We first ran this article in 2012, and it was very well received. Since then, many Forum members have requested an explanation of MILS and mildots, so we decided to run this feature again…
1 Milliradian (Milrad or ‘Mil’) = 1/1000th of a radian | 1 Milliradian = 0.0573 degrees.
In this NSSF Video, Ryan Cleckner, a former Sniper Instructor for the 1st Ranger Battalion, defines the term “MilliRadian” (Milrad) and explains how you can use a mildot-type scope to range the distance to your target. It’s pretty simple, once you understand the angular subtension for the reticle stadia dots/lines. Cleckner also explains how you can use the milrad-based reticle markings in your scope for elevation hold-overs and windage hold-offs.
Even if you normally shoot at known distances, the hold-off capability of milrad-reticle scopes can help you shoot more accurately in rapidly-changing wind conditions. And, when you must engage multiple targets quickly, you can use the reticle’s mil markings to move quickly from one target distance to another without having to spin your elevation turrets up and down.
WEB RESOURCES: If you want to learn more about using Milliradians and Mildot scopes, we suggest the excellent Mil-dot Explained article from targettamers.com Guide. This covers the basics you need to know, with clear illustrations.
Also informative is The Truth about Mil Dots by Michael Haugen. Mr. Haugen begins with basic definitions: 360 degrees = 2 x Pi (symbol π) Radians. That means 1 Radian is about 57.3 degrees. 1 Milliradian (Milrad or ‘Mil’) = 1/1000th of a radian. Thus 1 Milliradian = .0573 degrees.
If you need high-quality optics for your fall hunt, check this out. Now through November 30, ZEISS will offer a fall hunting promotion through participating ZEISS authorized retailers. The promotion includes two popular ZEISS product lines, the Conquest V4 riflescopes and SFL binoculars. With this promotion you get INSTANT SAVINGS of $150 or $250.
$150 Instant Savings on ZEISS Conquest V4 Scopes
Now through 11/20/2023 you can get $150 instant savings on ZEISS’s best-selling riflescope family, the Conquest V4 line. ZEISS offers a total of 21 unique configurations within the Conquest V4 riflescope portfolio. There are five models available, all with 30mm main tubes: 3-12x44mm, 3-12x56mm, 4-16x44mm, 4-16x50mm, and 6-24x50mm. ZEISS V4 scopes deliver 90% light transmission, have a great amount of elevation adjustment, and are designed to handle up to 1500 g-force of recoil. Select models feature the ZEISS External Locking Windage Turret, as well as illumination and a Ballistic Stop.
$250 Instant Savings on ZEISS SFL Binoculars
Enjoy a $250 instant savings on the ZEISS SFL line of binoculars. With the SFL 30 and 40, memorable moments can be experienced with ease. Optimized to be as lightweight and compact as possible, the SFL line features the Ultra-High-Definition (UHD) Concept which ensures true-to-life color reproduction and the highest level of detail. Thanks to its SmartFocus Concept, the focus wheel is perfectly positioned and enables fast and precise focusing – even with gloves on. The lightweight magnesium housing provides long lasting durability that will endure for generations. The SFL binocular comes in four models: the 8×30, 10×30, 8×40, and 10×40.
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 Axis w/ Scope Combo, $399.99
⏺ Great price on hunting rifle with scope
Need an affordable scoped rifle for a fall hunt? Check out the Savage Axis w/ Bushnell Combo. For just $399.99, you get the Savage Axis XP Rifle with mounted Bushnell 4-12x40mm scope. Chose from a variety of popular chamberings including: .223 Rem, .243 Rem, 6.5 Creedmoor, ,270 Win, .308 Win, 350 Legend, and .30-06 Springfield. Most feature a 22″ barrel, but some come with 18″ or 20″ barrels. The AXIS XP features a tough synthetic stock and detachable box magazine.
2. Amazon — Kestrel 1000 Wind Meter, $79.00
⏺ Excellent basic Kestrel at a great price
Sometimes all you want to know is the windspeed so you don’t need other fancy wind meter features. The Kestrel 1000 is a great no-frills wind meter. This unit measures and displays maximum, current and average wind speed in m/s, ft/min, km/h, mph, and knots on a large, clear LCD screen. Priced at just $79.00 on Amazon, this rugged unit floats, is waterproof (IP-67), and is drop-tested to military standards (MIL-STD-810G).
3. Precision Reloading — Ammo Sale Up To 37% Off
⏺ Major savings on big-name hunting and match ammo
If you need quality ammunition for that fall hunt, check out the October Ammo Sale at Precision Reloading. You’ll find a large range of cartridge types from Federal Hornady, Berger, Winchester and more with discounts up to 37%. This is a great opportunity to get quality ammo for that deer or varmint rifle. Precision Reloading also has Fall Hunter discount codes: CODE 1623 for $10 off $100 and CODE 2623 for $25 off $250.
