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.
For years we have touted the advantages of Burris Signature rings, with polymer Pos-Align Inserts. PRS/NRL shooters take note — this technology is available in a beefier, heavy-duty ring system for tactical rifles. The impressive Burris XTR Signature Rings offer six (6) clamping bolts per ring plus strong, dual steel base-clamps that self-center on Weaver or Picatinny rails. These aluminum XTR Signature Rings provide strength and holding power, plus the key benefits of Pos-Align inserts. As impressive as XTR rings are — they aren’t that expensive, with 1″-diameter XTRs starting at about $90.00 per pair (30mm and 34mm XTRs cost a bit more).
The polymer inserts in Signature rings perform three key functions. First, the inserts provide full, uniform scope-to-ring contact, with no need for lapping. You get a very secure “grip” on your scope without ring marks. Second, the Pos-Align inserts can provide elevation “pre-load”. With eccentric (offset) inserts, you can raise the back of the scope relative to the front, gaining up to 54 MOA of built-in elevation, without the need for expensive tapered bases. Third, the offset inserts can be rotated clockwise or counter-clockwise to shift point of impact. This lets you zero your rifle easily while keeping the turrets in the center of their travel.
Burris XTR Signature Rings are offered in 1″, 30mm, and 34mm diameters, and three (3) different heights: 1″, 1.25″, and 1.5″. Each ring set includes two sets of concentric inserts and one set each of the following offset inserts: +/-5 MOA, +/-10 MOA, +/-20 MOA. These allow you to “pre-load” elevation and/or center up your cross-hairs.
– Pre-load Elevation. No need for expensive tapered bases for long-range shooting.
– Correct misalignment caused by off-center receiver holes.
– Correct for bases or rings being slightly off-center.
How to Pre-load Elevation
To add elevation, set the Pos-Align Offset Inserts to raise the rear of the scope and lower the front. As long as there remains sufficient clearance between the front objective bell and the barrel, Burris recommends lowering the front of the scope the most and raising the rear of the scope the least. The amount of actual elevation “pre-load” will depend on the ring spacing (see chart). In the illustration, with 4.75 inches between ring centers, a +/- 20 MOA pair in the front combined with a -/+ 5 MOA pair in the rear will yield +25 MOA of total elevation. (If the rings are positioned further apart, you’ll get less elevation pre-load.)
Using Inserts to Adjust Point of Impact in Any Direction
Although it is convenient and most understandable to refer to the ring inserts as a “bottom” or “top” insert, the inserts may be rotated to any angle within the scope rings. This allows the shooter to correct the point-of-impact in any direction. The drawings below show how the inserts can be rotated to induce both elevation and windage changes at the same time.
Product tip from Boyd Allen. We welcome reader submissions.
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.
⏺ 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, high visibility sights, and a built-in laser. The Crimson Trace LG-457 Laserguard is a powerful red laser designed specifically for Smith & Wesson SD/SD VE pistols. Featuring Crimson Trace’s Instinctive Activation system, the laser system 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.
2. KYGUNCO — Mossberg Night Train Rifle Combo, $731.99
⏺ Very good long range hunting deal, complete with 6-24x50mm scope
Here’s good hunting rifle package — rifle AND 6-24X scope — at a very attractive price. For $731.99, you can get a Mossberg Patriot Night Train Rifle and Scope combo package in 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win, or .300 Win Magnum. A high quality 6-24x50mm scope and rings are included with all three models, and the .308 Win and .300 WinMag models include a fitted muzzle brake. This is a nice, complete package with good chamberings for deer and elk.
3. Midway USA — Frankford Arsenal Sale, Save up to 35%
⏺ Big discounts on numerous popular products — save up to 35%
Frankford Arsenal offers a full line of reloading equipment from dies to tumblers. You can find all their gear on sale during the Frankford Arsenal Sale at MidwayUSA. With up to 35% off a wide variety of popular products, this is a great time to pick up reloading tools and accessories. Along with the three products shown above, here are some of the best bargains:
4. EuroOptic — Leupold BX-2 Alpine Binoculars Sale
⏺ Quality binoculars with great warranty, now $50 Off (up to 21% savings)
A good pair of binoculars needs to be durable, feel comfortable in your hands, and provide a bright, sharp image. Leupold’s BX-2 Alpine HD Binoculars have these qualities, plus a great Leupold guarantee, and excellent performance for the price. Right now EuroOptic has four types of Leupold BX-2 Alpine binoculars on sale for $50 off the regular price: 8×42, 10×42, 10×52, and 12×52. For general daytime spotting use we’d chose the 10×42 model, now just $199.99 on sale.
