A Canadian F-Class shooter (who shall remain nameless) was surprised when he saw this “flat-line” target displayed from a ShotMarker system. That’s 30 shots with almost no vertical at all. So what gives? The ShotMarker uses acoustic sensors to plot shot location. It is normally accurate to within a few millimeters. The shooter posted: “I’ve never had this happen before with a waterline. This is myself and another shooter, 30 rounds total, including four sighters at 900 meters in super strong winds that twitched back and forth every minute.”
So what happened? It turns our that the system’s wires were not connected correctly. AccurateShooter IT expert (and top F-Class Shooter) Jay Christopherson posted: “The wires are connected incorrectly… you’ve got the sensors crossed”. This ShotMarker system error can be diagnosed by doing a “tap test” as explained by Cal Waldner: “Thats a crossed sensor wire! That’s why a tap test needs to be done every time you rig the equipment. If a wire is crossed then you will catch it on the tap test.”
Other folks who viewed this target photo on Facebook said that they have seen a similar problem, so this is NOT an uncommon fault:
“Yup, my club had the same issue (and results) in an early outing with one of our ShotMarker units. The system reads the target area as a horizontal rectangle not as a square.” — Laurie Holland.
“I have seen this exact same result with the sensors plugged incorrectly.” — Dino Christopoulos
“This happened to several people at one match early on. Sensors crossed.” — Jen Bondurant
“I thought I was shooting a great waterline once [but the] wires were crossed — [a mistake from] setting up in the dark.”– Jerry Stephenson
The ShotMarker System — Technology and Performance
The ShotMarker was invented by Adam McDonald, a brilliant young Canadian who also created the AutoTrickler. The ShotMarker is an advanced system for plotting shot impacts on targets using acoustic sensors placed in the four corners of the target frame. The central Sensor Hub at each target transmits to the Access Point at the firing line using LoRa, a low frequency RF protocol. Unlike Wifi, this power-efficient design works at over 2 miles and provides hassle-free connectivity even without direct line of sight.
The sensor unit in each corner of your frame contains two precision MEMS ultrasonic microphones which are capable of measuring a supersonic bullet within 1mm – when the frame is perfectly still.
Real-world accuracy will be limited by motion of the sensors and the air while shots are being detected. Typically, every shot will be reported within a few millimeters, with ideal performance being realized on a stable frame in calm conditions.
With hunting season underway (or coming up soon), we know that many readers will be out in the field — with a set of binoculars. On most game hunts, you’ll speed a lot more time glassing with binocs than looking through your riflescope. With wide field of view and extended low-light capability, a good set of binoculars will be your most important game-finder. And with premium LRF binoculars, such as the new Vortex Fury, one tool serves both for spotting and laser ranging.
“Without the stabilization of your binoculars [provided by] a tripod … you will be missing a majority of the game you are glassing for.” — Outdoorsmans.com
In this article, Vortex Optics’ Mark Boardman, an experienced hunter, explains the benefits of using a tripod with high-magnification binoculars. Everybody knows that powerful spotting scopes work best when mounted to a stable tripod or otherwise secured to a steady mount. Yet when most folks use binoculars, they never even think of using a tripod, despite the fact that tripod adapters are available for many premium binoculars.
Outdoorsmans Tripod Adapters Outdoorsmans.com sells tripod adapters for various kinds of binoculars. These really work: “Mounting your binoculars to a quality tripod is a must for the serious western hunter. Without the stabilization of your binoculars [by] mounting them to a tripod … you will be missing a majority of the game you are glassing for.”
A serious hunter should learn how to glass with tripod support, using methods outlined here. With binoculars offering more that 8X magnification, you can really benefit from a steady mount. You’ll be amazed at the difference the tripod will make.
