At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. Creedmoor Sports — Sightron Scope Sale
⏺ Save hundreds on excellent Sightron competition scopes
Sightron offers excellent optics with great performance for the price. We like Sightron Optics for their quality competition scopes at affordable prices. Right now, through 2/29/2024, Creedmoor Sports is running a big Sightron Scopes SALE including the popular SIII LR and the advanced EV SD series. NOTE: If any of these sell out, you can get most of these models on sale direct from Sightron this month. Act soon — this Creedmoor Sports Sale ends 2/29/2024 at the end of February.
2. KYGUNCO — Charles Daly 335 Pump Action Shotgun, $327.63
⏺ Great deal on nice camo hunting shotgun with optic
Do you plan to go turkey hunting this spring but need a new gun? Here’s a handsome, pump-action shotgun with optic at a great price. Right now, at KYGUNCO, the Charles Daly 335 Field 12ga pump shotgun is on sale for just $327.63. This features a 26″ barrel, full Mossy Oak Camo finish, and it comes complete with a 4 MOA Red Dot optic. A real bargain, this is a good choice for spring turkey hunting.
3. Bullet Central — $30 off Bix’N Andy Triggers
⏺ Superb Bix’N Andy Triggers with $30 Off Code
Bix’N Andy triggers work great for PRS, F-Class, silhouette, and Palma competition rigs, and they also work well for hunting rifles. Right now Bullet Central has Bix’N Andy Triggers on sale. Use Code FCJ30 to Save $30 on any purchase of $300 or more including Bix’N Andy triggers. With a wide selection, you’ll find a Bix’N Andy trigger that fits your needs.
4. Graf’s — Ginex Primers in stock including Large Rifle
⏺ Large rifle primers IN STOCK plus other primers at good prices
We’ve seen plenty of small rifle primers but large rifle primers have been very hard to find recently. Graf’s has what you need. Right now Graf’s has GINEX LARGE RIFLE Primers and Small Rifle primers in stock, as well as Large Pistol and Small Pistol primers in stock. All these Unis GINEX primers are available now and ready to ship. User reports on Unis GINEX primers have been very positive.
5. Natchez — Leupold Optics Sale
⏺ Large Leupold sale — riflescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, LRFs and more
If you need a new scope check out the Leupold Optics Sale over at Natchez. Save up to $600 on scopes for hunting rifles, service rifles, varmint rigs, and long-range target rifles. In addition to riflescopes, Leupold spotting scopes, Laser Rangefinders, and Red Dot optics are on sale with big discounts.
6. Amazon — LEE Breech Hand Press Kit, $71.33
⏺ Compact hand press can do a number of key tasks — Great Sale
The LEE Breech Lock Hand Press Kit combines the popular LEE Hand-Held Press with a LEE Breech Lock System that allows reloaders to quickly change dies without having to readjust dies. This hand-held reloading press weighs only 1.5 lbs and works well for depriming tasks or bullet seating at the range. This kit, now just $71.33 on sale, includes Hand Press, Ram Prime Unit, Powder Funnel, and Resizing Lube.
7. Sportsman’s WH — Kel-Tec SUB2000 9mm, $499.99
⏺ Get $100 back from Kel-Tec with Purchase of handy SUB2000 rifle
The Kel-Tec SUB2000 rifle is a semi-auto rifle chambered in 9mm Luger (9x19mm). It can be quickly and easily reduced in size to 16.25 inches for easy transport/storage by simply rotating the barrel up and back. Price after $100 Manufacturer’s Rebate is now just $399.99. Make the $499.99 purchase before 3/1/2024 and Kel-Tec will send out a $100 check. For mounting accessories, the SUB 2000 has two Picatinny fore-end rails plus five M-LOK mounting slots on the fore-end sides.
8. Amazon — Plano 50″ Rifle Case, $47.02
⏺ Good basic case big enough for long-barrel rifles
Protect your firearms from damage with this hard-shell gun case. The Plano Protector Series rifle case is designed to accommodate a single scoped rifle or two non-scoped rifles or shotguns up to 50″ long. This case has heavy duty latches for secure transport. Padlock tabs offer additional security to guard your gear. This Plano gun case is TSA/Airline approved.
9. KYGUNCO — Blazer Pistol Ammunition Sale
⏺ Discounted USA-made 9mm, .38 SPL, .40 SW, 10mm, and .45 ACP ammo
CCI Blazer Pistol Ammunition is quality, made-in-USA pistol ammo that we have used with great success. NOTE: The 9mm ammo has brass cases while the .38 SPL, 10mm, 40 S&W, and .45 ACP Blazer ammo has NON-reloadable aluminum cases to keep price to a minimum. We have found, in most pistols, this ammo functions very well and is just as accurate as CCI brass-cased pistol ammo. With 50ct boxes on SALE now in 9mm, .38 SPL, 10mm, 40 S&W, and .45 ACP, you can save money and practice more often. The 9mm is a steal at $12.49/50 while the 230gr .45 ACP is a very good deal at $19.45/50.
