Marksmanship competition is back! Slowly but surely, shooting sports are returning to normal, after many major events were cancelled due to the COVID pandemic. We were pleased to see the CMP Eastern Games were held this year, after being cancelled in 2020. The revived 2021 Eastern Games, held April 22 through May 2, 2021, were a huge success.
There were over 420 competitors at the 2021 Eastern CMP Games and High Power Rifle Matches held at Camp Butner in North Carolina. With more than 1,500 event entries, the Eastern Games featured a full schedule of rifle and pistol matches, including many new competitions added to the lineup. In addition to the matches, there were a variety of training programs such as an M1 Garand Clinic and Rifle Marksmanship 101 with live-fire training.
Along with Rifle Marksmanship 101, the CMP offered a Pistol Marksmanship 101 Course and accompanying M9 EIC Match was held for the first time at Camp Butner. Similar to Rifle Marksmanship 101, participants in the Pistol Course were instructed in the classroom and on the range on firearm and competition fundamentals, including proper firing practices and safety guidelines. Other pistol additions to the schedule in 2021 were .22 Rimfire Pistol, Center Fire and .45 Pistol 900 Aggregates.
Brian Williams Wins 3-Gun and 4-Gun Aggregates plus Rimfire Sporter
The star of the 2021 Eastern Games was Brian Williams of Granby, Massachusetts. Williams earned several top finishes in rifle matches, with Garand, Springfield, M1 Carbine, and Modern Military competition victories. His consistent performances earned him both the Three Gun and Four Gun Aggregate titles. Brian even won the Rimfire Sporter Match! Williams was only eight Xs from the current Four Gun Aggregate Eastern Games record score of 1152-35X, which he personally set in 2019. He also holds Eastern Games records in the Modern Military and Carbine events.
Another top 2021 Eastern Games performer was SFC Brandon Green, a 3-time National High Power Champion. Green won the CMP 2400 Overall Aggregate at the 2021 Eastern Games with an impressive 2379-97X score. Along the way Brandon won the EIC Service Rifle Match setting a new Eastern Games record with a 497-26X tally.
We were pleased to see the 2021 CMP Eastern Games included participation by disabled shooters:
There were many M1 Garand shooters at Camp Butner this year. Training included a special clinic focused on the Garand.
Share the post "The Games Are Back! 2021 CMP Eastern Games Are a Success"
Talented sharpshooter Kirsten Joy Weiss is featured in an episode of NRA All Access. The show covers Kirsten’s development as a competitive shooter, and her success as a trick-shot artist with her own popular YouTube channel. Here’s the All Access segment featuring many of Kirsten’s most famous trick shots.
During the video Kirsten also talks about her background in shooting and how she wants to be a good ambassador for the shooting sports, “spreading the positive reality of shooting”. Kirsten explains: “The fun challenge and joy of shooting is important to me because I really wanted to be a positive example. So when the media says the ‘guns are a bad thing and nobody does anything good with guns’, they can say ‘Well, what about her [Kirsten]’?”
Kirsten: “I think that it’s important for young girls to have somebody that they can look up to… I feel responsibility to show young shooters coming up, especially females, that you can respect yourself and shoot a gun as well.”
A gifted “natural” shooter, Kirsten started shooting fairly late — at age 16. Despite her relatively late start, she learned very quickly, and managed to earn a place on the University of Nebraska shooting team. That literally opened up a new world for Kirsten: “During the course of my career, I’ve had a lot of success. I’ve gone to World Cups… in Zagreb, Croatia, in Munich, Germany. I’ve won National Championships, and got on to the U.S. Olympic short list, so it’s been a good career.”
Kirsten tells us: “A lot of people don’t think of shooting as a sport, but it absolutely is, and I would even go so far as to say that it is an art form.” We don’t know if this is art, sport, or magic, but very few shooters have the skill or flexibility to make this upside-down shot…
Share the post "Kirsten Joy Weiss — Annie Oakley for the 21st Century"
On 5/7/21, the U.S. Attorney General signed ATF proposed rule 2021R-05, Definition of “Frame or Receiver” and Identification of Firearms. The goal of the proposed rule is to ensure the proper marking, recordkeeping, and traceability of all firearms manufactured, imported, acquired and disposed by federal firearms licensees. This proposed rule would among others, provide new or amend previous definitions of terms related to or about “firearm frame or receivers” and “frame or receivers.” SEE ATF website.
ATF requests comments on the proposed rule, Definition of “Frame or Receiver” and Identification of Firearms, from all interested persons. ATF specifically requests comments on the feasibility of implementing the new definition of firearm “frame or receiver” in 27 CFR 478.11 and 27 CFR 479.11, and related definitions and amendments that ensure the proper marking, recordkeeping, and traceability of all firearms manufactured, imported, acquired and disposed by federal firearms licensees.
ATF also requests comments on the costs or benefits of the proposed rule and on the appropriate methodology and data for calculating those costs and benefits. To submit comments CLICK HERE: Frame or Receiver Submit Comment Page
Official Summary of New Fiream Frame or Receiver Rule
You May Submit a Comment
ATF is receiving comments on the proposed rule for 90 days from the date the proposed rule is posted in the Federal Register. You may submit comments by mail, fax or the Federal eRulemaking Portal at www.regulations.gov.
Share the post "ATF Proposed Rule Will Redefine Firearm “Frame or Receiver”"
“God could not be everywhere, and therefore he made mothers.” — Rudyard Kipling
Today, May 9, 2021, is Mother’s Day. There are more than 85 million mothers in the United States, and today is the day we recognize all those ladies who brought life into the world.
With the continuing effects of the global COVID-19 pandemic it can be particularly difficult for mothers in late life. Those living in senior facilities are at high risk. Do all you can for mom, particularly in these trying times.
