Rifle accuracy is pointless unless you can see your target and aim precisely. That’s why good optics are so important for precision shooting — from 50 yards out to a mile and beyond. Top quality scopes can be very expensive — you’ll see optics costing $3000 or more on many competition F-Class and PRS rifles. Today’s video showcase covers important “Riflescope Knowledge”, including how to adjust for parallax, and how to properly sight-in your scoped rifle. In addition there’s a helpful video defining Minute of Angle (MOA) plus videos showing how to mount optics correctly (and avoid common scope-mounting mistakes).
Rifle Sight-In Process — Start to Finish
Here Ryan Cleckner shares his process for sighting in a scoped rifle. This helpful video covers the full process: bore-sighting, 25-yard shot confirmation, shooting groups, making adjustments at 100 yards, and finding mechanical zero. Looking for more valuable rifle instruction? Then check out Ryan Cleckner’s book, Long Range Shooting Handbook.
How to Adjust for Parallax
Most precision rifle scopes have parallax adjustment, but what is it and why do you need to adjust it? In this Shooting USA video, John Paul of JP Rifles defines parallax and explains why you need to set parallax correctly for the distance to your target. The video then show how to adjust parallax correctly, a process which should start with the scope’s ocular focus.
Understanding Minute of Angle (MOA)
In this video, Ryan Cleckner explains the measurement term “minute of angle” (MOA) and how to use MOA adjustments on your scope to compensate for bullet drop at varying distances. MOA is an angular measurement, used often in long range shooting, that is 1/60th of one degree of a circle. One MOA represents 1.047″ at 100 yards and 10.47″ at 1000 yards. Want to learn more? Read Ryan Cleckner’s article Understand and Using Minute of Angle.
Scope Mounting: Common Scope-Mounting Mistakes To Avoid
Mounting a scope isn’t a super-complex or highly technical job, but there are ways you can mess it up. This Brownells video explains common pitfalls to avoid when you’re mounting a rifle scope.
1. Make sure the rings don’t touch any part of the turret housing, objective bell, or eyepiece. Any one or combination of those will throw off your shot groups big time. Make sure those rings are clamping ONLY the scope’s main tube.
2. Ensure that the scope rings are properly clamped to the scope base. If you can grasp the scope with one hand and the rifle with the other and there’s play between them, your groups are going to be all over the place! Scope rings come with torque specs for a reason.
3. Make sure there’s clearance between the objective bell and the rifle. No part of the scope should touch the rifle itself. The only nexus between the scope and the rifle should be the scope rings — and they’re not actually part of the rifle. This also applies to a removable lens cover. When it’s on the scope, it should not touch any part of the gun.
4. Don’t mount the scope too low on an AR-15. On most rifles, you do want the centerline of the optic as close to the bore as you can get it. But the AR-15’s stock is on almost the same plane as the top of the receiver, so you need some height on the scope. Otherwise, it’ll be too low for you to look through it.
5. Overtightening the scope rings is VERY BAD. You can actually crush the scope tube and damage the optic beyond repair. Stick to those torque specs! If the rings come with a little wrench, that wrench is all you need to tighten them.
How to Sight In a Riflescope — Vortex Tech Talk
This popular video from Vortex Optics explains how to sight-in a rifle so that the reticle is aligned correctly and the scope is zeroed properly for your intended application/discipline. People need to remember that the sight height established by the rings will affect their zero, as the centerline of the scope is above the centerline of the barrel.
Scope Mounting — Proper Alignment and Torque Values
An improperly installed scope can cost you points at a match. In this video, MDT Pro Shooter Keith Baker explains the simple steps required to ensure your scope is secured properly with the reticle aligned correctly. The video centers on a typical Precision Rifle optics installation, but the techniques will also work for hunting, varmint, and benchrest rifles.
With the price of premium scopes approaching $3500.00 (and beyond), it’s more important than ever to provide extra protection for your expensive optics. ScopeCoat produces covers that shield scopes with a layer of neoprene rubber (wetsuit material) sandwiched between nylon. In addition to its basic covers, sold in a variety of sizes and colors, ScopeCoat has a line of heavy-duty 6mm-thick XP-6 covers that provide added security. CLICK HERE to review the full line of ScopeCoats on Amazon.
