Today’s video showcase covers bore-sighting methods and technology. Bore-sighting the old-fashioned way — by looking down the bore of a rifle at a target — is not difficult. With a conventional bolt-action rifle, visual bore-sighting can be done quickly and easily. Rest your gun securely on bags, remove your bolt and set up a 50-yard target with a large bright orange or black center circle. Look through the back of the action and you should be able to sight down the bore with your own eyes just fine. There’s no need for expensive hardware. In fact it may be easier to bore-sight the “old-fashioned way” rather than try to see a laser in bright sunlight at 50 yards (or even 25).
However, with lever guns and semi-auto rifles, including the popular AR15, M1 Garand, and M1A, the design of the receiver may make it virtually impossible to sight down the bore with the naked eye. That’s where a modern laser bore-sighting device comes in handy. For those situations where a bore-sighting tool is needed, we recommend a laser bore-sighter that fits inside your chamber. An in-chamber laser device, as shown below, is handy and has less safety risk than a tool which fits in the end of the barrel.
How to Bore-Sight Your Rifle in Five Minutes
This video from Australia shows the basics of the bore-sighting process. First set up a target 50 yards (or closer) from your shooting station. Make sure the rifle is well-supported and stable. When the target is ideally centered in the BORE of the barrel, then adjust the reticle on your scope to center the crosshairs on the middle of the target. Then, after checking down-range, take a few test shots. Finally, move the target out to 100 yards and confirm your zero, as explained at the close of today’s article.
Vortex Shows How to Bore-Sight Rifles
This well-made, informative video from Vortex covers the basics of bore-sighting. Bore sighting your rifle is a simple way to establish an initial zero to get you on target faster and save you ammo at the range. Thankfully, it doesn’t take a ton of gear or ammunition to bore-sight a rifle effectively. Video host Jimmy from Vortex provides a handy, step-by-step guide in this 10-minute video.
Bore-Sighting Using a Barrel-Mounted Laser Bore-Sighter
If you wondered why a barrel-mounted laser bore-sighter was off-center? Or if you want to learn how to use one properly, this video shows how to safely and properly zero a scope using a barrel-mounted laser bore sight device. Another option is a small cartridge-sized laser that fits inside the chamber. These sell for under $25.00 and are convenient. There are safety advantages to in-chamber lasers.
Initial Bore-Sighting at Home (Before You Head to the Range)
This useful video shows how to bore-sight a rifle at home. This can save time (and money for ammo) when you do get to the range to confirm your scope’s zero. This home procedure works best if the target is well-illuminated while the rifle is in a shadowed area, creating the best contrast. Also make sure the rifle is on a steady support — such as a portable gun vise or sandbags front and rear.
Bore-Sighting with a Red Dot (Reflex) Sight
As with conventional scopes, if you have a red dot sight or reflex optic, you’ll need to bore-sight your rifle, then zero the optic. [Reflex sights use a reflex lens to project a dot or reticle onto the target, whereas red dot sights use a flat, reflective surface to display a red dot reticle.] In this video, retired Navy SEAL Mark Cochiolo demonstrates how to bore-sight then adjust a red dot. Bore sighting allows you to zero your red dot so that your shots hit near your intended point of impact.
Learn More about Bore-Sighting with Tools
To learn more about bore-sighting, you can view a detailed article on the Warne Scope Mounts website. This features through-the-barrel images and discussion of tools that fit in the chamber or barrel to project a laser beam down-range. Shown below are cartridge-sized projecting lasers that fit in a rifle’s chamber. These are available for a wide variety of cartridge/chamber sizes.
WARNING: If you use an in-barrel laser be sure to remove it BEFORE chambering a round. ANY obstruction in the barrel can cause serious injury or even death if you fire a round.
Bore Sight Grid Tool with Arbors
The Bushnell Bore Sight with Arbors is a bore-sighting tool that many gun stores and gunsmiths use. This device uses arbors but does not transmit a laser.
You attach the tool to the end of the barrel and align it with your scope. A grid is visible inside the bore-sighter. Look at that grid and then and align your scope’s reticle with the grid. This Bushnell unit ships with three expandable arbors in 22-270 caliber, 7mm-35 caliber, and 35-45 caliber.
How to Zero a Hunting Rifle Efficiently
Once you have bore-sighted your rifle to get “on target” successfully, then you want to zero your optic so that the shot falls exactly where you want it at your target distance, typically 100 yards. This Vortex video shows you how to quickly and efficiently sight-in and zero a hunting rifle before heading out into the field. This video explains a simple procedure that lets you get a solid zero in just three shots. Of course you probably want to fire a few more rounds to confirm your zero before you head off to your hunting grounds, but this will let you get on-target with a minimum amount of time and ammo expended. This helpful video now has 3.2 million views on YouTube!