10. Amazon — Splatterburst Targets 50pk, $39.99
⏺ Targets have fifteen 3″ bulls per sheet — bullet impacts show bright yellow
Splatterburst Targets make spotting bullet impacts easy, with hi-viz, bright yellow shot marks. With fifteen 3″ bullseyes, this Splatterburt target sheet is great for rimfire or centerfire practice. And you can see bullet impacts out to 400 yards. And right now you can get FIFTY (50) of these 15-bull target sheets for just $39.99 on Amazon — that’s just 80 cents per target sheet. The BRIGHT yellow bullet holes are visible in all light conditions, great for people with weak vision.
Right now you can get HUGE SAVINGS on Sightron competition scopes at Creedmoor Sports. Save $630 on fixed-power optics, save $680 on 8-32x56mm SIII models, and save a whopping $1440 on the latest, advanced 10-50x60mm SV ED models. Other Sightron competition scopes are discounted $680 to $740, so you can save up to 40%. Don’t hesitate — these prices are good for just ONE MORE WEEK. This Sightron SALE concludes on February 29, 2024.
Save $1440-$1500 on Outstanding SV ED Series
The Sightron SV ED 10-50x60mm SFP is a great choice for F-Class, ELR, and long range target shooting. The 34mm body tube with ED glass provides 70 MOA elevation and 60 MOA windage. Large oversized tactical turrets with 1/8 MOA clicks provide 10 MOA per revolution. The patented F.A.S.T focus system provides two focus dials; the first operates like a standard quick acquisition focus knob, and the second provides a 4 to 1 gear reduction for smooth fine focus. Models include the 10-50×60 ED Target Dot .1 and 10-50×60 ED Zero Stop Target Dot .1.
Save $630 on SIII 36X and 45X Competition Models
Sightron SIII riflescopes are high-quality, non-zoom, single high-magnification optics for competitive shooting disciplines. Choose 36 power or 45 power. These are great choice for benchrest for score and group shooting. Models with Instant Savings are the 36×45 ED with Fine Cross Hair reticle, 36×45 ED Target Dot .125 reticle, 45×45 ED with Fine Cross Hair reticle, and 45×45 ED Target Dot .1 reticle.
Brownells is a well-known retailer of guns, gun parts, tools, accessories, ammo, and pretty much everything gun-related. What you may not know is that Brownells has a very active video production department that releases new “how-to” and product information videos every week. These videos offer helpful advice on gun cleaning/maintenance, reloading, as well as selecting/assembling components for various kinds of rifles. And every week Brownells serves up a new products video. There now over 3000 videos on the Brownells YouTube Channel, a great resource.
Here are six of our favorite videos from Brownells. There’s a helpful guide to scope installation, AR owners will find some good advice on spare parts, new reloaders can learn how to use the OAL tool, and all gun owners should watch the video on ammunition storage.
Scope-Mounting — Common Mistakes to Avoid
Always be careful when mounting a rifle scope. This isn’t a super-complex or highly technical task, but there are ways you can mess it up. This video explains common pitfalls to avoid when mounting a scope.
1. Make sure the rings don’t touch ANY part of the turret housing, objective bell, or eyepiece.
2. Be certain the scope rings are tightly clamped to the scope base. Grasp the scope with one hand and the rifle with the other, then ensure there is no play.
3. Make sure there’s clearance between the objective bell and the rifle. No part of the scope should touch the rifle itself.
4. NEVER over-tighten the scope rings. You can actually crush the scope tube and damage the optic beyond repair. Stick to the torque specs!
How to Use Hornady OAL Tool and Hornady Bullet Comparator
Gun Tech Steve Ostrem explains how to properly use Hornady’s Overall Length Gauge to determine length-to-land precisely. The OAL Gauge uses a “Modified Case” that threads onto the tool and holds a bullet. Push on the back of the gauge until you feel the bullet just touch the rifling. (We do this gently at first, tapping the rod a couple time to ensure the bullet is aligned correctly). Once you’ve got the length, then use the tool with a comparator on your calipers to get the length-to-lands. NOTE: We recommend taking the measurement 3-4 times in a row to get a reliable number. With a little practice your should be able to get repeatable measurements within .0015″.
Air Travel with Firearms — Key Regulations You Must Follow
You can travel on commercial airlines with firearms. But you must follow the TSA regulations, and your particular airline’s rules. First, make sure your guns are UNLOADED before your leave home. Guns need to be carried in proper hard-sided cases that cannot be pried open. Be prepared to unlock the case if the TSA wants to inspect what’s inside. TSA agents can cut the locks if they need to open the case but can’t locate you. If you use special TSA-approved locks, TSA agents have master keys that let them open the case without destroying your locks. You CAN transport up to 11 pounds of ammunition — with restrictions explained in the video.