Story tip by EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
1. MidwayUSA — Hunting Gear — 29% to 56% Off
⏺ Get gear for your annual hunt while saving big
Hunting season is here. Grab those extra gear items you need before you head out into the backwoods on your hunt. At MidwayUSA you’ll find great hunting items at bargain prices right now. As shown above, here are some of our top hunting gear picks:
⏺ Many popular std and magnum calibers, awesome deal includes Vortex scope
Hunters take heed — with this deal you can grab a new deer rifle, complete with mounted Vortex scope, for under $350.00! Kentucky Gun Company is offering Thompson Center (T/C) Compass bolt-action rifles in .223 Rem, .243 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, 7mm Rem Magnu, .308 Win, .30-06 Sprg, or .300 Win Magnum for only $396.97 (cash/check). That’s a killer deal by itself, but these rifles now qualify for a Thompson Center $50 Rebate. That lowers your net cost to just $346.97!
3. Bullet Central — Berger Bullets in Stock
⏺ Good prices on high-demand target bullets from Berger
With concerns over social disorder, reloading components have been harder to find. For you match shooters looking for quality bullets, head over to BulletCentral.com. There you’ll find a large selection of Berger target bullets in stock. Not only does Bullet Central has a large supply of Berger bullets, but the prices are about as low as you can find now. That’s a win-win.
4. Amazon — Vortex Diamondback HD Spotting Scope, $399.00
⏺ Great Spotting Scope Deal — hard to beat at twice the price
Whether hunting or target shooting, spotting scopes get you on target faster and easier than bare eyes or riflescope. If you need a good HD-grade spotter, check out the Vortex Diamondback HD 16-48x65mm angled spotting scope for $399.00. It offers great clarity and rock-solid lifetime guarantee. Relatively compact and weighing 49.8 ounces, this is a good choice for a hunter. There’s also a straight version for $399.00, with same 16-48X power and 65mm objective. If you need more magnification and low-light performance, Vortex offers the 20-60x80mm Diamondback HD spotter for $499.00.
5. Natchez — Big Savings on Nikon Hunting and Tactical Scopes
⏺ Incredible prices on a wide variety of FFP and SFP rifle scopes
Do you need a reliable scope with good controls and sharp glass, but you’re on a tight budget? Check out the Nikon scope sale at Natchez. You will find a wide variety of hunting and tactical scopes. Select the magnification level for your discipline. For PRS, you can save big on excellent FFP MRAD FX1000 scopes. There are also small AR scopes on sale. NOTE: Shown above are just three of the Nikon scopes on sale. There are dozens of other models and configurations discounted 30% to 60%, with 40% savings typical.
6. Midsouth — Norma .223 Remington Brass, $99.99 for 250
⏺ Impressive deal on very high quality .223 Rem brass
After Lapua, Norma makes some of the best brass you can buy. And here’s a chance to get a big supply of .223 Rem brass for your High Power or varmint rifle. This 223 Remington brass has very tight tolerances, holds up well to multiple reloads. We have seen very good accuracy with this brass with both light and heavy .224-caliber bullets. The price — $99.99 for 250 cases, works out to $0.39 per case. You can pay up to $0.70 per case for some other premium .223 Rem brass.
⏺ Take advantage of Browning Bucks Rebates up to $100
Browning makes excellent rifles, shotguns, and pistols. The Browning Buckmark is one of our favorite .22 LR rimfire pistol, and Browning Citori shotguns are renown for their build quality and performance. Right now CDNN Sports is discounting a wide selection of Browning Firearms. And now through the end of September 30, 2020, you can a Browning Bucks rebate — up to $100.00 on Citori shotguns. The rifle rebate is $50, while the pistol rebate is $25.00. Act soon before the rebate expires on 9/30/2020.
8. MidwayUSA — Pro Series Competition Shooting Mat, $32.99
⏺ Very high quality mat for the price — big discount
The MidwayUSA Pro Series Competition Shooting Mat is now on sale for just $32.99, 40% off the basic price. The Pro Series mat measures a full 73.5″ x 35.5″. Zippered pockets on the front flap hold ammo or log books. And there are webbing “pockets” for bipod feet so you can pre-load your bipod with forward pressure. This quality mat boasts 0.35″ thick padding, multiple pockets, 6 grommets for staking, and a nice carry strap. It’s easy to transport, rolling up to about nine inches in diameter. User reviews of this $32.99 Shooting Mat have been very positive.
