While a number of major rebates and promotions ended last month, we found other great rebate offers that are good this month, and in some cases well into the summer months. If you are looking for a new hunting rifle or hunting ammunition, these promotions offer significant savings.
1. Savage Arms — PREY FOR THE PREDATORS Promotion
SAVAGE REBATE good through MARCH 15, 2021
DEADLINE for mail-in or online submission: 4/15/2021 CLICK HERE for REBATE Form
Purchase any Savage 110 Predator, 110 Tactical, 110 Tactical Desert, 110 Apex Predator, Model 12, or Model 25 rifle models and receive a $75 Rebate from Savage. This rebate applies to purchases from any authorized Savage dealer.
1. Winchester Super X Pump Shotgun Rebate
WINCHESTER REBATE good through APRIL 30, 2021
DEADLINE for mail-in or online submission: 5/15/2021 CLICK HERE for REBATE Form
Buy any new Super X Pump shotgun and get $25 Back from Winchester. Purchases must be made at retail between March 1, 2021 and April 30, 2021. Offer available in the U.S. and Canada only. Submit Proof of Purchase to Rebates.winchesterguns.com.
3. Browning ProSteel Gunsafe Rebate
BROWNING REBATE good through APRIL 15, 2021
DEADLINE for mail-in or online submission: 5/1/2021 CLICK HERE for REBATE Form
Now through April 15, 20201 you can save up to $100 when you purchase a Browning ProSteel Pro Series Safe. Purchase a Pro Series Safe at retail between March 1 and April 15, 2021 and save up to $100. You get $100 off a $2500+ safe, $75 off a $1500+ safe, or $50 off a $799+ safe. Submit proof of purchase via the Browning Website on or before May 1, 2021
4. Steiner Optics 10% Off Purchases through March 31, 2021
STEINER DISCOUNT good through MARCH 31, 2021
No forms to be submitted — discount from dealer on purchase
We own two pairs of Steiner binoculars. These offer excellent performance for the price and have proved very durable. Steiner scopes are also a good choice for a backcountry hunter. Right now Steiner offers a 10% Discount provided by dealers through an Instant Rebate or Gift Card. This 10% Discount program applies to purchases made between 2/1/2021 and 3/31/2021. If you purchase an eligible Steiner Optic before the end of March, be sure to request your 10% Rebate.
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. MidwayUSA — Crimson Trace 5-Series Tactical Scope Sale
⏺ Very good value — superb FFP optics for PRS/NRL applications
Here are great deals on high-quality First Focal Plane MilRad optics, ideal for PRS/NRL tactical applications. These high-tech Crimson Trace scopes are HALF OFF now. Grab the 3-24x56mm for $889.50 (50% OFF) or the 3-18x50mm for $799.48 (49% OFF). Both feature 34mm main tubes, tons of elevation, and advanced MR1-MIL Advanced illuminated reticles. We’ve looked through these optics and they have good glass and nice controls. These scopes feature EZ Mount Leveling Indicators for quick, precise mounting. All Crimson Trace scopes come with FREE Batteries For Life and a Lifetime Protection Warranty.
This year the Pacific NW and Texas were hit with major, once-in-50-year ice storms that caused massive power outages. (In fact the Editor’s brother was without power for 9 straight days in Oregon.) If keeping the lights on, being able to charge devices, and staying warm is important to you then you NEED a generator. Check out the WEN 56380i 3800-Watt RV-Ready Portable Inverter Generator with fuel shut-Off and electric start. Assembled in the USA, WEN generators boast critical shut-off features to prevent damage, along with important fuel/load gauges. Order one before the next storm catches you off-guard.
3. Creedmoor Sports — Lapua Cartridge Brass In Stock
⏺ Get top-quality Lapua brass now without back-orders
Quality reloading components continue to be tough to find, especially for popular calibers. But if you need cases, visit Creedmoor Sport for premium Lapua Rifle Brass . Creedmoor Sports currently has a very wide selection of cartridge types in stock and ready to ship. As of 3/1/2021, you’ll find Lapua brass in the popular .223 Rem, 6mmBR, 6mm Creedmoor, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5×284, .260 Rem, .308 Win and more, at reasonable prices.
4. Midsouth — Lock-N-Load Case Prep Duo, $54.14
⏺ Very handy, versatile unit performs multiple tasks
This Hornady Lock-N-Load Case Prep Duo lets you accomplish case deburring, chamfering, and primer pocket cleaning all with one affordable power tool. This cordless unit features has a unique twin spindle head that runs the deburrer and chamferer at the same time — that’s handy. And HERE’s a big bonus — you can take off the dual head, swivel the grip, and convert the tool into a handy single-shaft driver you can use for multiple tasks, such as running the 21st Century neck lathe. Check out this review that showcases everything this versatile Hornady Tool can do.