How to Store Ammunition Safely and Securely
This has been one of the most popular Brownells videos — with over 1.7 million views. Here’s the deal — ammunition WILL keep for a long time if you store it properly. DO store ammunition in a cool, dry place that doesn’t have wide temperature swings. Temperature cycling will also degrade primers and powder. Put it in airtight ammo cans to keep out the moisture. Tupperware containers will work too. Brownells also recommends putting moisture-absorbing silica packs in your ammo containers. DON’T just keep ammo in factory cardboard factory boxes stacked in the basement, attic, or garage (especially on the floor). Factory ammo boxes can absorb moisture which can degrade primers and corrode the brass cases. Yes, sealed military ammo will usually handle this kind of storage for quite a while, but it’s still not wise.
Must-Have Spare Parts for AR-Platform Rifles
In this video, two knowledgeable gun techs answer the question: “What spare parts should I keep on hand for my AR-15?” On the list are: Gas Rings, Buffer Spring, Extractor Spring and Pin. NOTE: You may want to try the one-piece spiral gas ring rather than the standard rings which require alignment. The cotter pin and cam pin can also easily get lost when the Bolt Carrier Group is disassembled for cleaning. On the lower receiver you’ll want spare springs and detents for the pivot/takedown pins. If you’re using lighter-power springs, keep standard-power spares on hand. If your rifle stops working, swap in the factory-spec springs to find out if the problem is the gun or your ammo. Also, if you have upgraded your trigger, always keep the original trigger as a backup.
Cleaning Advice for .22 LR Rimfire Rifles
Gun Techs Steve Ostrem and Caleb Savant debunk some myths about cleaning .22 LR barrels. One myth is that cleaning will harm the accuracy of a .22 LR barrel. Caleb thinks this myth is the result of people cleaning a barrel from the muzzle and damaging the muzzle crown, which CAN diminish accuracy. If it’s done right, cleaning won’t damage the bore. However, you certainly do NOT have to clean your 22 LR’s bore every time you go to the range. But DO clean the action every time you shoot the rifle, especially on a semi-auto. What about shooting a lot of lead bullets? Won’t that lead up the bore? The guys give us the straight skinny on lead fouling, too. When you see your .22 LR rifle’s groups opening up, you may want to consider cleaning.
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At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. Bullet Central — Berger Bullets Promo, All Calibers
⏺ Great bullets in stock at very competitive prices
Bullet Central has a very large selection of Berger bullets in stock right now. You’ll find great prices on match bullets in popular .224, 6mm, 6.5mm, 7mm, and .30 Calibers, starting at just $37.99 for 80gr 22-Cal VLDs. If you shoot a 6mmBR, Dasher, or 6GT, grab some 105gr Hybrid targets for $56.99. In addition, Berger hunting bullets — such as the 185gr .30-Cal Classic Hunter — are offered at good prices.
⏺ Fast, programmable, accurate dispenser at great price
The Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper is a high-quality powder scale/dispenser. It’s accurate to +/- one-tenth of a grain, dispenses in seconds, and can be controlled by a handy mobile App that stores charge weights for different cartridges. This unit has a 7000-grain capacity with both auto and manual trickle capability. This is a fine deal now at Natchez — you save $50 (22%) off the regular $229.99 price. The same Intellidropper is currently $199.02 on Amazon.
3. Midsouth, Powder Valley, Graf’s — Rifle Primers in Stock
⏺ Get Small Rifle Primers including popular CCI, Federal, and Remington
For the past few years, primers have been hard to find at reasonable prices. Now we are finally seeing ample inventory. Right now you can get a wide range of Rifle, Pistol and Shotshell Primers at Midsouth starting at $69.99/1000. In stock now are leading US-made brands CCI, Federal, and Remington. In addition, Midsouth has large inventories of Aguila, Fiocchi, and Unis primers. Another option are RUAG Small Rifle Primers at Powder Valley, priced at $184.99 for 2500, which works out to $75.00 per 1000. If you need large rifle primers, Graf’s has Unis Ginex large rifle, 5000 for $535.00.
4. CDNN Sports — Winchester Wildcat with Optic, $229.99
⏺ Fun rimfire rifle complete with optic — good owner reviews
Here is a fun little semi-auto .22 LR rifle at a crazy low price — $229.99 complete with a mounted Red Dot Reflex optic. The Winchester Wildcat takes Ruger 10/22 mags, and has some great features, such as field-removable lower receiver, ambidextrous controls, integral Picatinny rail, and rear barrel access. It has a good trigger and shoots well. In many respects the Wildcat beats the Ruger 10/22 while costing a lot less. If you don’t need the optic, you can get a basic Wildcat for $219.99 with Strata camo stock or $234.99 with Strata camo stock and threaded barrel.