Fouling Shots and Cold Bore Condition
If you recently cleaned your rifle, you may want to fire two or three fouling shots before you start this procedure. But keep in mind that you want to duplicate the typical cold bore conditions that you’ll experience during the hunt. If you set your zero after three fouling shots, then make sure the bore is in a similar condition when you actually go out hunting.
Savage Arms offers a series of Shooting Tips in the Savage Blog. Here is a helpful article from Team Savage Shooter Stan Pate. This covers how to ship your rifle safely, and then re-establish zero properly when the gun is reassembled after transport.
Traveling with Firearms — Important Advice
Traveling with firearms can be stressful. You must comply with multiple regulations and then trust your expensive guns to airline baggage handlers. And after arrival you’ll need to put your rifles back together and confirm the zeros. This article offers helpful travel advice from Team Savage shooter Stan Pate. Pate has traveled the globe competing with match rifles. Here he shares his tips for making trips easier on you and your firearms.
Easier Air Travel With Firearms
TSA isn’t nearly as careful with your rifles as you are. Proper storage before sending your firearm up a conveyer belt and into the belly of a plane is critical. Stan Pate spends lots of time each year traveling the skies and has devised a system for keeping his rifle safe when going to and from.
“Never travel with your firearm completely assembled,” Pate cautions. “A fully assembled firearm is much heavier [as a total unit] than one that has been broken-down and stored [in separate sections]. More weight creates more in-the-case movement, which can result in damage. I learned this the hard way years ago. My rifle was actually broken in half when traveling to an international competition. Record your torque settings, use those settings during reassembly and your return to zero should be no problem.”
“Be sure to check on current TSA rules and regulations before travel to be aware of any changes that may effect how you pack your rifles,” says Pate.
Rifle Reassembly and Resetting Zero
The quicker you can reestablish your zero, the quicker you can relax and stop worrying about if your rounds are going to hit their mark during competition. Pate, over the years, has developed a system for rifle reassembly and getting back to zero as quickly as possible. While his torque settings may not be the same as yours, the process can still be used.
“The barreled-action goes back on the stock, and then I tighten all three receiver screws finger tight,” says Pate. “Next, I tighten the front two receiver screws down to 35-inch pounds. The rear receiver screws on this particular rifle likes 15-inch pounds. [Note: Proper torque settings will vary with your action and stock type. Most actions have TWO screws, not three.] Scope attachment comes next, and I follow manufacturer settings when tightening it down. All that’s left to do now is go zero your rifle.”
This video explains an efficient method to Re-Zero your rifles
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 Warehouse — Vortex Optics Sale
⏺ Major discounts on Vortex scopes — plus gift cards and package deals
Vortex Optics makes some of the best scopes on the market and they come with a solid lifetime guarantee. If you need a new optic, check out the Vortex Scope Sale at Sportsman’s Warehouse. NOTE: Along with the discounted prices, you can receive Sportsman’s Gift Cards worth up to $200 with Select Vortex Purchases. Plus there are package deals when you purchase another product, such as a Weatherby rifle or Springfield Hellcat pistol. For example save $200 on a Vortex Razor HD LHT with the purchase of a Weatherby Vanguard rifle. (SEE Combo Deals Offer).
2. Creedmoor Sports — Hornady A-Tip Sale
⏺ Popular bullets for PRS/NRL, varminting, and target shooting
Good, highly consistent bullets are key to successful rifle competition and hunting. Hornady A-Tip bullets feature an advanced tip design resulting in improved accuracy and more consistent BCs. Right now these A-Tips are on sale at Creedmoor Sports. You can save 10-15% on already attractive prices. These bullets have very uniform tip length, base to ogive length, and bearing surface.
3. Natchez — Burris Scope Sale
⏺ Great deals on large selection of Burris riflescopes
If you’re looking to pick up a new scope check out the Burris scope sale at Natchez. There are numerous scope types deeply discounted now — hunting scopes, target scopes, ballistics calculating optics, Red Dots, spotters, and even crossbow scopes.
4. Graf’s — Hornady L-N-L Iron and LEE Presses, 18%-23% Off
⏺ Major savings on two good reloading presses
Hornady’s Lock-N-Load Iron press is one of our favorites. We like the open front design and the ability to store tools on top of the press. Now just $235.00 at Grafs.com, this is a great deal. The same press is currently $297.60 on Amazon, over $62 more! The compact LEE Breech Lock press is a nice secondary press for your reloading room. Easily transported, this little press works great for bullet-seating chores when loading at the range. The $39.99 price at Graf’s is a steal.
