Sightron is now offering big discounts on popular scopes with its Summer Instant Savings Promotion. You can save up to $200.00 on select premium riflescopes: the S-TAC, SIII PLR, and S30 RDS. With Father’s Day and graduation just around the corner, now is a great time to save hundreds on some of Sightron’s most popular models. This instant rebate promotion kicked off May 1st and runs through June 30, 2022.
You can get these Sightron deals through an an authorized Sightron retailer, such as Creedmoor Sports, or you can order direct from Sightron, via the Summer Instant Savings Page.
SIGHTRON is offering up to $200 in savings on select premium riflescopes:
Save $200 on SIII PLR (Precision Long Range) — Designed for long-range target and competition shooting, the PLR series offers 6-24x50mm, 8-32x56mm, and 10-50x60mm models (shown below). All models employ a new optical design, Zact-7 Plus Revcoat multicoating technology, internal zero-stop, and illuminated reticles. Sightron SIII PLR scopes offer premium performance at an unbeatable price.
Save up to $120 on S-TAC — Excellent choice for hunting or competitive shooting, the S-TAC 3-16×42 and 4-12×50 riflescopes have the features you need to get on target and stay there. Available in SFP and FFP models, the S-TAC series features Zact-7 Revcoat multicoating technology applied to high-quality Japanese precision-ground glass for excellent, crisp, and clear color-corrected images.
Lifetime Warranty on All Sightron Scopes
All Sightron riflescopes are backed by a Lifetime Performance Guarantee that protects buyers. If you ever have an issue, Sightron’s skilled technicians will fix your scope or Sightron will replace it.
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.
1. 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.
2. Precision Reloading — All L.E. Wilson Products SALE
⏺ Very good prices on L.E. Wilson dies, case trimmers, and tools
Right now, Precision Reloading is running a good promotion with all in-stock L.E. Wilson products on SALE. This sale currently includes the popular Wilson inline seating dies, FL sizing dies, case trimmers, expanding die (with mandrel), bushings, case gages, deburrers, and other tools.
⏺ Great starting choice for tactical and PRS/NRL disciplines
Interested in PRS/NRL and other tactical disciplines, but don’t want to spend a fortune on optics? The Vortex Venom 5-25x56mm FFP (First Focal Plane) optic is a smart choice. Offered in both MOA and MIL versions, the Vortex Venom ($699.99 MSRP) can be purchased right now for $499.99 from EuroOptic.com. Choose either the MOA model or MRAD version. Vortex claims the new Venom allows new tactical shooters to “get into the game at an affordable price without compromising optical quality”. The Venom boasts a 34mm main tube with 85 MOA elevation for the MOA version, or 25 MRAD elevation for the MIL version.
4. CDNN/LNL — EAA Girsan 9mm Pistols, $429.99 or $485.26
⏺ Choose 4.2″ bbl MC9BX or 4.6″ bbl ported slide MC9 model
CDNN Sports has a great deal on the EAA Girsan MC9BX pistol — just $429.99 complete with installed Red Dot optic and threaded muzzle (for a suppressor). This is a good 9mm defensive pistol with 4.2″ barrel and 17-round magazine. If you compete in IDPA or action pistol matches, you may prefer the deluxe EAA Girsan MC9 Model. This features a longer, ported slide, 4.6″ barrel, and flared mag well. The makes the MC9 better for competition. It is offered for $485.26 at Locked & Loaded, a $195+ savings over the regular $681.00 pistol price.
⏺ Get ready for varmint season with 500-count packs of V-Max bullets
Do you have a favorite varmint rifle chambered in .223 Rem, 22 BR, or 22-250? If you’re planning to load hundreds of rounds for an upcoming varmint safari, you can save big right now at Midsouth. Buy in bulk for super savings. Get 500 50gr .224 V-Max bullets for just $102.99 — that works out to just $21.60 per hundred. Or if you want a little higher BC, order 500 60gr .224 V-Max for $105.49. Both are great deals. These V-Max bullets are ideal for varmint work. Midsouth also has 110gr .270 Caliber V-Maxs on sale.
⏺ Sturdy bench has large top, comfy seat, and swivels 360 degrees.
Here’s a great portable bench you can use in the field while shooting prairie dogs or other varmints. Or use this when practicing on a undeveloped shooting range. Now $160.99 on Amazon, Birchwood Casey Xtreme Shooting bench swivels 360 degrees and has a large, comfortable seat with removeable backrest. Weighing a moderate 46 pounds, this shooting bench boasts a large, 29″ square top with a removable rifle support. This bench, which sells for $180 elsewhere, has earned many positive reviews: “Hands down and far away the sturdiest portable shooting bench I have ever used. It is portable but not exactly light but that is why I bought it. The light benches feel cheap and are not sturdy…”, “It doesn’t feel flimsy or wobble like similarly-priced benches. Overall it’s a great bench!”. The bench includes cup-holder and gear basket.
7. Palmetto State Armory — Norma TAC-22 Ammo, $4.50/box
⏺ Excellent rimfire ammo at a GREAT price — .22 LR Deal of the Year
We are repeating this deal from last week because it’s quality .22 LR ammo at a GREAT price, and it could sell out soon. If you shoot NRL22 or just practice for fun, grab some Norma TAC22 .22 LR ammo at Palmetto State Armory. On sale at just $4.50 per 50-round box (just $0.09/rd), this TAC-22 ammo is a truly spectacular bargain.
Norma TAC-22 accuracy with an older lot from 2017. Photo from Champion Shooters Supply.
Norma TAC-22 is good quality ammo that has shown excellent accuracy in tests (see photo). You’ll have to pay twice as much (or more) to get more accurate rimfire ammo.
8. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-EZ Tumbler Kit, $75.53
⏺ Great price on complete kit with tumbler, separator, and media
This Quick-N-EZ Master Tumbler Kit contains everything you need to tumble rifle or pistol brass. Now on sale for $75.53, this Kit contains: Vibratory Tumbler, Rotary Media Separator, Plastic Bucket, 3 lbs. Cleaning Media, and 4 oz. Brass Polish. At $75.53 this is a fine deal — you could easily pay more than that for a decent vibratory tumbler alone. Other vendors are charging $100 (or more) for this full kit.
9. Amazon — Smart Weigh Gem20 Digital Scale, $21.99
⏺ Great little accurate, repeatable scale at amazing price — Watch the VIDEO!