5. EuroOptic — Vortex Spitfire HD Scope Sale, Save up to $200
⏺ Great choice for action shooting and defense rifles — fast reticle design
Wish you could have the best of a red dot scope and a magnified optic all in one? Take a look at the Vortex Spitfire HD Red Prism Scopes. These quality scopes feature 3X or 5X magnification, and illuminated reticles with hold-overs. The clutter-free reticle allows FAST target acquisition, making these great for both 3-Gun games and defensive use. And the night illumination is great for hunting use. The 5X model is discounted $200 from $649.99 to $499.00, while the 3X model is $150 off, discounted from $599.99 to $349.99.
NOTE: If you want the widest field of view with no magnification (for short-range disciplines), Vortex also offers the 1X-AR Prism scope for $249.99, $100 off.
6. Sportsmans Warehouse — Savage B22 FV-SR 22LR, $319.99
⏺ Patriotic Stars and Stripes version — nice features for the price
Looking for an accurate .22 LR bolt-action rifle at a good price? Check out the Savage B22 FV-SR 22LR Special Edition a Sportsman’s Warehouse exclusive. The B22 FV-SR has an ergonomically-designed stock, with a high comb more vertical grip. This allows shooters to hold the rifle in a more natural position that puts less pressure on the wrist. The B22 FV-SR features a heavy-contour, suppressor-ready barrel, Picatinny scope rail, and adjustable AccuTrigger.
⏺ Affordable padded mat rolls up for easy transport
Being comfortable when shooting prone is really important for good results. So you’ll want a good mat that offers some padding along with plenty of room for your gear. If you need an inexpensive mat that checks all the boxes, check out the Redneck Convent Shooters Mat Padded Roll Up Mat . Measuring 64 inches by 21 inches it boasts plenty of room and features 1/2″ padding top to bottom. This mat rolls up for easy storage/transport (Rolled size is 21″x8″) with handy built-in rolling straps. This is also available in Black for $31.99 or Green for $39.99.
8. Amazon — Twod Front and Rear Sandbag Set, $12.99
⏺ Very low cost bag set for basic rifle or pistol support
Do you need a simple sandbag support for hunting or sighting-in rifles? Or perhaps you want to try NRL22 but don’t way to spend much on fancy bags. This Twod Shooting Rest Combo offers front and rear bags for just $12.99. These user-fillable bags are made from heavy material. The guns rest on a soft leather top section. There is also a Camo Version of this Twod twin-bag set for $14.99 on Amazon.
⏺ Decent lens, nice molded exterior, weighs just 2.9 ounces
If you want a simple, lightweight easy-to-carry optic, you may want to consider a monocular. This unit will fit in a coat pocket and is very inexpensive. With its compact form factor, 10X magnification, and durable coating, the Roxant Viper 10x25mm Pocket Scope offers good function for the $22.95 price. With minimal 2.9 oz. carry weight and a compact size, this can be a very handy optic for hunters and hikers. This 10X scope has 65% 5-star and 15% 4-star purchaser ratings. However, a few buyers experienced problems with a cloudy lens. If you purchase, inspect the unit carefully during the eligible return period.
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 — Anderson AM-15 (AR) Lower Receiver, $89.99
⏺ More gun control is coming — get an AR lower while you can
With the developments in Washington, it will likely become more difficult to purchase an AR-platform rifle in the future. You may want to get an AR lower now, while you can, at a reasonable price. KYGUNGO (Kentucky Gun Co.) is selling the Anderson AM-15 AR15 Lower Receiver for just $89.99 (cash price) or $92.69 (credit card). This is a mil-spec 7075 T6 Forged aluminum lower, Type 3 Hard Anodized. Flat-Rate Shipping to your FFL is just $11.99. These will probably sell out quickly.
2. Midsouth — Delton AR-15 Lower Parts Kit with Grip, $52.99
⏺ Very complete AR-15 parts kit at low price
Here’s what you need to fill up that AR-15 lower receiver featured above. This Delton Complete Lower Receiver Parts Kit contains all the attachment pins, trigger system parts, and springs you need, along with a classic AR grip. Installation is straight-forward with instructions available online.
3. Amazon — Tipton Best Gun Vise, $84.84
⏺ Versatile, stable, works with all rifles, including ARs
You need a stable platform when cleaning your long guns, but most gun cradles are too light or unstable to do the job properly. If you’re looking upgrade to a better solution, grab the Tipton Best Gun Vise. The vise was designed to accommodate the widest possible array of firearms for cleaning, maintenance, or gunsmithing. This vise is easily configurable to handle bolt-action rifles, break-open shotguns, AR-15s, and handguns. You can also purchase this excellent Gun Vise for $89.99 at Midsouth Shooters.
⏺ Hard to beat bench at this price; swivel seat, 60-lb total weight
The Caldwell® Stable Table, a 60-lb tripod-style bench, offers a 34″L x 23″W top surface with a bench seat that adjusts from 16″ to 22″ in height. The polymer top has two integrated carry handles. These handles double as anchors for two gun-holding forks that can be used when cleaning your rifle. Leg adjustments keep the table and seat parallel even on uneven ground. The overall unit breaks down into seven pieces using a quick-release pin system. Maximum weight capacity is 350 pounds. This bench has earned 80% 5-star reviews from actual purchasers.
