The October 2022 issue of Shooting Industry Magazine covers the increasing popularity of “optics-ready” handguns. These pistols have slides configured to mount Red Dot optics. Some of these new handguns are sold with the Red Dot optics pre-installed, ready to go. For example, the Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 9 Shield Plus (above) is sold with a Crimson Trace Red Dot optic mounted on the slide.
The new FN Five-seveN MRD is an optics-ready pistol chambered in 5.7x28mm. (Image: FN America)
For IDPA and gun games, a Red Dot sight can definitely help with rapid target acquisition. And for a defense gun, the Red Dot assists aiming at night, even in the dark. And unlike a pistol-mounted laser, the Red Dot does not have a bright, visible beam that pinpoints the gun owner’s location.
The Shooting Industry article explains how optics-equipped pistols have become much more popular: “It wasn’t too long ago optics-ready handguns were little more than a novelty. But today, it’s difficult to talk about the handgun segment without delving into the increasing number of guns coming from the manufacturers with optics already installed, or ready to accept one.”
Massad Ayoob, a respected shooting instructor and gun writer, says optics-equipped pistols are now very popular: “Carry optics are burning up the handgun market today. Some of my fellow instructors tell me they have general defensive shooting classes where more than half the students show up with guns wearing carry optics, a compact version of Red Dot sights. Police departments are going to them [optics equipped pistols] in droves.” READ FULL Story.
If you are interested in a wide selection of optics-ready handguns, check out the Modern Carry: Best Optics-Ready Pistols article in the CheaperThanDirt Blog. This highlights ten production pistols from Canik, CZ, FN, Hechler & Koch, Keltec, SCCY, SIG Sauer, Smith & Wesson, Springfield Armory, and Taurus. Below is the Taurus G3 T.O.R.O (Taurus Optic Ready Option), a full-frame pistol with 17+1 9mm capacity.
Here’s a helpful, time-saving tool for handgun owners. MidwayUSA’s online Holster Finder lets you quickly find the right holsters for virtually all popular makes and models of pistols and revolvers. The wide variety of carry styles, materials, and features can make finding the right holster difficult or confusing. Drawing on a database of over 125,000 gun/holster combinations, the MidwayUSA Holster Finder turns that complex task into an easy three-step process.
The selection process is simple: 1. Choose Pistol or Revolver; 2. Select Make and Model of Handgun (and barrel type/length); 3. Click to view results. Just choose your gun type, select your make, model and barrel, then view the results. All major holster types are included: Ankle, Belly Band, Belt (outside waistband), Chest, Competition, Drop Leg, Inside Waistband (IWB), Paddle, Pocket, and Shoulder. Check out the MidwayUSA Holster Finder at MidwayUSA.com/holster-finder.
MidwayUSA’s Marketing VP Jeff Larkin says: “Our team built the Holster Finder so our customers could find all holsters we offer for their specific firearm without sorting through thousands of search results. Finding the perfect holster is now easier than ever — just a few clicks, and we’ll show you everything that fits!”
Applied Ballistics has released powerful new ballistics software, the Applied Ballistics Quantum™ App. This state-of-the-art mobile App provides a complete ballistics solver plus profile management tool for long-range shooting. Featuring an all-new user interface, AB Quantum™ includes a host of new tools and features for competitive shooters and hunters.
“Ballistics can be complicated, and it is our job to simplify what’s important so that shooters can hit targets”, said Applied Ballistics Founder/Chief Ballistician Bryan Litz. “The AB Quantum platform meets this goal and more. By integrating the ballistic solver with other support tools, shooters will have a complete management system to … put rounds on target faster and easier than ever before.”
Applied Ballistics Chief Technology Officer Nick Vitalbo said that the goal was “to create the most intuitive, feature-rich ballistics application on the market, seamlessly integrating with the entire Applied Ballistics ecosystem of products. AB Quantum™ will be our flagship platform, driving the future of AB-integrated devices [and transforming] the way [customers] use their existing AB-enabled products.”