Be good to your mother, cherish her, and love her without fail… always. In her latter years, attend to her needs, help her with her health, and take time to bring brightness (and laughter) into her life. Let her know that you appreciate all the sacrifices she made, and that you are grateful for all that she did for her children and family.
This Mother’s Day tribute was created by a man who had lost his mother. It will help all of us appreciate all the things our mothers did for us.
Here are some quotes for Mother’s Day:
“Only mothers can think of the future — because they give birth to it in their children.” — Maxim Gorky
“Men are what their mothers made them.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson
“Such a mysterious business, motherhood. How brave a woman must be to embark on it.” ― M.L. Stedman
“All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.” ― Abraham Lincoln
Sunday, May 9th is Mother’s Day. To help mark this special day, Creedmoor Sports is running a 10% Off Mother’s Day Sale. The sale runs from noon today Friday 5/7/21 through Monday 5/10/21 at noon Central Time. With this sale Creedmoor Sports is discounting its Creedmoor-branded products. Use Promo Code MOM21 to get 10% Off Creedmoor items, excluding Air Gun Range Items and ammo. This special sale includes Creedmoor’s popular coats, shooting mats, carts, scope stands, slings, and much more.
Here are some popular Creedmoor Sports products on sale. Dozens of other items are 10% Off, including tools, loading blocks, transport bags, ammo holders, score books, slings, shooting hats and more…
Share the post "Creedmoor Sports Mother’s Day Sale — Save 10% on Gear"
Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ: SWBI) plans to divest (sell off) its Thompson/Center Arms (T/C) brand. This T/C divestiture as part of a “broader strategic plan” by Smith & Wesson to focus on its core S&W brands. So soon Thompson/Center rifles, muzzleloaders, and single-shot pistols will no longer be produced by Smith and Wesson. Accordingly, if you’ve been thinking about getting a T/C gun, now may be a good time to buy. We predict inventories will be sold off at discounted prices. NOTE: S&W remains committed to providing customer service to current T/C gun owners.
Smith & Wesson President/CEO Mark Smith declared: “Thompson/Center is a beloved hunting brand with a longstanding heritage, and we are committed to ensuring a smooth transition. Thompson/Center Arms’ loyal consumers should rest assured that they will continue to receive the world-class firearms, accessories, and customer service support that the brand has been known for since its founding in 1965. We remain fully committed to the hunting and long-range shooting market, and with this divestiture we will be able to now focus on these categories under our iconic Smith & Wesson brand. Additionally, this will allow us to immediately redirect manufacturing capacity to increase overall production volumes, allowing us to gain additional market share[.]”
No Buyer Currently for Thompson/Center Arms
At this time, a buyer for the Thompson/Center Arms brand has not been identified. However, the divestiture is not expected to have a material financial impact on S&W’s first quarter fiscal year 2022 results. S&W expects the divestiture “to be accretive to the Company’s full year fiscal 2022 through higher overall production levels, increased margins, and lower marketing costs”. The Company states that this decision will NOT result in a workforce reduction as it will “repurpose capacity immediately” to other areas.
Thompson/Center Arms — Types of Firearms Currently Produced
Thompson/Center Arms produces a wide range of firearms including bolt-action rifles, semi-auto rimfire rifles, muzzle-loaders, plus T/C Encore rifles and pistols. Expect all these firearms to be discounted heavily in the months ahead. CLICK HERE to see the full line-up of T/C firearms at TCArms.com.
About Smith & Wesson Brands Smith & Wesson Brands is a leader in firearm manufacturing and design, delivering a broad portfolio of handgun, long gun, and suppressor products to the global consumer and professional markets under the iconic Smith & Wesson, M&P, and Gemtech brands. The Company also provides manufacturing services, including forging, machining, and precision plastic injection molding services.
Share the post "Smith & Wesson Will Sell Off Thompson/Center Arms Business"
While the Civilian Marksmanship Program’s (CMP) National Rifle Matches are most well-known for the President’s Rifle Match and other prestigious National Trophy Individual Rifle matches, the CMP offers several training programs for shooters of all levels. In addition to the Small Arms Firing School (SAFS), tailored to new shooters, the CMP offers excellent Highpower Clinics. Junior competitors (20 years or younger) can sign up for the USMC Junior Highpower Clinic. Experienced adults (as well as skilled juniors) can select Team CMP’s Advanced High Power Clinic.
In connection with the National matches there will be training clinics offered for both junior shooters and adult competitors. The CMP-USMC Junior Highpower Clinic and the CMP Advanced Highpower Clinic will take place Friday, July 30, through Sunday, August 1. In addition, the two-day CMP-USAMU Rifle Small Arms Firing School (SAFS) runs Saturday, July 31, through Sunday, August 1.
Junior Highpower Clinic with USMC Rifle Team
The CMP-USMC Junior Highpower Rifle Clinic will be taught by members of the U.S. Marine Corps Rifle Team. The clinic is open to junior highpower shooters with previous service rifle competition experience and a classification of sharpshooter or higher. Juniors brand new to the sport are required to first attend a Rifle Small Arms Firing School (SAFS). Participants in the clinic receive classroom instruction, dry-fire training, live-fire training (ammo is not provided), a clinic t-shirt, certificate and handout materials.
NOTE: Participants must bring their own rifles, ammunition and shooting equipment. After a day of class and dry-fire instruction, the remainder of the clinic consists of live-fire at 200, 300 and 600 yards.
CMP Advanced Highpower Clinic
The CMP Advanced Highpower Clinic is taught by members of the CMP Rifle Team and is open to adults and juniors. Participants must bring their own rifle and equipment, but no live ammo, as the clinic consists of classroom instruction and coached dry-fire practice. Topics covered include range safety, care and use of match equipment, using a data book, zeroes/zeroing, advanced fundamentals, shooting positions, match etiquette, team shooting, wind reading, training techniques and mental management. All participants will receive a clinic t-shirt and a certificate.