Triple-Thickness XP-6 Model for Added Protection
The XP-6 Flak Jacket™ is specifically designed for extra protection and durability. The 6mm-thick layer of neoprene is three times thicker than the standard ScopeCoat. XP-6 Flak Jackets are designed for tall turrets, with sizes that accommodate either two or three adjustment knobs (for both side-focus and front-focus parallax models). To shield an expensive NightForce, March, or Schmidt & Bender scope, this a good choice. XP-6 covers come in black color only, and are available for both rifle-scopes and spotting scopes.
The heavily padded XP-6 Flak Jacket is also offered in a Zippered version, shown at right. This is designed for removable optics that need protection when in storage. The full-length, zippered closure goes on quick-and-easy and provides more complete protection against dust, shock, and moisture. These quality XP-6 scope covers are available on Amazon for $22-$37.
Special Covers for Binos and Red-Dots
ScopeCoat offers many specialized products, including oversize covers for spotting scopes, protective “Bino-Bibs” for binoculars, rangefinder covers, even sleeves for small pistol scopes and red-dot optics. There are also custom-designed covers for the popular Eotech and Trijicon tactical optics.
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. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper, $179.49
⏺ Precise powder scale/dispenser with advanced features
Do you need a faster and more accurate way to drop powder charges? If so consider the Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper. It features a self-optimizing powder calibration, +/- 0.1 grain accuracy, along with auto-trickle and manual trickle capability. This advanced machine operates with a handy touch-screen. Alternatively, you can operate remotely using Frankford’s Intellidropper App on your mobile device. User reviews of this scale/dispenser have been quite positive.
2. Creedmoor Sports — Sightron Optics Sale
⏺ Save hundreds on excellent high-magnification optics
Building a new match rifle and need a high-magnification scope? If you need a high-power optic at a great price, head over to EuroOptic for the Sightron May Scope Sale. Save a full $300 on the impressive, new SV 10-50x60mm ED optic, or save $130 on a 36X or 45X Sightron SIII scope.
3. Amazon — Rock Chucker Supreme Kit, $399.99
⏺ Quality, full-featured kit — great way to get started
RCBS offers the full line-up of reloading products — presses, tools, scales, and more. New handloaders should consider the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Master Reloading Kit. This Kit includes about everything you need to get started — Rock Chucker Reloading Press, Universal Case Loading Block, .17-.60 Debur Tool, M500 Mechanical Scale, Uniflow III Powder Measure, Hand Priming Tool, Hex Key Set, Case Lube Kit, Powder Funnel, and Speer Reloading Manual. Now $399.99 on SALE, this is an excellent deal — the very same kit sells for $459.99 at other vendors.
4. EuroOptic — SIG Laser Rangefinder Binoculars, $799.99
⏺ Great for hunting and tactical matches — 10X power with rangefinder
Rangefinding binoculars are great for hunters and tactical competitors — you simplify your load-out by having a single tool that ranges AND magnifies. Right now you can save $300 on SIG Sauer’s impressive SIG Sauer KILO3000BDX 10x42mm rangefinding binoculars. These offer sharp 10X glass with a very fast LightWave DSP™ Technology rangefinder. The rangefinder includes Angle Correction, rapid updates, and RangeLock. These SIG LRF binoculars have an additional “smart” feature. When paired with a SIG Sauer BDX-equipped riflescope, the onboard Applied Ballistics software sends ballistic drop data via Bluetooth to the scope’s reticle, providing an illuminated holdover dot and wind hold.
5. Graf & Sons — Competition Electronics Chronographs
⏺ Get a good, functional chronograph for under $130.00
Not everyone needs a $625.00 LabRadar. Some shooters just need a simple but effective chronograph to confirm a load velocity for hunting or target shooting. A good, affordable option is a Competition Electronics ProChrono chronograph. Competition Electronics offers good, reliable, made-in-the-USA chronographs at VERY affordable prices!
6. Bruno’s — PT&G Chambering Reamers In Stock, Many Types
⏺ Get precision reamers now — good prices, reamers IN STOCK
You can’t chamber a barrel without a reamer but unfortunately you might have to wait many months to get a new custom reamer. But don’t be discouraged — Bruno’s now has a wide selection of PT&G chamber reamers in stock and ready to ship. These are available for the .223 Rem, 6mm PPC, 6mmBR, 6mmGT, 6XC, .284 Winchester, .300 WSM and many other popular chamberings. If you have a project in the works, it’s great to be able to order a reamer that can be shipped to you immediately.