Quantum™ Ballistics App — New Features Overview
AB Quantum™ creates a new paradigm for ballistic solvers and integration with Bluetooth®-enabled devices. With a host of new features, the platform is designed to save time and add performance for users of all skill levels. The all-new user interface is designed with single-handed use in mind, putting all major features just a swipe or tap away from any screen, which allows users to rapidly obtain solutions in the field or at a match. The simplicity and versatility of the app interface creates an intuitive experience for both new and experienced users.
Two new features — AB Quantum Connect™ and AB Quantum Sync™ — enable users to quickly connect to other AB-enabled devices and sync gun profiles between them in seconds, as well as back those profiles up to an encrypted server for peace of mind and easy restoration. The new platform automatically saves changes made to rifle profiles and updates connected devices. AB Quantum™ also includes customizable Range and Multi-Target tables. After creating a range or target card, it can easily be shared via email.
AB Quantum™ platform has impressive, innovative features:
● AB Quantum™ User Interface — Take control of ballistic data and find solutions with ease using the new layout designed with one-handed operation in mind.
● New Bluetooth® Device Manager — Find and connect AB Bluetooth® devices quickly and send data
between devices using AB Quantum Connect™.
● AB Quantum Sync™ — User gun profiles are automatically uploaded to an encrypted server to allow easy access for other devices and backup, providing peace of mind and security.
● Customizable Range Card and Target Card Modes — The new expandable and customizable range and
target card modes allow users to select what data to see for each Range or Target. Use the share function to send range and data cards in just seconds.
● New Reticle Library — The AB Reticle library is hosted online and updates in AB Quantum™ automatically, providing users with up-to-date solution drawing for their favorite rifle scopes.
● Improved Truing Interface — Easy to access ballistic truing features without leaving solution screens.
● Chronograph Integration — Connect Bluetooth®-enabled chronographs – such as the Optex Systems
SpeedTracker™ – directly to the App and save the velocity data to rifle profiles.
The acclaimed Applied Ballistics Bullet Library is a good example of simplification for shooters: it includes thousands of projectile models that have been built using Doppler Radar to create a Custom Drag Model (CDM) for each bullet. This library is a core feature of the AB Quantum™ App, giving users the fastest way to create accurate and precise solutions for any environment.
Consumers can now download the AB Quantum App from iOS or Android app stores. There is a free basic version, as well as an Elite subscription, which unlocks many more features for just $2.99/month or $19.99/year (see chart below). For more information visit AppliedBallisticsllc.com/ab-quantum/.
About Applied Ballistics
Applied Ballistics provides ballistics data and software solutions for shooters, hunters and industry partners. Offering books, online training, and advanced ballistics software, Applied Ballistics is dedicated to delivering accurate, unbiased ballistics information and solutions.
Along with the 20 Monday Deals featured here, some major vendors are offering site-wide specials today, Cyber Monday, December 2, 2024. You can get FREE Shipping or FREE Hazmat. In addition, Natchez is running major discounts for the next full week through December 8, 2024. Check out these specials:
Natchez is running a major Cyber Week Sale all this week from 12/2/24 to 12/8/2024. There are discounts up to 70% Off for outdoor gear and shooting accessories. Visit NatchezSS.com for Cyber Week Savings on a vast selection of outdoor gear and shooing products — including ammo — with savings up to 70% off! NOTE: For today only, Monday December 2, 2024 you can also get FREE Shipping with orders of $99.99 or more. Use Code FS241129 for FREE Shipping.
At Sportsman’s Guide, use coupon code SG4124 at checkout to receive 15% off your entire purchase> This works for nearly everything on the site, but with these exclusions: Buyer’s Club Membership fees, Ammo, Firearms, Trolling Motors, Electronics, Night Vision Optics, Generators, Doorbusters, and Bullseye deal items. 50 maximum coupon value. The coupon cannot be combined with any other coupons and cannot be redeemed for cash. Offer expires December 3, 2024.
Get FREE HAZMAT today at Powder Valley Outdoors with an order of $99 or more. Valid Monday, December 2nd only! NOTE: This promotion excludes dealers and cannot be combined with any other offer. Order value is based on $99 of hazardous materials from the following categories: Black Powder, Powder Substitutes, Primers, and Percussion Caps.