A live-fire air rifle portion of the Advanced Highpower clinic is conducted with AiR-15 rifles (Air rifles configured like AR15s) at the Gary Anderson CMP Competition Center. This air rifle segment helps solidify what was learned during the dry-fire practice with participants’ own rifles.
Rifle Small Arms Firing School
Novice shooters and those seeking their first Excellence-In-Competition (EIC) points are encouraged to attend the Rifle Small Arms Firing School (SAFS), Saturday, July 31 through Sunday, August 1, 2021. First, in the classroom, Service Rifle Team members from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit (USAMU) cover safety, nomenclature, clearing, loading and unloading, shot technique and basic firing positions. Students then head out to the range for hands-on instruction. For new marksman looking to get into the sport and may not have their own equipment, the Rifle Small Arms Firing School is a perfect choice.
The rifle Small Arms Firing School is a great way to introduce juniors to Highpower service rifle. SAFS teaches them firearm safety, handling practices, shooting fundamentals and how to properly use an AR-15. The Army Marksmanship Unit takes a starring role in largely coaching individual competitors, though trained CMP instructors also help lead the class. Ammunition and a rifle for use during SAFS is provided. Participants receive training and can participate in a match the next day.
CMP Training Opportunities at CMP Games
For those who are unable to attend the clinics at Camp Perry or for those in search of additional training, the CMP Rifle Marksmanship 101 course and the Team CMP Advanced Highpower Clinic are also offered at the CMP Games throughout the country.
Email competitions@thecmp.org for questions about the CMP-USMC Junior Highpower Rifle Clinic, Rifle Small Arms Firing School or the CMP Competition Games clinics.
Share the post "Registration Opens for Marksmanship Clinics at Camp Perry"
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
1. Palmetto SA — Complete AR Lower + Magpul Stock — $219.99
⏺ Good complete lower with nice stock — add upper of your choice
Get that AR lower while you still can. This complete Palmetto State Armory lower with Magpul stock is fully assembled. It will take a standard upper, which you can build or purchase later without an FFL. The lower is the section that much be purchased through an FFL with a background check. On sale for $219.99, this complete PSA AR15 Lower features polished hammer and trigger components with nickel-plating for smoother trigger action. This lower is finished with an adjustable Magpul MOE Carbine Stock, Magpul MOE Trigger Guard, and Magpul MOE Grip.
⏺ Great deals for AR500 steel targets — watch video above right
Caldwell’s new bright, easy-to-see steel targets come in multiple shapes and sizes for competition, training, and recreational use. Made of AR-500 grade hardened steel, these bright yellow targets can withstand thousands of rounds. Rated up to a 3000 fps impact velocity and a 3500 ft-lb impact energy, these targets come in seven styles and sizes with three hanging solutions. These bright yellow AR500 targets are On Sale now at Midsouth, starting at just $14.79 for 5″ Gong Target.
3. Midsouth — RCBS Explorer Reloading Kit, $399.99
⏺ RCBS Kit includes all vital tools — good for new hand-loaders
Reloading tools have been in high demand. Many popular presses and combo kits have been sold out. Here’s good news — Midsouth has received Press Kits from RCBS. Great for folks getting started in reloading, this kit includes the single-stage press, powder measure, priming tool, trickler, digital scale, load manual, and various accessories. Get the RCBS Explorer Kit 2 for $399.99. If you want a bigger press, Midsouth also has the Rebel Master Reloading Kit for $488.95. This include everything in the Explorer kit, but with the beefier Rebel press plus a few more tools. Both kits are in-stock now, but could sell out soon.
4. MidwayUSA — Crimson Trace 5-Series Tactical Scope Sale
⏺ Really amazing deals on excellent FFP optics for PRS/NRL applications
KILLER DEAL on high-quality First Focal Plane MilRad optics, ideal for PRS/NRL tactical applications. These high-tech Crimson Trace scopes are over HALF OFF now. Grab the 3-24x56mm for $799.99 (55% OFF) or the 3-18x50mm for $699.99 (56% OFF). Both feature 34mm main tubes, tons of elevation, and advanced MR1-MIL illuminated reticles. We’ve looked through these optics and they have good glass and nice controls. These scopes feature EZ Mount Leveling Indicators for quick, precise mounting. All Crimson Trace scopes come with FREE Batteries for life and a Lifetime Protection Warranty.
⏺ Quality ultrasonic heated cleaning machine at very good price
Looking to clean your brass and/or gun parts? The H&B Ultrasonic Cleaning Machine is a bargain at just $77.98 on Amazon. This unit features a heated tank for cleaning of cartridge barss and metal parts. The ultrasonic cavitation lifts and dissolves carbon, dirt, and any residue left on fired cases. Chose cycles from 90 to 480 seconds. Not only can you clean brass, but this unit can clean pistol slides, magazines, jewelry, and silverware. Note: This unit, an “Amazon Choice” with 89% 4- or 5-star reviews, is nearly identical to the unit Lyman has sold for $120+.
6. Midsouth — Lyman Ideal Reloading Press, $95.25
⏺ Compact yet strong — good second press for range or home
Lyman’s Ideal compact press works great as a second, lighter-duty press. For loading at the range, it can easily be mounted to a bench. This cast-iron press is stronger than other small presses in its class. The Lyman Ideal C-Frame press costs just $79.99 at Midsouth. With good leverage in a compact size, this is a great press for the price.
Here’s a very good mat for just $29.99. This NcStar Vism shooting mat boast decent padding, and reinforced areas for elbows and knees. Full dimensions are: 69″ Long x 35″ Wide. This mat has straps for pre-loading your bipod. When you’re done simply fold in the edges, roll it up into a compact 19.50″ W x 8.50″ H package — the size of a sleeping bag. You can pay twice as much for a shooting mat and not get much more quality. This mat has earned 85% Five-Star buyer ratings on Amazon.