9. Grafs.com — Peregrine MAGnet Gun Caddy, $5.99
Here’s a handy low cost item that can hold your rifle vertically on any steel surface. This works great on gun safes (outside or inside), and the MAGNet Gun Caddy can be used on vehicles too. The patented design makes it possible to secure and remove your gun from the holder with just one hand. The $5.99 MAGnet Gun Caddy is modular so you can arrange multiple units at whatever height works best. If your safe interior is carpet-lined, use the supplied Velcro to hold the MAGnet caddy in place.
Hunting season is right around the corner. We know many readers have acquired a new hunting rifles, or perhaps are using new ammo or a new optic. If you’ve got new gear, you’ll want to sight-in and zero your hunting rig properly. Here’s how…
Here’s a simple procedure that lets you get a solid zero in just four shots. Of course you probably want to fire a few more rounds to confirm your zero before you head off to your hunting grounds, but this will let you get on-target with a minimum amount of time and ammo expended. (This assumes your scope is securely mounted, and the bases are not drastically out of alignment.)
QUICK-TIP: The Key to this procedure is Dialing to Shot One Point of Impact (POI). Re-aim at center of target after SHOT ONE. Then with the rifle motionless, use the turrets to put the middle of the cross-hair (reticle) on the first shot location. Be sure NOT to move your rifle while clicking.
1. First, remove the bolt and boresight the rifle. Adjust the position of the rifle so that, looking through the bore, you can see the center of the target with your eyes. Secure the rifle in the rests to maintain its position as boresighted. Then, without moving the rifle, center the reticle. That should get you on paper. With the rifle solidly secured in front and rear rests or sandbags, aim at the center of a target placed at your zeroing distance (50 or 100 yards). Confirm there are no obstructions in the barrel! Then load and fire SHOT ONE. Then, return the gun to the exact position it was when you pulled the trigger, with the cross-hair centered on the target as before.
2. Locate, in the scope, where your first bullet landed on the target. Now, while you grip the rifle firmly so it doesn’t move, have a friend adjust the turrets on your scope. While you look through the scope, have your friend turn the windage and elevation turrets until the cross-hairs, as viewed through the scope, bisect the first bullet hole on the target. Use the turrets to move the center of the reticle to the actual position of shot number one. IMPORTANT: Dial the crosshairs to the hole — don’t move the rifle.
3. After you’ve adjusted the turrets, now re-aim the rifle so the cross-hairs are, once again, positioned on the target center. Keep the rifle firmly supported by your rest or sandbag. Take the SECOND SHOT. You should find that the bullet now strikes in the center of the target.
4. Take a THIRD SHOT with the cross-hairs aligned in the center of the target to confirm your zero. Make minor modifications to the windage and elevation as necessary.
5. Finally, shoot the rifle from a field rest (shooting sticks, bipod, or rucksack) as you would use when actually hunting. Confirm, with SHOT FOUR, that your zero is unchanged. You may need to make slight adjustments. Some rifles, particularly those with flexy fore-arms, exhibit a different POI (point of impact) when fired from a bipod or ruck vs. a sandbag rest.
This Video Shows the Process Described Above:
Fouling Shots and Cold Bore Condition
If you recently cleaned your rifle, you may want to fire two or three fouling shots before you start this procedure. But keep in mind that you want to duplicate the typical cold bore conditions that you’ll experience during the hunt. If you set your zero after three fouling shots, then make sure the bore is in a similar condition when you actually go out hunting.
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 — Vortex Viper Scope Scale, under $300
⏺ Huge discounts on Vortex Vipers with lifetime warranty
Need a scope for that hunting rifle or varmint rig? Here are two great deals on quality Vortex Viper scopes. For a deer rifle choose the 2.5-10x44mm Viper HS scope priced at just $249.99 — a 39% savings. This scope weighs just 16.5 ounces — that’s important on a hunting rig you’ll carry all day long. For varminting duties, where you need more magnification, there’s a 6.5-20x44mm Vortex Viper on sale for just $299.99, that’s 30% off. Either way you get a good scope with superb Vortex lifetime warranty for under $300.00.