EuroOptic is running many CyberWeek and December promotions right now. Some of the deals conclude today 12/2/2024, but other promotions run through 12/8 or even through the end of the month. If you are shopping for a premium optic or a hunting rifle, head over to EuroOptic.com today.
Today, Monday December 2, 2024, Precision Reloading is offering $5 Flat-Rate Shipping on all orders of $99 or more. Use Discount Code SHIP5 at checkout to take advantage of this one-day discount.
Happy Thanksgiving folks. Major gun and optics makers, tool crafters, and large outdoor gear vendors are offering great bargains for Black Friday week. Expect discounts from 10% to 30% on a wide range of quality products.
While some sales are set for Friday, November 24th only, most of the featured Black Friday Sales have already started. And some of these promotions run through Cyber Monday (12/2/2024). Find other sales at Gun.Deals.
Most of the showcased vendors offer discounts on a large inventory selection — in some cases, everything in stock is discounted 10%, 15%, 20% or more. For other sellers, only specific items are on sale, so we’ve identified those particular deals. In addition to the ten sellers showcased below, Brownells is offering big Discount Code savings on nearly all products. Get 15% OFF your Brownells orders with Code BF15.
Come back tomorrow for Part Two of our Black Friday Sales Showcase!
Optics Planet Black Friday and Cyber Monday Sales
Area419 Black Friday Sale and Specials
Guns.com Black Friday Sale with Early Access
Amazon Black Friday Featured Sales
Sportsman’s Outdoor Superstore Black Friday Sales
Powder Valley Outdoors Cyber Week Deals (Available Now)
Ammunition Depot Black Friday Specials — Major Discounts
Silencer Central Black Friday Buy One Get One Free Special
The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) has filed a federal lawsuit challenging restrictive gun control laws in Hawaii which discriminate against young adults, prohibiting them from acquiring, purchasing, and possessing firearms and ammunition, therefore violating their Second and Fourteenth Amendment rights. The lawsuit, which seeks injunctive relief, was filed in U.S. District Court for the District of Hawaii.
SAF is joined by Aloha Strategics LLC, JGB Arms LLC, and two private citizens, Juda Roache and Elijah Pinales. The case is known as Pinales v. Attorney General for the State of Hawaii. The defendant is Hawaii Attorney General Anne E. Lopez, named in her official capacity. SEE Court Filing HERE.
“Hawaii’s ban on the purchase and possession of firearms by adults in the 18- to 20-year age group makes it impossible for these citizens to exercise their constitutional right to keep and bear arms,” noted SAF Executive Director Adam Kraut. “Their rights have been assured by recent Supreme Court rulings, not to mention this nation’s history and tradition, and the Hawaii statutes clearly conflict with those decisions and the relevant history.”
“Hawaii has essentially decided the Second Amendment doesn’t apply in that state”, added SAF founder and Executive V.P. Alan M. Gottlieb. “Under the Fourteenth Amendment, no state shall make or enforce any law which abridges the rights guaranteed to citizens by the U.S. Constitution, and that includes young adults. These prohibitions simply cannot be allowed to stand.”
Hawaii Firearms Coalition Supports SAF Challenge
The Hawaii Firearms Coalition (HIFICO) supports the SAF lawsuit defending young adults’ rights to bear arms. On its Facebook Page HIFICO posted: “Let freedom ring — loud and clear! Hawaii Firearms Coalition has announced its support for the SAF’s groundbreaking lawsuit challenging Hawaii’s unfair ban on firearm ownership for adults under 21.”
HIFICO notes that: “This case takes aim at the state’s unconstitutional restrictions that stop responsible citizens from protecting themselves and exercising their rights. Imagine being old enough to serve in the military, vote, and pay taxes, but being told you can’t defend yourself or your family. Yeah, we don’t think so either! This lawsuit is about fairness, freedom, and upholding the Constitution. The Second Amendment doesn’t come with an age limit!