5. 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.
⏺ Big savings on popular electronic muffs favored by many shooters
All shooters should wear quality ear protection whenever they visit the range. Electronic muffs allow you to hear conversations/range instructions while still providing vital protection from loud gunshot noises. Walker’s is a respected maker of electronic muffs. And right now Walker’s Razor Slim electronic earmuffs are on sale at significant savings. These Razor Slim Ear Muffs feature slimmer ear cups. The thinner design provides less interference (and more comfort) while shooting rifles and shotguns. Razor Slim Muffs have a 23 dB Noise Reduction Rating with a fast, 0.02 second response time. These electronic muffs feature two omni-directional microphones with a single (combined) volume control.
7. Amazon — Birchwood Casey Dueling Tree, $269.99
⏺ Dueling trees are great fun for pistol and rimfire shooters
Interactive targets are fun — and a dueling tree is great for both solo training and pair shooting. Training with these targets can improve target acquisition times and follow-up shot speeds. This Birchwood Casey Dueling Tree offers fun competitions with a fellow shooter. When you hit a plate it swings to the opposite side. The winner is the shooter who gets all his plates to the other side first. Designed for handgun use, this Dueling Tree is fun and easy to set-up.
⏺ Lightweight adjustable rest for sighting-in hunting rifles and ARs
This very affordable, Birchwood Casey Bravo Shooting Rest works for sighting-in hunting rifles and ARs. At 15 lbs., it is easy to transport to the range. It has 3.5 inches of vertical adjustment with the center crank, allowing it to work with a variety of rifles, including mag-fed semi-autos. One cool feature is that this steel-framed Shooting Rest is designed so it can work from the Bench AND while shooting prone on the ground. This rest has a bubble level and adjustable rear height control. It’s on sale now for just $92.94 on Amazon, a significant savings over the regular price.
9. EuroOptic — Gamin Fenix 6 Watch, $259.99
⏺ Compact yet powerful — great item for hunters and hikers
The Fenix 6 Smartwatch by Garmin offers GPS functionality in an ultra-compact device. This Smartwatch comes preloaded with multiple Apps for finding location and mapping multi-point tracks. The Fenix 6 features ABC sensors including an altimeter, barometer, and 3-axis digital compass. This Garmin Smartwatch also offers multi-GNSS capabilities, which provides combined access to GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo navigation systems for greater navigational accuracy than GPS alone. And you can boost battery life to weeks using Expedition Mode, an ultra-efficient, low-power GPS modality.
Over the past 12 months we have seen noteworthy innovations in riflescopes. Some very impressive scopes were showcased at SHOT Show 2023, including the impressive ZEISS LRP S3 FFP optics, and a stunning $5790.00 10-60X Schmidt & Bender. Advanced technology is also being integrated into modern riflescopes, as witnessed by a new Burris optic with a digital display linked to a Ballistic App via Bluetooth.
Gun blogger Jonathan Ocab, a very skilled shooter with both rifles and cameras, visited the booths of numerous optics makers at SHOT Show 2023. In this Sunday Showcase, Jonathan reviews some of the most notable riflescopes seen at SHOT Show. This article features seven optics brands: ZEISS, Sightron, Schmidt & Bender, Leupold, Tangent Theta, Burris, and Bushnell.
ZEISS LRP S3 Scopes — Class-Leading Elevation and Good Value
I stopped by the ZEISS booth to check out the ZEISS LRP S3 scopes that were released in the latter half of 2022. The ZEISS LRP S3 is available in two core models: 4-25x50mm and 6-36x56mm. Both scopes have 34mm main tubes and the minimum parallax distances are 16.4 yards and 10.9 yards for the 4-25X and 6-36X scopes, respectively.