4. Midway USA — Vortex Viper PST 5-25x50mm, $659.99
⏺ Save $440 on good scope for PRS/NRL matches and varminting
Looking for first focal plane (FFP) scope for PRS/NRL competition? Here’s a great deal on the Vortex Viper PST 5-25x50mm FFP scope. The sale price is just $659.99, marked down from $1099.99. That’s a whopping $440 savings — a full 40% off. This Viper PST scope features zero stop and illuminated reticle. The 5-25X magnification range is just about ideal for PRS/NRL competition. Vortex offers one of the best scope warranties around, so buy with confidence.
⏺ Very affordable option for a good, basic Black Rifle
AR15-platform rifles are great for self-defense, varminting, and service rifle competition. This week Palmetto State Armory, a leading AR vendor, is offering complete finished PSA PA-15 rifles for just $469.99. You could pay that much for an upper alone. Listed as “Blem” models, with slight finish imperfections, these PA-15 rifles are durable and function well. The forged 7075-T6 aluminum lower mounts an 6-position adjustable buttstock. The hard-coat anodized upper features a full-length upper rail and lightweight M-Lok free float handguard. The barrel is 1:7″ twist.
6. EuroOptic — U.S. Optics Scope Sale
⏺ Very high-quality scopes with huge savings
U.S. Optics makes some great optics but they usually come with a hefty price tag. But right now EuroOptic is running a sale U.S. Optics TS Scopes with some incredibly low prices. Select among three power ranges: 1-8X, 3-12X, and 5-25X. If you’re putting together a PRS/NRL competition rig we recommend the U.S. Optics TS 5-25x50mm FFP scope. The sale price is just $499.00, HALF the regular $995.00 price.
7. Amazon — ShootingTargets7 AR500 Steel Targets
⏺ Good selection of AR500 steel targets with durable zinc coating
Steel targets are great for fun shooting and tactical training. Right now Amazon offers a line of USA-made Zinc-plated, laser-cut AR500 Steel Targets starting at just $7.97 (for 3″ diameter gong). Choose from a variety of sizes ranging from 3″ to 16″ diameter and thicknesses 1/4″, 3/8″, or 1/2″. There’s also a 12″x23″ torso target. The Zinc plating on the steel prevents rust. The maker says the zinc “is far more durable than paint or powder coat.”
⏺ Popular hunter’s target with grid and deer image
Before you head out hunting, you should sight-in your rifle and do some practice. A good target option is the Pro-Shot Products 25″ x 25″ Whitetail Deer Sight-in Target. Priced at just $9.19 for a 5-pack, this is a good sight-in target with a grid background and four prominent sighting diamonds. This target shows key animal vitals and the deer image is very realistic — providing good preparation for your hunt.
9. Amazon — Lyman Universal Case Prep Set, $63.95
⏺ Handy kit with 8 useful tools with molded handles
Proper brass prep includes deburring, chamfering, cleaning primer pockets and more. The Lyman Universal Case Prep Tool Kit has all the key prep tools you’ll need. This kit includes both large and small primer pocket reamers, primer pocket cleaners, outside deburring tool, inside (VLD) chamfer tool and large and small primer pocket uniformer tools. All individual items have their own molded handle with rubber insert for sure grip. The kit includes a nice, zippered case for storage and/or transport. For $64.88 you can get all the same tools in a rugged Lyman Hard Case Prep Tool Kit.
10. Amazon — Hornady One Shot Lube, $22.99
⏺ Very effective case lube, popular with our Forum members
Sizing brass can be a chore without the right lube. One of our favorites is Hornady One Shot. This lube spreads evenly and works well with sizing dies. Many top shooters use this lube both with single stage and progressive presses.
A good riflescope is essential for many types of competition, and the vast majority of hunters have scoped rifles. Some F-Class and benchrest competitors are now using optics with up to 60X magnification. Over the past 30 years, scopes have continued to evolve with improved glass, more reticle types, vastly increased elevation travel, bigger main tubes, FFP and SFP options, and even built-in electronics.
When shopping for a riflescope, it’s useful to understand how scopes work — how the internal mechanisms control windage and elevation, how parallax controls work, and how magnification levels are controlled.
Basics of How Riflescopes Work
This Burris video (above) covers the key aspects of scope function: zoom magnification, windage control, elevation control, parallax control (front or side mount), and ocular lens focus. There are some tips on getting a new scope running smoothly — it’s wise to rotate the power control a few times as well as both windage and elevation knobs. The video below also explains how to set ocular focus controls optimally.
Scope Break-In Methods and Diagnosing Issues — Great Video
We recommend that all serious shooters watch this video start to finish. A very knowledgeable scope engineer, Leupold’s Mike Baccellieri, explains the fine details of scope operation — with very useful recommendations on how to ready a new scope for use (See 36:50 time-mark). With a new optic he advises to run the controls multiple times to full travel. Also, take your time to get the diopter control just right (See 26:40 time-mark).
The video also explains why, with a new scope or one that hasn’t been used much, it is sometimes effective to rotate the elevation PAST the desired setting then come back a click (See 35:40 time-mark). In addition, near the end of the video, the expert explains how you can use a mirror to determine if the scope mount (base and/or rings) is NOT aligned with the bore axis, forcing excess travel to get on target (See 42:00 time-mark). We have seen this caused by scope rails attached slightly off axis.