The lawsuit argues that Hawaii’s age-based restrictions on firearm ownership trample on the rights guaranteed by the Second and Fourteenth Amendments. This isn’t just about the plaintiffs — it’s about all of us. We stand with the young men and women who are fighting back. This case is about empowering law-abiding adults to exercise their rights. It’s about saying, ‘Hey, Hawaii! Follow the Constitution!'”
Will you be traveling (with firearms) to other states to celebrate Thanksgiving with friends and relatives? Are you concerned about the laws that might apply when you are transporting guns across state lines? Or are you puzzled about the requirements for obtaining a carry permit in your own state? If you have any of these questions, you should definitely get expert guidance on State statutes and regulations controlling firearms. To do that, you can purchase Attorney Scott Kappas’s Traveler’s Guide to the Firearms Laws of the 50 States for $15.94 on Amazon or $15.95 from the publisher. There is also an eBook version for $14.95 and a eBook/Print Combo for $22.90.
The latest edition of the Gun Law Guide includes multiple new and expanded sections for 2024. This valuable guide has 91% five-star reviews from book buyers on Amazon. Over 2,000,000 copies of this book have been sold since 1996.
If you don’t want to spend the money on the book, there is a FREE alternative. There’s a very helpful set of State Law Summaries on the web, presented by PewPewTactical.com. Despite the silly name, the PewPewTactical website has an abundance of information that is particularly beneficial for pistol shooters and CCW holders.
One of the best features of PewPewTactical.com is the Gun Laws by State online reference guide. We looked through four of these State Law Summaries and were impressed by the depth of the coverage. But we caution — if you have specific legal questions, particularly with recently-enacted statutes, you should consult a licensed attorney for your state (or the state to which you will travel). In addition, many of the State Law Summaries have not been updated for 3-5 YEARS! But they are still a good place to start. Below are links to state law articles from PewPewTactical.com. To access any State summary, simply click the State name below:
NSSF, the Firearm Industry Trade Association, has launched a big auction with over 30 items up for bid — from one-of-a-kind firearms to exclusive hunting and shooting experiences. Running through January 24, 2025 at NSSF.org/auction, this Celebration of Freedom Auction features more than 30 items ranging from a 7-day dream safari in Africa to collectible firearms from respected gunmakers including Smith & Wesson, Colt, Browning, SIG Sauer, and Ruger. If you are looking for a special gun or a cool hunting holiday, you should check out the auction. We feature eight of the notable items below.
NOTE: Many of these auction items have high level starting bids set in place. For example the Ultimate Outback Elk Hunt has a $12,500 starting bid, and a Leupold Premium Optics Package has a $2500 starting bid. However, there ARE some affordable firearms up to bid such as a Ruger 10/22 Target and a nice Colt CBX precision rifle paired with Colt 44 magnum revolver (current bid $1800.00 for both).
All funds generated by the auction will support the NSSF’s #GUNVOTE voter registration, education, and get-out-the-vote campaign aimed at making sure gun owners continue to have their voices heard and ensuring a strong future for our American freedoms. The auction is open now through the conclusion of the NSSF SHOT Show on January 24, 2025.
Below are a partial sample of the items being auctioned — both trips and products. NOTE: There are over 30 items up for auction, including packages of multiple products.
Thanksgiving, November 28, is just 10 days away. In a few days, a large percentage of Americans will be on the road to visit relatives. We know many of our readers have concealed carry permits or will otherwise be traveling with firearms. When crossing into different states with guns in a vehicle, you need to be mindful of all state and local laws and restrictions.
Five Worst States for Traveling with Firearms
This article appears in the Cheaper Than Dirt Shooter’s Log.
The U.S. is a patchwork of confusing and cumbersome laws that change the rules of what you can carry, where you can carry, and whether you can possess the firearm, ammunition of magazine at without running afoul of the local laws. Now, if every state was like Vermont, law abiding gun owners could freely travel with their firearms with no worries. Unfortunately, many states have a history of being hostile to traveling gun owners.
The federal “Firearms Owner Protection Act” allows travel through any state as long as the firearm is unloaded, in a locked case, and not easily accessible to the passengers. However, that is not to say that certain states that are less friendly to firearms have not created their own laws that would snare unsuspecting otherwise law-abiding firearm owners. This led us to name the Top 5 States to Avoid while traveling with a firearm this holiday season.