Would you like the functionality of caliber-specific powder funnels, but don’t want to spend big money on multiple units? Then try the Lyman Pro Powder Funnel for $28.99. Six caliber-specific inserts effectively give the funnel a custom fit for your case neck sizes. This kit features a convenient carry case that holds the funnel plus six (6) inserts for 22, .243/6mm, .25/6.5mm, .270/7mm, .308 and .338 caliber rifle cartridges. NOTE: If this sells out, Midsouth has the Pro Powder Funnel with inserts for $27.45.
9. Amazon — MAXUS Dante Milligram Scale, $16.99
⏺ Great price for nice hunting rifle; many calibers, coated action + barrel
Having a good compact utility scale is great for weighing bullets, primers, and brass. Everyone should have a small battery scale for loading at the range or sorting bullets by weight. Right now you can get a decent digital scale for a mere $16.99. Despite the low price, this MAXUS Dante Milligram Scale has earned good owner reviews. The scale reads up to 771 grains and comes with batteries, check weight, and powder pan.
10. Midsouth — Roll of 250 Stick-On Benchrest Accuracy Target
⏺ Handy roll of adhesive targets with precise grid
Midsouth offers 250 self-adhesive Benchrest Targets on a convenient roll. These stick-on targets work great for anyone doing load development. Each target offers a precision 1/4″ grid at the top with diamond aiming box below. This is similar to official targets used in Benechrest matches, with the addition of the upper grid lines which allow you to instantly estimate group size. These targets also include an area to list your load components. Midsouth sells the 250-target roll for $14.99.
Share the post "BargainFinder 293: AccurateShooter’s Deals of the Week"
A number of interesting jobs in the firearms industry have become available in recent weeks. The NSSF maintains a regularly-updated listing of employment opportunities with gun-makers and shooting sports organizations. On the NSSF’s job board right now there are financial openings, account manager positions, engineering jobs, sales and marketing positions, and media/digital markeing opportunities. Here are some of the jobs we found this week posted on the NSSF Website. CLICK HERE to visit the NSSF Career Center with all current listings
Two historic pistols will be auctioned on May 14, 2021. These two flintlocks belonged to Col. Alexander Hamilton, whose image is now on the U.S. $10 dollar bill. The Rock Island Auction Company says: “These pistols are universally recognized as being among the most historically significant weapons known to exist. Few firearms owned and used by founding fathers during the American Revolutionary War survive, and none that we know of (other than this pair) remain in private hands. Only two founders, Washington and Hamilton, served in the Continental Army with distinction.”
Projected bid range for the two pistols (plus epaulettes worn by Hamilton) is $1,000,000 to $3,500,000. SEE Hamilton Pistols Auction Page, RIA 5/14/21 Auction Lot #125.
Pistols May Command the Highest Price Ever for Auctioned Firearms
“These pistols… transcend arms specific collecting. They are an American institution in and of themselves” stated Rock Island Auction President Kevin Hogan. According to RIA, the War Pistols of Alexander Hamilton are the “most historically significant item ever offered by Rock Island Auction Company. Items from the era rarely survive, let alone those of Founding Fathers. Given these pistols’ rarity, significance, and provenance, they may very well set the world record price for a firearm offered at auction.”
A matched pair, the pistols have smoothbore, multi-stage barrels with light scroll engraving. The wrist escutcheons have the significant initials “A H” inscribed for Alexander Hamilton and border engraving. The early banana profile locks are convex and have floral scroll engraving and non-bridled pans. The furniture is all brass. The side plates have pierced centers and light floral engraving.
Along with the two flintlock pistols, the auction, set for next week, will include two epaulettes worn by Hamilton as a Continental soldier. The Guns America Digest noted: “The pistols were presented to Hamilton, when he was a Colonel, by his father-in-law General Philip Schuyler [after the historic Battle of Saratoga]. They were passed down through the family until they were sold in 1942. Included with the pistols are Hamilton’s epaulettes from his Colonel’s uniform, which he wore while serving with General George Washington during the American Revolution.”
Hamilton Pistols Will Be Featured on Gun Talk Radio, Sunday 5/2/21
These historic Hamilton pistols will be discussed this Sunday on Tom Gresham’s Gun Talk Radio. Host Tom Gresham will discuss these historic arms in an interview with Kevin Hogan, President of Rock Island Auction Company. On May 14, 2021 RIA will have Alexander Hamilton’s flintlock pistols and epaulettes on the auction block. Find out more at RockIslandAuction.com.
Share the post "Alexander Hamilton’s Flintlock Pistols to Be Auctioned May 14"
With reloading components and factory-loaded ammunition still in very short supply, gun owners are justifiably concerned. Every day, in our AccurateShooter Forum, members ask “Where are the primers?”, “Why can’t I get loaded ammo?”, “Why have component prices doubled or tripled?”. The answer is complex. Yes there have been production shortfalls (with the Remington Bankruptcy and some raw material shortages), yes there has been a reaction to the Biden election (causing panic buying), and yes there have been hoarding and profiteering (just look as the prices of primers on Gunbroker — over $300 per 1000!).
But probably the number one factor in the supply shortages has been the increase in gun owners in the past year, fueled in part by concerns over the BLM/Antifa led riots and social unrest, and Democratic Party attacks on gun rights. And, according to the NSSF, roughly 8,400,000 Americans purchased their first firearm in 2020. If each of these new gun owners purchased just two, 50-round boxes of ammo, that equates to 840,000,000 rounds of ammo. Think about that…the gun industry would have to produce an additional 2.3 million rounds of ammo EVERY DAY just to fill the demands from new gun owners. There are consequences for this increased production. Primers are in short supply because much of the available inventory is being used in loaded ammo.