⏺ Nice, compact 9mm complete with integrated laser — great carry gun
Here is a great value in a 9mm carry/defense pistol. The Smith & Wesson SD9VE 9mm features a comfortable grip and a built-in laser. The Crimson Trace LG-457 Laserguard is a powerful red laser that can be set to activate instantly when the pistol is gripped, via a button on the grip front. This two-tone pistol has a black polymer frame and stainless slide. Priced at just $369.99 on sale, this S&W handgun is $200 less than a similar-sized Glock 19 without a laser. NOTE: For $389.99 ($20 more) you can get this pistol with a 16rd mag and a 10rd mag and Hi-Viz sights. Both versions come with FREE night sights.
8. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Funnel Kit, $33.54
⏺ 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. 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. Palmetto State Armory — 9mm Blazer 1000 Rounds, $279.99
⏺ Great price on very reliable 9mm pistol ammo
The 9mm Luger (aka 9x19mm) is the most popular centerfire pistol round. If you need good 9mm ammo for training and plinking, grab this CCI Blazer 115gr FMJ ammo for the crazy low price of $279.99 for 1000 rounds. That’s just $14 for 50 rounds, a great deal on quality, American-made, brass-cased ammo.
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 quality 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.
More and more folks are using Burris Signature Rings these days. These unique rings feature polymer inserts. That allows you to pre-load some elevation in your scope set-up, or you can center-up the windage. Additionally, the polymer inserts hold your scope securely without leaving marks on the tube. Lastly, some folks believe that Signature rings may offer advantages for benchrest competition. Rodney Wagner shot a world-record 600-yard group using Burris Signature Zee Rings (“Zee” denotes the Weaver-rail model). James O’Hara set multiple IBS 1000-yard records using Burris Signature Zee Rings. James will tell you he thinks “all his guns seem to shoot best with these rings”.
IBS World Record Set with Signature Zee Rings
Are Signature Zees good enough for competition? Absolutely. Some folks scoff at these Burris rings, given their low price. A set of 1″-diameter Sig Zees cost $40.89 at Midsouth. But consider this, in 2013 Rodney Wagner shot the then-smallest 600-yard group in history, a 0.336″ 5-shot stunner, using Signature Zee Rings on his IBS Light Gun. It took five years for a smaller 600-yard group to be shot, a 0.311″ by bullet-maker Bart Sauter, using his IBS Heavy Gun. (See IBS 600-yard Records.) Here’s Rodney with his record-setting rifle, fitted with affordable Signature Zee 30mm rings.
Vendors Have Burris Signature Rings in Stock Now
Various models of Burris Signature Rings are available from many online vendors. NOTE: You may have to check with more than one seller to get the exact size, height, and model you prefer. But right now these vendors have pretty good selections of Signature Zees, including the hard-to-find 30mm High and Extra High models. If you check all three sellers, you’ll probably find what you need.
May Instant Rebate on select SV and SIII premium riflescopes — Save up to $300!
Sightron is now offering big discounts on great high-magnification scopes with its MAY INSTANT SAVINGS Promotion. You can save up to $300.00 on select SV and SIII premium riflescopes. This Instant Savings promotion kicked off Monday, May 1st and runs through Wednesday, May 31st. The savings are built into the current listed price — so there are no special rebate forms to fill out. You can get these Sightron deals through an an authorized Sightron retailer, such as Creedmoor Sports, or you can order direct from Sightron, via the Sightron May Instant Savings Page.
Save $300 on SV ED Series
The SV 10-50x60mm ED 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 $130 on SIII 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.
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. Bruno Shooters — Primers on Sale, Free Shipping, Free Hazmat
⏺ With 5K Primers Sealed Case $0 Hazmat and FREE Shipping
Primers are still in short supply these days. Some sellers are still charging over $200 per thousand. But Bruno’s is running a Springtime Primer Special that can save you big bucks. And if you purchase a sealed box of 5000 primers Bruno’s includes FREE HAZMAT and FREE Shipping. That can save you $50-$70 per shipment. In stock now are a variety of CCI, Federal, and Remington primers, with some European primers due soon. Prices start at $92.95 per thousand, with 5000 minimum for free shipping with $0 hazmat fee.