The Smart Weigh Gem20 scale is an excellent option for those looking to reduce velocity Extreme Spread by weighing powder precisely to the kernel, without having to spend $1000 on a laboratory grade scale. At this low price (under $22 currently), this is also great option as a back-up or travel scale used at the range. Verified purchasers, including the maker of the video above, have praised the scale. Watch the video to see how precise it is — the scale can measure kernel by kernel. Use the “mode” button to select grains. The scale can also weight in grams, ounces, and other modes. Use the tare function to zero with powder pan. This scale ships with two 10g calibration weights.
10. Midsouth — Forster Accu-Ring, $14.99
⏺ Unique precision-marked lock ring helps quickly set shoulder “bump”.
The new Forster Accu-Ring has precise markings so you can set your sizing dies with extreme precision. The Accu-Ring makes setting up your sizing die easier by providing laser-etched precision markings in one-thousandth of an inch increments (.001″). This allows you to more easily set the amount of sizing and shoulder “bump” you get when you move a die up or down in your press. In addition, if you have a conventional seating die without a micrometer adjustment, this new Forster Accu-Ring can help you achieve more precise bullet seating. SEE Ultimate Reloader Review.
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.
Today is Tax Day 2022
Today, April 18, 2022, is the deadline for individuals to file Federal and (most) state tax returns. April 15 is the typical deadline, but the the 2022 IRS deadline was moved to April 18, due to the Emancipation Day Holiday observed in DC. If you are anticipating getting a tax refund, here are some great deals to make the most out of that IRS refund check.
⏺ Very good value for a quality press with all needed tools
This Hornady reloading kit is quite a bargain at $359.99. The Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Kit includes all this hardware: L-N-L Classic Single-Stage Press, L-N-L Powder Measure, Digital Scale, Powder Trickler, Powder Funnel, 3 Die Bushings, Hand Priming Tool, Chamfer & Deburr Tool, Reloading Handbook, Positive Priming System with primer catcher, Universal Reloading Block, and Aerosol One Shot® Case Lube. Considering you can easily pay $240+ for a good single-stage press by itself, this very complete Classic Kit is a great value. The regular price is $445.99.
⏺ Complete, well-equipped tactical 12ga pump shotgun for under $180!
A pump 12ga with iron sights is a great choice for a home defense weapon. And here is one of the best shotgun deals we’ve found. No that $179.99 price is not a mis-print. This GFORCE Arms GF3T features 19.5″ barrel with 3″ chamber. There is a nice fiber optic front sight and large ghost ring rear sight. Overall weight is 7 pounds. The stock is impact-resistant synthetic stock with pistol grip. There is a rail on top of the action for mounting optics, plus a short rail on the underside of the fore-end to mount lights and/or lasers. The same shotgun sells for $379.99 elsewhere and it has earned great reviews on Guns.com from verified buyers (who paid $323.99): “Great home defense shotgun for the price!”
3. EuroOptic — Nikon Spring Sale on Spotting Scopes and Binocs
⏺ Save hundreds on high-quality spotting scopes and binoculars
Nikon is a legendary brand in optics. Nikon’s premium spotting scopes rival elite European brands costing 50-70% more. Right now you can save big on Nikon spotters and binoculars with the Nikon Spring Sale running April 11, 2022 through May 8th, 2022. Check out the Monarch 20-60x82mm ED, a great spotter with outstanding glass and sharpness. Save $200 with EuroOptic’s $1399.95 sale price. You’ll have to pay a LOT more to get a better 80mm-class spotting scope.
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.
⏺ Save $100 on good rangefinder for hunting with effective stabilization
This Monarch 3000 Stabilized laser rangefinder, now $319.97 on sale ($100 off), is a great value in a big-name laser rangefinder. This unit can range faster than typical LRFs because the Monarch 3000 instantly stabilizes the image you see in the 6X monocular. This makes one-handed ranging much easier — vibrations in the viewfinder caused by wind or hand movements are dramatically reduced. Nikon says vibrations of the image in the viewfinder caused by hand movement (sinusoidal waves) are reduced to one-fifth or less. This Monarch 3000 also has Incline Correction, providing the true horizontal distance to the target. The Monarch 3000 Stabilized LRF is also fully waterproof and fogproof, important for hunters.
6. Midsouth — Rimfire Ammo Sale, as low as $4.59 50/rd
⏺ Highly-rated units with impressive range and 50 channel
Walkie-Talkies are “must-have” items for long-range hunting and ELR shooting. They are also great for communicating with a buddy who is down-range setting or recovering targets. The 50-CH Midland GXT1000VP4 Two-Way Radio set is Amazon’s #1 Best Seller among FRS/GMRS Handheld Radios. Priced at $69.99, this Midland two-unit kit includes earbuds plus both 12V and 120V chargers. This Midland set features 50 Channels with impressive range plus “whisper mode”, so they’re good for hunting. These units include Vibrate Alert and VOX for hands-free operation. These units even offer NOAA Weather Scan capability.
8. MidwayUSA — Caldwell NRR 23 dB Youth Earmuffs, $12.74
⏺ Very good price on earmuffs sized to fit youngsters and teens
It’s vital to protect the hearing of young persons whenever they go to a shooting range or are exposed to loud noises. But the full-sized earmuffs designed for adults may not fit younger heads and ears so well, reducing muff effectiveness. These NRR 23-rated Caldwell Youth Earmuffs are designed to properly fit younger persons. Right now these NRR 23 muffs are just $12.74 in a choice of three bright colors: Hot Coral Orange (shown), Neo Blue, and Neon Green.
9. Amazon — 12″ x 12″ Splatter Grid Targets, 10 for $10.99
This 12″x12″ Splatterburst Target combines splatter shot marking with a grid background, with five aiming points. The bright neon shot circles make it easy to see your shots. And the handy grid lets you quickly estimate your group size. Get a 10-pack for $10.99, or a 25-pack for $19.99 (better deal). This particular target has earned rave reviews — 87% of verified buyers gave this a FIVE-Star rating.
⏺ Very positive user reviews, good selection of diameters
While bore cleaning should be done with a good cleaning rod and fitted bore guide, there are times when Bore-Snakes can be handy, such as when cleaning pistols, ARs, and 10/22s. Now on Amazon you can get two (2) Gogoku Bore-Snakes for just $9.99. You can get a twin-pack for .223 (5.56) rifles, a combo for .223 and .308 caliber rifles, or a pair with big and small diameters for .223 rifle plus 12ga shotguns. There are also single Huntsen Bore-Snakes for $5.99 in a wide variety of calibers and shotgun bore sizes.
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.