5. Midway — Winchester Ammo Sale PLUS rebates
⏺ Big 20% rebate on large selection of Winchester ammunition
With hunting season around the corner it’s time to grab some high-quality rifle ammunition. You can find a wide range of Winchester Hunting Ammo on sale PLUS up to 20% rebate on top of the sale prices. This is quality ammo to help you make your next hunt successful.
6. Palmetto SA (PSA) — AR-15 Lower with Buttstock, $99.99
⏺ Killer deal on good AR-15 lower — under $100
This PSA Classic Stealth Lower, complete with adjustable buttstock, is now just $99.99. Great deal — you can pay $250 or more for a complete lower from a different vendor. NOTE: Palmetto has offered multiple versions of this basic AR lower. Choose black, gray, OD green, or FDE stocks (price may vary with color). If this particular lower model sells out, go to the PSA Lower Sale Page, and you should find another PSA AR lower priced from $99.99 to $109.99.
7. Amazon — Eylar 48″ Hard Travel Case, $159.99
If you travel by car or plane you need a good hard case to keep your rifle safe from damage. One excellent option is theEylar 44″ TSA-approved case. This has a strong external shell. Inside the case features a customizable, cubed “pull and pluck” foam layer above a foam base layer, with egg-crate foam padding on the upper side. This Eylar rifle case meets TSA requirements, with two padlock fittings for secure storage at home or on the go.
8. Cheaper Than Dirt — HK VP9 9mm, $519.00
⏺ Very good 9mm pistol with excellent trigger and ergonomics
The HK VP9 9mm pistol is an excellent defensive handgun. It features a 4.09″ barrel and 17-rd magazine. The VP’s trigger is very good, with a short, light take-up, crisp break, and a short, positive reset. Interchangeable back straps and side grip panels help mold the VP pistol to your hand. This pistol features a Picatinny rail up front plus ambidextrous controls. NOTE: This is a good price –the same pistol is $635.99 at KYGUNCO.
9. Amazon — RCBS Auto Priming Tool, $115.99
⏺ Durable, reliable bench-mounted priming tool
Seating your primers consistently is critical to accuracy. A quality tool that gets priming duties done very well is the RCBS Automatic Priming Tool. The bench-mounted Automatic Priming Tool is fast and consistent due to a long seating arm with plenty of leverage. Primers feed through a vertical feed tube one by one, preventing potential contamination by oily fingers.
10. Graf’s — Blue Book of AR-15s, $10.00 (57% Off)
⏺ Save 57% on the definitive guide to AR Modern Sporting Rifles
If you own an AR-platform “modern sporting rifle”, we recommend you get this detailed print resource. With 384 pages of information, The Blue Book of AR-15s & Variations is the definitive guide to ARs. Packed with diagrams and technical information, this book provides vital maintenance tips along with guides for starting an AR project. Regularly $22.99, this book is now just $10.00 at Grafs.com — a real steal.
11. Amazon — 10-Pack of Loading Blocks, $9.99
⏺ Great, low-cost loading blocks for high-volume reloaders
Reloading blocks are important for anyone who reloads. If you don’t need a large-format, case-specific loading block, consider this 10 Pack of 50-round loading blocks. These will fit most small-caliber cartridges. These stackable ammo blocks provide a stable base plus a compact storage footprint.
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 — Hornady Press Kit, $319.99 w/FREE Case Prep Duo
⏺ Great Deal on reloading kit with Free Case Prep Machine worth $65
Here’s an excellent reloading package with everything you need to start handloading cartridges. And right now you can save 20%. 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 bonus Case Prep Duo would cost you $64.99 at MidwayUSA by itself, so it’s like getting the whole Kit for $255 — a steal!
⏺ Exclusive Weatherby Vanguard with 12 standard and Magnum chamberings
Here’s a great deal on a quality, American-made hunting rifle with a Cerakote finish, and sub-MOA accuracy guarantee. This Sportsman’s Warehouse Exclusive Weatherby Vanguard is offered in 12 different chamberings all for $879.99, with built-in discount. This rifle has smoked bronze Cerakoting on the action, bottom metal, and hammer-forged, spiral-fluted barrel. It features an excellent adjustable 2-stage trigger with 3-position safety. The handsome Monte Carlo stock is a pale green with gray webbing accents. You could pay twice as much and not get a better hunting rifle than this.