⏺ Very rugged, full-featured TSA-approved roller case
Whether flying or just transporting your rifles to the range it’s important to protect them with a rugged, quality gun case. The solidly-built HQ Issue 41″ Tactical Rifle Case (#ad) meets all the TSA requirements and can withstand tough treatment. Offered in Flat Dark Earth (tan), this waterproof case has rollers to ease movement through the airport. Handy pick-n-pluck foam allows a secure custom fit for your firearms. NOTE: This case is 41″ overall so it will NOT fit long-barrel competition rifles unless the action is separated from the stock/chassis. For larger rifles, one good option is the Eylar 53″ Protective Roller Rifle Hard Case priced at $199.99.
6. Palmetto SA — AR15 Complete Stealth Lower (Blem), $139.99
⏺ GREAT deal on complete lower with full trigger group and adjustable stock
With changes to Federal law looming on the horizon, it may be wise to get your Black Rifle now. Here is a great deal on a complete lower with stock. The PSA AR-15 MOE Stealth Lowers include full installed trigger group, plus a nice, adjustable MagPul MOE buttstock. The prices are super low because these “blem” lowers may have a small scratch or blemish somewhere. Get the Black Stealth AR Lower for $139.99 or select the Flat Dark Earth AR Lower for $149.99.
7. Bass Pro — 9mm FMJ Pistol Ammo, $0.30/Rd ($14.99/50)
⏺ Very good prices on good quality 9mm FMJ ammunition
Need 9mm ammo for practice or action pistol competition? Right now Bass Pro has some great deals on good quality, brass-cased FMJ 9mm Luger ammunition. Choose CCI 124gr FMJ at $14.99/50rds, Winchester 115gr FMJ at $14.99/50rds, or Herters 115gr FMJ at $26.99 for 100 rounds.
When traveling by air with a handgun, the pistol must be in a case with a TSA-approved lock. The Snapsafe Treklite XL Lock Box complies with TSA rules. It will hold two compact pistols or one larger pistol with magazing (which must be UNLOADED). Made with a strong polycarbonate case, This lightweight (2.2 lb) lock box is one-third the weight of a steel box. Right now the Treklite XL FDE Lock Box is just $29.99 at Midsouth, 25% OFF the regular price.
9. Amazon — KUBEI USB Rechargeable Digital Scale, $24.99
⏺ Compact scale with USB-rechargeable battery at great price
Everyone can use an inexpensive, compact scale for loading at the range or sorting bullets or maybe even primers. One very affordable option KUBEI USB Rechargeable Digital Scale (#ad). Unlike most other inexpensive digital scales, this comes with a large dust cover with a “window” for your powder pan. Notably, this scale can be conveniently recharged with a standard USB cable — no batteries to replace ever! We have heard positive reports from Forum members about this $24.99 portable scale, which offers 9 types of weight units, calibration weight, and fold-down protective lid.
10. Palmetto SA — Walker’s Muffs + Safety Glasses, $15.99
⏺ Killer deal on hearing and eye protection combo
Is it time to replace your hearing and eye protection? Or perhaps you could use an extra set for friends? Check out this Walker’s Ultra Slim Muff & Glasses Combo. You get good quality 27dB NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) muffs AND a set of ANSI Z87.1-rated shooting glasses — all for just $15.99. That’s a great price for essential safety items. Shooters should always have both eye and ear protection whenever at the range.
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SHOT Show 2024 had thousands of new products on display, including interesting lightweight hunting rifles, innovative optics-ready pistols, cool new compact Radar chronographs, and a variety of high-quality optics. In today’s video showcase we feature four new product videos from SHOT Show 2024. Plus we include a fifth bonus video — an interesting interview with Montana Governor Greg Gianforte.
Backfire (Jim Harmer) Channel at SHOT Show
Here’s a lengthy, 41-minute video from the Backfire YouTube Channel. Host Jim Harmer (a bright chap and trained attorney) visits dozens of booths to showcase new firearms and new products. This video is worth watching start to finish (but perhaps in multiple sessions). Hunters should check out the offerings from Tikka (13:57), Howa (16:54), Savage (18:27), and Bergara (25:56). If you’re considering buying a new chronograph, check out the hot-selling Garmin Xero C1 (8:08 time-mark) and brand new, compact LabRadar LX (7:42 time-mark).
Classic Fireams — Rifles, Pistols, and Vivek Ramaswamy
Here is another lengthy video that covers a wide variety of products and includes an interview with the very bright and articulate Vivek Ramaswamy, who was a Republican presidential candidate. The interview with Vivek starts at the 10:55 time-mark. In the gun realms, there were some interesting rifles shown by Stag Arms (13:48), and upper receivers and stock accessories from VLTOR (28:39). And at 17:18, new pistols from Ed Brown are featured. The video begins with new suppressors for HUXWRX at 2:23.