1. Midsouth — LEE Challenger Single-Stage Press, $72.99
⏺ Good basic or back-up press at really low price — great bargain
New to reloading and nee a simple but effective single-stage press? Or perhaps you wan to add a secondary press for repetitive chores such as primer decapping. Then the LEE Challenger Breech Lock Press. This LEE Press has a large opening for easy Case access while loading. The smart primer ejections system drops removed primers through a tube straight down into your trash big — that’s smart. The Challenger Breech Lock Press comes is fully compatible with LEE’s Breech Lock Quick Change die system. That allows you to swap dies in seconds.
⏺ Very good price on a major mfg. ultrasonic cleaning machine
Using ultrasonic technology to clean your brass is a fast and effective way to get both the case outside/inside plus the primer pockets clean. The Hornady Lock-N-Load Sonic Case Cleaner is on sale now at Graf & Sons for just $109.99, a 26% savings. This machine features a one quart stainless steel tank that removes carbon residue from the inside and outside of cartridge cases with high-frequency ultrasonic energy and a cleaning solution. The L-N-L Sonic Cleaner™ effectively cleans the inner surfaces of cartridge cases as well as the primer pockets.
3. Titan Reloading — LEE Load-Master Progressive Press, $214.99
⏺ Solid 5-station progressive — add powder measure + other features later
Are you looking to upgrade from a single stage to an affordable progressive press? The LEE Load-Master offers great performance for the price — just $214.99 on sale (less that you’d pay for some single-stage presses). Start with the basic auto-indexing unit with five stations. Then, as your budget permits, you can add a LEE Powder measure, Bullet Feeder, Case Feeder, Primer Feeder, and other Lee accessories. This is a solid starter set-up that you can upgrade over time. For pistol reloaders in particular the LEE Load-Master offers good performance for the price.
4. Taurus G3c 9mm Pistol, $209.99 after Mfg. Rebate
⏺ Good 9mm carry pistol for under $210 with Rebate that ends 4/15/22
Looking for a slim, compact carry pistol but have a tight budget? Here’s one of the best deals we’ve seen in many months. The compact 9mm Taurus G3c is on sale now for just $234.99 at LockedandLoaded.com. Plus this Taurus 63c pistol qualifies for a $25 Taurus factory rebate through 4/15/2022. That lowers your net cost to a crazy-low $209.99! This pistol features a tough Tenifer-finish slide plus Teflon coatings on all operational controls. Buyer reviews have been positive: “The pistol is easy to operate, clear, and the re-strike capability is nice. Great gun and not just for the money.”
5. Amazon — Quality Clamp for ARCA Rail Attachments, $23.99
⏺ Use to clamp rifle ARCA rails to bipods, tripods, and bagriders
Need an inexpensive way to fit accessories to a rifle’s forearm ARCA Rail? We found this 70mm Quick Release ARCA Swiss Clamp for only $23.99 — much cheaper than high-end ARCA Swiss clamps. This can be used to fit a benchrest bag-rider, or PRS accessory bag. Or, you can clamp Atlas-type bipods. And yes, you can mount your rifle to a tripod with this clamping unit (which secures to the top of the tripod). One of our Editors uses this model and finds it’s a solid mount with two handy built-in levels. NOTE: This is not a true “quick release” clamp. It takes nearly a full rotation on the knob to loosen the clamp, so this may not be ideal for rapid accessory-swapping in tactical competitions.
6. KYGUNCO — Savage .22 LR Mark II FV-SR Rifle, $259.99
⏺ Inexpensive rifle has shown good accuracy for NRL22
Looking for a fun .22 LR rifle that offers good accuracy for a very affordable price? Grab the Savage Mark II FV-SR. A good starter for NRL22 work, this rifle boasts a multi-Cam synthetic stock plus 5-round detachable box magazine. This Mark II FV-SR includes a one-piece scope rail, plus user-adjustable AccuTrigger for crisp trigger pulls. The heavy, button-rifled, 16.5″ barrel is fluted, and is threaded at the muzzle.
⏺ Amazing value for a good 80mm objective spotting scope
Need a spotting scope but have a very tight budget? Consider the Athlon Talos Spotting scopes. These are now on sale at EuroOptic for just $139.99, 53% off the regular $299.99 price. These Athlon Talos spotters feature a large, 80mm objective lens with multi-coating treatment for excellent light transmission. Buyers report that the general clarity and sharpness are surprisingly good for the money. The Athlon Talos features a rotating ring, so you can easily adjust the viewing angle when mounted on a tripod.
⏺ Very good set of Torque control fastener tools now on sale
For many years Wheeler’s FAT Wrench has been a popular tool for working on firearms. Now Wheeler Engineering has introduced the excellent Wheeler FAT Stix set. This includes 12 Screwdriver Bits, 5 Torque Limiters, and fitted Storage Case. Use this FAST Stix set for for firearm assembly, maintenance, and installing accessories. Along with the bits and torque limiters, Wheeler includes a comfortable T-handle all wrapped up in a convenient case. With the FAT Stix kit you can ensure your actions and scope rings are attached properly.
9. Amazon — Caldwell Steady Rest, $24.64
⏺ Works as front/rear rifle support or detach to use as separate pistol rest
The Caldwell Steady Rest is a sturdy yet inexpensive modular rest design. At $24.64 on Amazon you can’t go wrong with this Caldwell Steady Rest, even if you use it just for pistols, or sighting in hunting rifles. Use the front section by itself as a pistol rest, or connect both units for rifle use. We’ve used this for pistols and it worked very well — the design provides a nice handrest below the pistol grip. Lightweight yet stable, the Caldwell Steady Rest is easy to store, easy to transport, and ultra-affordable.
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.
1. KYGUNCO — RemArms 700 Magpul Rifle starting at $988.99
⏺ Modern Magpul stock, versatile long-range target and hunting rig
Looking for a serious long-range rifle for under $1100? Check out these RemArms 700 Magpul rifles. Starting at just $988.99 for the 6.5 Creedmoor 22″ bbl version (without bipod), these are well-made, reliable, and accurate rifles with a nice modern Magpul stock. For $1054.99 ($66 more), you can get bipod-equipped versions in .308 Winchester or 6.5 Creedmoor, both with fluted 20″ heavy barrels. Currently out of stock is a .300 Win Magnum version with 24″ heavy barrel and bipod ($1054.99). When it becomes available again, we think the .300 Win Mag model would be a great long-range hunting rig for large game.
2. Midsouth — Hornady 168gr BTHP Match, $164.99 for 500
⏺ Great price for quality 168gr .30-Caliber bullets
Do you need affordable .30-cal bullets for an M1 Garand or 1903 Springfield? Or perhaps you want to get started in F-TR with lower cost projectiles? If so, you can now grab 500 168gr BTHP Match grade .30-cal bullets for just $165.99. That works out to just $33 per hundred — a great deal. You could easily pay twice as much (or more) for some other brands. This is a good option if you don’t need the Heavy 185-220 grain bullets. These bullets have a good BC for their weight class.