2. Creedmoor Sports — American Bullet Company Match Bullets, $18.95 – $38.95 per hundred
⏺ Top-quality bullets at half what some others cost
Creedmoor Sports has a new line of American Bullet Co. Match-Grade Bullets. These .224- and .308-caliber bullets are first run — no blems or seconds — with all bullets in each box from a single lot. A great value, these bullets let you shoot more without breaking the bank. The .224 bullets are offered in 75gr HPBT, 77g HPBT, and 77gr Tipped. The .308 bullets are 155gr, 169gr, and 175gr HPBT.
3. Midsouth — New Frankford F-1 Single-Stage Press, $128.99
⏺ Versatile press, built-in light, good primer exit, plus FREE shipping
Here’s a handy, single-stage press with some cool features. The new Frankford Arsenal F-1 press has an open front for easy case placement, plus a built-in LED lamp at the top (great for inspecting cases). And after decapping, spent primers go straight down a tube into a catch cylinder (as on a Forster Co-Ax). We think this would be an excellent secondary press used for decapping or bullet seating. The intro price — just $128.99 at Midsouth — is a great deal as you get FREE Shipping. NOTE: This press does NOT have priming capability — you must prime cases with a separate tool. Also, the power cord for the LED light is NOT included. For more details see Frankford Arsenal F-1 Press Review. Here is a review from a recent purchaser: “Amazing press for a great price. The ball bearing ram is smooth and feels right. The leverage is great and all-around operations of the press are [excellent].”
4. EuroOptic.com — Vortex Scope Close-outs, Save 44-54%
⏺ Massive discounts on Vortex scopes for PRS/NRL, varminting, and tactical
5. Midsouth — Aguila .22 LR Ammunition, $34.99 500 rounds
⏺ Large variety of Aguila rimfire ammo at great prices
With the high cost of centerfire components (bullets, brass, primers, powder), more folks are shooting rimfire rifles and pistols. Right now, Midsouth is running a major sale on Aguila rimfire ammo. Choose standard velocity (1130 fps) or high-velocity (1255 fps), solid point or hollowpoint. Ammo starts at just $3.49 for 50 round boxes of 38gr or 40gr ammo. And if you need large quantities, you can get 2000-round bulk packs for just $119.99. That works out to just $0.06 per round — a steal. For varmint work, consider Aguila’s 1700 fps Hyper Velocity Supermaximum 30gr ammo, priced at $7.49/50 rounds.
6. Precision Reloading — Lee PRO 1000 Press Package, $189.99
⏺ Amazing deal on Progressive Press with case feeder for loading pistol ammo
If you want the efficiency of a progressive press, but have a limited budget, consider the Lee Pro 1000 Progressive Reloading Press. This reloading kit includes 3-station press, dies (Carbide FL Sizing, Powder-Through Expanding, and Bullet Seating Dies), 3-Hole Turret, Shell Plate, Powder Measure, Universal Case Feeder, and priming system. Yes that’s right this $189.99 Kit includes the case feeder! Foe the $189.99 sale price you can order the kit for these cartridge types: 9mm Luger (9x19mm), .38 Auto/.38 Super, .38 Spl/.357 Mag, and .45 Colt. Just get other dies to load other cartridge types. NOTE: Lee cautions that “Only CCI or Remington brand primers are safe to use with this press”.
7. Palmetto SA — Leupold LRF and Binoculars Combo, $50 Off
⏺ Great price on Laser Rangefinder and Binoculars bundle
Here’s a nice Leupold Optics Combo for a hunter/varminter. For just $279.99 you get BOTH the Leupold RX-1400i TBR/W Laser Rangefinder (LRF), plus the quality Leupold BX-1 McKenzie 10×42 HD binoculars. The RX-1400i LRF is rated for 1400 yards, and offers angle ballistics correction. The display is bright red — good for both sunny days and darker dusk/dawn conditions. The binoculars come with GO Afield shoulder strap, binocular case, lens covers, and lens cloth.