⏺ Great deal on easy-to-use, accurate, barrel-attached Chronograph
Priced at just $159.99 at MidwayUSA, the Magnetospeed Sporter model costs less than half as much as Magnetospeed’s V3 models. This chronograph attaches directly to your barrel so you don’t have to go downrange to set up skyscreens. For most people the Sporter Model contains all the features they need. Using Magnetospeed’s XFR adapter (sold separately), data can be transferred easily to your mobile device. READ Magnetospeed Sporter Review. NOTE: You MUST add the item to cart to see the $159.99 SALE price. This typically sells elsewhere for around $180.00.
6. EuroOptic –$100 Rebate on Leupold SX-4 Spotting Scopes
⏺ Instant $100 savings on excellent HD Glass spotting scopes
Get Instant Savings of $100 with the purchase of any SX-4 Pro Guide HD Spotting Scope. Offer valid February 1, 2021 through April 4, 2021, while supplies last. Leupold offers SX-4 HD spotters in 65mm objective and 85mm objective models, with both angled and straight versions. If you can’t find your preferred SX-4 in stock at EuroOptic, this Rebate will be available at other authorized Leupold dealers such as Grafs.com.
7. MidwayUSA — Caldwell Rock BR Rest + Bag, $99.99
⏺ Good inexpensive system for varminters or sight-in duties
Here’s a great bargain for someone looking for a basic functional benchrest set-up. This Caldwell Rock BR Rest and Bag Combo could be a gift to a family member or a junior shooter. Or this $99.99 combo would suffice for someone testing a hunting rifle. The front rest adjusts for both windage and elevation.
⏺ Owners say it is sharp with good features for price
This Sawback Bowie spring-assisted folding knife, just $10.95 on Amazon, has a 3.5″ blade. There is a curved cutting edge with a serrated section near the handle. Actual purchasers state: “This knife is very well made with a tight feel. No play at all. The assisted open is excellent [and] they come very sharp too”, and “This is a good quality knife. It’s solid and a bit heavy, really good looking and comes pretty sharp. Overall its a great knife.”
⏺ Great accessories for safes — light alone is worth the price
This Lockdown Safe Accessory Package includes one Large Organizer, a Vault Light, and a Large Document Holder. The bright LED Vault light runs on AAA batteries so no wiring is needed. The Document holder easily mounts to your safe’s door or sidewall. And the Large 18″x12″ Organizer will secure valuables, knives, and even small handguns. It comes with hooks for carpeted interiors and magnets for metal interiors. This KIT normally sells for $49.99 so it’s a STEAL at $12.99 — that’s 74% OFF.
“Ever had trouble calling your shots? Everything looked and felt great and you swore it was a 10, but it came up as a wide 9? This may be a result of inconsistent eye placement behind the optic. Here’s an affordable solution to help you stay in the 10 Ring.” — Creedmoor Sports
Here is an interesting new product. This scope accessory attaches to the rear (ocular) lens on a scope. It has a center hole in the middle that can help get you on target faster, and get your eye exactly centered in the scope. That will eliminate certain parallax errors.
This scope accessory was invented by White Oak, which calls it a lens reducer assembly. This features a transparent lens with a chamfer around the center hole which acts as a ghost ring, centering your eye in middle of the optic. The transparent lens allows a full field of view so you can still see surrounding targets and target numbers. The lens is held in place by a Butler Creek lens cap.
White Oak’s unique “ghost ring” design allows a full field of view so you can still see surrounding targets and target numbers but acts as a ghost ring centering your eye in the hole, minimizing effects of parallax and helping you call your shots better.
The Lens Reducer Assembly is currently offered by Creedmoor Sports for these three optics PLUS other scopes which use the same Butler Creek Cover listed after each scope:
Konus XTC-30, $34.95, (Butler Creek #18 lens cover) Weaver K-4, $34.95, (Butler Creek #09A lens cover) Vortex PST 1-4, $34.95, (Butler Creek #14 lens cover)
To Install: Simply press the lens into the lens cap until it is against the shoulder inside the cap. It will be a snug fit, the snug fit ensures the hole is centered. Then install the lens cap on your scope as usual.
NOTE: Some folks may look at this and be concerned that the grayish chamfered ring will obscure vision. Yes and no. The actual “image” that comes through the scope is a very small-diameter circle of light (“exit pupil”) that will fit fully inside the small, unobscured, fully open circle. So if your head is properly centered there will be NO obstruction. However, if you get out of alignment, then, yes, you’ll see the gray chamfered area, just as you’d see the outside of a ghost ring sight.
For a benchrest, F-Class, or ELR competitor, the optic may easily be the most expensive component of the rifle. Even a hunter may spend as much on glass as he/she does on the rifle itself. Because scopes represent such a big investment, it is important to do some research before deciding what to buy.