3. Graf’s — Hornady Ammo Plant Progressive Press, $1299.99
⏺ Excellent progressive press with case feeder and bullet feeder
Do you reload large quantities of pistol ammo, or .223 rifle ammo? Then you can save significant time with a quality progressive press. Right now you can save over $200 on the Hornady L-N-L Ammo Plant Progressive Reloading Press Kit. This is a complete loading system with a 5-station, auto-indexing press plus a brass feeder and bullet feeder. The system uses a precise and easily-adjusted powder measure that we prefer to the Dillon powder system. NOTE: After buying the press kit, you’ll need to purchase the appropriate shell plate and dies for your choice of cartrdige(s). Guys, this is a good deal — the same Hornady Ammo Plant system is currently $1525.99 at MidwayUSA.
4. Sportsman’s WHSE — Leupold SX-4 Pro Guide Spotting Scopes
⏺ Good values on 20-60X and 15-45X Leupold Spotters
Looking for a quality spotting scope at a great price? Then check out the Leupold SX-4 Pro Guide HD spotting scopes on sale at Sportsman’s Warehouse. Chose the 15-45x65mm spotter for $699.99 or the bigger 20-60x85mm spotter for $899.99. Fully waterproof and fogproof, these Leupold spotters feature a rugged magnesium body plus an oversized eyepiece for all-day comfort. Both spotters offer Leupold’s Twilight Max HD Light Management System, which helps in low light conditions, while reducing glare in direct light. The 15-45x65mm SX-4 spotter is hard to beat at that $699.99 price.
5. Amazon — Tipton Compact Range Vise, $24.99
⏺ Good, transportable product for working on hunting/varmint rifles
Here’s a very handy gun cradle that helps you clean and maintain rifles while at the range or at home. The Compact Range Vise folds and collapses to 11-1/4″, so it is easily transported. Two padded “V” brackets hold the rifle while protecting the finish during cleaning/maintenance operations. Made from solvent-resistant polymer, Tipton’s Compact Range Vise is durable and should last for years. NOTE: For typical hunting and varmint rifles this Range Vise works well, though it is not suited for wide-forearm benchrest or F-Open rigs.
⏺ Very comfortable mat — worth the money if you shoot often
If you do a lot of prone shooting you NEED a quality, comfortable mat. One of the best mats on the market today is the Creedmoor Deluxe Folding Mat. This offers double-thick jute padding under the textured elbow pad sections. Carrying handles are provided so equipment can be carried within the fold of the mat. The mat features a waterproof vinyl bottom and a marine finished top. The combination of these materials makes a comfortable and durable mat. NOTE: These mats are custom made by Creedmoor, so, for a modest extra fee, you can order extra knee-zone rubber, or additional padding in the top third.
⏺ Everyone needs a tool like this to set fasteners correctly
When mounting a scope or installing an action, you need to set torque correctly or you risk damaging things. For basic tasks requiring precise torque levels, consider the Sanliang Torque Screwdriver Set. With a range of 10-70 inch pounds, this will perform a multitude of gunsmithing jobs. It’s easy to preset the torque —- simply pull down to unlock, then set the torque you need and push to lock. Includes a set of 10, 1/4’’ bits with convenient storage case.
⏺ Crazy-low price on basic hunting scope with good warranty
Here’s a VERY affordable optic that could be good choice for a youngster’s first rifle, or serve as a back-up for a hunting gun. Right now Natchez offers the Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm scope for just $29.99. You read that right — $29.99. You could pay more than that for a set of rings. Fitted with a Multi-X Reticle, this scope has a good 3-9X magnification range for hunting. It features Bushnell’s Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) lens coating for enhanced low-light performance.
Midsouth — .22 Caliber Aguila FMJ Bullets, 1000 for $99.99
⏺ Great deal on bulk .224 and 9mm bullets
Need a large supply of budget-priced bullets for your AR15 or varmint rifle? Here’s an amazing deal — get 1000 55gr or 1000 62gr .224-caliber bullets for just $99.99. That’s right, 1000 bullets for under 100 bucks. These won’t rival high-quality Berger or Sierra bullets, but they will be adequate for varmint work, 3-gun practice, or plinking with your AR. If you load 9mm, you can also get 1000 115gr 9mm bullets for $99.99.
10. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Trickler, $17.99
⏺ Inexpensive, works well, stable, tall enough
Every handloader can use a good powder trickler. However many tricklers are light and unstable, making them frustrating to use. We’ve been impressed with the Frankford Arsenal Trickler . This is a solid unit with some heft, with a hard rubber base. The mass and good design make this easy to use, allowing simple, accurate trickling.
Pieter “Piet” Malan is a South African precision rifle shooter and hunter who has created an impressive YouTube Channel with over 300 videos. While Pieter’s Impact Shooting Channel focuses primarily on tactical PRS/NRL type disciplines, his channel also includes dozens of videos of interest to hunters and anyone who handloads rifle cartridges. We particularly like Pieter’s tech review videos which explain important reloading methods and showcase new products.
Here are five Peiter Malan tech videos. Topics include annealing, hydro-forming, case priming, MOA vs. MILs, and how to record video with spotting scopes. As a bonus for you hunters out there, we added Pieter’s recent hunting video, Kudu Hunting Paradise Part 2. After watching that, you’ll probably want to book an African Safari.
Annealing Cartridge Brass with AMP Annealer
With premium cartridge brass for popular match cartridges now approaching $1.20 (or more) per case, you want that new brass to last. But after multiple firings, even the best cartridge brass will start degrading. That’s where annealing comes in. Proper, precision annealing can restore case-neck consistency, reducing ES/SD and improving accuracy. Some top shooters anneal after every firing to keep their brass in top condition. Others will anneal after every 4-6 firings.
Today with the advanced AMP microprocessor-controlled annealing machine, brass cartridge annealing is easier yet more precise than ever. The AMP Annealer provides advanced electrical induction annealing with ultra-precise temperature control set perfectly for your cartridge type and brand of brass. In this video, Pieter shows how to use the AMP Annealer to anneal 6mm Dasher cases and other cartridge types.
Hydro-forming Dasher Brass Using Hammer Method
In this video, Pieter Malan explains the hydro-forming process for Dasher brass and shows how he does the job using the mallet method with hydro-forming dies. He shows that it takes some technique (and multiple hammer blows) to get a good result, with a case that will fit in the chamber.