Large diameter turrets make windage and elevation markings easier to see, and the click “feel” may be more noticeable given the greater diametrical travel between clicks.
First Focal Plane (FFP) vs. Second Focal Plane (SFP)
The main visual difference between First Focal Plane (FFP) and Second Focal Plane (SFP) scopes is the appearance of the reticle (and its hash marks) at different magnification levels. With a FFP scope, the reticle increases in visible size (and line thickness) with increased magnification. This is so the angular hash marks remain constant (in Mils or MOA angular span) at all magnification levels. So, on a 10-30X FFP scope, a 0.1 Mil hash mark represents the SAME angular measurement at 10X, 20X, or 30X (or any magnification). The downside of the FFP system is that the reticle lines can appear very thick at high magnification. But for a PRS/NRL match, with targets at multiple distances, it is important that the hash marks represent the same angular measurement at all power settings.
On a Second Focal Plane (SFP) scope, by contrast, the reticle lines (and hash marks) appear visually (in thickness) the same at all magnification levels. This means the hash mark divisions will only be precise at one magnification level, as designed by the manufacturer. For example, you could have exact 1 MOA Hash marks at 10X. But zoom the scope to 20X and the same reticle hash mark would then cover 2 MOA. SFP scopes are popular with competition shooters who shoot at specific known distances. Not having thick reticle lines at 25X to 50X is an advantage when aiming at precise benchrest and F-Class targets.
ZEISS now makes excellent FFP Scopes with both MOA and Milrad options
Minute of Angle (MOA) vs. Milliradian (MILRAD or MIL)
This video also explains MOA vs. MRAD (Milliradian) controls. A Minute of Angle (MOA) is an angular measurement that represents 1.047″ at 100 yards. Modern MOA scopes are typically configured with 1/4 MOA or 1/8 MOA clicks. A Milliradian (MRAD) is another angular measurement defined as one-thousandth of a radian. Milrad scopes are commonly configured with 0.1 Milrad clicks. How much is a 0.1 mil at 100 yards? One mil equals 3.6 inches at 100 yards; therefore, 1/10th of that, 0.1 Mil, equals 0.36” – roughly a third of an inch – at 100 yards. That’s pretty close to the common quarter-inch (1/4 MOA) increment found on MOA riflescopes.
Sightron makes excellent high-magnification SFP zoom scopes favored by many competitors. These have proven quite reliable and offer very good performance for the price.
Scope Mounting Method and Alignment
When mounting a scope, you want to make sure the scope is aligned properly, so that vertical travel is precisely up and down, not offset. Begin by supporting the rifle with a good front and rear rest. Use a portable level to ensure the rifle is not tilting slightly left or right around the barrel bore axis. Then you want to align your scope’s vertical axis. For this, we recommend setting up a plumb bob — a weighted line that hangs straight down. This can be set up indoors or outdoors. Align your reticle’s vertical axis precisely with the plumb bob line, making sure not to move the rifle.
One caution — we have seen some riflescopes that are internally off-axis by up to 4 degrees. In this case, you can align the reticle’s vertical axis with the plumb bob line but then find that your turrets are slightly titled. That is a scope manufacturing fault that will result in some error when you input a large click value (e.g. 10+ MOA up or down).
When mounting your scope, another key factor to consider is the eye relief — the distance of the rear “ocular” lens to your eye. When mounting the scope, put your head in the position at which you normally shoot. NOTE: As your optimal head position may be quite a bit different when shooting prone vs. shooting from a bench, you may want to adjust the scope placement for different shooting positions. This Editor had to move his comp rifle scope about an inch rearward when local club matches changed from prone to bench.
If you’ve been thinking about a big purchase at Brownells, here are some money-saving codes. Brownells is currently offering $30 Off a $200 purchase, $20 Off a $175 purchase, $15 Off a $150 purchase, and $10 Off a $100 purchase. In addition, you can get 10% off all purchases of $150 or more. It’s simple to get these discounts — there are no buyers’ clubs to join, no forms to fill out. Just use the appropriate Discount Code during online check-out.
Listed below are the Codes to use. Simply use the appropriate Code for your purchase at Brownells.com. These codes have no listed expiration date, so Brownells could terminate them at any time. Accordingly, we recommend you do your shopping soon. Also if the highest value code no longer works, try a lesser value CODE.
NOTE: None of the above codes include FREE or Discounted Shipping. But Code CARTSHIP offers Free Shipping/Handling for orders over $149.00 (with no other discounts). Depending on the weight/size of the item, this might be a better deal than saving $10-$20.
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. Powder Valley — Factory Seconds Bullet Sale, Save 30-52%
⏺ Save up to 52% on major brand factory-second bullets
Powder Valley is running a big sale on major-brand factory seconds bullets. For .22, 6mm, 6.5mm, and .308 calibers you’ll find a good selection of tipped and HPBT bullets on sale at up to 52% off the normal price. There are also some .284, .338, .375, and .416 caliber bullets at big savings. This is a great way to get good quantities of high-quality bullets for rifle training and/or varmint hunting. We’ve generally found “seconds” to shoot very well and be consistent in weight. They may just have a small visual flaw in jacket appearance. In addition, Powder Valley has pistol bullets on sale in 9mm, 10mm, and .45 calibers.