The ZEISS LRP S3 scopes earned attention because the 4-25x50mm version has 46.5 MRAD/160 MOA of elevation travel while the 6-36x56mm has 32 MIL/110 MOA elevation travel. The 32 MIL elevation range of the 6-36X is exceptionally good while the 46.5 MIL elevation travel of the 4-25x50mm is best in class. Nothing else out there really rivals this. The Zeiss LRP S3 turrets and knobs are smooth, with the elevation and windage turrets having tactile clicks with no springy play from click to click.
Optically, they looked very good and in discussions with people who have LRP S3 scopes, they all indicated the LRP S3 was their favorite scope before stepping into the realm of Kahles, Zero Compromise Optic, and the other very pricey optics.
The ZEISS LRP S3 has an MSRP of $2199.99 and $2499.99 USD for the 5-25x50mm and 6-36x56mm versions, respectively. Given the features and capabilities of the LRP S3 series, I am surprised more people are not using them for NRL22/NRL22X and PRS Rimfire competitions. [Editor: The word is getting out and, and yes, more ZEISS LRP S3s are being used now at NRL22 and PRS rimfire matches.]
Sightron SVIII 5-40×56mm ED FFP
While not new, I needed to check out the Sightron SVIII 5-40x56mm ED FFP which has been out for nearly a year. Sightron’s current flagship scope, the SVIII 4-40x56mm, has a 40mm tube main tube which facilitates the 40 MIL elevation and 20 MIL windage adjustments. The SVIII offers the choice between a traditional crosshair reticle with hashes (LRM reticle) or a tree-style reticle (MH-6).
The extra-low dispersion glass in combination with their MC-777 Fully multi-coated optics provides top tier image quality in a package that carries an MSRP of $2899.
Schmidt & Bender 10-60×56mm Scope
Schmidt & Bender showed off its new 10-60x56mm scope. This 10-60x56mm uses a 34mm main tube and I am going to guess that this impacted the elevation travel as the specifications indicate it has only 25 MRAD available. Note that I say ‘only’ because 30 MRAD of elevation travel is becoming a common benchmark in the industry for long range precision rifle scopes.
The S&B 10-60x56mm is oriented towards competitive rifle shooters including F-Class, benchrest, and (extreme) long range shooters. This is reflected in the M1FL reticle that is used for the 10-60x56mm.
Note that the M1FL lacks a tree-style reticle and keeps the field of view clear with a basic crosshair reticle with MIL graduations. It is also important to note that the 10-60x56mm will be available in a Second Focal Plane (SFP) MOA scope with adjustment values of 1/4 or 1/8 MOA.
Schmidt & Bender is supporting either standard 0.1 MIL adjustment turrets or 0.05 MIL using their Multi Turn II turrets. The scope displayed had Mil turrets and was First Focal Plane (FFP). But S&B has posted: “MOA shooters take note: Soon, the 10-60x56mm will be offered with a Second Focal Plane MOA-based reticle and corresponding turret configurations with click values of ¼ or ⅛ MOA. So stay tuned.”
The 10-60x56mm also has the illumination and parallax adjustment on the same turret. While this is not new to scopes in general as many manufacturers do this, many previous S&B scopes have a separate reticle illumination knob which would affect what scope mounts could be used.
Given the reticle choice and the ability to go very fine on the turret adjustments, I feel that this scope will be sought after by F-Class and Benchrest shooters. Not to mention the 60X maximum magnification will turn the rifle scope into a spotting scope as needed (e.g., seeing hit locations when shooting on paper as opposed to electronic targets). The S&B 10-60x56mm is not a scope meant for the NRL/PRS type shooter.
Scopelist.com shows a starting price of $5790.00 for the the Schmidt & Bender 10-60x56mm. There is also a version priced at $5940.00, making this one of the most expensive optics on the market.
Leupold’s New Mark 5HD 2-10×30mm
I went to the Leupold booth to discover a new Mark 5HD iteration in the form of the 2-10x30mm optic. It is quite apparent, based on the magnification range, that new Mark 5HD 2-10x30mm is meant to compete in the Low Power Variable Optic (LVPO) arena. However, unlike other LVPOs, the Mark 5HD 2-10×30 has adjustable parallax from 40 yards to infinity — thank you Leupold!
The new Mark 5HD has the typical features found on prior Mark 5HD scopes including a 35mm main tube, locked elevation turret, capped windage turret, and the mini-throw lever on the magnification ring.