Fire-forming 6mm Dasher brass can be fairly costly if you factor in barrel life along with the cost of components. If you figure a new 6mm custom barrel, chambered and fitted by a top smith, could cost $650.00 and may only be good for 1300 rounds (in competition), barrel cost per shot is $0.50 (fifty cents). Add the price of a bullet, powder, and primer, and you are approaching $1.00 per round. Given those numbers, it makes sense to hydro-form your 6mm Dasher brass. In the USA, DJ’s Brass will hydro-form and then anneal your cases for $0.60 per case. That’s not much more than the barrel cost per shot alone for fire-forming.
MOA (Minute of Angle) vs MRAD (Milliradians)
This is a good basic introduction to the two types of angular measurements used in modern optics. Benchrest and F-Class shooters tend to favor Minute of Angle (MOA) scopes. One MOA is 1.047″ at 1000 yards. Scopes may be calibrated with 1/4 MOA or 1/8 MOA click values. Tactical and military shooters tend to prefer the Milliradian (Mil or Milrad) system, normally with 1/10 Mil click values. A Milliradian is an SI-derived angular measurement — one thousandth of a radian (0.001 Radian). At 100 yards, a 0.1 Mil click is 0.36″, while a full Mil is 3.6 inches. And practically speaking, 1 Mil at 100 meters is equal to 10 centimeters. MORE INFO: MOA and Mils Explained.
Primal Rights CPS — World’s Most Expensive Priming Tool
Seating primers can be a “dark art”. Many top shooters prefer to seat “by feel” using a hand tool. Others prefer lever-equipped, bench-mounted tools that offer higher work-flow rates and less strain on the hands.
There are many bench-mounted priming options — Forster has a tool, as does RCBS, and Lee. At the top of the heap is the $600 Primal Rights Competition Primer Seater (CPS). This may be the most precise bench priming tool ever created. It is certainly the most expensive at $600.00. But the CPS delivers something special — superb, repeatable depth control, along with the ability to prime up to 1000 cases per hour. For some reloaders, that precision + productivity will justify the high price. In this video Pieter reviews his Primal Rights Competition Primer Seater.
How to Record Video Through Your Spotting Scope
There are many things viewed through a spotting scope that you might want to record for posterity — a successful hunting shot on a game animal, or steel targets being hit in a PRS match. In addition, after a match, it can be useful to study the wind conditions and mirage that occurred during a match. This can help improve your wind reading skills as you watch what unfolded.
In this video, Pieter shows how to mount a smartphone to the eyepiece of a spotting scope with a plastic adapter. This allows you to record, for posterity, what the scope is “seeing”. In addition, this allows the viewer to see the scope’s magnified image conveniently without having to strain into the eyepiece and focus on a very small exit pupil.
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.
This handsome rig is now $799.97. That’s $200 (21%) off the regular price. The Sauer 100 Atacama features a smooth-running 3-lug, 60-degree-lift bolt. The action, bolt, and 22″ barrel sport a durable Desert Sand Cerakote finish. The advanced Atacama camo is very effective. For large game hunting, we recommend the potent 6.5 PRC Chambering. The rifle is also available in 6.5 Creedmoor for the same discounted price. This rifle has a double-stack 5+1 capacity detachable magazine.
2. Bruno’s — Sierra Loaded Ammo, Pistol and MatchKing Rifle
NOTE: After clicking photo, SORT BY “Name Descending” to feature the Sierra ammunition.
⏺ Excellent match-grade rifle ammo plus good price on pistol ammo
If you need high-quality ammo for competition, but don’t have the time or the tools to reload — here’s a great option. Bruno Shooters Supply has discounted Sierra ammunition loaded with excellent MatchKing bullets. Get this ammo for popular match rifle cartridge types including: 6mm Creedmoor, .223 Remington, and .308 Winchester. In addition, Sierra 9mm and .45 ACP pistol ammo is on sale. .45 ACP shooters should grab the 185gr Sierra ammo priced at just $19.85 for 20 rounds. That’s one of the best .45 ACP deals we’ve seen. For all Sierra ammo on sale at Bruno’s, CLICK HERE then SORT BY “Name Descending”.
3. Midsouth — RCBS Explorer Reloading Kit, $299.99
⏺ RCBS Kit includes all vital tools — good for new hand-loaders
Good news — Midsouth has RCBS Explorer Press Tool Kits on sale for $299.99. That’s $65 off the regular price. Great for folks getting started in reloading, this kit includes the single-stage press, powder measure, priming tool, trickler, digital scale, load manual, and various accessories. Get the RCBS Explorer Kit 2 for $299.99. If you want a bigger press, Midsouth also has the Rebel Master Reloading Kit for $359.99, marked down from $489.99. This includes everything in the Explorer kit, but with the beefier Rebel press and a few more tools.
4. EuroOptic — SIG Sauer Scopes on Sale, Save up to $180
⏺ Save hundreds on good Sig Sauer scopes for hunters/varminters
Right now, EuroOptic.com has some great deals on Sig Sauer Riflescopes and Scope/Rangefinder Packages. There are some great deals here for basic scopes for hunting and varminting. User reviews on SIG scopes and rangefinders have been very positive.
5. MidwayUSA — Tipton Best Gun Vise + Wheeler Gunsmithing Screwdriver Set, both for $89.99
⏺ Outstanding gun vise PLUS a 43-piece gunsmithing driver set
This is a great combo kit for working on rifles and shotguns. And right now you can save $40! The Tipton Best Gun Vise is stable, and offers plenty of storage for solvents, patches, small tools and parts. The vise can adapt to hold a variety of long guns, including ARs. Along with the Best Vise, you get a full 43-piece screwdriver kit that has 40 bit options: standard (flat) (21), Phillips (4), Allen (10), and Torx (5). The adjustable handle is nicely designed and comfortable.
6. KYGUNCO — Walther 9mm and .22 LR Pistol Savings
⏺ Great deals on Walther 9mm and .22 LR pistols
We like Walther pistols. They have nice ergonomics (better than Glock), and consistent triggers. Here we’ve picked a pair of Walther pistols — one 9mm centerfire for CCW and a rimfire for training. The CCP M2, now $429.99 on sale, is an excellent choice for concealed carry. And the P22Q .22 LR rimfire, $318.67 on sale, has a nearly identical size, weight, and grip so it’s a great for training with lower-cost rimfire ammo. NOTE, the CCP M2 is striker-fired with 5.5-lb DAO trigger pull, while the P22Q is hammer-fired with an 11-lb double action and 4-lb single action trigger.