Unfortunately, it is pretty much impossible to “test drive” a half-dozen or more optics. Thankfully, there are some video reviews on the internet that are, for the most part, helpful. Here we provide five scope comparison tests, with different price points, high to low.
1. Nine Long Range Scopes Compared by Pew Pew Tactical
Pew Pew Tactical (PPT) published lengthy comparison of nine long range scopes. For each model PPT examined clarity, eye relief, reticle design, parallax, and windage/elevation travel. PPT also provides short videos for all the scopes showing the operation of the controls. FULL PPT REVIEW HERE.
NINE Long Range Scopes Compared
1. Vortex Strike Eagle 4-24×50mm
2. Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50mm
3. Leupold VX3i LRP 8.5-25×50mm
4. Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56mm
5. Burris XTR II 5-25×50mm
This 5-scope comparison test by Armslist Media yielded some surprises. All the scopes in the review retailed for $1500 or less. Most offer 5X at the low end and 20X or 25X at the high end. Three provide a four times zoom ratio, while the SIG Whiskey5 has a five times ratio and the Leupold VX6 has a full six times zoom ratio, with its 3-18X lens. That’s good for varmint hunters who often scan a wide field of view and then zoom in on a critter to make the shot. We think all these scopes offer good value for the money. We add that anyone considering these optics should also look at the Zeiss V4 line which offers outstanding glass at very competitive prices. The Zeiss Conquest V4 6-24x50mm is just $1199.00 at EuroOptic. The Zeiss V4 would be one of our first choices for a SFP varmint scope, no doubt about it.
4. Trijicon TR23 5-20×50mm
5. SIG Sauer Whiskey5 5-25x50mm
3. Five Sub-$1000 Scopes Reviewed by Precision Rifle Network
If you are looking for a moderate-priced optic for a PRS or hunting rifle, consider one of the scopes featured in this comparison review. These all offer 24-25 powder at the high end, plenty of magnification for PRS/NRL matches. This video compares the controls of all five optics, and there are through-the-lens views showing the reticles on each optic. The tester criticized the SIG Tango for “scope shadow” in view, and overly complex labeling on the knobs. He liked the Burris XTR2 saying it “is a well-respected optic in the precision rifle community … it is basically ‘bomb-proof'”, but he felt that Burris glass color fidelity was not on a par with the Vortex or Nightforce. (7:58). NOTE: the Nikon Black FX1000 series has been discontinued so these optics are available now at very attractive prices. Even before the price cut, the reviewer said “Guys, for the money, I’m not sure there’s another scope on the market that can compete with this thing.” (7:12). The 4-16x50mm FX1000 is just $649.99 at EuroOptic.com — a steal. We’ve used the 5-25x50mm FX1000 scope reviewed in this video — it has truly excellent glass, albeit stiff knobs.
FIVE $1000 Scopes Compared
1. Burris XTR2 5-25×50mm
2. Nightforce SHV 4.514x50mm
e. Nikon Black FX1000 6-24×50mm
.22 Plinkster is an honest tester who shoots thousands of rimfire rounds every year. So he’s in a good position to review budget-priced scopes designed for rimfire rifles. Because rimfire rifles have a different kind of recoil pulse than centerfire rigs, and because rimfire rifles are often shot rapid fire at plates, with hundreds of rounds fired in an afternoon, you want to find a scope that has been thoroughly tested to ensure long-term durability. Among the dozen scopes he tested, .22 Plinkster favored the Bushnell Rimfire Series: “I’ve used these [Rimfire Series] scopes a lot. These scopes, for the price point… you can’t go wrong.” He also recommended the Vortex Crossfire scope, noting that it had very clear glass and a rock-solid, transferrable lifetime warranty: “Vortex is one of my favorite scope to use, and as a company they really stand behind their products.”
5. Budget Optics for AR-Platform and Defensive Rifles
AR-platform rifles used for 3-Gun matches and home defense purposes don’t need high-magnification optics. Instead you want something that allows rapid target acquisition and has illumination for low-light situations. This video covers three budget-priced AR optics, two one-power Red Dots, and a Primary Arms 1-6x24mm SLx ACSS scope, which is offered in both SFP and FFP versions starting at $389.99 (not $289.99 as stated in video). A similar illuminated scope (with a better warranty), is the Vortex 1-6x24mm Strike Eagle, currently $299.99 on Amazon with BDC3 reticle.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
1. Brownells — Radical Firearms AR-15 with 16″ Barrel, $669.99
⏺ Good AR value given current market, very trustworthy seller
We know many readers are looking to add a basic .223/5.56 AR to their collection. Many vendors are pretty much sold out of complete rifles, but we found a good deal at Brownells. The Radical Firearms 16″ SOCOM 5.56mm AR-15 rifle uses MIL-STD Upper and lower receivers. The metal free-float handguard offers a 12″ RPR top rail providing plenty of options for optics and accessories. The MFT Grip and MFT Stock provide a comfortable hold on the rifle. Complete price is $669.99. Sights and/or optics sold separately.