2. Bullet Central — Berger Bullets in Stock
⏺ Good prices on high-demand target bullets from Berger
With concerns over social disorder, reloading components have been harder to find. For you match shooters looking for quality bullets, head over to BulletCentral.com. There you’ll find a large selection of Berger target bullets in stock. Not only does Bullet Central has a large supply of Berger bullets, but the prices are about as low as you can find now. That’s a win-win.
Who doesn’t love a good waterfowl hunt? It’s a great outdoor escape that can put food on the table. Right now Sportsman’s Warehouse is offering a quality waterfowl shotgun at a great price. The Winchester SXP Waterfowl Hybrid Hunter in 12ga or 20ga is on sale now for just $354.99. These well-made, 3-1/2″-shell-capable shotguns feature an ultra-tough Mossy Oak and Permacote protective finish.
⏺ Wireless photos and videos, good controls, USB Charging
In the quest for better borescope performance, manufacturers are improving their electro-optics offerings. At the forefront is Lyman, the company that pioneered the affordable, digital borecam. Lyman has released its new Borecam PRO 24″ wireless borescope. This boasts wireless WiFi operation, 720P resolution for sharp images, and adjustable light intensity. The BoreCam Pro has a 24″ long rod that will fit all .20 caliber and larger-diameter barrels. The Borecam PRO takes photos and video with the push of a button and has easy to use Apps for iOS and Android mobile devices.
5. Amazon — WIREGEAR Gunsmith Punch Set, $39.99
⏺ Versatile punch set performs multiple gun tasks
When working on firearms and removing or assembling component, you definitely need a good set of precision punches to keep from damaging anything. We found this great WIREGEAR Gunsmith Punch Set that even comes with a punch block too. With this punch set you can feel confident that you can remove any pin without harming your finish or damaging holes.
6. Palmetto State Armory — Taurus G2c 9mm Pistol, $299.99
⏺ Good CCW 9mm carry pistol for under $300.00
Right now compact 9mm carry guns are in very high demand. Many gun vendors have limited inventory and have raised prices. Here’s a good little compact carry gun at an attractive price — half what you might pay for a 9mm Glock 19 these days. Palmetto State Armory has the black-on-black Taurus 9mm G2c for just $184.99. This affordable 9mm handgun is a true compact, 6.25″ OAL, and weighing just 21.2 oz. unloaded. Despite its small size, the G2c has a 12-round magazine. We like the fact it has a left-side manual safety (unlike the Glock).
7. Graf & Sons — MTM Promotion FREE Patch Catcher
⏺ Buy $40 of handy MTM containers, get FREE Patch-Catcher
Right now, if you buy at least $40 of MTM products at Grafs.com you can get a FREE MTM Patch Catcher or Hat. The patch catcher is great and allows you to keep all your soiled patches off your bench or table and easily throw them away. Trust us, you’ll find it easy to get your money’s worth for the $40 purchase — MTM makes high quality ammo carriers, range boxes (with cleaning cradles), pistol storage boxes, ammo crates, cleaning rod carriers, bore guides, and compact rests. We use and recommend MTM range boxes and MTM ammo carriers.
⏺ Inexpensive, ultra-lightweight gun support — good for sight-in or ARs
If you’re tired of carrying heavy sandbags to rest your guns, consider a new alternative. The BenchMaster Weapon Rack XBlock Gun Rest costs less than $20 and weighs just 7.1 ounces! Sized 8″ x 6″ x 4″, it can be used in multiple ways to support your firearms. Made from lightweight, high-density foam, this rest is impervious to moisture and mildew. This XBlock is a good inexpensive option for sighting in a deer rifle before your annual hunt. Or keep an XBlock behind your truck seat as an “anytime” rest. BenchMaster also makes an adjustable 3-section Bench Block Gun Rest ($27.99) that works well with ARs.