3. Bullet Central — Krieger and Bartlein Pre-Fit Barrels
⏺ Great quality pre-fit barrels, ready to mount to your rifle
Do you own a Kelbly, BAT, or Impact action and need a new barrel but don’t want the hassle (and cost) of having a smith chamber and headspace the barrel? Consider a Krieger or Bartlein Pre-Fit Barrel from Bullet Central. On BulletCentral.com you’ll find a wide range of barrels in various calibers for multiple action types. Place your order for professionally-chambered, custom-grade barrels that you can install yourself.
4. Grafs.com — FREE Shipping and FREE Hazmat Specials
⏺ Get Free Shipping over $75 and Free Hazmat over $150 powder/primers
Graf & Sons is a excellent source for gun parts, tools, and reloading supplies. Right now if you spend $75.00 or more on most items you’ll get FREE shipping in the contiguous 48 states. Note, there are some exclusions including clearance items. The other special deal provides FREE Hazmat, a $23.50 value. If you purchase $150.00 or more of in-stock powders and/or primers, one HazMat fee will be waived per order.
5. EuroOptic — Leica 6X Zoom Scopes, 40-44% 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 $899.99 on sale, a 44% savings off the $1599.99 price, while the version with a 50mm objective is also $899.99, a 40% discount off the regular $1499.99 price. With these deals you can save up to $700 — enough to buy a rifle.
6. Midway — Caldwell Front Rest and Rear Bag, $99.99
⏺ Great price on good set-up for sighting-in hunting rifles
Need a good basic front rest and rear bag to sight-in that hunting rifle or do load development? Here’s a solid, functional benchrest set-up at a great price. This Caldwell Rock BR Rest and Bag Combo is great combo deal for just $99.99. This will more than suffice for testing a hunting rifle or basic bench-work. Upgrade the rear bag later. The front rest adjusts for both windage and elevation. This is a GREAT deal — consider that the Caldwell Rock BR Rest by itself sells for $179.99 at Sportsmans.com.
⏺ Great tool when a large number of cases need bullets removed
This is a very efficient bullet-pulling tool that has earned many positive user reviews. Frankford Arsenal’s Pile Driver Bullet Puller offers efficient processing with plenty of leverage. This unit mounts to your bench or reloading room wall. The lever design uses spring power to pull bullets up to .30-06. An optional magnum carrier (sold separately) will pull bullets up to .338 Lapua length. Bullets and powder are captured in an included trap with optional tube for high-volume. This unit design uses inertia to pull bullets with ease, making it faster, more user friendly and less damaging than traditional bullet pulling methods.
⏺ Great deals on durable AR500 steel targets — watch video below right
Caldwell’s new bright, easy-to-see steel targets come in multiple shapes and sizes for competition, training, and recreational use. Made of AR-500 grade hardened steel, these bright yellow targets can withstand thousands of rounds. Rated up to a 3000 fps impact velocity and a 3500 ft-lb impact energy, these targets come in seven styles and sizes with three hanging solutions. These bright yellow Caldwell AR500 Steel Targets are on sale now on Amazon, starting at just $16.99 for the 5″ Gong Target.
9. Amazon — RCBC Hand Primer Tool, $59.99
⏺ Handy tool primes all common rifle cases
Do you want to prime your brass without the hassle of something being mounted to a bench? Check out the RCBS Hand Primer and seat primers anywhere you want. The universal shell holder will accept cases from .32 ACP to .45-70 Government and the patented safety gate isolates the primer seating operation from the primer supply virtually eliminating the possibility of tray detonation.
How many times have you grabbed your electronic earmuffs only to find the batteries are dead. To avoid the hassles (and cost) of battery replacement, consider Walker’s Rechargeable Razor Ear Muffs. These rechargeable muffs have an estimated 80 hours of run time. That’s enough to get through several DAYS at the range. Then you can recharge the muffs conveniently at home or in your vehicle with a common USB cable. To hear range commands clearly, the muffs have HD speakers. Plus there’s a handy audio jack. These muffs are comfortable and boast a 23 dB Noise Reduction Rating (NRR).
If you ever shoot with electronic targets, ShotMarkers, or target cams, chances are you’ll spend lots of time looking at the screen of a tablet computer or iPad. These electronic devices are pretty amazing, but they have one major shortcoming when used outdoors — reflections from the highly-polished glass screen.
Well it turns out there is a simple, inexpensive solution to the problem of annoying tablet screen reflections. Just purchase a quality anti-reflective screen protector for your tablet, iPad, or smartphone and you will eliminate most annoying reflections and make your mobile device MUCH easier to use at the range.
Take a look at the two photos above. The first photo shows how annoying reflections can obscure the ShotMarker display on a tablet. The second shot shows how much easier it is to view the ShotMarker target image with an anti-reflective screen cover in place. BIG improvement!