2. Grafs.com — Redding Dies in Stock!
⏺ Very large selection of Redding Dies — your search ends here
Graf & Sons just received a large shipment of Redding Reloading Dies — both sizing and seating dies. You’ll find a large selection of types, basic sets as well as micrometer seaters and bushing FL dies. Graf’s has Redding dies in a myriad of sizes from .17 Fireball up to .338 Lapua Magnum. You’ll find dozens of popular type including: .204 Ruger, .22 PPC, .22 BR, .223 Rem, .224 Valkyrie, .22-250 Rem, 6PPC, 6BR, 6XC, .243 Win, .260 Rem, .284 Win, 7mm WSM, .308 Win, .30-06, 300 Win Mag, and countless more. Prices vary considerably based on cartridge choice. The selection is very good (except for 6mm and 6.5 Creedmoor).
3. Natchez Shooters Supplies — Sig Sauer Whiskey 5 Scope Sale
⏺ Best Sale in many months on quality Sig Sauer riflescopes
This week Sig Sauer Whiskey 5 riflescopes are on sale at Natchez. Rugged and reliable, these Whiskey 5 scopes are justifiably popular with tactical shooters and hunters. Right now you can get huge savings — $300, $400, even $500. For example, the 5-25x52mm Whiskey 5 is now $889.99, marked down from $1399.98 — a $509.99 savings! Use the money saved for a spotting scope, Kestrel, or other gear.
⏺ Owners praise this pistol for accuracy, ergos, trigger
Do you shoot IDPA or 3-gun matches? Then take a good look at this 9mm Canik. Shooters report exceptional accuracy. We shot this at Media Range Day in 2020 and can confirm the ergonomics, balance, and trigger are good (much better than a typical stock Glock). Right now the 9mm Canik TP9SFX is just $499.99 at KyGunCo, including TWO 20-rd mags plus a polymer holster. This pistol features a grey cerakote finish and 4 Red Dot interface plates. TP9SFx Owner Reviews: “For the money [it] absolutely can’t be beat. The Canik is on par with $1500 setups!”; “Trigger is extremely light and crisp with hardly any reset.”
⏺ Great deals for AR500 steel targets — watch video above right
On sale now at Midsouth Caldwell’s new bright, easy-to-see targets come in all shapes and sizes for competition, training, and recreational use. Made of AR500 hardened steel, these targets can withstand thousands of rounds. Rated up to a 3000 fps impact velocity and a 3500 ft-lb impact energy, these targets come in seven various sizes with three hanging solutions. These bright yellow AR500 targets are On Sale now at Midsouth, starting at just $14.79 for 5″ Gong Target.
⏺ Match-grade ammo for less than cost of just the Lapua Brass and Bullets
If you shoot a .308 Win, check out this deal on ammo loaded with premium Lapua cartridge brass and true match-grade Lapua Scenar bullets. You could pay $90/100 for Lapua .308 Win brass and $67/100 for the Scenar bullets (if you could find them in stock). That would be $157 per hundred, or $1.57 for just a case and a bullet. Here you are getting a fully loaded round (with primer and powder) for $1.50 — less money! Choose 155gr .308 Win, 167gr .308 Win, or 175gr .308 Win — all top-quality stuff.
7. Frankford Vibratory Tumbler ($48.99) or Wet Tumbler ($99.95)
⏺ Wet Tumble or Dry Tumble — you choose and save either way
Do you prefer vibratory tumbling with dry media, or wet tumbling with a rotary system? Either way, Frankford Arsenal has you covered. And right now you can enjoy big savings on either Tumbler system. The Quick-N-EZ Vibratory Case Tumbler is just $48.99 (or $58.94 with media separator). Or choose the excellent Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler Lite for $99.95.
⏺ Great Value on versatile security cabinet — good secondary safe
In addition to a heavy, primary gunsafe, many gun-owners can use a smaller security cabinet for another area of the house, for the garage, or even for an RV. If you’re looking for a good basic gun locker, check out the SnapSafe Premium 12-Gun Tactical Cabinet. It has a simple key-lock system and can fit in most closets. Purchasers praised this unit given the low cost: “For a gun case below $200 you can’t get much better than this” and “More of a light-weight gun locker … it is well made and sturdy though, and is much better than I expected for the price.”
⏺ Sweet deal on Ear and Eye Protection — good spare set for friends
Every shooter needs good eye and ear protection. Get BOTH the E-Max Muffs and Shooting glasses for just $32.79 on Amazon with free shipping. This combo can be an affordable spare set for yourself or to have on hand for your guests. The E-Max earmuffs offer a 23 dB Noise Reduction Rating while allowing you to hear range commands.
Have you recently purchased a new scope? Then you should verify the actual click value of the turrets before you use the optic in competition (or on a long-range hunt). While a scope may have listed click values of 1/4-MOA, 1/8-MOA or 0.1 Mils, the reality may be slightly different. Many scopes have actual click values that are slightly higher or lower than the value claimed by the manufacturer. The small variance adds up when you click through a wide range of elevation.