The Leupold Mark 5HD 2-10x30mm will be available in MOA with the PR1 reticle and in MIL with the TMR reticle (either illuminated or non-illuminated), and all are First Focal Plane. The MSRP is $1999.99 for the non-illuminated reticle versions and $2499.99 for the illuminated version.
Tangent Theta TT735P 7-35x56mm
Those who prefer top-tier scopes will be enamored with the new Tangent Theta TT735P scope. Tangent Theta, a Canadian company, produces very exacting scopes that are renowned for their high degree of quality including optics, functional performance, and construction and durability.
The new TT735P from Tangent Theta is a 7-35x56mm zoom scope with a 56mm objective. Unlike the other Tangent Theta models already in production which have a 34mm tube, the TT735P uses a 36mm tube. The TT735P has the same tool-less zeroing turrets which are highly regarded in existing Tangent Theta scopes.
10M Minimum Parallax Distance
The one huge feature in the TT735P is that it has a minimum parallax of 10 meters, which makes it viable for high-end rimfire platforms (e.g. NRL22/PRS). I really do not know how to convey the quality of the TT735P scope to anyone who has not handled a Tangent Theta before. The turrets are superb in tactile feel and the tool-less turret re-zeroing capability is a very exceptional (and useful) feature. This scope also offers a lockable diopter.
The new TT735P scope is one very pricey optic. The Tangent Theta 7-35×56mm is listed on the Armament.com website as ranging from USD $6,369.00 to USD $6,872.00 depending on reticle.
Gen 3 XR reticle is one of the reticle offerings for the TT735P (Source: ATI/TT)
Burris Optics 4-20x50mm Veracity PH with PEK
There is one quite notable new scope that I wanted to bring up that I saw during SHOT Show 2023 and that is the Burris Optics Veracity PH 4-20x50mm.
The Veracity PH is a 4-20x50mm riflescope with a 30mm main tube. It has a MOA reticle with 66 MOA and 37 MOA travel available on 1/4 MOA elevation and windage turrets, respectively. This sounds like a very hunter-oriented scope given the relatively short amount of elevation travel and the fact that it is in MOA. So, given the basic specifications, the Veracity PH is nothing spectacular to behold. That is until you learn more about the Programmable Elevation Knob (PEK) that is featured on the Veracity PH scope.
The PEK elevation knob does not have tactile clicks like a normal turret would and freely spins (albeit with tension). The reticle moves up and down mechanically with the erector as it normally should. However, the elevation turret is tied to the PEK system to control a digital display inside the scope’s sight picture. Note: Cant/bubble level is not visible in this photo.
The display shows a distance, the windage hold, and the rifle cant (level). The distance and windage hold values are based on the ballistic profile that will be synced with the scope via the Burris Connect phone App over Bluetooth. Note that you can elect to display the distance (that the elevation knob is set to given the ballistic profile) in yards or meters, or display the MOA dialed on the elevation turret.
The cant/bubble level in the digital display is probably the highlight feature for me as this gets a level reference in the same plane of vision as the sight picture. No changing focus to the scope rail, scope mount, or the physical scope where a bubble level may be attached. The shooter can stay on target with the sight picture and see the level of the scope (and rifle).
Furthermore, the Burris Optics representative indicated that you can set the zero of the level using the Burris Connect App. The Burris Optics Veracity PH 4-20x50mm has an MSRP of $1200.00.
Bushnell Optics Match Pro ED 5-30×56mm
Affordable Bushnell 5-30x56mm Match Pro
I made sure to visit Bushnell to see the new Bushnell Match Pro ED 5-30x56mm scope. This scope came out in December 2022 and is getting positive buzz because of its good glass quality and feature set at a $699.99 price point.
The Match Pro ED is a 5-30X magnification scope with a 56mm objective and 34mm main tube. It has locking turrets with a zero-stop for the elevation turret, and 30 MRAD and 14.5 MRAD travel for the elevation and windage, respectively.
The elevation knob has 10 MRAD per revolution for clear, easy to read graduations. The minimum parallax is 15 yards making this suitable for rimfire matches like NRL22. It comes with the Deploy MIL 2reticle, a tree-style illuminated reticle.
SHOT Show exhibition lighting is bad, but the glass looks solid. The fact that this scope is sold out at Bushnell could indicate that consumers are already clamoring for this scope.