This NSSF Infographic helps explain the situation. Among gunshops/dealers nationwide, there was a 95% increase in gun sales for the first half of 2020 (compared to 2019). And ammunition sales rose by 139%.
Share the post "8.4 Million New American Gun Owners Drive Demand for Ammo"
The Bianchi Cup is back! After the 2020 Cup event was cancelled due to COVID, the prestigious Bianchi Cup returns next month. Also known as the NRA National Action Pistol Championship, this year’s Bianchi Cup runs May 24-28, 2021 in Hallsville, Missouri at the Green Valley Rifle & Pistol Club. Competitor Registrations begin Monday May 24, with a Multi-Gun Aggregate on Tuesday the 25th. Then two days of Championship competition take place on Wednesday 5/26 and Thursday 5/27, with awards on Friday.
Due to the high accuracy required in each stage of the Bianchi Cup, the tournament is considered one of the most difficult handgun championships on the planet. To finish on top, you have to be near-perfect. Ace shooter Carl Bernosky explains: “To Win a Bianchi Cup you’ve got to be consistent. You’ve got to shoot good ALL the time… you can’t make any mistakes.”
Over the past 30+ years the Bianchi Cup has become the richest handgun event in the world, with cash and prizes for the best scores on four stages of fire for both revolver and semi-auto pistol divisions.
Bianchi Cup — Classic Course of Fire
The MidwayUSA/NRA Bianchi Cup is a combination of Speed and Accuracy. Competitors shoot from both standing and prone positions and are also required to shoot with both strong and weak hands at various stages. Stages may combine stationary and moving targets. As conceived by former police officer and holster-maker John Bianchi, the Bianchi Cup originated in 1979 as a Law Enforcement Training match. The Course of Fire consists of four separate matches:
The Bianchi Cup is scored on the Aggregate of the four (4) fired events: Practical, Barricade, and Moving Target, and Falling Plates. Each of the four events requires 48 shots to complete. 480 points possible on each event. Three of the four are scored on the NRA tombstone P1 target. You must hit in the 10-ring or inner X-Ring on EVERY shot to shoot a “clean” 1920.
Three decades ago Doug Koenig, who has won the Bianchi Cup 18 times, set the standard with a 1920 score. Since then, every Open shooter knows that he or she must “clean” this match (i.e. score a “1920”) to have a chance to take the title of “Champion”. The X-Count is the tie-breaker. In 2019, Bruce Piatt won the Bianchi Cup for the sixth time with a score of 1920-179X.
18-Time Bianchi Cup Winner Doug Koenig
Women of the Bianchi Cup
Share the post "Bianchi Cup is Back! Prestigious Pistol Event Returns in May 2021"
An Illinois state Circuit Court Judge has ruled that the Illinois law requiring a Firearm Owner Identification Card (FOID) to possess a gun in ones home violates the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
The ruling was issued in the case of Illinois v. Vivian Claudine Brown. Ms. Brown’s position was supported by the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) and Illinois State Rifle Association. According to Brown’s attorney, David Sigale, this is the second time an Illinois judge has declared the FOID Card Act to be unconstitutional. The court dismissed the charges against Brown, who had a bolt-action rifle in her home, but did not possess an FOID card.
White County Circuit Judge T. Scott Webb was 100% clear in his ruling — the FOID requirement is unconstitutional: “It simply cannot be the case that a citizen must pay a fee in order to exercise a core individual Second Amendment right within their own home.”
In his ruling, Judge Webb observed, “If the right to bear arms and self-defense are truly core rights, there should be no burden on the citizenry to enjoy those rights, especially within the confines and privacy of their own homes.”
SAF founder and Executive VP Alan Gottlieb noted: “The FOID card requirement in order to exercise the constitutionally enumerated right to keep and bear arms under the Second Amendment clearly goes too far in this case. For too long, Illinois has been treating this right like a regulated government privilege and that needs to stop.”
“The idea that an Illinois resident doesn’t enjoy Second Amendment rights until he or she pays a $10 fee for a FOID card is outrageous,” Gottlieb said. “Nowhere should such a mandate be allowed to stand.” This second ruling on FOID card constitutionality could clear a direct path back to the Illinois State Supreme Court, Gottlieb believes.
About the Second Amendment Foundation
The Second Amendment Foundation (www.SAF.org) is the nation’s oldest and largest tax-exempt education, research, publishing and legal action group focusing on the Constitutional right and heritage to privately own and possess firearms. Founded in 1974, The Foundation has grown to more than 650,000 members and supporters and conducts many programs to inform the public about the consequences of gun control.
Share the post "Illinois Judge Rules Firearm Owner ID Law is Unconstitutional"
Now in its 150th year, the NRA remains a vital voice for American gun owners. And the NRA-ILA has just brought an important gun rights case to the U.S. Supreme Court. There have been controversies, but the NRA still remains the largest organization supporting gun rights in the United States. We think that all persons who value the Second Amendment should consider joining the NRA. And if you are already a member, consider extending your membership or getting a Life Membership.
The latest NRA promotion offers 25% to 33% discounts on 1-Year, 2-Year, 3-Year, and 5-Year memberships. CLICK HERE for OFFER. With the memberships you’ll get a free gift, either a Free Duffle Bag or Free Knife. These discounts will only be offered for a limited time, so don’t delay.
NRA Life Membership discounted from $1500 to $1000 — Save $500 (33%)
NRA 5-Year Membership discounted from $150 to $100 — Save $50 (33%)
NRA 3-Year Membership discounted from $100 to $75 — Save $25 (25%)
NRA 2-Year Membership discounted from $75 to $55 — Save $20 (27%)
NRA 1-Year Membership discounted from $45 to $30 — Save $15 (33%)
All memberships include your selection of a monthly print magazine: Shooting Illustrated, American Rifleman, American Hunter, or America’s Freedom.