In this video, Bryan Litz of Applied Ballistics shows how to verify your true click values using a “Tall Target Test”. The idea is to start at the bottom end of a vertical line, and then click up 30 MOA or so. Multiply the number of clicked MOA by 1.047 to get the claimed value in inches. For example, at 100 yards, 30 MOA is exactly 31.41 inches. Then measure the difference in your actual point of impact. If, for example, your point of impact is 33 inches, then you are getting more than the stated MOA with each click (assuming the target is positioned at exactly 100 yards).
How to Perform the Tall Target Test
The tall target test determines if your scope is giving you the proper amount of adjustment. For example, when you dial 30 MOA, are you really getting 30 MOA, or are you getting 28.5 or 31.2 MOA? The only way to be sure is to verify, don’t take it for granted! Knowing your scopes true click values insures that you can accurately apply a ballistic solution. In fact, many perceived inaccuracies of long range ballistics solutions are actually caused by the scopes not applying the intended adjustment. In order to verify your scope’s true movement and calculate a correction factor, follow the steps in the Tall Target Worksheet. This worksheet takes you thru the ‘calibration process’ including measuring true range to target and actual POI shift for a given scope adjustment.
NOTE: When doing this test, don’t go for the maximum possible elevation. Do NOT max out the elevation knob, running it to the top stop. Bryan Litz explains: “It’s good to avoid the extremes of adjustment when doing the tall target test. I don’t know how much different the clicks would be at the edges, but they are not the same.”
Tall Target Test For Milrad Scopes with B2B Target
This Precision Rifle Network video shows how to do a scope-tracking test using the pre-printed Sniper’s Hide Tall Target from Box to Bench Precision (B2B). With the primary line divisions in MILs, this printed target is perfect for Milliradian scopes. From bottom of the vertical line to the top there are 10 mils (36 inches) of travel. The markings are high contrast to make the testing easier.
In this video, there are some very helpful tips on setting up the target frame correctly and making sure the Tall Target is perfectly vertical. A plumb line can help. In this video the vertical tracking of a Burris XTR III 5.5-30x56mm scope is tested. Actual testing begins at 7:20 time-mark. The Precision Rifle Network has many other informative videos, with a new video released every week.
Should You Perform a WIDE Target Test Too?
What about testing your windage clicks the same way, with a WIDE target test? Bryan Litz says that’s not really necessary: “The wide target test isn’t as important for a couple reasons. First, you typically don’t dial nearly as much wind as you do elevation. Second, your dialed windage is a guess to begin with; a moving average that’s different for every shot. Whereas you stand to gain a lot by nailing vertical down to the click, the same is not true of windage. If there’s a 5% error in your scope’s windage tracking, you’d never know it.”
Verifying Scope Level With Tall Target Test
Bryan says: “While setting up your Tall Target Test, you should also verify that your scope level is mounted and aligned properly. This is critical to insuring that you’ll have a long range horizontal zero when you dial on a bunch of elevation for long range shots. This is a requirement for all kinds of long range shooting. Without a properly-mounted scope level (verified on a Tall Target), you really can’t guarantee your horizontal zero at long range.”
NOTE: For ‘known-distance’ competition, this is the only mandatory part of the tall target test, since slight variations in elevation click-values are not that important once you’re centered “on target” at a known distance.
The SavageArms.com website offers much more than products for sale. Savage has an extensive Expert Advice area. This section of Savage’s website offers informative technical articles/videos, as well as numerous helpful tips for hunters. Many of the Expert Advice articles provide very valuable insights.
You’ll find 32 Expert Advice Articles on the Savage Arms website. Below are FIVE of our favorites. Click each item to view the full text and linked VIDEOS. Even if you don’t own a Savage, these features are useful. All Savage owners should learn how to adjust the AccuTrigger. And definitely check out the Advanced Optics selection. This features a good video covering mirage and light refraction.
1. How to Adjust the Savage Accutrigger
2. How to Mount a Scope
3. Advanced Optics — Stan Pate
Light refraction can wreak havoc on your ability to connect with a target at extreme long range. Stan Pate offers some good advice concerning mirage and refraction.
4. How to Sight In a Rifle
5. Boresighting Your Rifle
Before you can zero your rifle, you first need to do a basic boresighting so your scope reticle center is aligned close to the point of impact. Then you can get your exact zero. This video covers three easy Boresighting Methods.
This story is about the purchase of a super-sized spotting scope with a notable history. Forum member David Buffington explains how he located a rare Unertl 100mm-objective spotter that had served Team USA in international competitions.
It is a rare pleasure to acquire a gun with a history. It is simply extraordinary to acquire a scope – in this case, a spotting scope – that has quite literally seen some of the best shots ever taken. The scope is an Unertl Team Spotting Scope, a beast of a 100mm scope especially made for long-range shooting matches. (For technical details, see: http://unertl.alexweb.net/100team.htm.)