2. Sportsman’s Warehouse — Hunting Gear Sale
⏺ Save up to 40% on hunting gear, packs, and camo attire
⏺ Good prices on brass for hunting, match, and ELR cartridges
If you need good brass for your hunting rifle, check out the Nosler brass sale at Midsouth. Along with the popular .270 Win and .308 Win hunting cartridge offerings, you’ll find a variety of other hunting cartridges at attractive prices. Cartridge types on sale include: .17 Rem Fireball, .204 Ruger, .223 Rem, 22 Nosler, .22 Rem Mag, 24 Nosler, 6mm Creedmoor, .243 Win, .257 Roberts, 6.5 Grendel, 6.5 Creedmoor, .260 Rem, 6.5×55, 6.5-284, .270 Win, .280 Rem, 30-30 Win, .308 Win, 30 Nosler, .30-378 Whby, 325 WSM, 33 Nosler, 8×57, 8mm Rem Mag, 9.3×62 Mauser and more!
4. KYGUNCO — Taurus Judge Home Defender Revolver, $579.99
⏺ Shoot big cartridges or shotshells in 13″ defense weapon
Taurus recently released a compact, new firearm which has significant advantages as a home defense weapon. Officially a 13″ barreled revolver, the new Taurus Judge Home Defender can shoot .45 LC cartridges AND shoot .410 gauge shotshells. That means it can work like as a pistol-grip shotgun. This Judge Home Defender is easy to store yet powerful and effective when used against a criminal intruder. You can order this new defense gun for $579.99 at KYGUNCO.
6. KYGUNCO — Savage 64 Precision Rimfire Rifle, $249.99
⏺ Great deal on good starter rifle for NRL22
Here’s a bargain-priced .22 LR rifle in a nice, modern chassis. The modern Savage 64 Precision houses a semi-automatic action in a chassis with M-LOK slots and an ergonomic pistol grip. The heavy barrel has a threaded muzzle for easy attachment of brake, tuner, or suppressor. This is a good starting rifle for NRL22 — the semi-auto action allows fast follow-up shots. Get this rifle on sale now for $249.99.
7. Palmetto SA — Leupold Binoculars and Harness Kit, $99.99
⏺ Save 50% now on Leupold Binoculars and Harness
Hunters and varminters need binoculars. A great option is the Leupold BX-1 Timberline 10×42 Binoculars with Go Afield Harness. Right now this combo is just $99.99, a 50% savings off the regular $199.99 price. But act soon — we expect this deal to expire soon. These Leupold binoculars offer solid reliability and quality glass in a lightweight package. This combo includes the excellent, adjustable GO Afield binocular harness, that will hold your binocs and other items securely all day long.
8. Graf & Sons — LEE Classic Turret Press, $129.99
⏺ Amazingly low price for a 4-station turret, with many great features
Right now the LEE Classic Turret Press is just $129.99 at Graf’s — an awesome deal. This 4-station Turret Press has earned excellent user reviews: “This cast iron frame model with all-steel linkage is built like a tank”; “Great press — solid as a rock. I originally bought it for reloading pistol ammo but like it so well I use it for almost everything”; “the turret auto-indexes perfectly and locks solid with no effort. I really like how easy it is to still use it as a single-stage when working up a load but not have to change dies, just simply rotate the turret by hand.” With four stations you can keep dies for multiple cartridge types. The long stroke allows rifle cases over 3″ long to be loaded. Spent primers run directly through the ram to an attached clear PVC tube that reliably catches every primer.
8. MidwayUSA — Browning Sleeping Bag, Tent, Blanket SALE
⏺ Great deals on Browning branded camping gear
Many readers will be out in the field this fall on hunting trips. Here are three Browning-brand items that are hugely discounted at MidwayUSA. The Browning Endeavor Sleeping Bag is an amazing bargain at $59.99, 72% off the original price. The Browning Big Horn 5+ SR Tent is spacious, and a great value at $229.99, $270 (54%) off the regular price. We’ve used the 70″x50″ polyester-covered Endeavor Blanket for car camping and boat trips and it worked great. NOTE: This is not thin like typical blankets — it should be considered a polyester quilt.
9. Amazon — GuardTech Plus Gun Cleaning Kit, $48.95
⏺ Excellent full-featured cleaning kit for all types of guns
This big GuardTech Plus Cleaning Kit will work for rifles, pistols, and even shotguns. You get a big selection of brushes, jags, and mops that fit calibers .17 to .50. In addition, there are picks and tooth-brush-style brushes for cleaning your action, plus a pull-through cleaning rope. You get all this, in a nice fitted hard case, for just $48.95 on Amazon. Choose green case (as shown), or black case.
⏺ Good compact muffs for the price with a good 26dB SNR
We say it all the time but don’t ever shoot without quality hearing protection. Consider these Vanderfield folding ear muffs. Priced at just $15.99, these come in a variety of colors (black, brown, green, gray, red, purple, pink) so you can easily tell yours apart from others. The 26dB SNR sound protection rating is above average for compact muffs. For maximum protection use plugs under the muffs. (FYI, “SNR” or Single Number Rating, is the EURO equivalent of the NRR noise rating in the USA.)