About the Reviewer — Jonathan Ocab
Jonathan Ocab publishes various shooting sports articles on his Ocabj.net Blog and shooting sports videos on his YouTube channel.
A former High Power Service Rifle competitor (Distinguished Rifleman), Jonathan is now primarily a recreational shooter in pistol, rifle, and rimfire, with a heavy emphasis on the latter as he is currently the NRL22 Match Director at his local range. See SoCalNRL22.org.
When it comes to shooting targets, “Variety is the spice of life”. Shooting the same old target over and over again can get boring. We like to shoot a variety of targets. And we have to admit, the arrival of a new set of colorful targets in the mailbox has been known to motivate us to grab our guns and head to the range.
Midsouth Shooters has a large selection of colorful Champion and Birchwood Casey printed targets, both the splatter variety and conventional types. Here are some of our favorite fun-shooting targets available from Midsouth Shooters. These are in-stock currently or can be back-ordered. For sighting-in a hunting rifle, we really like the Big Burst 12″ adhesive orange-on-black grid target. This offers the aiming benefits of a precision grid along with bright shot splatter effects so you can instantly see shot point of impact.
And here are a couple of FREE fun targets, courtesy the NRA Blog. Right-Click for printable PDFs.
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 — Shooter’s World Powders, $25/lb and up
⏺ These SW powders can replace hard-to-find Varget, H4350, and more
With the popular ADI-produced Hodgdon powders — H4198, Varget, H4350, H4381sc — being in short supply, many shooters are turning to Shooters World (SW) powders. These are now available from Powder Valley and Midsouth at decent prices. For a Varget substitute, check out Shooters World Precision Rifle powder. Get 8 lbs. for $333.00 or 1 lb. for $44.00. For a slower powder there is SW 4350, with a burn rate similar to H4350 and Reloder 17. This is in stock now at Powder Valley at $344 for 8 lbs. or $45.50 for 1 pound. [NOTE: Bruno’s currently has Hodgdon H4350 1-pounders in stock at $48.50/lb — grab them while you can.] If you need a faster burn rate (similar to H4198), check out SW Tactical Rifle, a spherical powder (with H335 burn rate) that works great in .223 Rem. Available now at Powder Valley SW Tactical Rifle powder is very affordable — $195.99 for 8 lbs. and just $25.00 for one pound. Check with Midsouth for other Shooter’s World powder options in stock.
2. 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.
3. MidwayUSA — Vortex 5-25x50mm and ZEISS 6-24x50mm SALE
⏺ Great deals on two fine optics — choose FFP Vortex or SFP ZEISS
Right now you can save hundreds on two great medium-magnification optics — one from Vortex and one from ZEISS. If you want a Milrad FFP scope, consider the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm scope for $699.00, $400 (36%) off the regular $1099.99 price. Or, if you prefer a traditional Second Focal Plane (SFP) optic with 1/4-MOA clicks, get the ZEISS Conquest V4 6-24x50mm scope for $849.99, $300 (26%) off the $1149.99 normal price. This ZEISS scope has great low-light performance, and a nice ZMOA-1 reticle — good for targets or hunting. Both these scopes get FREE shipping.
4. Lock&Loaded — 300 Rds Winchester 5.56×45 Ammo, $111.99
⏺ Good American-made 5.56x45mm ammo with major 20% rebate
Here’s a great deal for AR15 owners. Locked&Loaded is selling 300 rounds of 55gr Winchester FMJ ammo for just $139.99. But right now Winchester is offering a 20% Off Ammo Rebate. That lowers your 300-rd price to $111.99! With the rebate, you’re paying just $0.37 (thirty-seven cents) per round — quite a deal.
5. Amazon — Dragon AR500 Steel Targets, $16.99 and Up
⏺ Good prices on strong versatile AR500 steel gongs, 4″, 6″, 8″, 10″, 12″.
