F-Class shooters know that you need a very good rear bag to achieve optimal (and repeatable) accuracy with your rifle. The rear sandbag does more than just support the weight of the rifle in the rear. It also aligns the stock with the front rest, absorbs vibration/shock, and perhaps most importantly, guides the rearward travel of the stock during the recoil cycle.
A premium bag will be stable from shot to shot, not move on recoil, and also be a good match to the angles and width of the keel (bottom) of your stock. Modern rear sandbags also employ various types of synthetics on the contact surfaces. The idea is to reduce friction which still providing a stable “grip” on the stock.
We’ve learned that our friend Sebastian Lambang, inventor of SEB coaxial rests, has come up with an improved, second-generation Bigfoot Rear bag. The design looks very well thought-out and the craftsmanship is excellent. Seb welcomes comments on his Facebook Page. These will be available soon from SEB dealers worldwide.
Seb explains: “Here is the new/premium SEB Bigfoot Rear Bag. The photos show our Prototype bag model shown with nylon seat belt material on the ears.” Note that the bags sit perfectly flat — there is no bulge on the bottom even though the bags are “packed to the brim with sand”.
Dimensions: Standard spacings between ears: 3/8″, 1/2″, 5/8″, 3/4″, and 1″; standard height: 4″.
Customizing: Other spacing, bag height, for right- or left-handed available on request.
Accessories: The SEB doughnut (bag base/surround unit) is also available (sold separately).
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We’re in the thick of hunting season now, so we’re featuring an impressive new hunting rig from Springfield Armory. The new Model 2020 Waypoint rifles feature advanced carbon-wrapped barrels*, TriggerTech triggers, and carbon-fiber, hand-painted camo stocks. The actions are pretty impressive too — with precision machining, enlarged ejection port, and integral recoil lug. These Waypoint rifles rival full-custom hunting rigs, yet are reasonably affordable. Starting price is $1699.00 with stainless barrel, while the deluxe model with carbon-wrapped barrel and adjustable cheekpiece is still under $2,400.00.
Handsome Hand-Painted Carbon-Fiber Stocks
Minimum gun weight with carbon-wrapped barrel and fixed cheek is just 6.6 pounds.
All Model 2020 Waypoint rifles feature strong, light-weight, carbon-fiber-reinforced stocks with hand-painted camouflage finishes. Springfield Armory worked with AG Composites to develop these handsome stocks. You could easily pay $700-$800 just for an equivalent camo-painted stock from McMillan or Manners Composite Stocks.
Four Chambering Choices
The Model 2020 Waypoint is offered in four popular chamberings: 6mm Creedmoor, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, and .308 Winchester. Those are all desirable options. However, because this is a hunting rifle, we would also like to see a 7mm option, and a larger .30-caliber option. At least the barrel twist rates will allow modern, high-BC bullets: 1:7.5″ for the 6mm Creedmoor, 1:8″ for the 6.5 Creedmoor, and 1:10″ for the .308 Win. All barrels are threaded 5/8-24 for the included SA Radial Muzzle Brake.
TriggerTech Adjustable Trigger and Fast Lock Time
We were pleased to see the Model 2020 Waypoint comes with a very good TriggerTech trigger that easily adjusts from 2.5 to 5.0 pounds. This trigger, as combined with a modern fire control system, achieves a very good 19 millisecond lock time — that rivals some custom benchrest actions, and is up to 45% faster than some other factory actions. FYI, “lock time” is measured from the break of the trigger until the firing pin strikes the primer.
Modern Coated Action with Big Ejection Port — Takes AICS-Compatible Mags
Springfield Armory did a nice job with the action. There is a large ejection port and EDM-crafted raceways. The fluted bolt and the action body are coated for corrosion resistance and smooth operation. Additionally, the bolt features dual cocking cams for ease of operation and tool-less disassembly for maintenance.
Factory 3/4-MOA Accuracy Guarantee
Springfield offers an impressive 0.75 MOA three-shot accuracy guarantee with “with quality match-grade factory ammunition, in the hands of a skilled shooter.” That is actually pretty impressive for a hunting rifle that weighs in under 7 pounds before options (carbon bbl version). You could spent a LOT more on a custom rig and not do much better accuracy wise.
Bottom Line — How Does It Feel and How Does It Shoot?
Respected gun writer and hunter Wayne Van Zwoll tested a carbon-barrel Model 2020 Waypoint for Hunting Digital Magazine. He was impressed with the feel of the rifle, the quality of the components, the crispness of the trigger, the smooth mag-feeding, and the demonstrated accuracy:
“This rifle balances well. Running this rifle is a delight! It slurps cartridges seamlessly from the box and is easy to top-feed with single rounds. The magazine is a cinch to release and easily inserted. Springfield Armory’s Waypoint Model 2020 is notable for its relatively modest price — under $2,400 for even the most expensive version, and a starting price of $1,699 — [and] the quality of its parts and workmanship.