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. Graf & Sons — Leupold Optics Rebates
⏺ Get big $100 or $50 Rebate on quality Leupold optics
Need a riflescope, spotting scope, or binocs for your fall hunt or shooting match? If so check out the Leupold Optics Rebates over at Graf’s. You can save $50 on BX-2 Alpine HD Binoculars and $100 on SX-2 Alpine HD Spotting Scopes and VX-5HD scopes. The SX-2 spotting scope has earned very positive reviews and the VX-5HD is great for long range hunting. Here are links for qualifying products: BX-2 Binoculars; SX-2 Alpine HD Spotters; VX-5HD Scopes.
2. Powder Valley — Popular Hodgdon, VV, Alliant Powders on Sale
⏺ Most popular accuracy powders in stock now at good prices
PowderValley.com has a large selection of highly desirable powders IN STOCK and discounted now through Wednesday, 9/27/2023. Powder Valley has Varget, H4350, Reloder 16, N133, N320, N550, AR Comp and many more top-tier propellants in stock now. If you need premium powders at very competitive prices, head over to Powder Valley immediately.
3. Midsouth — Lock-N-Load AP Auto Progressive Press, $549.99
⏺ Save $40 with sale and get 500 FREE Bullets
Progressive presses let you load ammo much more efficiently. The Lock-N-Load AP Loader Auto Progressive Press is on sale now for $549.99 ($40 off). This 5-station progressive features automatic indexing, priming, and ejection. The L-N-L AP Loader has a 5-station quick change bushing system that allows quick/easy cartridge type change-overs in less than 5 minutes. And right now, with this press purchase, Hornady provides 500 bullets for free.
4. Palmetto State Armory — 5.7×28 Rock Pistol Sale, $299.99
⏺ Impressive new cartridge in good pistol priced under $300.00
The 5.7×28 cartridge is a high energy defense round with reduced recoil compared to cartridges with big, heavy bullets. The PSA 5.7 Rock Pistol is a full-size polymer frame pistol with excellent ergonomics and great accuracy. Right now it is on sale for just $299.99 — a great price. Made from quality 416 stainless steel and advanced polymers, this 5.7 Rock pistol is a good choice for defense and gun games. Chambered in 5.7x28mm, the PSA 5.7 Rock is fed from a 23-round magazine and has a smooth Glock-style trigger. This pistol will accept Glock-compatible sights.
5. Creedmoor Sports — Crosman Challenger Air Rifle, $649.95
⏺ Accurate, match-proven, excellent starter competition air rifle
Airguns are more popular than ever for good reason. They’re inexpensive to shoot, can be used indoors, and you don’t need an FFL to acquire an air rifle. If you want an affordable, competition-grade air rifle, consider the Crosman Challenger 2021. This Sporter Class air rifle boasts an adjustable stock, swappable sidelever cocking handle, and competition sights. With good components and ergonomics, this Challenge rifle can compete with much more expensive rigs. This is a good choice for 3-position rifle training.
6. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Case Prep Center, $120.30
⏺ Very capable case prep center with handy design
Case prep is critical for proper reloading but it can be a long and arduous process. Speed up your case prep with the Frankford Arsenal Case Prep System. The machine’s HSS cutters stay sharp for thousands of rounds to make trimming quick and easy and the heavy-duty motor and drivetrain are optimized for durability and performance. This prep center includes inside chamfer tool, deburr tool, large and small primer pocket cleaning tools, plus a trimmer with 3 collets and 6 shoulder bushings.
7. Midsouth — Frankford Arsenal Perfect Primer Seater, $61.48
⏺ Excellent Primer Seating Tool with very positive user reviews
Amazon has the Frankford Perfect Primer Seater Tool for $61.48 (14% Off). This is a GREAT primer seating tool. It has good feel, plenty of leverage, and the primer tray works well. Importantly, it has a click-adjust wheel for precise primer seating depth control. Read our Frankford Primer Seating Tool Product Review. The tool comes complete with 12 precision shell holders. A quick thumb release system allows you to switch from small to large primers easily. Plus there is a hard stop so you won’t over-crush a primer.
8. Midsouth — Aguila Rimfire Ammo Sale, from $3.19/50 rds
⏺ Incredibly low prices on Aguila .22 LR rimfire ammo
Shooting rimfire rifles and pistols is fun and affordable. Right now Midsouth is running an Aguila Rimfire Ammo Sale with great deals. Get reliable Aguila .22 LR ammo for as little as six cents per round (with $3.19 50rd box). There are many Aguila .22 LR rimfire ammo types on sale. Choose subsonic and supersonic, with a wide choice of bullet types.
9. Amazon — Digital Micrometer, $39.99
⏺ Good deal on precision inch + metric digital micrometer
A good micrometer is a key tool for accurately measuring cartridge components and gun parts. We found a good Digital Display Micrometer for just $39.99 on Amazon. This tool boasts a 0.0-1.0″ (0 to 25mm) range with with 0.00005″/0.001mm resolution and +/- 0.0001″ accuracy. This micrometer offers two measuring modes and is easy to operate.