8. Palmetto SA — Taurus TX22 Competition, $415.36
⏺ Affordable .22 LR match pistol with compensator has earned positive reviews
Rimfire pistols let you enjoy action pistol competitions without spending a ton of money. Among .22 LR pistols, the Taurus TX22 Competition SCR offers great performance for the price. The TX22 Competition SCR builds features a precision-engineered slide and match-grade bull barrel. The “skeletonized” slide with enlarged ejection port is designed so that a red dot optic can be mounted to the barrel. That helps prevent problems during ejection of empty shells. Taurus claims this mounting configuration enhances accuracy compared to a slide-mounted optic platform.
9. Amazon — NEIKO 6″ Digital Calipers, $25.89
⏺ Good, reliable digital calipers at attractive price
Every handloader needs to measure shoulder bump, cartridge length, and other dimensions. A good set of calipers is essential. If you need calipers, check out the NEIKO Electronic Digital Calipers. The tool’s body/frame is constructed of finely polished stainless steel with a knurled thumb roller and locking screw that ensures smooth sliding and accurate positioning. If you’re getting started in reloading or are looking for a back-up set of calipers, this is a good option.
⏺ 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. Midsouth — Berger Bullets in Stock, Good Prices
⏺ Top-quality Berger bullets in stock now — order before they sell out
Berger bullets in popular calibers/weights have been in high demand. But Midsouth recently received a large shipment of .224, .243 (6mm), .257, .264 (6.5mm), .284 (7mm), .308 and .375-caliber Berger bullets. There are various weights in the popular calibers (e.g. 52gr, 73gr, 80gr, 85.5gr, and 90gr in .224). Over 40 Berger bullet types are in stock now, starting at $44.99 per 100. Grab these while you can.
⏺ Excellent precision reloading scale now $100 OFF
Need a high-quality reloading scale, but can’t afford an $800 A&D force restoration scale? Then you’re in luck. Right now you can get the excellent Creedmoor Sports TRX-925 scale for $249.95. This deal — a huge $100 savings off the regular $349.95 price — is for the first 249 customers only, so act soon. Note: The TRX-925 measures natively in GRAINS rather than grams, so it offers excellent precision.
3. Barnes Bullets — Barnes Match Burner Bullet Sale
⏺ Great prices on good match bullets, multiple calibers
If you’re looking for good target bullets at a good price, consider the Barnes Match Burners. On sale now direct from Barnes, these come in an assortment of calibers and bullet weights. Prices start at just $26.99 per hundred. For PRS/NRL we recommend the 6mm Match Burner 105gr HPBT, at $34.99 per hundred.
4. MidwayUSA — Vortex Optics on Sale, Save up to 40%
⏺ Huge discounts on popular Vortex scopes, spotters, binoculars
5. Graf & Sons — Ginex primers in Stock, $73/1000 for 5K
⏺ Reliable small rifle and small pistol primers at good prices
Primers are still hard to find and most are priced well over $100 per 1000. Give your wallet a break by picking up Ginex primers from Graf’s. Available in small rifle as well as small pistol sizes, these are quality primers offered in 5000-primer bulk packs, priced at $365.00 for 5K, which works out to $73.00 per thousand. User reports for these Ginex primers have been quite positive.
6. Midsouth — Triggertech Trigger Sale
⏺ Excellent triggers for competition and hunting rifles
Triggertech makes high-quality, reasonably-priced triggers that fit a wide selection of rifles. Right now Midsouth is running a Triggertech Sale with over 50 trigger types on sale — including triggers for Rem 700s (or clone) and ARs. Save 11% or more on a quality trigger and get FREE Shipping right now.
⏺ Unique design rechargeable muffs with behind-head strap
Ordinary electronic muffs can lose power at inopportune times. Save the aggravation and grab a pair of these Walker’s Rechargeable Firemax Ear Muffs. These Behind-the-Neck (BTN) muffs boast a 2000 mAH rechargeable lithium battery for over 200 hours of protection (way more than typical drop-in batteries). Simply charge your muffs before heading to the range. These Walker BTN muffs have a notable design — the primary padded strap runs BEHIND the ears, with a secondary, removable top strap. Many shooters will find this arrangement more handy and comfortable than conventional muffs with a bulky top strap.