Accuracy — My first three shots, after bore-sighting and two to zero, cut a 0.62″ knot. I printed some more groups, which measured .63″ and .70″. Such accuracy from a rifle that, stripped, scales under 6¾ pounds should please any shooter! It’s also a credit to Hornady’s excellent ammunition.
In sum, the Waypoint offers features and performance now expected of top-rung multi-purpose rifles, without bleeding budgets. It should impress hunters as well as shooters scrambling in cross-terrain rifle competition[.] The first new Springfield Armory bolt rifle in a century has impressed me!”
* The base Model 2020 Waypoint has a fluted stainless barrel. The carbon-wrapped barrel is an extra-cost option, as is the adjustable cheekpiece.
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Gander Outdoors in Kenosha, WI — reader-submitted photo on GMToday.com
There is major ammunition shortage right throughout the nation. The unrest and riots in urban areas along with left-wing calls to “defund the police” have caused millions of Americans to be concerned about safety, so they are buying ammo wherever they can find it, online and in stores. Another reason ammo demand is exceeding supply is that 2020 has seen record numbers of first-time gun owners buying acquired rifles, pistols, and shotguns, primarily for self-defense. According to the NSSF, gun sales are up 95% in the first half of 2020 compared to Jan-June 2019. Even more remarkable, the NSSF says ammo sales are up 139% compared to the same time period in 2019. That’s a massive increase.
One ammunition manufacturer, Arizona-based Ammo Inc. has revealed that it has $80 million in unfilled ammo orders. “We’re working right now seven days a week, 24 hours a day in all the manufacturing plants”, Ammo Incorporated CEO Fred Wagenhals told AZFamily.com.
“We just bought 2.8 million dollars worth of machinery and equipment last week to increase our production and increase our volume”, Wagenhals added.
According to GunsAmerica Digest, “Wagenhals attributed the jump in demand to various factors, including COVID-19, the upcoming presidential election, and widespread civil unrest[.]” Wagenhals noted: “As you’ve seen in a lot of cities, the looting and the burning, and I think people are just scared.”
Mark Oliva, NSSF Director of Public Affairs, told GunsAmerica that the spike in demand for ammo mirrors that of firearms, with ammo sales skyrocketing:
“The sale on ammunition goes hand-in-glove with the sale of firearms. NSSF estimates there are more than 5 million people who bought a gun for the first time this year and we’ve recorded more than 13.8 million background checks for the sale of a gun this year. That tops figures for all of 2019 in just the first eight months of 2020. That’s caused an unprecedented demand in the marketplace and we’re seeing this happen everywhere.”
“Ammunition makers are working as quickly as possibly to meet this demand,” Oliva continued. “We’ve seen spikes before and we’ve seen sustained period of demand. This year, though, is unlike any before.”
Ammo Inc.’s STREAK Ammo — Tracers without Heat
Ammo Inc. produces a unique type of STREAK ammo that delivers a tracer-like light trail when fired. Through patented technology, a photo-luminescent coating is applied to the base of the bullet. This is “activated” on firing, allowing the shooter to see the projectile’s path toward its target. STREAK rounds are NON-incendiary. They do not generate heat so they are safe to use in environments where tracers are prohibited or could be a fire hazard. Ammo Inc. says these STREAK bullets are “game-changing” for indoor range use and low-light shooting.
Cartridges of the World (16th Edition), belongs in every serious gun guy’s library. This massive 688-page reference contains illustrations and load data for over 1500 cartridge types. If you shoot a wide variety of cartridges, or are a cartridge collector, this book is a “must-have” resource. The latest edition (release date 7/23/2019) includes 50 new cartridge types and 1500+ photos. This print version can be ordered for $26.49 at Amazon.com (plus shipping and tax), while a Kindle eBook version costs $14.99.
Updated 16th Edition with Feature Articles
The 16th Edition of Cartridges of the World includes cartridge specs, plus tech articles on Cartridge identification, SAAMI guidelines, wildcatting, and new cartridge design trends. Cartridges of the World, the most complete cartridge reference guide in print, now includes a lengthy full-color section with feature articles such as 7mm Rem Magnum, .44 Special History, and “P.O. Ackley’s Best Improved Cartridges”.