2:23 HUXWRX
10:55 Vivek Ramaswamy Interview
13:48 Stag Arms
17:18 Ed Brown
24:10 Shadow Systems
28:39 VLTOR
40:24 Modlite
46:20 Hi-Point
48:38 Toast Target
57:26 Range System
March Scopes — F-Class John interviews Gary Costello
Our friend F-Class John visited the March Optics booth to interview UK Ace F-Class shooter Gary Costello and March representative Mary, who traveled from March headquarters in Japan. John and Gary talked about the March-X 8-80x56mm Majesta “High Master” scope which John has fitted on his own match rifle. This is an amazing SFP optic offering a full 10X magnification range and six reticle choices.
New Handguns from SHOT Show — James Reeves of TFB-TV
In this video, James Reeves of The Firearm Blog (TFB-TV) reviews five notable new or recently-updated pistols. James uses some fairly rough language at times, but he is a knowledgeable fellow who gets to shoot more different guns in a year than most of us can shoot in a decade or more. The five featured pistols are: Smith & Wesson “Ultimate Carry” Revolver (00:46), Zev OZ9c (his favorite of the show (2:20), Beretta PX4 Compact Carry 2 (3:33), Daniel Defense H9 (4:36), Beretta 30X Tomcat (see below).
Bonus: Interview with Montana Governor Greg Gianforte
Montana Governor Greg Gianforte attended the 2024 SHOT Show and joined the NSSF tems to discuss the Second Amendment rights of Montana citizens and the importance of the firearm industry to his state. We wish more states had leaders like this who understand the heritage of the Second Amendment and how hunting fees support wildlife conservation efforts. If you can’t load this Facebook Video, CLICK HERE for YouTube version.
A varmint shooter’s target is not conveniently placed at a fixed, known distance as it is for a benchrester. The varminter must repeatedly make corrections for bullet drop as he moves from closer targets to more distant targets and back again. Click HERE to read an interesting Varmint Forum discussion regarding the best method to adjust for elevation. Some shooters advocate using the scope’s elevation adjustments. Other varminters prefer to hold-over, perhaps with the assistance of vertical markers on their reticles. Still others combine both methods–holding off to a given yardage, then cranking elevation after that.
Majority View — Click Your Scope
“I zero at 100 yards — I mean really zero as in check the ballistics at 200 and 300 and adjust zero accordingly — and then set the scope zero. For each of my groundhog guns I have a click chart taped into the inside of the lid of the ammo box. Then use the knobs. That’s why they’re there. With a good scope they’re a whole lot more accurate than hold-over, with or without hash marks. This all assumes you have a good range finder and use it properly. If not, and you’re holding over you’re really just spraying and praying. Try twisting them knobs and you’ll most likely find that a 500- or 600- or 700-yard groundhog is a whole lot easier than some people think.” — Gunamonth
“I have my elevation knob calibrated in 100-yard increments out to 550. Range-find the critter, move elevation knob up…dead critter. The problem with hold-over is that it is so imprecise. It’s not repeatable because you are holding over for elevation and for wind also. Every time you change targets 50 yards, it seems as if you are starting over. As soon as I got completely away from the hold over method (I used to zero for 200), my hit ratios went way up.” — K. Candler
“When I first started p-dog shooting, I attempted to use the hold-over method with a 200-yard zero with my 6mm Rem. Any dog much past 325-350 yards was fairly safe. I started using a comeups table for all three of my p-dog rifles (.223 Rems and 6mm Rem). 450-yard hits with the .223s are fairly routine and a 650-yard dog better beware of the 6mm nowadays. An added benefit (one I didn’t think of beforehand) with the comeups table (elevation only), is that when the wind is blowing, it takes half of the variables out of the equation. I can concentrate on wind, and not have to worry about elevation. It makes things much more simple.” — Mike (Linefinder).
“I dial for elevation and hold for wind. Also use a mil-dot reticle to make the windage holds easier. For windage corrections, I watch for the bullet strike measure the distance it was “off” with the mil-dot reticle, then hold that much more the other way. Very fast once you get used to it.” — PepeLP
Minority View — Hold-Over is Better
“I try to not touch my knobs once I’m zeroed at 200 meters. Most of my varmint scopes have duplex reticles and I use the bottom post to put me on at 300 meters versus turning knobs. The reason I try to leave my knobs alone is that I have gone one complete revolution up or down [too far] many times and have missed the varmint. This has happened more than once and that is why I try not to change my knobs if at all possible.” — Chino69
“I have been using the hold over method and it works for me most of the time but the 450 yards and over shots get kinda hard. I moved to a 300 yard zero this year and it’s working well. I do want to get into the click-up method though; it seems to be more fool-proof.” — 500YardHog
Compromise View — Use Both Methods
“I use both [methods] as well — hold over out to 250, and click up past that.” — Jack (Wolf)
“I use the target knobs and crank-in elevation. I also use a rangefinder and know how far away they are before I crank in the clicks. I have a scope with drop dots from Premier Recticle and like it. No cranking [knobs] out to 600.” –Vmthtr
Let’s say you’ve purchased a new scope, and the spec-sheet indicates it is calibrated for quarter-MOA clicks. One MOA is 1.047″ inches at 100 yards, so you figure that’s how far your point of impact (POI) will move with four clicks. Well, unfortunately, you may be wrong. You can’t necessarily rely on what the manufacturer says. Production tolerances being what they are, you should test your scope to determine how much movement it actually delivers with each click of the turret. It may move a quarter-MOA, or maybe a quarter-inch, or maybe something else entirely. (Likewise scopes advertised as having 1/8-MOA clicks may deliver more or less than 1 actual MOA for 8 clicks.)