Our friend Keith Glasscock recently added an anti-reflective screen protector to his iPad tablet and found that it works wonders. Keith recently reviewed the iCarez Matte Screen Protector for his Winning in the Wind YouTube Channel. These screen covers are available in a wide variety of sizes to fit most Apple iPhones and Apple iPads. These thin, matte screen protectors are quite affordable, with prices starting at just $9.95.
In addition, there are other brands of screen protectors for Android devices that work the same way. Again, you’ll find a variety of sizes. For example, Supershieldz now offers a 3-pack of matte screen covers for 10″ Samsung tablets for just $5.99 on Amazon
In the above video, Keith Glasscock explains the problem of screen reflections when using mobile devices for shot monitoring. Keith then describes his positive experience with the iCarez Matte screen cover installed on his personal iPad.
A good screen cover can eliminate this kind of harsh reflection on tablet screens:
With the price of premium scopes approaching $3400.00 (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. The line of XP-6 Scope Covers run $23 – $34 on Amazon.
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.
This RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Master Reloading Kit makes it easy to get started reloading — with everything you need into one package. The kit includes: RockChucker Supreme Master 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. Right now this kit is just $335.99, a 34% savings!
2. Sportsman’s — Citadel Stars and Stripes M1911 Pistol, $899.99
⏺ Handsome patriotic M1911-A1 pistol to Celebrate 4th of July
Tomorrow is the 4th of July. What better way to celebrate America’s Independence Day than with a patriotic Stars and Stripes M1911 pistol. Citadel’s full-sized M1911 Government has a handsome Cerakoted American flag finish. This is available by itself or with a matching Stars and Stripes ammo can. As on sale right now at Sportsman’s Outdoor Superstore, this pistol is $899.99 — $310 off the regular price.
3. Natchez — Frankford Arsenal Platinum Intellidropper, $169.99
⏺ Excellent scale/dispenser out-performs other much more pricey units
If you’re looking to upgrade your powder measure system, check out the Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper. It’s one of the most advanced, intelligent, and precise electronic powder measures on the market today. The Intellidropper features a proprietary powder calibration button for fast and accurate powder measurements. Auto and manual trickle capability with up to 250 grains of powder per throw. Holds more than 7,000 grains of powder and offers +/- 0.1 grain accuracy.
4. Creedmoor Sports — Shoulder Datum Tool, $49.95
⏺ Handy tool allows you to gauge bump for multiple cartridge types
Measure your shoulder datum with the NEW Creedmoor Sports Shoulder Datum Tool. Sometimes you just want to bump the shoulder back .002″ to .003″ to preserve brass life while still ensuring it will feed in your rifle. It can also help with accuracy in some cases if the shoulder is already touching the inside of the chamber. It can also be helpful to know how the brass stretches during firing. If it’s being stretched a lot, especially in a bolt gun, this can mean the headspace may be excessive, or that the bolt isn’t making firm contact on the lugs.
5. EuroOptic — SIG Sauer Pistol Sale, Save up to $180
⏺ Excellent, accurate, reliable match and defense pistols on sale
Sig Sauer makes some of the finest pistols on the market for target shooting, self-defense, and concealed carry. Head over to EuroOptic for the Sig Sauer Sale where you’ll find pages of models to choose from all at lower than normal prices.
6. Amazon — Peregrine Magnetic Gun Caddy, $13.17
⏺ Unique accessory for handy safe storage; can be used on vehicle
Keeping your rifles steady and upright in safe, shop, or vehicle can be a challenge. An easy way to keep long guns secure is the Peregrine Field Gear Magnet Gun Caddy. This works great inside a safe, and can also attach magnetically to a vehicle. The magnetic gun caddy is an extra set of hands when you need to rest your unloaded firearm. It’s small and lightweight so it fits in your vest pocket, glove compartment, or range bag.
7. Amazon — Birchwood Casey .22 LR Target Rack, $36.94
Spending the day plinking with a .22 LR can be a lot of fun and relaxing. A great way to practice is with a dynamic target such as the Birchwood Casey Steel Resetting Target. Shoot the four lower plates then hit the upper plate to reset the group. NOTE — This target is designed for .22 LR Rimfire rifles and pistols. This Rimfire Target features a twist design with no welds to break.
8. Amazon — Simhevn Electronic Digital Caliper, $9.49
⏺ Amazing low price on digital calipers — great for a backup unit
One of the keys to accurate reloading is having a good set of calipers for measuring everything from bullets to brass. An inexpensive but effective version is the Simhevn Electronic 6″ Digital Caliper. These budget-price electronic calipers offer a nice LCD display screen, which automatically turns off after 5 minutes of use. These calipers come with a pre-installed battery plus a spare battery.