9. Amazon — Hornady One Shot, $9.99
⏺ Dry-Film Lube — not sticky, easy to apply, used by top shooters
If you’re looking for a mess-free way to lube cases before sizing give Hornady One Shot a try. Get 7 oz. can for $9.99, or 14 oz. can for $13.99. It’s easy to apply and leaves a grease-free, friction-reducing film that works great for full-length case sizing. Here’s a good video that shows application methods with tips to ensure great results with your brass.
This is the biggest sale day of the year for hunters. MidwayUSA’s Camo Tuesday is a once-a-year event with some of the best deals you’ll find on hunting clothing, rifles, optics, trail cams, boots, backpacks, ammo, rangefinders, binoculars, GPS units, knives, and everything else a hunter could need. Along with great Camo Tuesday bargains, you can get FREE Shipping for orders over $49 with Code CAMOTUESDAY2020.
Along with the super sale discounts, MidwayUSA is running a big Camo Tuesday Contest, with three valuable prize packages from Federal. CLICK HERE for contest entry page with prize descriptions.
Here are a dozen great Camo Tuesday Deals.
There are hundreds more on MidwayUSA’s website.
MidwayUSA has also discounted its hunting clothing collection. Prices are slashed 40%! There are GREAT DEALS on vests, bibs, hoodies, shirts, pants, parkas, coveralls, coats, gloves, and balaclavas. All hunting clothing is at least 40% OFF Today!
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. Burris — Eliminator 4-16x50mm III, $999.00
⏺ Save $400 on integrated scope/laser rangefinder
The Burris 4-16x50mm Eliminator III laser range-finding optic is on sale September 1 through December 31, 2020. Burris has dropped Minimum Advertised Price (MAP) by $400 for the balance of the year. Hunters and shooters can take advantage of the limited-time lower $999 price. The Eliminator III scope offers laser ranging out to 1,200 yards with push-button automatic trajectory compensation. You range your target, and the Eliminator III sets a red aiming point. Then just put the red dot on the target and pull the trigger — no drop charts, no knobs to crank. Previous retail price was $1,399. The new MAP is $999. Save $400!
2. Brownells — Labor Day Sale, Sale Items and 10% OFF Codes
⏺ Many items heavily discounted, plus 10% OFF Codes
Brownells is running a big Labor Day Sale with many items discounted, including Optics, Triggers, Barreled Actions, and more. Pluse you can get 10% Off purchases now through 9/30/2020. Use Code VSD to get $50 off $500, Code VSC for $25 off $250, and Code TAG to get $15 off $150. NOTE: There’s a Killer Deal on the Howa Barreled Action in 6mm Creedmoor — just $249.99 including the excellent HACT trigger.
3. Creedmoor Sports — 10% Off Labor Day Sale
⏺ Save 10% on all Creedmoor Sports and MTM brand products
During the Labor Day Weekend, Creedmoor Sports is offering 10% Off all Creedmoor brand products — that way you get significant savings on Creedmoor shooting coats, rifle cases, mats, carts, and much more. In addition, Creedmoor Sports has knocked 10% Off the price of all MTM products and most targets. To get these savings, use CODE LD20 during check-out. The Sale ends at 11:59 pm on Tuesday, 9/8/2020.
4. Tipton Direct — 30% Off Sale on All Tipton Products
⏺ Save 30% on gun vises, maintenance stands, tools and more
Tipton is running a BIG SALE: “We wanted our loyal customers to have the biggest savings they could before the fall season starts.” Everything on the Tipton website is 30% off — use CODE FALL30 during checkout to save 30%. NOTE: Even with the 30% savings, a few of the listed items might be cheaper at other retailers. Look at Tipton’s listed price, subtract 30% and then check pricing. This deal ends at 11:59 pm on Monday, September 7, 2020 Pacific Time
5. MidwayUSA — Camo Tuesday Hunting Gear Sale, 9/8/2020
⏺ Major 1-day Sale for hunters, plus Giveaways
MidwayUSA’s Camo Tuesday™ only happens once a year. Hunters will find amazing deals plus free shipping on select hunting gear. Everything that hunters use will be heavily discounted — hunting clothing, scopes, shooting rests, binoculars, rangefinders, backpacks, trail cams, GPS units. If you hunt, be sure to visit MidwayUSA on Tuesday, September 8th, 2020 to shop the best hunting products at unbeatable prices. In addition to the discounts, you can register for Camo Tuesday™ Prize packages.