Reader Lindy explains how to check your clicks: “First, make sure the rifle is not loaded. Take a 40″ or longer carpenter’s ruler, and put a very visible mark (such as the center of an orange Shoot’N’C dot), at 37.7 inches. (On mine, I placed two dots side by side every 5 inches, so I could quickly count the dots.) Mount the ruler vertically (zero at top) exactly 100 yards away, carefully measured.
Place the rifle in a good hold on sandbags or other rest. With your hundred-yard zero on the rifle, using max magnification, carefully aim your center crosshairs at the top of the ruler (zero end-point). Have an assistant crank on 36 (indicated) MOA (i.e. 144 clicks), being careful not to move the rifle. (You really do need a helper, it’s very difficult to keep the rifle motionless if you crank the knobs yourself.) With each click, the reticle will move a bit down toward the bottom of the ruler. Note where the center crosshairs rest when your helper is done clicking. If the scope is accurately calibrated, it should be right at that 37.7 inch mark. If not, record where 144 clicks puts you on the ruler, to figure out what your actual click value is. (Repeat this several times as necessary, to get a “rock-solid”, repeatable value.) You now know, for that scope, how much each click actually moves the reticle at 100 yards–and, of course, that will scale proportionally at longer distances. This optical method is better than shooting, because you don’t have the uncertainly associated with determining a group center.
Using this method, I discovered that my Leupold 6.5-20X50 M1 has click values that are calibrated in what I called ‘Shooter’s MOA’, rather than true MOA. That is to say, 4 clicks moved POI 1.000″, rather than 1.047″ (true MOA). That’s about a 5% error.
I’ve tested bunches of scopes, and lots have click values which are significantly off what the manufacturer has advertised. You can’t rely on printed specifications–each scope is different. Until you check your particular scope, you can’t be sure how much it really moves with each click.
I’ve found the true click value varies not only by manufacturer, but by model and individual unit. My Leupold 3.5-10 M3LR was dead on. So was my U.S.O. SN-3 with an H25 reticle, but other SN-3s have been off, and so is my Leupold 6.5-20X50M1. So, check ‘em all, is my policy.”
From the Expert: “…Very good and important article, especially from a ballistics point of view. If a ballistics program predicts 30 MOA of drop at 1000 yards for example, and you dial 30 MOA on your scope and hit high or low, it’s easy to begin questioning BCs, MVs, and everything else under the sun. In my experience, more than 50% of the time error in trajectory prediction at long range is actually scope adjustment error. For serious long range shooting, the test described in this article is a MUST!” — Bryan Litz, Applied Ballistics LLC.
Bryan also uses a Tall Target Test to determine true click values. CLICK HERE to read a detailed, explanatory article about Litz’s Tall Target Test.
This article, as published in AccurateShooter.com, contains copyrighted content. It shall not be republished in whole or in part without advanced permission in writing. The act of republishing constitutes legal consent to licensing fees.
After the hugely successful release of the compact Garmin Xero C1 Pro chronograph, two competitors are now playing “catch-up” with all-new compact radar chronographs. LabRadar has an impressive new unit, the LX Compact, while Caldwell introduced its midsized VelociRadar which employs innovative Chirp Radar technology. For today’s Saturday Video Showcase, we feature recent video reviews of these three notable Compact Radar Chronographs.
Caldwell VelociRadar
Caldwell showcased its all-new VelociRadar chronograph at SHOT Show 2024. This is quite a bit bigger than the Garmin Xero C1 Pro or the new LabRadar LX compact. But it is still relatively small compared to the original orange LabRadar unit.
Notably, the Caldwell VelociRadar uses a different mode of radar (Chirp Radar vs. Doppler) than other chronos, which offers some advantages. Caldwell states: “The Caldwell VelociRadar Chronograph is precision redefined with cutting-edge Chirp radar technology. This is no standard chronograph, while most chronographs stop at only providing muzzle velocity the VelociRadar tracks bullets downrange offering the full picture of ballistic performance. Using these downrange velocity measurements, the VelociRadar calculates true muzzle velocity, the bullet’s ballistic coefficient, and downrange energy.” Note that point about BCs — Caldwell says this new machine will let you calculate the true Ballistic Coefficients of your bullets as fired from your rifle.