10. Amazon — Wheeler P-Handle Tool Set, $48.71
⏺ Big discount on very complete set of drivers
If there’s one thing everyone needs in the workroom it’s a good set of hex and torq drivers. You can grab the Wheeler 30 Piece SAE/Metric Hex and Torx P-Handle Set for only $48.71 and have everything you need to work on guns and gear. This kit has SAE and Metric hex-type driver, plus Torx drivers, offering the full range of drivers you might need.
Bushnell offers Match Pro ED 15×56 Binoculars designed for PRS/NRL competition. These 15X Match Pro ED binoculars have a unique box-style MilRad reticle for ranging and determining shot locations. These new-for-2023 Match Pro ED Binoculars combine high-magnification binocular lenses with an MRAD-based reticle for ranging, target sizing, and shot correction. The benefit is that this 15X binocular optic could replace a bigger, heavier reticle-equipped spotting scope. This Match Pro ED Binocular can be quickly mounted on a tripod for enhanced stability. We recommend that because it is pretty hard to hold a 15X optic very steady with hands alone.
The Match Pro ED’s offset SHOT-CALL reticle, located in the right barrel, has a dedicated focus adjustment and can be rotated for leveling after IPD (interpupillary distance) adjustment (i.e. how far the eyepieces are spread apart). Users can secure their preferred IPD with the included BRIDGESET stabilizer, which ensures the binocular is set for quick use and is stable when mounted on a tripod. Claimed light transmission is 92%. Suggested MSRP for the Match Pro ED 15×56 binoculars is $699.99.
Our friend Jonathan Ocab reviewed the new Match Pro ED 15x56mm binoculars: “Bushnell Optics showed off their new Match Pro ED 15×56 binocular, which is based off of their Forge binocular design. The Forge 15×56 has a good reputation as a budget-friendly binocular with good performance at its price range. The Match Pro ED 15×56 is a hefty binocular with a magnesium chassis coming in at 51 ounces with what is dubbed the SHOT-CALL MRAD reticle. The reticle [rotates in the right barrel] so that it can be leveled for the user’s eyes after the barrels are adjusted to the pupil distance.”
Jonathan added: “My initial impressions of this binocular are positive. It is definitely a bigger, heavier binocular and is not going to be one for field use. This is definitely the type of binocular one would employ on the range at NRL/PRS matches to spot for a shooter.” CLICK HERE for full SHOT Show 2023 Optics report by Jonathan Ocab.
In this video, top PRS shooter Robert Brantley explains the features of the Match Pro ED 15X binoculars. He says these can replace a spotting scope, and he says the Shot-Call Reticle works very well for both ranging and calling hit locations.
Recoil Web also did a review of these new 15×56 binoculars stating: “The new Bushnell Match Pro ED 15×56 binoculars [offering] is a big deal, but maybe just to a niche crowd. For a long time, spotting scopes have often come with a MIL or MOA reticle in the eyepiece so one could spot shots at long range and call corrections or for use in ranging a target if a laser rangefinder wasn’t available. With a reticle in the right barrel, you get a MIL grid for ranging and shot correction like a spotting scope but the [wide] field of view and outstanding glass of the binoculars.”
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.
⏺ Superb German tactical 12 gauge — save $532 with this deal
How’d you like to get a super high-quality, $1200 shotgun for under $670? That’s the killer deal offered right now at KYGUNC0. The SL5 3-Gun semi-automatic shotgun by J.P. Sauer & Sohn is a top-tier European shotgun featuring an inertia-driven system, pistol grip stock, and 18.5″ stepped rib, chrome-lined barrel. The SL5 includes sling attachments, Picatinny optics rail, ghost sights, and a 3+1 capacity. Regularly priced at $1199.99 (with a $1249.99 MSRP), this Sauer SLR is now just $667.82 at KYGUNCO. With this deal you save $532.17. That’s a 44% savings.
2. Midsouth — 10% Off all Lyman Products, Sitewide
⏺ Full Line-up SALE — save 10% or more on ALL Lyman products
Here’s an excellent reloading package with everything you need to start handloading cartridges. And right now you can save 21%. With this Hornady Lock N Load Deluxe Classic Reloading kit you get the Classic single-stage press, powder measure with stand, digital scale, hand priming tool, OAL gauge tool, calipers, loading block, bullet release “hammer”, powder trickler, funnel, chamfer/debur tool, shellholder pack, die bushings, lock rings, Hornady Reloading Manual and much more. Folks, this is a great bargain at $319.99! The same Hornady L-N-L Classic Press Kit is $399.99 at MidwayUSA, eighty bucks more! Plus Hornady offers 500 Free bullets with the purchase of this kit. SEE Hornady GET LOADED Promo Page.
4. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper, $149.90
⏺ Save 22% or more on excellent powder scale/dispenser
A good electronic powder scale/dispenser lets you more precisely with greater charge-weight consistency. The Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper delivers 0.10 (one-tenth) of a grain accuracy. This modern, easy-to-use machine also connects via Bluetooth to a very handy App on your phone that stores your loads for various cartridge and bullet types. Priced at just $149.90 on Amazon, this is an awesome deal. This same Intellidropper Platinum sells for $229.99 elsewhere — $80 more than the Amazon price.