6. Brownells — SIG BDX Riflescopes — 50% Off, Save Hundreds
⏺ Save 50% on SIG Sauer BDX “Smart Scopes” — great for hunters
As part of its Labor Day Sale, Brownells is offering huge 50% discounts on SIG BDX riflescopes. The Sierra3 4.5-14X44mm scope is now $299.99, marked down from $599.99. That’s 50% Off! And the Sierra3 3.5-10x42mm scope is $249.99, marked down from $499.99. These are good hunting scopes that work with SIG Sauer’s BDX rangefinders and Ballistic App. After ranging, the DBX scope receives a calculated ballistic solution. Then a dot lights up on the reticle, showing shooters where to hold.
7. Amazon — The Wind Book for Rifle Shooters, $22.99
⏺ NEW 2020 Edition, completely updated — great resource
Readers often ask: “Is there a good, easy-to-comprehend book that can help my wind-reading?” Many of our Forum members have recommended The Wind Book for Rifle Shooters by Linda Miller and Keith Cunningham. Other books cover wind reading in a broader discussion of ballistics or long-range shooting. But the Miller & Cunningham book is ALL about wind reading from cover to cover, and that is its strength. The book focuses on real world skills that can help you accurately gauge wind angle, wind velocity, and wind cycles. Here’s a video review explaining what makes this book so good.
We know a LOT of Americans are looking for 9mm defensive pistols right now. Demand is high and dealers are jacking up prices on their remaining inventory. If you’re looking for an affordable 9mm, consider the Walther Creed. This pistol offers excellent ergonomics, good accuracy, and well-designed controls at a good price — $399.99 at CDNN Sports. This gun emulates Walther’s more expensive PPQ model at a much lower price. The Creed features a snag-free bobbed hammer. Testers say that, despite the bargain price, the Creed “sacrifices little to nothing in… ergonomics, accuracy, and reliability.”
9. Cabela’s — Catch-All Gear Bag $12.99, Many Colors
⏺ Versatile, good capacity, buy two at this price
This versatile bag holds lots of gear, and you can’t beat the price — just $12.99. At 16″x10″x6″ it’s big enough to hold rifle ammo, muffs, a Kestrel, and other accessories. It can also serve as a general utility bag for car camping trips. Six exterior pockets, including zippered mesh pockets on top and side, provide multiple storage options.Sturdy 1-1⁄2″ nylon web carry straps can be joined by a hand-friendly wrap handle. Cabela’s Catch-All Gear Bag available in a variety of colors including True Timber Camo, 02 Octane Camo, Lt. Gray, Green, Tan, Orange Gold, and Dark Gray.
10. Amazon — Jialitte Scope Bubble Level, $10.99
⏺ Effective and affordable — works for both 30mm and 1″ tubes
All serious rifle shooters need a scope level. This nicely designed Jialitte Scope Bubble Level features a 30mm milled inside diameter, plus an inner insert ring so it will also fit 1″-diameter main tubes — that dual-diameter versatility is a nice feature. We also like the way the unit is nicely radiused, and has a low profile in the middle. Price is just $10.99 with free shipping. User reviews have been very positive. You could easily pay $35.00 or more for a 30mm scope level.
Zeiss Victory SF 8×42 model shown. The 10×32 has 90% light transmission.
If you are looking for high-end binoculars, you should definitely consider the new ZEISS Victory SF series. These offer superb glass, rapid focus, and ultra-wide field of view (very important for hunters).