⏺ Very handy folding bench can handle multiple tasks, 20% Off
Not everybody has a dedicated reloading room. For those with limited space here is a good option. The Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Reloading Stand can handle a press and a powder measure at the same time. This versatile bench features collapsible shelves that tuck away for easy storage. When folded, this reloading stand can fit in a closet or a RV storage compartment. The Frankford Arsenal folding Reloading Stand is now $141.59 on sale at MidwayUSA, a 20% savings.
⏺ Lightweight adjustable rest for sighting-in hunting rifles and ARs
This inexpensive, 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 $79.99 at Midsouth, a significant savings over the regular price.
⏺ Compact, lightweight, and very affordable Laser Rangefinder
Here’s a very affordable big-name Laser Rangefinder that will work for hunters and varminters. The Nikon Prostaff 1000 6×20 Laser Rangefinder offers 1000-yard ranging capability with compact ergonomics. The 6X monocular optic is good, and Nikon’s Tru-Target system allows you to select either First Target or Distant Target Priority. This is a good basic rangefinder at a remarkably low price — just $149.95 at Graf & Sons.
⏺ Crazy-low price for good quality NRR 30 safety earmuffs
These are quality Walker’s EXT NRR 30 muffs that sell elsewhere for up to $16.00. If you need a good basic pair of full-size muffs, it’s hard to beat this deal — $7.99 at MidwayUSA. Purchasers say this EXT model is pretty comfortable. Even if you have your own high-end electronic muffs, get a couple pair of these Walker EXTs to keep in your vehicles as spares for your guests and shooting buddies. If you want thinner, compact muffs, Graf’s has Walker’s Pro-Low Profile NRR 22 Muffs on sale now for $11.99.
Spring is here and that means that a number of companies are offering noteworthy REBATES on products. Here are some good promotions that can save you up to $300 on a rifle, $50 on a pistol, and $75 on optics. You can find other current rebates on the Gun.deals Rebate Page.
1. Christensen Arms — Modern Precision Rifle/Pistol Promotion
CHRISTENSEN ARMS REBATE good through April 30, 2022
DEADLINE for online submission: Activates with MPR/MPP warranty registration CLICK HERE for REBATE Form
Buy a Christensen Arms Modern Precision Rifle (MPR) or Modern Precision Pistol (MPP) between March 11th and April 30th and you will receive a $300 Gift Card to spend at the Christensen Arms webstore. This $300 card can be used to purchase another rifle, barrels, stocks, optics, or accessories. We would consider using the $300 credit for a second factory barrel. That would let you should two calibers with one rifle.
2. Bushnell Red Dot Optic Rebate up to $75
BUSHNELL REBATE good through March 31, 2022
DEADLINE for mail-in or online submission: 4/30/20222 CLICK HERE for REBATE Form
Bushnell is now offering attractive rebates on a variety of Red Dot optics. Savings range from $30 to a maximum of $75 based on the Optic Model. The max $75 rebate is for the AR71XRD Model, while you can get $50 off the AR731306 model.
3. Smith & Wesson $50 Rebate on S&W M&P Shield Plus Pistols
SMITH & WESSON REBATE good through May 16, 2022
DEADLINE for mail-in or online submission: 6/16/2022 CLICK HERE for REBATE Form
Now through May 16, 2022 you can get a $50 S&W factory rebate with the purchase of a Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus handgun. Purchasers get a $50.00 USD prepaid card for each eligible pistol. The M&P Shields have good ergonomics (better than Glock for most folks), and are very reliable. S&W’s Shield Plus pistols are offered in a variety of sizes with or without external manual safeties. There are even models fitted with Crimson Trace Red Dot optics. For more info, visit Smith-Wesson.com/rebates.
4. Leupold Promo — Free Duffle with DeltaPoint Pro Red Dot
LEUPOLD DeltaPoint Red Dot DEAL good through April 10, 2022
DEADLINE for mail-in or online submission: 4/10/2022 CLICK HERE for REBATE Entry Page
Purchase any Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Red Dot optic and receive a free Leupold Go Gear Duffle, a claimed $150 value. This offer applies to new DeltaPoint Pro purchases made February 28, 2022 – April 10, 2022 in the USA. NOTE: The promo closes on April 10, 2022 and all claims must be submitted no later than that date. Allow 8-10 weeks for shipping.
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.
1. Sportsman’s Warehouse — Crimson Trace Scope Sale
⏺ Save hundreds on fine Crimson Trace scopes for hunters/varminters
You might know Crimson Trace as a laser-sight company but did you know Crimson Trace also offers quality rifle scopes? If you’re looking for a new scope check out the Crimson Trace scope sale at Sportsman’s Warehouse. These are good quality scopes for rimfire and centerfire rifles, with a variety of magnification ranges and reticle options at prices that are hard to beat. For varminters, we like the 6-24x50mm Brushline Pro, now just $299.99 — 41% off the regular $504.99 price! Awesome deal.
2. Locked & Loaded — Stevens 12ga Shotguns under $215.00
⏺ Shockingly low prices on reliable home defense pump shotguns
Stevens 12ga defensive shotguns are available now at super-low prices. Stevens is a good company, part of Savage Arms. We found great deals on imported Stevens 320 12ga pump shotgun models equipped with handy Ghost Ring sights front and rear. We like the Stevens Model 320 12ga 18.5″ with thumbhole stock — an amazing bargain at just $187.37. Or get a pistol grip stock Model 320 12ga for $213.80.
3. 21st Century Shooting — Neck-Turning Lathe Sale, $238.50
⏺ Superb tool for neck-turning, highly recommended, now 25% Off.
Turning necks can enhance neck tension consistency and often improve accuracy. One of the best neck-turning tools on the market is the the 21st Century Lathe. We own and use this tool, and confirm it does a great job. This compact lathe makes it easy to remove material from around the case neck to create uniform neck-wall thickness and improve concentricity. With 21st Century’s innovative design and ease of use you’ll be creating high quality brass in no time.
4. Midsouth — Nightforce Scopes, full selection at good prices
⏺ Midsouth now sells full range of Nightforce Scopes at good prices
Nightforce is a leading player in tactical and long range disciplines. With some of the clearest glass on the market and many magnification-level options, Nightforce scopes are a top pick for PRS, F-Class, and benchrest competitors. And Nightforce offers a rock-solid warranty.
You can now purchase Nightforce scopes at Midsouth. There is a very wide selection in stock now at Midsouth, all with FREE SHIPPING.