9. Amazon — Boosteady Gun Swabs, $10.99
⏺ Handy swabs for cleaning rifles and pistols — goodo inside actions
Cleaning guns can be challenging enough without worrying about getting gunk out of tiny corner and nooks. For those areas we like BOOSTEADY 6-Inch Cotton Gun Cleaning Swabs. Right now get 300 swabs for just $10.99 on Amazon. These will work for a variety of calibers and can reach into hard to reach places. This makes them great for slides, receivers, chambers, magazine housings, and breeches.
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 — LEE Tools, Presses, Dies on Sale, 10%-30% OFF
⏺ Major sale on full range of LEE products — presses, dies, and more
LEE Precision makes a variety of very useful reloading tools at affordable prices. Some of the latest LEE priming tools and loading presses, with case feeders, are a great addition to your loading bench. In addition, LEE seating dies work great for pistol cases and the LEE collet dies offer unique functionality. Right now, at Midsouth, save 10%-30% on LEE Precision products.
2. MidwayUSA — 15% Off All Qualifying Vortex Optics
⏺ Major sale on scopes, spotters, LRFs, binoculars and more
Vortex offers a full range of scopes for hunters, tactical shooters, and long-range competitors. Right now you can save 15% on a wide range of Vortex products at MidwayUSA. That 15% savings is on top of significantly discounted prices. CLICK HERE to see featured Vortex rifle scopes, spotting scopes, laser rangefinders, and binoculars on sale. Use Code VTX0601023 for the 15% Off Savings.
3. Midsouth — Frankford Tumbler Lite + Depriming Tool, $119.99
⏺ Depriming Tool and Tumbler Work Great, save $45 with COMBO
The Frankford Arsenal Depriming Tool and Tumbler Lite are both excellent products. With the hand depriming tool you can knock out primers while watching TV. Spent primers are collected in the removable clear catch tube — so no mess on your press or loading bench. The Tumbler Lite is great for tumbling with liquid media to get your cases bright and shiny. Right now you can save $45 by getting the $119.99 Combo Pack from Midsouth.
4. Palmetto State Armory — 4th of July Sale, Save 30-50%
⏺ Major savings on 60+ items — lowers, optics, ammo and more
5. CDNN Sports — Winchester Wildcat with Optic, $249.99
⏺ Fun rimfire rifle complete with optic — good owner reviews
Here is a fun little semi-auto .22 LR rifle at a crazy low price — $249.99 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 rails, 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 with threaded barrel for $229.99 on sale.
6. Midsouth — 23% Off SnapSafe Pistol Vaults, $79.99/$99.99
⏺ Major savings on popular handgun safes for home and office
If you have a handgun for security of your home or office, you want it readily available but still ultra-secure. A quality pistol vault serves that purpose. Right now you can save $60 (27%) on the SnapSafe Dropbox Vault, or save $40 (23%) on the SnapSafe Two-Gun Vault. These handgun vaults feature a programmable keypad with back-up mechanical key access. Both vaults are made from strong 16ga steel.
7. Amazon — Allen Deluxe Rifle Case, $75.99
⏺ Quality case for long-barreled hunting rifles, PRS rifles, and shotguns
This Allen Long Gun Case in Mossy Oak Break-Up Country Camo has three large external pockets. This case fits scoped rifles (and other long guns) up to 50 inches overall. Well-made, with lots of features, this gun case has earned 84% 5-Star ratings from verified purchasers. Right now this handsome case is $75.99 on Amazon, a 22% discount.
8. Academy Sports — Sports Afield 64-Gun Safe, $799.99
⏺ Excellent deal on big, 40″-wide safe with six looking bolts
Here’s an excellent, large gunsafe with good user reviews, priced at $799.99. That’s 33% OFF the regular $1199.99 price, a great deal. Rated for 64 guns, this Sports Afield safe measures 55″ high x 40″ wide and comes with a door organizer with 6 handgun pockets and long gun holder. Weighing 374 pounds, this safe rivals other safes costing $1400 or more. It is waterproof and has a 30-minute fire resistance rating.
9. Natchez — Frankford Quick-N-Easy Case Tumbler Kit, $79.99
⏺ Combo Kit works great and is 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.
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.
This RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Master Reloading Kit makes it easy to get started reloading — with everything you need into one package. The kit includes: RockChucker Supreme Master 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. Right now this kit is just $343.99, a 33% savings!