8. EuroOptic — ZEISS Binoculars Sale, save $75-$150
⏺ Major discounts on high-quality ZEISS binoculars
ZEISS, the respected German optics maker, has launched a Spring into Savings event through participating ZEISS authorized retailers. This promotion runs through May 15, 2023, offering major instant savings on high quality ZEISS binoculars. And when you purchase ZEISS binoculars from EuroOptic.com, you get speedy RED Expedited Shipping. Here are the ZEISS Binoculars Spring Savings offers:
$150 Instant Rebate on ZEISS SFL 40 Binoculars
$100 Instant Rebate on ZEISS Conquest HD 42 and 22 Binoculars
$75 Instant Rebate on ZEISS Terra ED 42 and 32 Binoculars
9. Natchez — Ammo Sale (Multiple Brands)
⏺ Many popular ammo types at good prices
While it’s not one of the largest ammunition sales you’ll find on the web, this week’s Natchez Ammo Sale offers very significant discounts on a variety of popular cartridge types, with a good selection of manufacturers, including Hornady, Winchester, PMC, and Aguila.
10. Brownells — Ruger Max-9 FX Optics Ready 9mm, $349.99
⏺ Slim, smooth, 9mm Luger handgun with big discount
Ruger makes very reliable pistols and has excellent customer service. If you are looking for a very compact, easy-to-carry 9mm handgun, consider the Ruger Max-9 now $349.99 on sale at Brownells ($170 off MSRP). This particular pistol has a cool dark blue-gray optics-ready slide for easy mounting of small red dot sights. The MAX-9 also features a tritium fiber-optic day/night front sight.
11. Amazon — Splatter Stick-On Targets, $6.99/100ct Roll
⏺ 100 3″-diameter Adhesive Splatter Targets on roll
Splatter targets help you see bullet impacts clearly from a distance. Most splatter targets come in big sheets, but these handy 3″-diameter, stick-on splatter targets come on a convenient roll. Get a 100-count roll for just $6.99 on Amazon. These circular targets feature a black bullseye with red center and bright yellow rings. These targets are easy-to-peel and the roll can be stowed easily in a range bag.
Proper eye protection is ‘must-have’ gear for shooting sports. In addition to providing reliable impact protection, good shooting glasses should be comfortable, fog-free, and not interfere with your preferred hearing protection. Those who require corrective lenses also need to consider the various options available. In a past episode of their Weekly Gear Review, the 6.5 Guys discuss a variety of shooting glasses they have tried, including examples from DeCot, Oakley, and Wiley-X. Ed and Steve outline the key considerations when choosing eye protection, and then review practical aspects of eyewear design and construction that enhance comfort and functionality in the field.
The 6.5 Guys (Ed and Steve) offer a number of smart tips consider safety eyewear, helping you select the most effective safety glasses at an affordable price. Here are the 6.5 Guys’ KEY Take-aways when choosing shooting glasses, including prescription eyewear:
Key Things To Consider When Choosing Eye Protection
1. Avoid polarized lenses or lenses that reduce light transmission significantly (except for action shooting in very bright conditions with large, close targets).
2. Avoid frame designs that interfere with prone shooting.
3. Avoid designs that easily fog.
4. Avoid frame designs with thicker temples that are uncomfortable to wear underneath hearing protection.
5. Select lenses with an appropriate degree of ballistic protection. CLICK HERE to learn more about eyewear safety standards.
6. When you get your prescription, be sure your ophthalmologist includes the interpupillary distance. This is a critical measurement particularly for heavier prescriptions.
7. If you have a complicated prescription select a vendor who will actually spend time with you to address any concerns.
Horrific .50 BMG Kaboom — Eye Saved by Protective Eyewear
Think you don’t need eye protection? Watch this video starting at 4:10. The screw-on barrel “cap” (chamber closure) of the .50 BMG action flies into the shooter’s face. Without eye protection the shooter would have definitely lost his right eye. (See video at 5:20 for analysis).
Safety First — Your Eyes Are Irreplaceable Accurate shooting begins and ends with the human eye. Your career as a marksman could be cut short if you don’t use good eye protection every time you go to the range and/or handle a firearm.
Every year, over 1,000,000 people suffer serious eye injuries. Shooting is hazardous; it is estimated that there are 30,000 firearms-related eye injuries each year (if you include paintball sports.) After paintball, general hunting accidents comprise most firearms-related eye injuries.