CONNECTICUT
Connecticut does not have any gun reciprocity agreements with other states. This means nonresidents are not allowed to carry handguns in Connecticut under a permit issued by another state.
HAWAII
Every person arriving into the state who brings a firearm of any description, usable or not, shall register the firearm within three days of the arrival of the person or the firearm, whichever arrives later, with the chief of police of the county where the person will reside, where their business is, or the person’s place of sojourn. GET Hawaii Firearms INFO HERE.
MASSACHUSETTS
Massachusetts imposes harsh penalties on the mere possession and transport of firearms without a license to carry. Prospective travelers are urged to contact the Massachusetts Firearms Records Bureau at (617) 660-4780 or contact the State Police. GET Massachusetts Firearms INFO HERE.
NEW JERSEY
New Jersey has some of the most restrictive firearms laws in the country. Your firearm must be unloaded, in a locked container, and not accessible in the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The New Jersey Supreme Court ruled that anyone traveling within the state is deemed to be aware of these regulations and will be held strictly accountable for violations. If you’re traveling through New Jersey, the N.J. State Police website provides information regarding transporting firearms within state lines. GET New Jersey Firearms INFO HERE.
NEW YORK
Use extreme caution when traveling through New York state with firearms. New York’s general approach is to make the possession of handguns and so-called “assault weapons” illegal. A number of localities, including Albany, Buffalo, New York City, Rochester, Suffolk County, and Yonkers, impose their own requirements on the possession, registration, and transport of firearms. Possession of a handgun within New York City requires a New York City handgun license or a special permit from the city Police Commissioner. This license validates a state license within the city. Even New York state licenses are generally not valid within New York City unless a specific exemption applies. Possession of a shotgun or rifle within New York City requires a permit, which is available to non-residents, and a certificate of registration.
More Scary States for Gun Owners
Here are six other jurisdictions (five states and DC) where you need to be wary when traveling. California, for example, treats all handguns in vehicles as “loaded” if there is ammunition loaded into an attached magazine. It’s wise, when in California, to have handguns unloaded in a LOCKED case, with all ammunition or magazines in a separate section of the vehicle. These states (and DC) all have laws that can trap unsuspecting gun-owners. Be wary.
California
Delaware
Dist. of Columbia
Illinois
Maryland
Rhode Island
Any long range shooter knows that wind is our ultimate nemesis. The best ways of overcoming wind are to measure what we can and use computers to calculate deflection. The Applied Ballistics Kestrel is a great tool for this. As good as our tools may be, we don’t always have them at our fingertips, or they break, batteries go dead, and so on. In these cases, it’s nice to have a simple way of estimating wind based on known variables. There are numerous wind formulas of various complexity.
The Applied Ballistics (AB) Wind Hack is about the simplest way to get a rough wind solution. Here it is: You simply add 2 to the first digit of your G7 BC, and divide your drop by this number to get the 10 mph crosswind deflection. For example, suppose you’re shooting a .308 caliber 175-grain bullet with a G7 BC of 0.260 at 1000 yards, and your drop is 37 MOA. For a G7 BC of 0.260, your “wind number” is 2+2=4. So your 10 mph wind deflection is your drop (37 MOA) divided by your “wind number” (4) = 9.25 MOA. This is really close to the actual 9.37 MOA calculated by the ballistic software.
WIND HACK Formula
10 mph Cross Wind Deflection = Drop (in MOA) divided by (G7 BC 1st Digit + 2)
Give the AB wind hack a try to see how it works with your ballistics!
Some Caveats: Your drop number has to be from a 100-yard zero. This wind hack is most accurate for supersonic flight. Within supersonic range, accuracy is typically better than +/-6″. You can easily scale the 10 mph crosswind deflection by the actual wind speed. Wind direction has to be scaled by the cosine of the angle.
Happy Thanksgiving folks. Major gun and optics makers, tool crafters, and large outdoor gear vendors are offering great bargains for Black Friday week. Expect discounts from 10% to 30% on a wide range of quality products.