Share the post "Big Savings on NRA Memberships — Current Discounts Offered"
The U.S. Supreme Court will hear NRA-backed case about New York state’s concealed carry laws.
The U.S. Supreme Court has decided to hear an NRA-backed case challenging New York’s restrictive concealed-carry-licensing regime. This sets the stage for the Supreme Court to establish what most states already hold as true, that there is an individual right to self-defense outside of the home. This important case is officially New York State Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. v. Bruen.
This case challenges the state of New York’s requirement that applicants demonstrate “proper cause” to carry a firearm. New York regularly uses this requirement to deny applicants the right to carry a firearm outside of their home. The NRA believes that law-abiding citizens should not be required to prove they are in peril to receive the government’s permission to exercise this constitutionally protected right.
Speaking about the decision to “grant cert” and hear the case, NRA-ILA Executive Director Jason Ouimet posted: “The [Supreme Court] rarely takes Second Amendment cases. Now it has decided to hear one of the most critical Second Amendment issues. We’re confident that the Court will tell New York and the other states that our Second Amendment right to defend ourselves is fundamental, and doesn’t vanish when we leave our homes.”
According to the NRA-ILA, the number of concealed handgun permits reached 18.66 million in 2019 – a 304% increase since 2007. And many more have been issued in 2020.
In addition to ruling on this statute, this case will give the U.S. Supreme Court the opportunity to clarify the precedent that it has created surrounding the Second Amendment. It has been over a decade since the Supreme Court ruled that the Second Amendment protects an individual right to have a handgun in the home for self-defense in District of Columbia v. Heller. In 2010, the Court also ruled that the Second Amendment is a fundamental right that applies to the states in McDonald v. City of Chicago.
Case is Very Important for Second Amendment Rights
The NRA-ILA states: “It is hard to overstate how important this case is. The decision will affect the laws in many states that currently restrict carrying a firearm outside of the home. NRA-ILA is working hard to defend your constitutional rights and is prepared to argue this case in order to protect the rights of Americans everywhere.”
Visit www.NRAILA.org for future updates on this and all of ILA’s efforts to defend your constitutional rights. Established in 1975, the Institute for Legislative Action (ILA) is the lobbying arm of the National Rifle Association of America. ILA is responsible for preserving the right of all law-abiding individuals in the legislative, political, and legal arenas, to purchase, possess, and use firearms for legitimate purposes as guaranteed by the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
Share the post "U.S. Supreme Court Will Hear New York State Carry Permit Case"
The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) has issued an ammunition safety advisory to all users of M1 Garands, M1903s, and M1903A3 rifles. Ammunition that is loaded beyond 50,000 Copper Units of Pressure (CUP) and using bullets weighing more than 172 grains should be limited to modern rifles, and NOT USED in old military rifles aged 70+ years.
After this warning was issued by the CMP, the California Rifle and Pistol Association (CRPA) provided further safety recommendations for owners or older firearms:
CRPA Ammunition and Older Firearms Guidelines
Many of us have either purchased or inherited firearms in excess of 25 years of age. The issue … noted as an example by the Civilian Marksmanship Program in regards to certain ammunition leads as they apply to the M1 Garand is not isolated to that particular firearm. The CRPA… has seen similar issues exposed with other [older] firearms when using modern loads. We strongly advise you to check with the manufacturer for recommended load limitations before purchasing modern ammunition for an older firearm.
CRPA also recommends these safety procedures:
— Have a gunsmith check your older firearm for safety prior to using it.
— Take a reloading class to help develop a safe load for your older firearm.
— Inspect older ammunition for defects such as a green patina or rust build up on the cases or crystallization on the projectiles. If defects are observed, the CRPA suggests disassembling the ammo into components for proper recycling and disposal.
Storage of Ammo for Older Rifles
The CRPA also cautioned that you should be cautious about older ammo that may be decades old, including old milsurp ammunition. The CRPA advises:
1. Store ammunition in a cool, dry, location where little temperature fluctuation occurs.
2. If storing ammunition in an air/watertight ammo can, utilize water absorbent silica packs and place packs in the can with the ammunition.
3. Conduct periodic checks every 12-24 months and replace the silica packs as needed.
CRPA Notification provided by EdLongrange
.
Share the post "CMP Warns Against High-Pressure Loads in Garands and 1903s"
To thrive, the shooting sports need more young competitors. Let’s face it, for some disciplines the average age of competitors is getting older. To reverse this trend, we need to get young people involved at an early age. One of the best ways to train young marksmen is with air rifles. Air-powered rifles fire low-cost ammo, training can be done indoors, and air rifle programs have a great safety record.
Air rifle shooting is practiced as a sport in more than 150 countries. Target shooting helps young people develop fine motor control, coordination, and mental discipline. In the USA air rifle shooting is a popular high school and youth club sport as well as an NCAA Championship sport.
The largest and fastest-growing segment of junior shooting today uses a class of target air rifles called “sporter air rifles”. Sporter air rifles are characterized by their light weight (5-7 lbs.), low cost (typically $180 to $600), basic target features (adjustable sights, adjustable length stocks, adjustable sling attachments), and suitable accuracy (good sporter rifles should be capable of consistently shooting tens on standard competition targets).
Resources for Youth Air Rifle Programs
If you would like to start an air rifle program for your school, club, or organization, the Civilian Marksmanship Program is a good place to start. The CMP provides a variety of helpful resources, including a free Air Rifle Marksmanship For Youth Brochure (shown below):
Precision Air Rifles for NCAA, World Cup, and Olympic Competition
While sporter air rifles are most commonly used in youth programs, elite young competitors may “graduate” to expensive precision rifles used in top-level championship programs. Air rifle shooting is an Olympic sport, with separate air rifle events for men and women. Air rifle target shooting participants fire 4.5 mm (.177 cal.) air rifles in three different shooting positions at targets 10 meters away. These precision air rifles are also used in top-level NCAA and World Cup competitions.