Quality eye protection need not be expensive. You can find comfortable, ANSI Z87.1-certified shooting glasses for under $10.00.
If you select shooting glasses carefully, and ensure that your eyewear is safety-certified, inexpensive shooting glasses can perform very well. But you need to avoid cheap, soft-plastic lenses that claim “impact resistance” without satisfying a testing standard.
ZEISS Announces Spring Binoculars Promotion
ZEISS, the respected German optics maker, has kicked off its “Spring into Savings” event through participating ZEISS authorized retailers. This promotion runs April 15 through May 15, 2023, offering major instant savings on high quality ZEISS Binoculars. And when you purchase ZEISS binoculars from EuroOptic.com, you get speedy RED Expedited Shipping. Here are the Spring Savings Instant Rebate offers on ZEISS Binoculars:
$150 Instant Rebate on ZEISS SFL 40 Binoculars
$100 Instant Rebate on ZEISS Conquest HD 42 and 22 Binoculars
$75 Instant Rebate on ZEISS Terra ED 42 and 32 Binoculars
Optimized to be lightweight and compact, ZEISS SFL 40 binoculars offer Ultra-High-Definition (UHD) glass for true-to-life color reproduction and the highest levels of detail. And with SmartFocus the focus wheel provides fast and precise focusing — even with gloves on. The lightweight magnesium housing provides long-lasting durability.
ZEISS Conquest HD 42 and 32 binoculars have an ergonomic design plus a rugged, lightweight magnesium body that is waterproof and fog-proof. The large focusing wheel is easy to operate. Conquest HD binoculars offer 90% light transmission and superior optical clarity for impressive dusk to dark performance. Conquest HD binoculars are a good choice for hunters for whom reduced size and weight are key.
ZEISS Terra ED binoculars are reliable, easy to use, and quite affordable (starting at $374.99 on sale). These have a sleek, light, compact design that still offers excellent clarity and sharpness. The Terra ED binoculars are waterproof and nitrogen-filled, making them ready for any adventure.
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. EuroOptic — Christensen Arms Precision Rifle, $1685.99 in cart
⏺ Excellent modern chassis rifle for PRS and NRL in 6mm Creedmoor
Here’s a rifle that’s ready-to-go for PRS/NRL competition out of the box. The Christensen Arms Modern Precision Rifle has an advanced aluminum chassis with folding buttstock. This black-finish version has a 24″ steel 1:8″-twist barrel chambered for 6mm Creedmoor — a good choice for competition. NOTE: This rifle has a listed $1899.99 MSRP. However, if you put the item in the shopping cart, the actual price is reduced to $1685.99, a $214 savings. That’s a good deal for a rifle of this quality, known to have excellent accuracy.
2. CMP eStore — .30-06 Springfield M2 Surplus Ammo SALE
⏺ Quality Lake City .30-06 Springfield ammo at great price
The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) just released some U.S. Military Surplus ammunition at very attractive prices. You can get 400 rounds of .30-06 Springfield M2 Ball ammo for just $392.00 plus $21 shipping. This 150gr FMJ non-corrosive ammo was produced at the Lake City Ammunition Plant in the mid 60s to early 70s. This is quality ammo with excellent brass that works great for reloads once the primer crimp is removed. NOTE — there is a limit of ONE 400-round can per customer per year.
3. EuroOptic — Leica 6X Zoom Scopes, 40-42% Off
⏺ Great deal on superb long-range hunting/varminting scopes
Here are two very high-quality Leica riflescopes at big discounts. These are SFP optics with 0.1 Milrad clicks. With an amazing 6X zoom ration, there is a huge field of view at the 2.5X base magnification. Then you have 15X on the other end for long shots. The 56mm objective version is now $919.99 on sale, a 42% savings off the $1599.99 price, while the version with a 50mm objective is $899.99, a 40% discount off the regular $1499.99 price. With these deals you can save over $600 — enough to buy a rifle.
4. J&G Sales — Norma Tac-22 .22 LR 500rds, $38.95
⏺ Very good .22 LR ammo at extremely low price — GREAT VALUE
If you love .22 LR rimfires and want quality ammo at an ultra-low price, grab some Norma TAC-22. At $38.95 for 500 rounds (i.e. $3.89 per 50-ct box), this is a true bargain, yet the TAC-22 is good enough for NRL22 matches as well as fun target shooting. We’ve shot this Norma ammo and been very satisfied. You’ll be hard-pressed to find better .22 LR ammo at anywhere near this price. Don’t delay ordering — at this price, we expect this TAC-22 ammo will sell out soon.