Recognizing the qualities of the ZEISS SF line, Outdoor Life Magazine recently named the ZEISS Victory SF 10×32 binoculars as the winner of its Editor’s Choice Award in the hunting binoculars category. This Award was announced in Outdoor Life’s September issue.
Outdoor Life noted three key features of the new Victory SF: 1) Very Wide Field of View; 2) Rapid Focus; and 3) Balance. Outdoor Life also praised the exceptionally sharp and clear SCHOTT fluorite glass with proprietary high-contrast coatings. Outdoor Life’s editors wrote: “Optically, the Victory SF brings the same best-in-class attributes as earlier Victory models. The guts are SCHOTT fluoride glass protected by ZEISS’s proprietary high-contrast and weatherproof coatings. We also liked the very positive four-position eyecups and the locking diopter control, located conveniently on the center hinge.”
Why the ZEISS Victory SF Won the Award
Outdoor Life had high praise for the Zeiss Victory SF line, with its impressive features and performance:
“With its remarkable Victory SF, ZEISS has managed to upend the staid world of binoculars and offer a product with three noticeable advantages. The first is its absurdly wide field of view, achieved by increasing the sizes of lenses and redesigning the optical prescription, or how all lenses and prisms work together. Finally, SF in its name stands for ‘SmartFocus’ but it might stand for ‘SpeedFocus’ given the rapidity of zooming from close focus to infinity in just 1.6 turns of the wheel.”
Outdoor life also praised the Victory SF’s balance: “Another remarkable attribute of the new ZEISS, which will be available in 8×42, 10×42, and 8×32 configurations along with the 10×32, is its balance. The binocular weighs a trim 20.8 ounces, but it feels even lighter, largely because of its wonderful equilibrium.”
Here’s something all shooters need — a smartphone App that calculates bullet-hole group sizes from your own photos. The Ballistic-X App is simple to use. Take a photo of your target, set some values (such as bullet diameter and distance to target), then use the touchscreen to place circles around each hole. The App will calculate group size (in MOA or Mils), distance to point of aim, and provide all the info in an overlay. Then click “save” to record your group for posterity!
This App works well, is relatively easy to set-up, and costs just $7.99. It is available for both Android devices and iOS (Apple) devices. There are other ways to measure group sizes from target images, such as the excellent On-Target program, which we have used for years. However On-Target requires a software installation on a Windows platform desktop or laptop. Ballistic-X is a simple, easy-to-install App with versions for both Android and iOS (Apple) Mobile devices.
The Ballistic-X App has a relatively easy-to-use interface. Of course you can choose either MOA or Milrad group values, and Inch or Metric dimensions. There are various labeling options that provide useful info for Load Development. There is even an ATZ (Adjustment To Zero) feature for adjusting your turrets.
How to Use Ballistic-X App
1. Select Photo Source — Choose Camera to take new photo or get image from Photo Library.
2. Set Reference Values — Select Bullet Diameter and enter Distance to Target.
3. Establish Scale on Image — Mark two points on target photo to set scale. For example, if the target has a 1″-square grid lines, mark two points on grid for 1″ distance.
4. Mark Point Of Aim — Put the central X on the aim point.
5. Designate Shot Locations — Place the green circles around each shot.
6. Finalize Data Display — Position Overlay, select size/color options, and export file.
Android Options — Range Buddy FREE App
Along with Ballistic-X, there is another Mobile App, Range Buddy, that also measures shot groups. Range Buddy is currently offered for Android devices only. It is FREE, but has adverts. Range Buddy isn’t bad, but users complained about the program crashing, and there are compatibility issues with newer phones. We recommend you pay $7.99 and stick with Ballistic-X.