LabRadar LX Compact
LabRadar announced its new LabRadar LX compact Doppler radar chronograph at the 2024 SHOT Show. This is a truly compact unit, measuring just 2.5″ X 2.75″ X 2.75″. The LabRadar LX comes with a tough metal case, lifetime battery, and ships with a tripod. The unit has a velocity range of 65 to 5000 FPS and it can display Average, ES, SD, Min, and Max Velocity.
Observers at SHOT Show noted the LabRadar LX has a very bright, high-contrast LCD Screen for outdoor viewing. Overall, the exterior design and specs are impressive. Definitely watch both videos to understand the difference in features between the Garmin and this ultra-compact new LabRadar LX. If you’re shopping for a compact chrono it’s worth looking at all the options. The Garmin Xero C1 Pro is currently $599.99, while the new Labradar LX is $599.95.
Garmin Xero C1 Pro Chronograph
The Garmin Xero® C1 Pro chronograph has already been a big success. After great initial test reports, this compact $599.99 chronograph has been selling out at vendors nationwide. With the performance and quality of the Xero C1 Pro, many LabRadar owners are putting their older orange radar chronos up for sale. Check out the features of this new compact radar chrono in this official product launch video from Garmin:
Introduced in late 2023, the Xero C1 Pro radar chronograph has been an instant hit. Measuring just 3.03″ x 2.38″ x 1.36″, the Xero C1 Pro is compact and easy to transport. Using Doppler radar, the Xero C1 Pro accurately records projectile velocities from 100 fps to 5,000 fps, so it works with all kinds of projectiles. Setup is simple and intuitive, thanks to the button-operated design. SEE FULL RecoilWeb Review.
Garmin offers a modern ShotView™ smartphone app and lets you compare velocities for all shots fired, track ES/SD, and record total sessions. The rugged Xero C1 Pro chrono has a IPX7 water-resistant rating and boasts up to 6 hours of battery life. The unit ships with a compact tripod mount, and the screen is described as “sunlight-visible, transflective, monochrome” so it is easy to view in all conditions.
Above is a recent video review from our friends at Area 419. This review confirms that the Garmin is very reliable, extremely easy to set-up, and the provided Smartphone App works great. User reports have been very positive, and our testers note that the Garmin works better on air rifles than the original LabRadar.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. Sportsman’s WH — Savage 64 Precision Rimfire Rifle, $259.99
⏺ Great deal on good starter rifle for NRL22
Here’s a bargain-priced .22 LR rifle in a modern chassis. The semi-auto Savage 64 Precision boasts a nice chassis with M-LOK slots and ergonomic pistol grip. The heavy barrel has a threaded muzzle for easy attachment of brake or suppressor. The testers in the video said this rifle was a “fantastic trainer gun” — very reliable AND very accurate. That makes this a great starting rifle for NRL22, plus the semi-auto action allows fast follow-up shots. Get this rifle on sale now for $259.99 at Sportsman’s Warehouse.
⏺ Nice small press and LOTs of tools — great price
For people getting started in hand-loading, it’s wise to start with a kit that has most of the tools you need. The very affordable RCBS Partner Press Reloading Kit comes with Press, Powder Scale, Powder Funnel, Loading Block, Lube Tray, Neck Brushes, Dubur Tool, Load Manual and more. These Partner Presses work well for loading at the range, or use the compact Partner as a second press for depriming or bullet seating.
3. EuroOptic — 15% Off Vortex Optics
⏺ Significant savings on full line of Vortex optics
Vortex scopes are a top choice of hunters and target shooters alike. Vortex offers a superb warranty and a wide variety of optics types and zoom levels. If you’ve wanted to grab a new Vortex riflescope or spotting scope visit EuroOptic. Right now you can get 15% off the vast majority of Vortex products EuroOptic has in stock. Use CODE VTX15 to get the 15% savings.
4. CDNN Sports — HK 416 .22 LR Rimfire, $399.99
⏺ Great option for AR cross-training or rimfire gun games, save $200
If you own an AR for Service Rifle competition or 3-Gun matches, here’s a great option for inexpensive rimfire cross-training. An AR-type .22 LR rifle can also be effective in NRL22 matches. Right now you can save $134 on the HK 416 .22 LR rifle plus you get a $50 card for HK webshop products. This rifle boasts a 16.1″ barrel, retractable stock, M-LOK rail, and adjustable flip-up sights. With authentic AR dimensions and ergonomics, this is a great cross-trainer.
5. Firearms Depot — Aguila .22 LR Ammo 2000 Rds, $109.38
⏺ Amazingly low price for .22 LR Ammo for plinking and training
How’d you like decent .22 LR ammo for just 5.5 cents ($0.055) per round? This is one of the best deals we’ve seen in years. You could shoot a 100-round NRL22 match for just $5.50 in ammo cost. Heck you could pay that much for just nine major brand 6.5mm bullets (at $59.99/100 they’re 60 cents each). Act soon to get these spectacular savings.