⏺ Super deal on Hornady .224 bullets for ARs and varmint rifles
Need .224 bullets for a varmint safari or service rifle training? Here’ss a great deal on good quality Hornady .224 caliber bullets. Get 250 55gr FMJ BT bullets for $24.99. For varmint work, get the 250 55gr Soft Point bullets for $27.49. If you want a slightly higher BC, try the 62gr FMJ at $26.99 for 250. These prices are great — $24.99 for 250 works out to just $0.10 (ten cents) per bullet. You can’t beat that!
6. Amazon — MOZETO Shooting Mat, $39.99
⏺ Nice 78″-long padded nylon mat stows conveniently
Whether in the field or at the range, having a comfortable mat to keep you and your gear dry and clean is critical. The Mozeto XL Shooting Mat is made from durable 1000D nylon with EPE padding fabric for long-lasting durability. There is an extra-thick padded section for elbows and knees. This big 78″ x 28.5″ mat has convenient straps and carry handle, plus storage pockets. To transport, just roll it up, fold it over and attach the quick release plastic snap buckles.
7. Palmetto SA — Leupold Laser Rangefinder, Binoculars, and Carry Harness Kit, $279.99
⏺ Excellet combo bundle with laser RF, binoculars, and handy carry harness
Here’s a great combo package for hunters. A hunter in the field looking for deer and other large game needs a rangefinder, binoculars, and a way to transport them securely. A great option is this Leupold Bundle Trio featuring the RX-1400I TBR/W Rangefinder, BX-1 Timberline 10X42 Binoculars, and Go Afield Harness. The combo price for all three items, just $279.99, is a great value.
8. Natchez — Frankford Quick-N-Easy Case Tumbler Kit, $79.99
⏺ We’ve used this Combo Kit for many seasons — grab this super deal 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. NOTE: This very same Tumbler Kit is currently $102.99 at MidwayUSA!
⏺ GREAT Deal on rimfire silhouette steel target 20-Pack
There are few things as fun as plinking with a .22 LR Rimfire rig at steel targets. It’s fun for kids and adults alike and right now you can grab a 20-ct pack of RIMFIRE animal targets in assorted sizes and shapes. They are 1/5 size and made from A36 steel plate. IMPORTANT: These small steel targets work great for rimfire shooting, but should NEVER be used with centerfire rifle cartridges.
10. EZ-AIM 12″x12″ Grid with Orange Bulls — $6.85 for 13-pack
⏺ High quality grid target at good price
We like this EZ-Aim Sight-in Grid Target for sighting-in, load development. and general practice. The full 12″x12″ target is covered with a precise black-lined grid on white background. There is a large center orange bullseye, plus four additional bulls, one in each corner. Right now this target is a bargain. You can get a 13-pack of targets for $6.85 — about 53 cents per target.
With the price of premium scopes approaching $3500.00 (and beyond), it’s more important than ever to provide extra protection for your expensive optics. 
The heavily padded XP-6 Flak Jacket is also offered in a Zippered version, shown at right. This is designed for removable optics that need protection when in storage. The full-length, zippered closure goes on quick-and-easy and provides more complete protection against dust, shock, and moisture. These quality XP-6 scope covers are available on 
More and more folks are using Burris Signature Rings these days. These unique rings feature polymer inserts. That allows you to pre-load some elevation in your scope set-up, or you can center-up the windage. Additionally, the polymer inserts hold your scope securely without leaving marks on the tube. Lastly, some folks believe that Signature rings may offer advantages for benchrest competition. Rodney Wagner shot a world-record 600-yard group using Burris Signature Zee Rings (“Zee” denotes the Weaver-rail model). James O’Hara set multiple IBS 1000-yard records using Burris Signature Zee Rings. James will tell you he thinks “all his guns seem to shoot best with these rings”.
Accurate shooting begins and ends with the human eye. Your career as a marksman could be cut short if you don’t use good eye protection every time you go to the range and/or handle a firearm.