2. MidwayUSA — Vortex Optics Sale with 15% Savings
⏺ Major Savings plus 15% Discount Code: VTX060123
If you’re in the market for a new scope, spotting scope, or red dot sight, check out the Midway Vortex Optics Sale. A wide variety of optics products are on sale this week with a special 15% Off promotion. Hunters should check out the Fury HD5000 Rangefinding Binoculars. These are now $1499.99 — $500 off MSRP. NOTE: Along with the discounted list prices, on qualifying Vortex optics you get an additional 15% Off with Discount Code VTX060123.
3. EuroOptic — Sako S20 Close-out Sale, Save $400-$600
⏺ Save HUNDREDS on outstanding SAKO S20 rifles, multiple calibers
The SAKO S20 is a truly outstanding hunting rifle. It offers a smooth action, great trigger, excellent accuracy, and a convertible stock. Right now at EuroOptic.com you can save $400-$600 on a new SAKO S20 in a variety of popular chamberings. 15 different caliber/stock combinations are on sale, with discounts from $450-$600. Shown above are six notable deals, but there are many more. CLICK HERE to see all S20 Close-out offerings.
4. Locked & Loaded — SAR USA 9mm Pistol w/optic, $319.99
⏺ Accurate, 9mm pistol with installed Red Dot at great price
Here’s a quality 9mm pistol with a slide-mounted red dot sight for under $320 — a truly great deal. This SAR USA Mete 9mm pistol comes complete with a modern red dot sight fitted on the slide. This pistol features a Safari tan frame, black slide, and 17-round magazine. If you want to get started in IDPA or action pistol competition, this is a great option. The SAR pistol grip is very comfortable with good ergonomics — better than Glock in our opinion.
5. Graf & Sons — Caldwell Accumax Carbon Fiber Bipod Sale
⏺ Save up to 23% on carbon-legged bipods
Caldwell Accumax Carbon Fiber Bipods offer excellent performance for the price — and you can save 13% to 23% right now at Grafs.com. Caldwell’s Carbon Fiber Bipods feature quick-deployment carbon fiber legs with 90-degree forward or backward locking with spring-loaded buttons. The Premium Carbon Fiber Bipod also features an omni-directional ball mount for 360-degree panning, a lever lock handle for fast adjustments, and twist-lock leg length adjustments. Seven different Caldwell carbon bipods are on sale.
⏺ New advanced turret with wedges to hold multiple die diameters
The T-7 Adaptive Press is the result of collaboration between Creedmoor Sports and Redding. The Creedmoor Sports T-7 Adaptive Press combines the time-tested Redding T-7 turret press with the precision-machined, stainless steel Creedmoor Sports Adaptive Press Head. The T-7 Adaptive Press incorporates an innovative Wedge die insert system. This allow handloaders to use more robust 1-1/4″ dies as well as standard 7/8″ dies.
7. Amazon — Digital Micrometer, $39.99
⏺ Very good unit for the price, with nice, large display
Want to upgrade to a digital micrometer? The REXBETI Digital Micrometer is a very good value at $39.99. With accuracy to 0.0001″, this will provide ultra-precise measurements. The unit is easy to use and has a large, clear LCD display. This comes with a nice hard case for storage and protection. NOTE — this type of micrometer does NOT work for measuring case-wall thickness. You’ll need a ball micrometer for that task.
8. Palmetto SA — Leupold Binoculars and Harness Kit, $119.99
⏺ Save 40% 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 $119.99, a 40% 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.
9. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Brass Dryer, $54.49
⏺ Very good brass drying unit, now with a big discount
Do you wet-tumble your brass but hate drying it? For a fast and easy way to dry cartridge brass, we like the Frankford Arsenal Brass Dryer. The-top mounted fan and temperature adjustment of up to 160 degrees allows for quick drying of up to 1000 pieces of brass. There are 5 removable, internal trays. That makes it convenient to dry multiple types of brass at the same time.
10. Amazon — Walker’s Slim Electronic Muffs, From $39.99
⏺ These NRR23 muffs have earned excellent customer reviews
All shooters need quality ear protection — and electronic muffs are a good option. The Walker’s Slim Electronic Muffs, with 23 dB Noise Reduction Rating, offer excellent performance for the price. These ear muffs protect against hazardous noises, while still letting you hear range commands. These comfortable, low-profile design muffs have earned an 86% 5-star rating among buyers. A number of color options are offered, starting at $39.99. One recent buyer posted: “At this price point, these are as good as it gets. They do a great job at the gun range and allow you to still talk to people at a normal conversational level.”