Shooting steel is fun — you get instant gratification from hearing the “clang” and seeing the gong swing. Shooting steel is also good practice for PRS/NRL events and ground-hog matches. Right now, you can get some great deals on quality AR500 steel targets. These Dragon Target Gongs start at just $16.99 for a 4″-diameter, 3/8″-thick gong. Larger 6″, 8″, 10″, and 12″ gongs are offered in 3/8″ and 1/2″ thicknesses, and a 3-pack of 8″ gongs is available. A 6″-diameter gong is $25.99 (3/8″ thick) or $32.99 (1/2″ thick). The largest 12″-diameter gong in the heavy 1/2″ thickness is $76.99. NOTE: All these Dragon gongs have a center hole allowing more hanging options.
6. SMKW — Browning .22 LR, 400 Rounds, $24.88
⏺ Good American-made .22 LR ammo at exceptionally low price
Everyone can use some good plinking .22 LR ammo for pistol and rifle range sessions. Check out this Browning BPR .22 LR ammo with 40gr LRN bullets. You get 400 rounds for just $24.99 — the equivalent of just $3.11 per 50-ct box — a great deal! The same 400-rd box ammo sells for $38 at Bass Pro.
7. Locked & Loaded — Savage A22 FV-SR, $287.56
⏺ Good deal on reliable, semi-auto .22 LR rimfire rifle
NRL22 and PRS 22 disciplines are America’s fastest-growing forms of rifle competitions. If you want to try your hand at NRL22 without sinking a fortune, check out the Savage A22 FV-SR now on sale for $287.56, 18% OFF. This semi-auto rifle has shown good accuracy, and it comes complete with a Picatinny rail on top. The .22 LR Savage FV-SR model upgrades the original A22 platform with a button-rifled, 16.5″ medium-contour barrel, and threaded muzzle. The A22 FV-SR features a user-adjustable AccuTrigger and reliable straight blowback semi-auto action for fast follow-up shots.
8. Creedmoor Sports — PRS/NRL Support Bags — Save 10%
⏺ New support bags for PRS/NRL tactical competitions
Creedmoor Sports has introduced a new line-up of support bags for PRS/NRL competitors. Chose the Huggie Forend Support Bag, Freezer Support Bag, or Wingman Positional Bag, starting at $79.95 for the Huggie (or $71.96 with SAVE10 Promo Code). Now through April 3, 2023 (at 11:59 pm Central), use Code SAVE10 to save 10% on Creedmoor Sports products, including these PRS/NRL Tactical Bags, which are made in the USA at Creedmoor Sports’ Alabama headquarters.
9. 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.
10. Amazon — Universal Gun Cleaning Kit, $39.99
⏺ Great value for cleaning kit for pistols, rifles, and shotguns
This Universal Gun Cleaning Kit has just about everything you need to clean any firearm, all packed in a handy transport case. The kit includes jags, brushes, bore mops, slotted tips, and lots more. The fitted jags and slotted tips are made from solid brass and marked by caliber. The cleaning rods and accessory adapters are also made from brass. Included in this easy-to-carry kit are: 6 gun rods, 13 gun jags, 4 slotted tips, 9 gun mops, 14 bore brushes, 3 muzzle guards, 3 utility brushes, 3 accessory adapters, 4 polishing cloths, 100 cleaning patches, 2 oil bottles (empty), and even a gun cleaning mat. NOTE: For competition rifles, we recommend using high-quality ONE-PIECE cleaning rods.
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.
⏺ Amazing deal — save $190 on semi-auto home defense 12 gauge shotgun
Need a home defense gun? Well, here’s a steal of a deal — get an impressive 12 gauge auto-loading (semi-auto) defensive shotgun for just $209.99. The Emperor Firearms 12ga SR5 features tactical sights, forearm accessory rail, and a 5+1 capacity.
2. Powder Valley — Ginex Small Rifle Primers, $79.00 per 1000
⏺ Very affordable primers — save $20-$30 per 1000
If you need primers but don’t want to break the bank check out these Unis Ginex small rifle primers. Users report dependable ignition and good performance. These Unis Ginex primers have received good reviews from verified purchasers, and they cost less than nearly all other small rifle primers on the market. NOTE: For this deal there is a case quantity minimum of 5000 primers.
3. MidwayUSA — Texas Star Target, $199.99
⏺ Fun, rotating interactive target, now $100 OFF
Here’s a great interactive target for fun at the range — and right now it’s $100 off! The Birchwood Casey Texas Star Target features five plates made from tough AR500 steel. The 48″-tall Texas Star Target is a rotating target system for handguns, rifles, and shotguns. When one of the five, 6″ AR500 plates is hit, the star rotates. The target, which spins on industrial, greaseable bearings, can be disassembled easily for convenient transport. The Texas Star’s metal components feature a durable black powder coating.