5. Creedmoor Sports — Lapua, Peterson, ADG Brass on Sale
⏺ High-quality brass from major makers now available
Right now Creedmoor Sports is running a major Sale on Cartridge brass from Lapua, Peterson, and ADG. If you need a modern cartridge such as the 28 PRC, or need a large magnum for your F-Open or ELR rifle, now is a good time to buy. For example, Lapua-made .300 PRC brass is available now at $159.95 per hundred. Along with these big Magnums, Creedmoor Sports also has Peterson 6mm Dasher brass on sale at $53.50 for 50 cases.
6. Natchez — Frankford Quick-N-Easy Case Tumbler Kit, $79.99
⏺ We’ve used this Combo Kit for many seasons — very good value right now
Keeping your brass clean is important (and essential if you anneal). If you’re looking for a new, affordable setup to clean cartridge brass, consider the Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-EZ Case Tumbler Master Kit. You get everything needed to dry-tumble your brass and remove the media. This is all available now for a very low $79.99. You could pay that much for a good vibratory tumbler alone, yet this combo kit includes tumbler, media separator, bucket, brass polish, and media.
7. CDNN Sports — Field Sport Reflex Dot Sights, $29.99
⏺ Four handy 1X Reflex Dot sights, each just $29.99 — a real bargain
Red/Green Dot sights work well for pistols, rifles, and shotguns. These Reflex-type Dot sights permit fast target acquisition, and work great in low light situations, making them well-suited for home defense use. Right now Field Sport Red/Green Dot (Reflex) sights are on sale for just $29.99. For gun games, we like the model with four reticle types and 5 accessory rail positions. For hunting use, consider the 1×50 model with wide field of view.
8. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Funnel Kit, $26.34
⏺ This static-free funnel kit works great — perfect fit to necks
Handloaders need a good funnel to transfer powder into their brass. Ideally the funnel should closely fit the cartridge necks to minimize spillage. A great choice is the Frankford Arsenal Powder Funnel Kit on sale now for $26.34 (25% OFF). This quality funnel kit offers EIGHT (8) funnel nozzles with diameters that precisely fit nearly all popular cartridge types. Manufactured from static-free aluminum with a black chrome finish, this powder funnel easily slides onto case necks without hang-ups or static.
9. Target Sports USA — One Day Super AMMO+ Sale, 9/19/2023
⏺ Get 16% off ammunition with membership, plus big F150 give-away
Target Sports USA is running its inaugural AMMO+ Day this week. On Tuesday, September 19, 2023, all AMMO+ members will DOUBLE their savings — getting 16% off select in-demand ammunition. That 16% discount is double the regular 8% savings (and FREE shipping) offered to AMMO+ members. In addition, all AMMO+ members will be entered to win a brand-new Ford F-150 truck! NOTE: to get the Double Savings, you must be an AMMO+ member, which costs $95.00, however, no purchase or membership is necessary to enter the contest. CLICK HERE for more information.
10. Locked&Loaded — CCI Blazer 9mm Ammo, $109.99 500 rds
⏺ Quality 9mm brass-cased ammo at lowest price we’ve seen in years
CCI makes very reliable pistol ammo with reloadable brass cases. Right now you can get 500 rounds of CCI Blazer 9mm FMJ ammo for just $109.99 at LockedLoaded.com. That price works out to just $11.00 per 50-round box — a fantastic price. This very affordable 115gr Blazer 9mm ammo is excellent for practice/training, and it is more reliable than commercial reloads.
⏺ Great product we use — cleans well with way less brushing
At major F-Class matches, one cleaning product was mentioned over and over again and for good reason. Sharp Shoot R Wipe-Out foaming bore cleaner is a no-nonsense, easy-to-use bore cleaner that does a great job. We get best results with two applications of Wipe-Out after some wet patches. If you’re tired of long brushing sessions, give Wipe-Out a try — it really reduces brushing required. This is a very good deal. The same 5 oz. can sells for up to $20 elsewhere.
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. Palmetto SA — Labor Day Sale, Deals on Optics, ARs, and More
⏺ Major savings on dozens of popular guns and products
Palmetto State Armory (PSA) is running a major Labor Day Sale with huge discounts on guns, optics, ammunition, AR components and more. We feature three of the best deals above, but there are hundreds more items on sale now.
2. KYGUNCO — CZ 600 AL Alpha Rifle, $399.99 after $100 Rebate
⏺ Price after rebate is very low for a quality hunting rifle
Here’s a great bargain on a good CZ hunting rifle. The CZ 600 Alpha rifle series is on sale now at KYGUNCO for $499.99. Plus there is a $100.00 CZ-USA rebate. This rifle is offered in five popular chamberings for the same $499.99 sale price ($399.99 after factory rebate): .223 Remington (AL1), 6.5 Creedmoor (AL2), .308 Winchester (AL2), .30-06 Springfield (AL3), and .300 Winchester Magnum (AL3).