And recently, I was pleased and proud to become its custodian …
In the AccurateShooter Forum Classifieds my friend, dgeesaman, found an ad for an Unertl “Team” spotting scope, a 100mm beast built by the famed Unertl company specifically for long range shooting spotting. I had tried to find one years earlier, but I had no luck. This time I struck gold. The Unertl Team was being sold by an accomplished shooter, Mike Dunia, and was in excellent condition complete with all the goodies, including the monster travel case you see above.
Now, because of its sheer size – about 60 pounds with the case – this scope is definitely NOT practical for casual spotting, but the image, well, it’s like being there. The image is extremely bright and sharp edge-to-edge with no hint of chromatic aberration. And once you get the beast to where you want to be, setup is remarkably simple, with a tripod, mount and scope all beautifully machined to move smoothly and easily.
Vintage Unertl optics can be purchased from Dewayne (Dewy) Greiner in MN, Classic Unertl Scopes.
The scope was sold to me by Mike Dunia, an accomplished marksman who served with the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit and represented San Francisco’s famed Olympic Club in competitions around the world, for example, winning the British Columbia Target Rifle Championship in 2002 and the California Palma Championship in 2003. Dunia has had a notable 50+ year shooting career, starting in college when Dunia was Captain of the Stanford University Rifle Team. The scope was owned by Dunia’s friend, Larry Wilkins, who also served in the U.S. Army, was also an accomplished marksman, and also represented San Francisco’s famed Olympic Club.
Below is a photo of the USA Palma Team in 1995 with multiple Unertl 100mm spotting scopes:
The names of the individuals in this 1995 photo were provided by tool-maker Alan Warner, who was there that day many years ago. In the same Shooters’ Forum thread, Alan posted: “Far left, white shirt and hat, squatting is Burt Rallins. Prone — close left with small scope is me, Alan Warner. Standing in team jacket is Ken Erdman. Next in background is Mike Dunia. The Coach, sitting, is Bob Jensen. The Next coach is Eric St. John. Can’t make out the other coach or shooters. Last coach is Bill Meek.”
Here is just a bit of the vaunted history of the San Francisco Olympic Club (click photo to read full screen):
Although I do plan to use the scope, I feel an obligation to preserve as much of its history as I can, including, most importantly, the stories of the shooters who used it before it came to me. I should also mention that Wilkins served with the famous “Task Force Smith” at the start of the Korean War. If you’re not familiar with that horrific story of courage, do look it up.
Unertl Spotting Scope Original Cost … And in Current Dollars
What might this line of 100mm monsters have cost back in the day? Well, I’ve tracked down an Unertl price list from sometime after 1963 — we know that because it has a ZIP code in the address — and the price then was listed as $450, but another price list, dated 1994, puts the price at $2,200.
Of course, that’s $2,200 in 1994 dollars. That would be $3,842 in today’s 2021 money, according to USinflationcalculator.com. So the seven Unertl Team scopes seen here would cost $26,894 at present! — David Buffington
100mm Spotting Scope Operation
Were these scopes used to see bullet holes? Actually that was not their primary purpose. Shot locations on target were shown by shot markers placed by pit workers. But the scopes did serve important purposes, as explained by Forum member Dave Marshall: “You won’t be able to see any bullet holes past 300-400 yards with those scopes. They usually used a fixed 24X eyepiece. I don’t think there is a scope in existence today that can see bullet holes at 1000 yards. [It is possible — but only under very rare, perfect conditions. That said, spotting scopes ARE used all the time to see 1000-yard shot markers and thereby record scores. — Editor]
The main reason those scopes were used [in addition to seeing shot markers] was for better ability to read mirage and the larger objective made it possible to see bullet trace at longer ranges. Once the trace leaves the field of view due to steep trajectory, you can’t see it when it comes back down into the field of view.”
Description of Unertl 100mm Team Spotting Scope by Classic Unertl Scopes
The Unertl 100mm Spotting Scope is a large instrument which was designed to meet the requirements of team coaches to enable critical spotting of long range big bore matches. The coated prismatic optical systems, with a 100mm aperture objective and four element orthoscopic oculars is critically tested and hand-corrected so that the final system will yield matchless resolution. The objective cell has a sunshade which can be extended about 5″ when required and the eyepiece is screw focusing with a fast over-running push-pull travel. Dust covers are provided for each end. Workmanship is of the highest quality and the majority of the instrument is made from aluminum alloy and finished in a light gray wrinkle. The yoke mounting enables easy insertions and removal of the telescope from the yoke and tripod. By tensioning the binding screws the scope can be fixed by locked in position or so set to per-mit scanning of a series of targets. The lower portion of the yoke fits the cylindrical column of a floating action metal tripod. Within the tripod ram is a helical spring which counter-balances the scope and it can be raised or lowered with ease. A wooden carrying case of substantial construction houses the telescope, yoke, tripod and extra interchangeable eyepieces. Standard oculars are 6X, 24X. and 32X.
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.