5. Graf & Sons — Graf Classic Black Powder
⏺ Great for hunters/competitors who load Black Powder Cartridge Rifles
Smokeless powder isn’t the only kind of propellant that’s been hard to find. Black Powder has also been in short supply recently. But here’s good news — Graf Classic Black Powder (in three different formulas) is now available at Grafs.com. And Graf’s also has Schuetzen Black Powder in stock now. If you need Black Powder, head over to Grafs.com and grab some now.
6. Natchez — Major Rifle, Pistol, Shotgun Ammo Sale
⏺ Very good prices on wide variety of quality ammo
With prices on the rise and supplies still limited, it’s wise to stock up on qualityi loaded ammunition when you find it at good prices. Right now Natchez is running a major ammunition sale. You’ll find a wide variety of rifle, pistol and shotgun ammo all at discount prices. There’s a large selection of popular cartridge types in stock right now, both rimfire and centerfire, pistol and rifle.
7. Amazon — Wheeler 30-Piece Tool Kit, $53.99
⏺ Every serious gun-owner can use this Hex/Torx tool kit
When doing gun maintenance and parts installation you definitely need the right tool for the job. To equip your loading room, the Wheeler 30-Piece SAE/Metric Hex and Torx P-Handle Set is a good option. This can handle a wide variety of fasteners found on firearms (as well as other machinery and vehicles). The molded tool rack can be kept on your bench OR mounted on a wall for convenient access to the SAE Hex, Metric Hex, and Torx drivers.
8. Midsouth — Lyman Tac-Mat Shooting Mat, $56.31
⏺ Thick padded mat offers more comfort with good length and carry handle
Comfort counts when you’re on the ground for hours. We like this Lyman Tac-Mat 71″ x 36″ shooting mat. It has more padding than most mats on the market, providing better comfort. Now $56.31 in tan or $56.31 in black at Midsouth, this is a VERY good deal. This same Lyman shooting mat now costs $74.91 on Amazon — that’s 33% MORE!
9. Amazon — Neiko Digital Calipers, $26.99
⏺ Good, reliable Digital Calipers at attractive price
Every handloader needs to measure shoulder bump, cartridge length, and other dimensions. A good set of calipers is essential. Priced at just $26.99, the Neiko digital caliper is an accurate, reliable tool with very positive owner reviews. The Neiko body/frame is constructed of finely polished stainless steel with a knurled thumb roller and locking screw that ensures smooth sliding and accurate positioning. If you’re getting started in reloading or are looking for a back-up set of calipers, this is a good option.
10. Many Vendors — $50 Rebate on S&W M&P Shield Plus Pistols
⏺ Save $50 on excellent S&W semi-auto handguns with factory rebate
Now through May 16, 2022 you can get a $50 S&W factory rebate with the purchase of a Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus handgun. The M&P Shields have good ergonomics (better than Glock for most folks), and are very reliable. S&W’s Shield Plus pistols are offered in a variety of sizes with or without external manual safeties. There are even models fitted with Crimson Trace Red Dot optics. CLICK HERE for M&P Shield Plus discount deals. For more info, visit Smith-Wesson.com/rebates.
ZEISS has introduced a new LRP S5 series of First Focal Plane (FFP) optics. There are two new FFP scopes with high zoom ratios, the LRP S5 318-50 and LRP S5 525-56. These are impressive scopes, with excellent glass, precise controls, and a ton of elevation. Both models boast a 34mm main tube, European-style fast-focus eyepiece, Ballistic Stop elevation turret (with 40.7 MRAD or 140 MOA of total elevation travel), and an external locking windage turret.
Gunsmith Jim See of Elite Accuracy LLC has been testing the LRP S5 525-56 which offers 25X max power. Jim had the Milrad version with the ZF-MRi Reticle and 40.7 Mils of elevation. Jim, an active PRS/NRL competitor, knows what features are important in tactical competitions. He understands that a good PRS/NRL scope must be tough, precise, and repeatable. Jim was impressed with the new 5-25x56mm ZEISS scope. Jim really liked the bright, clear markings on the turrets, and the positive clicks. He also praised the lever-equipped zoom control, the positive zero-stop on the elevation knob, and he believed the lockable windage turret can have definite benefits in the field.
Jim told us: “The scope operates well, it tracks well, and the turrets are accurate in their movements. All the functions work well — elevation, windage, parallax. This LRP scope has a quality feel — similar to other ZEISS products I have used.” Overall, Jim believed this ZEISS 5-25x56mm optic “will fit well in its intended market”, namely PRS/NRL and long range hunting.
I recently reviewed ZEISS’s latest scope offering for the precision rifle shooter. ZEISS is a very recognizable name in the optics industry, and the LRP S5 line of optics is there first big attempt to attract the attention of PRS/tactical/competition enthusiasts.
ZEISS LRP S5 accessories include a power throw lever, a sunshade, and a set of precision rings with integral bubble level, which I found to be very well-made. I fitted my test scope with these items.
For the review I was sent the 5-25x56mm version in MRAD configuration. This optic has a 34mm main tube and is a first focal plane scope. My initial impressions of the optic when I first handled it were favorable. It had the typical look and finish of other ZEISS optics I was familiar with, the robust and solid feeling construction, and well thought-out turrets clearly numbered and easy to read.
Jim had high praise for the highly visible numbers on the dials: “With my (older) eyes, I can’t read the numbers on most scopes, but with this ZEISS LRP S5 scope I CAN read the numbers.”
I mounted the ZEISS to a very accurate 6mmBR rifle and headed out to the range to zero the optic and set the zero stop. This operation only took minutes. I fired a shot, dialed the scope to the bullet impact and sent another round, with a little fine-tuning over the next three shots I had my zero. I consulted the Owner’s Manual, and quickly reviewed the procedure for zeroing out the elevation turret and setting the zero stop. Simply loosen the two turret set screws, push the turret down and spin it to the zero indication mark on the turret until it stops, then retighten the two set screws. It’s a very easy process which I appreciated.
The turrets on this scope have clearly identifiable clicks with a slightly deeper detent at the full One Mil indicator marks. So as you rotate the turret and hit the full mill values, you can clearly feel the resistance of the heavier detent.
My next objective was to test the accuracy of the turret and the reticle sub-tensions. In any long range matches we compensate for bullet drop and wind deflection by accurately calculating our corrections via a ballistic calculator or collected data. It is very important that an elevation turret tracks true. I set up a tall target test with marks at 36″ and an exact range of 100 yards. I shot a 3-shot group at my aim point and then dialed up 10 Mils. I then repeated the 3-shot group using the same Point of Aim. The results were near perfect with a 36″ spread between the two groups. All groups were at or under .25 MOA which is representative of this rifle. The scope repeated on aim impacts, fresh off a +10 Mil “up” dial. I then dialed the turret back to zero and repeated the test with a +10 Mil aim-point change using the reticle subtensions only. There was a small variance on impact height using the subtension lines, without clicking up 10 Mils, but using the reticle hold lines only.*
Note that the view through the scope is bright and clear all the way to the very edge of the viewable image. Lesser scopes may show shadowing or distortion at the periphery.