4. Sportsman’s Warehouse — Spring Optics Sale
⏺ Great deals on Vortex and Leupold scopes, spotters, rangefinders
Have you been hunting for a new scope, laser rangefinder, or spotting scope? Head over to Sportsman’s Warehouse for the Spring OPTICS SALE. With leading brands such as Leupold, Vortex, and SIG Sauer being heavily discounted, you can grab the new optics you need AND save money.
5. Amazon — BOG Clamping Tripod, $161.45
⏺ Excellent, rugged clamping tripod for hunters and tactical shooters
Taking stable and safe shots while standing can be a struggle without the right gear. Whether for hunting, PRS, or target shooting, consider the BOG DeathGrip Aluminum Tripod. This tripod features a 3-position leg lock for prone, kneeling, sitting, or standing positions. The clamping section at the top holds the rifle securely. This tripod features an adjustment knob allowing up to 25 degrees of tilt adjustment and the tripod can pan 360 degrees. And the clamping head has a tension control that provides a secure grip. For a bit more money ($181-$184), BOG offers this same clamping tripod with high quality Realtree Escape Camo and Realtree Mossy Oak Camo finishes.
6. Natchez — March Madness Sale, Frankford Arsenal
⏺ Big sale with lots of good discounts
Frankford Arsenal offers an extensive line of reloading equipment — tumblers, priming tools, powder dispensers, case prep centers and more. You’ll find a huge selection of Frankford Arsenal gear on SALE this week at Natchez. Save up to 15% on nearly everything Frankford Arsenal makes, including the excellent Priming Tool, Intelli-Dropper, and Case Prep Center.
7. Amazon — Caldwell Stinger Rest, $95.09
⏺ Good choice for sighting-in hunting rifles — big savings right now
The Caldwell Stinger Rest is a good platform for sighting-in hunting rifles. Plus it also works great as a rifle holder for cleaning chores. Now just $95.09 on sale, the Caldwell Stinger Adjustable Ambidextrous Rifle Shooting Rest is a great value. With a “no wobble” rack and pinion front elevation system, cam-over front rest locks, rigid steel tube frame, and rear fine elevation adjustment, this rest provides a solid platform. And with open-center, dual frame design, this Stinger Rest works with ARs and lever action guns.
⏺ 9x19mm carbines are becoming very popular, and this is a quality rig
The Beretta Cx4 Storm 92 Carbine is a compact, ergonomic carbine with many good features. This 9mm Luger (9x19mm) carbine features a 16.6″ barrel and a Picatinny rail for optics. The pistol caliber Beretta Cx4 Storm 92 carbine accepts Beretta 92 handgun magazines — a big plus. That way Beretta pistol owners can use the same ammunition and magazines for both their handgun and rifle. That makes for more fun at the range.
9. Mile-High Shooting — Fix It Sticks AR15 Kit, $96.00
⏺ If you shoot an AR often, you shoot definitely get this tool kit
If you own an AR, you need the right tools. One of the best AR tool kits is the Fix It Sticks AR15 Field Maintenance Kit, now on sale for $96.00. This kit is out-of-stock elsewhere so grab one while you can. The Fix It Sticks AR15 Maintenance Kit includes a wide selection of drivers and accessories expressly made for ARs. And this Kit includes the All-In-One Torque Driver that can tension key parts such as scope mounts to the correct torque levels.
⏺ Superb, well-fitting eye protection at a great price
Every shooter needs high-quality eye protection, which should be used EVERY time one goes to the range. If you need new shooting eyewear, check out these SolidWork shooting glasses for just $12.49. These feature rugged frames and comfortable padding for the nose and temples. Strong and tough, these shooting glasses are USA ANSI Z87+ rated and German DIN EN 166/EN 170 certified. These shooting glasses feature Anti-Scratch, Anti-Fog, and Anti-Glare coatings: “Due to the special coatings, our protective eyewear is highly scratch-resistant, will not fog up, and will protect against harmful UV rays.”
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.
The new 
Affordable Bushnell 5-30x56mm Match Pro