⏺ European quality hunting rifle, save $249 with this deal
If you are looking for a refined, well-designed hunting rifle, this Mauser M18 fills the bill. And right now this Mauser M18 in 6.5 Creedmoor is just $449.99 at EuroOptic.com. That’s a huge $249.01 savings off the regular $699.00 price. This M18 rifle features a modern 3-lug bolt with 60-degree bolt lift. Action and barrel are black nitride coated for durability. CLICK HERE for more info and photos.
2. Natchez Shooters Supplies — Sig Sauer Whiskey 5 Scope Sale
⏺ Best Sale in many months on quality Sig Sauer riflescopes
This week Sig Sauer Whiskey 5 riflescopes are on sale at Natchez. Rugged and reliable, these Whiskey 5 scopes are justifiably popular with tactical shooters and hunters. Right now you can get huge savings — $300, $400, even $500. For example, the 5-25x52mm Whiskey 5 is now $889.99, marked down from $1399.98 — a $509.99 savings! Use the money saved for a spotting scope, Kestrel, or other gear.
⏺ Cannon Safes offer solid construction and good value
Cannon makes good safes for the money — and this big 38 cubic-foot safe is on sale this week. Save $250 on the Cannon Landmark 38 cu. ft. Safe with Electronic Lock. This safe is big, measuring 59″ Tall x 40″ Wide x 24″ Deep. The safe is rated to hold 64 long guns in the main area plus a dozen pistols on the upper shelf. (NOTE: This capacity figure is based on thin, unscoped rifles, such as lever guns. Nonetheless this is a very capacious safe.) This safe has a 60-minute fire rating. Extra features include a dual AC power outlet, and a door organization system for 8 pistols/1 rifle, plus a hanging pistol rack. NOTE: The $949.99 SALE price includes curbside delivery to your location.
⏺ Top bullet choice for F-Open Competitors — Accurate and High BC
These days, popular loading components are hard to find. For those who have been anxiously seeking top-grade .284 (7mm) match bullets, head to Creedmoor Sports which has Berger 184gr Hybrid bullets in stock at good prices. You’ll also find a large selection of Berger bullets at Bullet Central.
5. Costco — Timber Ridge Magnum Range Bench, $199.99
⏺ Truly portable shooting bench — great savings now at Costco
Many so-called “portable” shooting benches are very heavy and difficult to move around. This Timber Ridge Range Bench is truly portable. Grab a Timber Ridge Magnum Range Bench and not only will you have a stable and versatile shooting platform that folds up into an easy-to-carry bag.
6. MidwayUSA — Lyman Brass Smith Case Trim Xpress, $119.99
Trimming brass is critical to precision reloading. However, with most case trimmers it’s a pain to adjust trim length, plus the hand-cranking becomes tiresome. A better, more efficient case trimming solution is offered by the Lyman Brass Smith Case Trim Xpress. This easy-to-use tool comes with 10 interchangeable bushings for the most popular calibers. The smart design allows for .001″ trim length adjustments with the click of a dial. To see a video of the Case Trim Xpress in action, check out our Lyman Case Trim Xpress Review.
⏺ Good value use for pistol loads or initial rifle load before final trickling
Even with modern electronic powder dispensers, every reloader can use a good, manual powder measure. This crank-style dispenser works great for pistol charges. And, with the micrometer-style meter, you can throw rifle powders within a tenth or two — and then you can trickle precisely with a scale. This Frankford Arsenal Powder Dispenser features a “Quick-Disconnect” screw that allows you to take the powder measure off the mounting assembly quickly to pour excess powder back into the powder jug. And this dispenser kit includes TWO different mounting stands with 7/8-14 threads.
⏺ Incredible deal — Impact protection and dust/debris protection.
Good eye protection is essential for all shooting disciplines. You want Z87.1-rated eyewear that is also comfortable. The Radians XT1-11 Extremis Full Black Frame Safety Glasses. IMPORTANT: These Radians feature a foam ring around the inside of each lens. This provides extra protection in dusty environments and protects the wearer from powder blowback when shooting handguns. These safety glasses meet ANSI Z87.1+ standards and provide 99.9% UV protection. Top choice for pistol shooters.
9. Amazon — Allnice Digital Calipers, $21.99
⏺ Effective digital calipers at bargain price
Every handloader needs a set of calipers for multiple reloading/measurement tasks. In fact we recommend you have at least two sets of calipers, one being an inexpensive unit that you can take to the range. These $21.99 Allnice Digital Calipers fill the bill. These calipers have a stainless steel construction and a large digital readout. User reviews have been quite positive, with 88% four- or five-star ratings.
Wish you could have the best of a red dot scope and a magnified optic all in one? Take a look at the 
Do you need a simple sandbag support for hunting or sighting-in rifles? Or perhaps you want to try NRL22 but don’t way to spend much on fancy bags. This 
Here is an interesting new product. This scope accessory attaches to the rear (ocular) lens on a scope. It has a center hole in the middle that can help get you on target faster, and get your eye exactly centered in the scope. That will eliminate certain parallax errors.
Verifying Scope Level With Tall Target Test