A few days later I was able to get to a range with some steel targets out to distance, on this day I was looking at optical performance and the “feel” of the optic. It just so happens that the sun was low in the sky and I thought what a great time to check for optical flare. No good comparison happens without something to compare against. So with me was another rifle with a flagship optic [another brand] I was very familiar with. I fitted both optics with their sun shades, and looked at a picnic table on a pond dike, directly in line with the sun. The ZEISS in this test showed considerably less optical flare, to the point that flare was almost nonexistent. The ZEISS offered a clear and usable image with no eye strain. The other brand scope did not perform nearly as well in this comparison.
I proceeded with some longer distant shooting with the main purpose of seeing exactly what I could see. In the game of precision-style rifle matches one of the keys to success is managing recoil through the application of solid fundamentals. The goal here is to identify independently where each bullet goes. We accomplish that by staying in the scope and watching down range. Bullet trace, dirt impacts, target reaction, target impacts, and occasionally seeing the actual bullet in flight, are feedbacks we look for. With the sun low and sitting at about 1:30 from my line to the target, it turned out to be a great day for actually seeing the bullet in flight. The reflection of the light off the side/rear of the 105 grain Berger bullet was clearly visible to me. This is not something everyone sees because you have to know how to look for it, it is best to run in a midrange power of 10-15x to pick up these subtleties. In this case I knew I was holding about one Mil of right wind and 4.3 Mils of dialed elevation. So as I broke the shot I let my eye look up and right of the target. Each time I could catch the arching streak of the bullet as it headed to and impacted the target. The lighting in combination with the wind, on this day, was not very conducive to seeing bullet trace, again something we look for but do not always see depending on conditions.
After beating up the already shot-up plate, I was able to turn up the magnification on the ZEISS and identify both old impacts and the newer impacts that were shinier on the steel plate, typically seen as brighter smears before the lead and steel has a chance to oxidize. I then ranged and dialed plates at different distances, then shot, dialed, and shot some more. Everything in the ZEISS worked well and tracked well, causing no concerns whatsoever.
I concluded the session with some side-by-side comparisons with my control optic. I studied impacts on the same steel plate, and then did a side by side on farm buildings about 2400 yards away. Both of these optics clearly resolved the images studied. What I took away from this was that the ZEISS had a more sensitive eye box when your eye placement shifted from left to right. Not substantial but something I only noticed with a constant evaluation [in direct comparison]. Your eye placement behind the ZEISS optic front to back was forgiving and pretty normal for scopes of similar design. I noted to myself that this was worth another assessment day to better judge the optic.
In this video, on a snowy day, Jim shows how easy it is to set the Zero Stops on the turrets of the ZEISS LRP S5 5-25x56mm scope.
I was able to look through the optics again on a day with pretty flat light. We were now snow-covered and cloudy in north east Iowa. The goal today was to set up the optics in my BOG Deathgrip tripod and study the town I lived in. I set up and focused the optic onto a multi-story brick building at 1500 yards. With some fine tuning, both optics allowed me to clearly see the mortar lines between the bricks at this distance, with the flat lighting brightness and contrast were very similar in these scopes. I then looked for some color. I found my local Casey’s gas station at about 800 yards and started my comparison. My color perception in both optics seemed very similar to the point of being uneventful in even trying to compare the two, now I wished I had a bright sunny day to look over these optics again.
I spent a third evening behind glass, the goal was to get an idea of how the ZEISS performed as light was fading, again we had another cloudy evening in Iowa. I added another high-end tactical optic of similar power rating and dimensions to the evaluation, that model being a few years old but still in the manufacturer’s line-up. What I took away from this three-optic evaluation was that, on similar power settings, the ZEISS low light performance was exceptional. The white snow was still nice and white, resolution was very good and the images were easily identifiable. The first competitive comparison optic also performed very well, the second optic added to the mix showed a tint of yellowing in the image, something that I had not noticed with that optic in previous daylight use.
Overall I think ZEISS has developed an optic that will fit in with the market it was intended for. It is a solid optic that feels very robust and repeatable. The ZEISS LRP S5 525-56’s functions and repeatability performed as they should in my testing. The optical quality is very good and offers a bright, clear image. Those shooters looking for a new top-level optic should give the ZEISS LRP S5 525-56 an honest look.
Installation in Zeiss Rings
Jim placed the scope in high-quality ZEISS rings with integral bubble level. He then took the rig out into the field and completed an initial Tall Target test. That test confirmed the precision and repeatability of the 0.1 MRAD elevation and windage click values.
Jim also liked how positive the clicks felt with both elevation and windage knobs. Jim told us: “The scope operates well, it tracks well, and the turrets are accurate in their movements. All the functions work well — elevation, windage, parallax. This LRP scope has a quality feel — similar to other ZEISS products I have used.” Jim also noted that the ZEISS LRP S5 scope resisted solar flare very well: “This is important in PRS matches where we get that low sun in the afternoons”.
Scope mounted in ZEISS rings with bubble level. Optional sunshade is attached in front.
To test ruggedness and weatherproofing, Jim is putting the ZEISS LRP through its paces in harsh winter conditions. He’s using a tripod here to keep off the snowy ground. The tripod mount also allows smooth traversing to view a wide selection of terrain and objects near and far.
Advanced Optical Technology — ZEISS LRP S5 Features
The ZEISS LRP S5 525-56 has many notable features, including a lockable windage turret, adjustable reticle illumination, and a HUGE amount of elevation travel — 40.7 Mils in the MIL model and 140 MOA in the MOA version. That gives this optic the ability to shoot at extreme range without requiring holdovers.
* In this test I could see immediately that the reticle showed a measured gap between my previous two groups of 9.8 Mils (not 10), though those groups were actually a true 36″ apart (ten Mils is 36″ at 100). The shooting results, using the reticle lines only, confirmed what I saw, and I now had two groups that measured 36.6″ apart. The “take-away” is that if I have to hold with the reticle only, I can calculate the error at a minimal 0.1 mil for every 5 mils held in the reticle. Will this error cause problems? Some may think so, but in competitions we rarely hold over 5 mils while shooting stages. At 100 yards, a 0.1 Mil click is 0.36 inch, a full Mil is 3.6 inches, and ten Mils is 36″.
Installation in Zeiss Rings