The National 3-Position Air Rifle Council provides coaches, instructors, parents and youth with the rules, instructions and information for Junior 3-position competition.
Air Rifle Shooting Is Very Safe
Air rifle marksmanship is one of the safest of all youth sports. The injury rate for air rifle shooting is 0.0017 per a/e (athlete exposure) per year. This ranks far below injury rates for all other youth sports for which statistics are kept. The CMP currently enrolls over 2,000 high school rifle teams and over 1,000 junior rifle clubs. More than 250,000 young people participate in these programs. Every year more than 1,500 junior air rifle competitions are conducted in the USA. In the last 10 years, these organizations and competitions reported only six minor injuries resulting from the improper handling of air rifles.
Air Rifle Ranges Can Be Created Indoors at Relatively Low Cost
Air rifle ranges are easy to build and low in cost. Air rifles used for target shooting fire small pellets at velocities of 400-600 FPS that generate just 5 ft-lbs of energy. This means a target backstop made of 1/8” sheet steel or even a box filled with several layers of cardboard or newspaper can easily capture air rifle pellets. A room that is at least 40 feet long and 20 feet or more wide, covered with ordinary wallboard or wood with no exposed windows, can serve as a range. The additional protective measures required for firearms ranges are not required for air rifle ranges.
WEB RESOURCES: To learn more about air rifle marksmanship, visit these web sites:
A few years back, Our friend Grant Guess had a “close encounter” with a bad primer. An apparently defective primer caused part of the casehead on one of his rounds to blow out. This, in turn, allowed high pressure gas to vent through the damaged primer pocket. Take a good look, boys and girls. This is yet another very good reason to wear safety glasses … EVERY time you shoot. The cartridge was a 6.5-06, handloaded in necked-down Winchester-headstamp .270 Win brass. Grant reports:
“I had a blow through between the primer and the primer pocket today. The action was really smoking and I got a face full of gas. This was a reasonably light charge. Thank God for safety glasses.
I should also mention that it appears there is a 3/64 hole that is halfway between the primer and the primer pocket. Like it burned a small jet hole through both of them.”
Could this happen to you? It just might. On seeing this damaged case, one of Grant’s Facebook friends, Chris D., observed: “Search the internet, you will see a lot of these pin hole ‘in the corner’ failures. Obviously Winchester has some issues with the LR primers.”
Careful Examination Reveals Apparent Primer Defect
After this incident, Grant examined the damaged case: “I pinned the flash hole and it is not over-sized or under-sized. The primer clearly has an area where it had a defect. At [50,000 CUP], it doesn’t take much of a defect to cause issues. There was a slight bit of pucker-factor on the next shot….”
Share the post "Primer Blow-Out Danger — Yes Always Wear Eye Protection!"
Big Green is Back — Remington Ammo Production Resumes
Following the bankruptcy of Remington Arms, Remington’s ammunition business was acquired by Vista Outdoor, parent of CCI, Federal, RCBS and other major shooting/outdoor industry brands. Vista Outdoor took over Remington’s ammunition production facilities, including the main Remington Ammo plant in Lonoke, Arkansas. Federal Ammunition President Jason Vanderbrink was installed as President of Remington, and he has lead a team that has worked hard to get the Remington plant running at full capacity.
Vista Outdoor Takes Over Remington Ammunition Business:
“The Big Green is back [and] it’s stronger than ever. Remington is synonymous with America itself. It is a 205-year-old brand, founded in 1816. ” — Jason Vanderbrink, President of Remington Ammunition
American Rifleman reported: “Remington Ammunition is back in operation[.] Following Remington Outdoors’ bankruptcy in 2020, Vista Outdoor … purchased the Remington ammunition facility in Arkansas, along with most of Remington’s trademarks. Immediately following the acquisition, Vista sent a number of experienced managers down to the Lonoke facility to get production back on track. Remington, one of the largest ammunition facilities in the United States, had difficulty obtaining the raw materials needed to fill its capacity. As a result, employees were laid off, machines were idled, all while domestic ammunition demand reached unprecedented heights. With Vista Outdoor’s management, production is flowing.”
The Remington Plant is now “back in business”, with production output increasing daily. Vanderbrink reviews the situation in this video. Vanderbrink tours the plant, talking about plans to dramatically ramp up production, overcome supply chain issues, work overtime to help meet the current demands of consumers for quality ammunition.
Remington has been working 24/7 to retool and reopen the plant, hiring hundreds of skilled American workers. “Today marks a historic milestone for our industry … I [join] the hard-working crew at Remington Ammunition, the entire team at Vista Outdoor and… shooting sports enthusiasts across America in celebrating the rebirth and resurgence of Remington Ammunition”, said Vanderbrink.
Vanderbrink added that the vastly enhanced flow of raw materials coming to the plant now allows production to be ramped up: “Our workforce is doing fantastic, and our raw material suppliers have really come through. So now, Remington’s going 24/7, and everyone will get to enjoy the quality ammunition that Lonoke, Arkansas makes.”
Share the post "Remington Ammo Production Resumes in Arkansas Factory"
After being postponed due to storm damage from Hurricane Zeta, the CMP’s 2020 Talladega 600 event was rescheduled to January 2021. It was completed successfully in Alabama, drawing scores of competitors. It was great to see marksmanship competition resume at the famed Talladega Marksmanship Park.
Today, April 14, 2021 Shooting USA TV features the Talladega 600 held this past January. Shooting USA notes: “Competition is back, as America gets back to normal again. For the Civilian Marksmanship Program, the opening event this year was the Talladega 600 that brought competitors from across the country with their rifles and pistols, all glad to be back shooting … at the Talladega Marksmanship Park, the home range of the CMP[.]”