6. MidwayUSA — Walker’s Quad Connect 26 dB NRR Bluetooth Electronic Muffs, $44.79
⏺ Comfortable with excellent 26 dB NRR plus Bluetooth connectivity
These Walker Ultimate Electronic Quad muffs have an exceptionally high 26dB noise reduction rating (NRR). Some other electronic muffs are rated at just 20 or 21 dB NRR, a huge difference. These are equipped with Bluetooth so you can receive calls and audio from your smartphone. These muffs boast FOUR Omni Directional Microphones, twin volume controls, adjustable frequency tuning, integrated voice mic, and really fast reaction time. If you want something thinner, the Walker’s NRR 23 Slim Muffs are also on sale, for just $39.99, 33% Off.
7. Amazon — Tipton Best Gun Vise, $79.59
⏺ Versatile, stable, works with all rifles, including ARs
When cleaning long guns, you need a secure, stable platform. We recommend the Tipton Best Gun Vise, now $79.59 on Amazon (#ad). This vise was designed to accommodate the widest possible array of firearms for cleaning, maintenance, or gunsmithing. This vise is easily configurable to handle bolt-action rifles, break-open shotguns, AR-15s, and handguns.
8. MidwayUSA — Wheeler AR Magwell Support Block, $19.99
⏺ Great AR holder — use with Gun Vise or bench-mounted
Here’s a cool tool for AR owners, now just $19.99 on sale. The Wheeler Delta series mag well vise block holds standard AR15 lowers with your Tipton Best Gun Vise, or can work directly mounted to a bench. The vise block has 180 degrees of rotation. There is a built-in hammer stop to protect your lower while testing triggers. NOTE: This block is designed for general maintenance only. It will NOT work for removing or installing barrels, handguards, or other accessories that require large amounts of torque.
9. Amazon — Scope Turret Magnifying Glass with Level, $12.99
Making rapid, yet precise scope turret adjustments can be challenging, especially during fast, timed stages. Most scope turrets have small, thin markings that can be tough to see (particularly with older eyes). To see your elevation turret markings better, try the Monstrum Scope Turret Magnifying Glass with Level (#ad). This simple but effective tool places a magnifier on the shooter’s side of the turret allowing easy viewing. In addition, this handy unit includes a built-in bubble level to help the shooter avoid canting his rifle.
10. Amazon — MTM R-100 Ammo Box, $17.99
⏺ Best 100-rd ammo box, securely holds cartridges nose up or nose down
For transporting ammo to the range, we like the MTM R-100 Deluxe ammo box (#ad). These durable R-100 flip-top ammo boxes provide excellent protection for your ammo. When rounds are in the nose-down position special fingers in each hole prevent bullets from hitting the bottom of the box, thereby preventing tip damage. You can also pick up a semi-transparent blue version for $17.99 at MidwayUSA. We like being able to see the cartridges inside the box.
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SHOT Show 2024 has been running January 22-26, 2024. Here are FREE digital magazines covering many new products displayed at the show. We’ve embedded three digital versions of the SHOT Daily print magazine provided to SHOT Show attendees. You can navigate page by page with the left/right white arrows in the gray box below. To quickly scan through an entire 60+ page digital magazine, use the slide bar. When you find content you want to read, use the zoom control or click the FULL SCREEN brackets icon at lower right.
We highly recommend two big feature stories. In the Day 1 Edition, check out the Guns 2024 article starting on page 30. You can also read the New Rifles section of this story on the SHOT Show Website. In the Day 2 Edition, look for the Optics 2024 article starting on page 40. And in the Day 3 Edition, New Electronics (including Garmin Xero C1 Pro Radar Chrono) are covered starting on page 40. NOTE: These magazines are large digital files that may take a few seconds to load fully. Click the titles below to read each of the four 2024 SHOT Daily issues.
The daily news of the 2024 Las Vegas SHOT Show is brought to you by NSSF and Grand View Outdoors, a division of Cole Publishing. Click each cover image to launch full digital magazine.
A varmint shooter’s target is not conveniently placed at a fixed, known distance as it is for a benchrester. The varminter must repeatedly make corrections for bullet drop as he moves from closer targets to more distant targets and back again. 
Minority View — Hold-Over is Better
Reader Lindy explains how to check your clicks: “First, make sure the rifle is not loaded. Take a 40″ or longer carpenter’s ruler, and put a very visible mark (such as the center of an orange Shoot’N’C dot), at 37.7 inches. (On mine, I placed two dots side by side every 5 inches, so I could quickly count the dots.) Mount the ruler vertically (zero at top) exactly 100 yards away, carefully measured.