Cartridges of the World 16th Ed. CHAPTERS:
Chapter 1: Current American Sporting Cartridges
Chapter 2: Obsolete American Rifle Cartridges
Chapter 3: Wildcat Cartridges
Chapter 4: Proprietary Cartridges
Chapter 5: Handgun Cartridges of the World
Chapter 6: Military Rifle Cartridges of the World
Chapter 7: British Sporting Rifle Cartridges
Chapter 8: European Sporting Rifle Cartridges
Chapter 9: American Rimfire Cartridges
Chapter 10: Shotgun Shells
Chapter 11: U.S. Military Ammunition
Chapter 12: Cartridge ID by Measurement
Cartridges of the World by author Frank C. Barnes was first published in 1965. The 16th Edition is edited by W. Todd Woodard, Editor of Gun Tests magazine and author of several firearms reference books. Frank Barnes (1918-1992) began collecting information on handgun cartridges at the early age of 12, thanks to his father, a police officer. Frank Barnes was an innovative cartridge designer, who invented the original 308 x 1.5″ Barnes, predecessor of the 30BR case.
Before Frank began a law enforcement career, he was a college professor. Frank was also a pilot, and a race-car driver. Learn more about Cartridges of the World (15th Ed.) at www.gundigest.com.
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True Velocity is a Texas-based ammo-maker with 145 issued patents on its products and technologies. More than 1 million rounds of True Velocity composite-cased cartridges will be delivered through 2020-2021 to the U.S. Army. This revolutionary new ammo will be tested by the U.S. Army’s Next Generation Squad Weapons program. The advantage of the composite cases, which employ various polymers, is primarily weight savings. True Velocity-made ammo is 30% lighter than conventional ammunition. That means that a typical soldier’s load-out can be reduced by many POUNDS with this innovative ammo. And the military can transport much more ammo with existing vehicles and aircraft.
The company claims: “True Velocity’s precision engineering and manufacturing capabilities allow for substantial improvements in consistency over brass. Our proprietary technology and manufacturing process, combined with progressive process and quality control standards … yields a cartridge of unparalleled performance.” In addition, True Velocity can produce ammo in smaller facilities than a typical large ammo plant. The company states: “The company’s manufacturing capabilities can power customizable and highly-portable ‘cells’, allowing for decentralized and automated ammunition production.”
True Velocity’s modern composite cases withstand temperature changes very well and can function well even in sub-zero environments (however you still may have issues with the powder inside at super-low temps). In addition, the composite cases are 100% recyclable. This can make a difference for shooting ranges and training facilities. One question we have, however, is long-term durability. Brass cartridges can remain strong and functional for decades. Some plastics degrade in just a few years. It will be interesting to see how the True Velocity composite cases hold up over time.
True Velocity is an advanced technology and composite manufacturing company based in Garland, Texas. Founded in 2010, True Velocity has more than 250 patents pending or issued on its products, technology, and manufacturing processes. True Velocity products are manufactured in the U.S. in a state-of-the-art, 66,000-square-foot facility and are currently available to public agencies, with consumer products available soon. For more information, visit TVammo.com.
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If you want to stay current with trends in the firearms industry, and see important new product releases before they hit dealers’ shelves, you should check out Shooting Industry magazine. While tailored for firearms/outdoor gear retailers and industry professionals, this monthly journal also provides valuable information for all gun owners. We read Shooting Industry to learn about sales trends, new products, and current gun laws issues.
READ for FREE — Shooting Industry is now available in a digital format for FREE. There are free archives going back 13 years to December 2007.
Get FREE Digital Shooting Industry Magazines for the Past 13 Years
You can access, for free, nearly 13 years of Shooting Industry back issues, plus all the recent 2020 issues. CLICK HERE for the current issue along with all issues for the last three years: 2018, 2019, 2020. IMPORTANT — To access older issues, you much first launch a recent digital edition. That will give you access to the full 13-year archive, as explained below.
Here are links for the last three issues — July, August, and September 2020. Simply click each cover to read full issue for FREE:
SEPTEMBER 2020
Top Stories:
Gun Storage in Pandemic
Tracking Big-Game Hunters
AUGUST 2020
Top Stories:
Self-Defense Long Guns
Pandemic Spurs Hunting
JULY 2020
Top Stories:
First-Time Gun Buyers
U.S. Firearms Industry Today
How to Access Magazine Archives Back to December 2007
Once you have launched the digital version of a recent issue, you can access the past 13 years of Shooting Industry back issues by using the ARCHIVE Button. First click on the MENU icon (three horizontal lines). Then click on the link for ARCHIVE. When you click on “Archive”, a list appears on the right. Scroll down to select any issue from September 2020 back to December 2007.
BONUS! FREE Back Issues of GUNS Magazine and American Handgunner
In the Shooting Industry Archives, you will also find free digital editions of GUNS Magazine and American Handgunner. These will be found in the archive tables on the right. Just look for GUNSxxxx in the list entry for GUNS Magazine back issues, or AHxxxx for American Handgunner back issues.
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Jim Borden of 
Pistol Ammo Hard to Find