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 — Primers in stock $80-$100 per thousand
⏺ Finally primer prices are dropping — Aguila primers are 8 cents each
Quality primers are remain in short supply, and some vendors are still charging crazy-high prices. Thankfully, Midsouth has primers in stock at attractive prices. For example, the Aguila Small Pistol Primers are $79.99/1000 while CCI #400 Small Rifle Primers are $94.99/1000.
2. Sportsman’s Warehouse — Father’s Day Sale through 6/18/23
⏺ Sale through June 18 — deal on guns, optics, gear
The Sportsman’s Warehouse Father’s Day Sale continues through June 18, 2023. Save on all your hunting and target shooting needs over at Sportsman’s Warehouse during the Father’s Day sale. With big discounts on optics, rifles, pistols, ammo, gun safes, and shooting gear, you’ll find plenty of bargains for both yourself and your father. And here’s an amazing deal — with the purchase of a large Liberty safe you can get a free rifle or shotgun!
3. Grafs.com — Frankford Arsenal F-1 Press, $122.99
⏺ Versatile press, good primer exit, plus built-in light
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 handy, clear, twist-off catch cylinder (as on a Forster Co-Ax). We think this would be an excellent secondary press used for decapping or bullet seating. This intro price — just $122.99 at Graf & Sons — is a great deal. 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. NOTE: If this sells out, the F-1 Press is available from Midsouth for $128.99.
⏺ Excellent powder scale/dispenser with advanced features — $100 savings
The latest-generation RCBS ChargeMaster Supreme is one of the best powder scale/dispensers you can buy. This unit has good accuracy and can use an external battery pack for loading at the range. This new-model ChargeMaster Supreme works with the FREE RCBS Reloading APP and has 50 memory tags for your favorite loads. Save $100 now with RCBS Instant Savings.
5. KYGUNCO — Father’s Day Sports Afield SAFE Sale, Save 47%
⏺ HUGE Savings on large capacity safes
All serious shooters should have a full-sized sturdy gun safe that can hold a collection of long guns and handguns. If you need a new gun safe, KYGUNCO is running a great Father’s day sale on Sports Afield Gun Safes. You can save $617 on the big 40″-wide 64-gun safe, or save $566 on the 35″-wide 56-gun safe. These are great prices on good fire-rated safes.
6. MidwayUSA — AR-Stoner Uppers — $99-$299
⏺ Get a complete AR Upper for the price of a good barrel
Have an AR project? Right now MidwayUSA is offering great deals on AR-Stoner Uppers. There are over a dozen options, with both stainless and nitride-coated barrels, and either conventional or side-charging models. Along with .223 Remington (Wylde) there are 6.5 Grendel and 450 Bushmaster options. Our first choice would be the .223 Rem side-charging model with 18″ stainless barrel, now on sale for just $249.99, a $100.00 discount. All barrels are fitted with muzzle brakes. If you already have an AR barrel, check out the stripped billet Upper with 15″ M-LOK Handguard for just $99.99, a 41% savings.
7. Midsouth — Primed Brass (Hornady) from $45/100
⏺ Save money by buying brass already primed
Tired of paying too much for primers? Well Midsouth is running a sale on primed brass. Available cartridge types are: .220 Swift, .250 Savage, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.8 SPC, .280 Ackley, 30-40 Krag, .303 British, .35 Whelen, and .357 Magnum. NOTE: Based on the photos, all this primed brass comes from Hornady. There are some very good deals. For example, the 6.5 Creedmoor and 6.8 SPC primed brass (Hornady) are botg just $69.99 per hundred (70 cents each). And the .347 Mag primed pistol brass (also Hornady) is just $44.99 per hundred (45 cents each).
8. Amazon — Caldwell The Rock BR Rest, $132.99
⏺ Good basic rest for varmint work and sighting-in rifles
Right now the green-framed Caldwell Rests are deeply discounted on Amazon. If you’re looking for something you could use in competition as well as varminting, check out the Caldwell Rock BR at $132.99. The Rock BR model is stable and works well for varmint shooting. If you want something lighter and more basic, the Rock Deluxe at $88.19 is an decent value.
9. Amazon — Neiko Digital Calipers, $25.89
⏺ Very popular calipers — good for numerous reloading tasks
Even if you have a good set of calipers, you may want to get one of these Neiko 01407A Digital Calipers. A top-selling digital caliper on Amazon for many years, this Neiko tool features a large LCD Screen and measures up to 6.0 inches. With over 20,000 customer reviews, this product has earned an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. It’s hard to go wrong for $25.89, even if you just use these as a spare set for measuring group sizes and case trim lengths.
With the price of premium scopes approaching $3400.00 (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. The line of XP-6 Scope Covers run 