Shooting USA noted that this event was a welcome return to normalcy: “After a year of cancelled competition, the Talladega 600 offered days of shooting in matches for most everything you might own, from rimfire to High Power. That had shooters from across the country emptying their gun-safes, and driving down to Alabama to shoot.”
SHOOTING USA TV Air Times
View Shooting USA on the Outdoor Channel: Wednesdays 9:00 PM (Eastern and Pacific); 8:00 PM Central.
NOTE: If you miss the 4/14/2021 broadcast, you can still view the show on Vimeo for a small 99-cent fee, or just $1.99 per month unlimited. LINK HERE: Shooting USA on Vimeo.
About the Talladega 600 — Southern Classic
The Talladega 600, “A Southern Classic”, is held annually. Though typically fired in November, the 2020 Talladega 600 was rescheduled to January 2021, due to storm damage from Hurricane Zeta. This year, matches included Garand, Springfield, M1A, Carbine and Vintage/Modern rifle events, and versions of prestigious National Trophy Rifle Matches. There was also an Excellence-In-Competition (EIC) match, 4-Man Team match, and .22 Rimfire Sporter match.
NEW Garand Benchrest and Rimfire Sporter Benchrest Matches
Two new types of matches were conducted at January’s Talladega 600: a Benchrest Garand Match and a Rimfire Sporter Benchrest Match. Competitors at these events can use sandbags to support their rifles. The Benchrest Garand match was very popular, and is likely to become a regular event.
Pistol Matches Were Popular
The Talladega 600 included .22 Rimfire EIC and Service Pistol EIC matches, along with As-Issued 1911 and Military & Police matches.
State-of-the-art Kongsberg target systems are used at the CMP’s Talladega Marksmanship Park.
About Talladega Marksmanship Park
The 500-acre CMP Talladega Marksmanship Park is one of the most advanced outdoor shooting facilities in the Western Hemisphere. The facility includes a 600-yard rifle range, a 100-yard multi-purpose range, and a 50-yard pistol range, equipped with Kongsberg electronic targets and scoring monitors. Since the 54 targets at each line register hits and calculate the scores instantly, no pit duty is required at Talladega. The park regularly hosts rifle, pistol and shotgun events throughout the year.
Share the post "Talladega 600 Southern Classic on Shooting USA TV Today"
A gifted “natural” shooter, Kirsten started shooting fairly late — at age 16. Despite her relatively late start, she learned very quickly, and managed to earn a place on the University of Nebraska shooting team. That literally opened up a new world for Kirsten: “During the course of my career, I’ve had a lot of success. I’ve gone to World Cups… in Zagreb, Croatia, in Munich, Germany. I’ve won National Championships, and got on to the U.S. Olympic short list, so it’s been a good career.”
Today, May 9, 2021, is Mother’s Day. There are more than 85 million mothers in the United States, and today is the day we recognize all those ladies who brought life into the world.
A number of interesting jobs in the firearms industry have become available in recent weeks. The NSSF maintains a regularly-updated listing of employment opportunities with gun-makers and shooting sports organizations. On the NSSF’s job board right now there are financial openings, account manager positions, engineering jobs, sales and marketing positions, and media/digital markeing opportunities. Here are some of the jobs we found this week posted on the NSSF Website. 
Two historic pistols will be auctioned on May 14, 2021. These two flintlocks belonged to Col. Alexander Hamilton, whose image is now on the U.S. $10 dollar bill. The Rock Island Auction Company says: “These pistols are universally recognized as being among the most historically significant weapons known to exist. Few firearms owned and used by founding fathers during the American Revolutionary War survive, and none that we know of (other than this pair) remain in private hands. Only two founders, Washington and Hamilton, served in the Continental Army with distinction.”
SAF founder and Executive VP Alan Gottlieb noted: “The FOID card requirement in order to exercise the constitutionally enumerated right to keep and bear arms under the Second Amendment clearly goes too far in this case. For too long, Illinois has been treating this right like a regulated government privilege and that needs to stop.”
While sporter air rifles are most commonly used in youth programs, elite young competitors may “graduate” to expensive precision rifles used in top-level championship programs. Air rifle shooting is an Olympic sport, with separate air rifle events for men and women. Air rifle target shooting participants fire 4.5 mm (.177 cal.) air rifles in three different shooting positions at targets 10 meters away. These precision air rifles are also used in top-level NCAA and World Cup competitions.
ATF Proposed Rule Will Redefine Firearm “Frame or Receiver”
On 5/7/21, the U.S. Attorney General signed ATF proposed rule 2021R-05, Definition of “Frame or Receiver” and Identification of Firearms. The goal of the proposed rule is to ensure the proper marking, recordkeeping, and traceability of all firearms manufactured, imported, acquired and disposed by federal firearms licensees. This proposed rule would among others, provide new or amend previous definitions of terms related to or about “firearm frame or receivers” and “frame or receivers.” SEE ATF website.
» Download the Proposed New ATF Rule (PDF)
ATF requests comments on the proposed rule, Definition of “Frame or Receiver” and Identification of Firearms, from all interested persons. ATF specifically requests comments on the feasibility of implementing the new definition of firearm “frame or receiver” in 27 CFR 478.11 and 27 CFR 479.11, and related definitions and amendments that ensure the proper marking, recordkeeping, and traceability of all firearms manufactured, imported, acquired and disposed by federal firearms licensees.
ATF also requests comments on the costs or benefits of the proposed rule and on the appropriate methodology and data for calculating those costs and benefits. To submit comments CLICK HERE: Frame or Receiver Submit Comment Page
Official Summary of New Fiream Frame or Receiver Rule
You May Submit a Comment
ATF is receiving comments on the proposed rule for 90 days from the date the proposed rule is posted in the Federal Register. You may submit comments by mail, fax or the Federal eRulemaking Portal at www.regulations.gov.
Share the post "ATF Proposed Rule Will Redefine Firearm “Frame or Receiver”"