Note: The CZ-USA website currently shows a $50 Rebate, but KYGUNCO says the rebate is $100 for purchases made in September. SEE above video.
3. EuroOptic — Vortex Optics Close-Outs, Save 40-60%
⏺ Great deals on high-quality scopes with superb warranty
Right now EuroOptic has huge discounts on Vortex optics as part of the Vortex Close-Out Sale. Save on Vortex Viper, Diamondback, Ranger, and Strike Eagle scopes. If you need an affordable scope for your fall hunt, check out the Vortex 3-9x40mm Diamondback VM-1, at just $129.99. The $150 discount represents a 54% savings off the regular price.
4. Midsouth — Large Selection of Primers IN STOCK
⏺ Huge selection of 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 and Pistol Primers at Midsouth starting at $69.99/1000. In stock now are leading US-made brands CCI, Federal, Remington, and Winchester. In addition, Midsouth has large inventories of Aguila, Fiocchi, and Unis primers. We have used all these brands with success. CCI 450 primers (our #1 choice for 6BR/Dasher) are $89.99 at Midsouth.
5. RCBS Buy Green Get Green Rebates, $25 – $75
⏺ Money Back programs for all RCBS products — effectively save 16-25%
With the RCBS Buy Green Get Green promo, you get a rebate if you spend at least $100 on ANY RCBS products. There’s no restricted list of “qualifying” products. Yes this applies to reloading presses, electronic powder dispensers, ultrasonic machines, beam scales, dies — everything RCBS makes. Buy from Midsouth or other retailer. The more you spend, the more you get back — up to $75.00 total. You can submit the Rebate form by mail or you can apply online for the Rebate.
6. Powder Valley — 20% Off Winchester Hunting Ammo
⏺ Hefty 20% ammo discount right in time for hunting season
Get a 20% off rebate on Winchester hunting ammunition — Winchester Power-Point, Deer Season XP, and/or Copper Impact. This rebate comes in the form of a prepaid giftcard, with a max $50 value. Ammo must be purchased before September 30, 2023 and the Winchester Rebate Redemption Form (with receipts) must be postmarked by October 16, 2023. Buy from Powder Valley or other major vendors.
7. MidwayUSA — Walker’s Quad Connect 26 dB NRR Bluetooth Electronic Muffs, $59.99
⏺ Comfortable with excellent 26 dB NRR plus Bluetooth connectivity
These Walker 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 Razor Slim Muffs are also on sale, for just $39.99, 33% Off.
8. MidwayUSA — Gripper Shooting Rest Bag, $29.99
⏺ Very good deal on a large, stable media-filled support bag
Here’s a versatile front rifle support bag that can be used by hunters as well as PRS/NRL competitors. Normally $42.99, this black nylon media-filled support bag is now just $29.99 at MidwayUSA. This Gripper Shooting Rest Bag has removable top straps that can hold the bag on your rifle for multi-position PRS stages. This bag works well as a front support for zeroing a hunting rifle. The bottom two legs can be manipulated to raise or lower your rifle. The Shooting Rest Bag also includes a shoulder strap.
9. Powder Valley — CCI 9mm Pistol Ammo, $12.79 for 50 Rds
⏺ Quality, USA-made brass-cased 9mm ammo at great low price
The 9mm Luger (9x19mm) is the most popular cartridge for CCW, gun games, and handgun training. Right now you can get excellent CCI Blazer 9mm FMJ ammo for just $12.79/box at Powder Valley. Chose either 115 grain or 124 grsom FMJ for the same $12.79 price for a 50-rd box. We have used this brass-cased ammo in SIGs, HKs, and Glocks and it proved 100% reliable with good accuracy.
10. Amazon — XAegis Tactical Eyewear, $18.99
⏺ Under $20 for versatile, multi-lens Eye Protection
All shooters need quality eye protection when operating firearms. XAegis Tactical Eyewear is a versatile and affordable option. These ANSI Z87+ rated shooting glasses come with three different interchangeable lenses (Clear, Yellow, Gray). You also get a transport case, lanyard, and cleaning cloth. Choose from three frame colors, each for $18.99: Black, Khaki, or Green. For under $20 these are hard to beat. It’s nice to have the color lens options for different weather conditions, and indoors/outdoors.
In this NSSF Video, Ryan Cleckner, a former Sniper Instructor for the 1st Ranger Battalion, defines the term “MilliRadian” (Milrad) and explains how you can use a mildot-type scope to range the distance to your target. It’s pretty simple, once you understand the angular subtension for the reticle stadia dots/lines. Cleckner also explains how you can use the milrad-based reticle markings in your scope for elevation hold-overs and windage hold-offs.
The Match Pro ED’s offset SHOT-CALL reticle, located in the right barrel, has a dedicated focus adjustment and can be rotated for leveling after IPD (interpupillary distance) adjustment (i.e. how far the eyepieces are spread apart). Users can secure their preferred IPD with the included BRIDGESET stabilizer, which ensures the binocular is set for quick use and is stable when mounted on a tripod. Claimed light transmission is 92%. Suggested MSRP for the Match Pro ED 15×56 binoculars is $699.99.