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 — RCBS Chargemaster Combo and CM Lite Sale
⏺ Classic Chargemaster and CM Lite are both excellent units with good controls
RCBS Chargemaster electronic powder dipsensers are exceptional bargains right now. For a limited time, you can pick up the RCBS Chargemaster Combo for $244.49 after $75 RCBS Rebate. Or get the RCBS Chargemaster Lite for $179.49 after $50 RCBS Rebate. These are crazy low prices with RCBS Rebates. IMPORTANT: This RCBS Buy Green Get Green Rebate expires Monday, August 31, 2020! Purchases on September 1, 2020 or later do NOT qualify for the rebate! Got That?
2. CDNN Sports — T/C Compass $289.99 with 3-9x40mm Scope
⏺ Three popular chamberings, killer deal includes scope, rings and sling
Here’s a great deal for a basic hunting rifle. CDNN is offering Thompson Center Compass bolt-action rifles in 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win, or .300 Win Magnum for only $289.99. That’s a killer deal by itself, but this package includes a FREE 3-9x40mm scope and neoprene sling. Just add ammo to your cart and you’re off to your favorite hunting spot.
3. Amazon — All Teslong Digital Borescopes 20% OFF
⏺ Excellent image quality, choose flexible or rod-type borescopes
Teslong borescopes have become the go-to instrument of choice for serious shooters who need to look INSIDE their barrels. Teslongs are affordable yet they produce remarkably clear and sharp images. Teslong now offers a wide selection of borescopes that will work with your computer and mobile devices. SEE the Teslong Borescope Line HERE, including both flex-cable and rigid models. Use Code THXJM15P for 20% SAVINGS on all Teslong models.
4. Graf & Sons — Berger Ammunition and Bullet Sale
⏺ Berger bullets win matches. Berger loaded ammo is made with Lapua brass
Berger is known for its excellent projectiles. But did you know Berger also produces outstanding hunting and target ammunition. Right now Grafs.com has Berger hunting bullets and ammunition on SALE. You’ll find a wide range of bullet calibers, plus loaded ammo for 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win, .338 Lapua and other popular cartridge types. Grab a few boxes before your next hunt.
⏺ Very versatile for guns, hobby use, made in USA, nice case
When working on your guns or reloading hardware, you need good drivers. This Chapman 28-piece tool kit boasts 24 bits plus midget ratchet, screwdriver handle, extension, and a handy case with slots for each tool. You get Phillips, Metric, Slotted, and Standard Hex Bits all milled from tool steel in the USA. If 24 drivers isn’t enough, Chapman offers other larger sets with 30 pieces ($59) and 57 pieces ($112).
⏺ Get three (3) pistol racks, plus barrel hangers for 50% OFF!
If you have a sizeable handgun collection, jump on this great MidwayUSA pistol package deal. For just $24.99 you get one 8-pistol rack, one 6-pistol rack, and one 4-pistol rack — but that’s not all. You also get a 4-pack of Hornady Pistol Hangers. All these safe accessories are made of PVC-coated hardened steel which accommodate heavy 22 caliber and larger handguns. The SnapSafe Pistol rack will hold virtually all pistols and revolvers. The hangers work with shelves that are 1/2 to 1 inch thick. BONUS: If you buy two sets, you get FREE Shipping! MidwayUSA is offering free shipping right now for all orders over $49 Total.
⏺ Rapid Access, no key required, holds two handguns, bargain price
You want your handguns secure, but also quickly accessible. For home security, a rapid-access gun safe is a good option. Ktaxon Quick Access Pistol Safe is one-third the price of some similar handgun safes. With a programmable 3 to 8 digit finger entry combination code you can instantly open the safe’s spring-loaded door. And yes, this pistol safe can be bolted down for greater security. IMPORTANT: The Walmart page mentions fingerprint recognition. This $49.99 safe does NOT have fingerprint recognition — got that? You need to tap with your fingers on the pads or used the supplied metal key.
8. Amazon — Motion-Sensor LED Interior Light, $14.99
⏺ Activates when door opens, Rechargeable, 3 LED Light Levels
Here’s a great accessory for your Gun Safe or closet. This rechargeable LED lamp turns itself on when you open the door, and off when you close the door. Select three brightness levels: 10LED, 20LED, 30LED. With the supplied 3M adhesive magnetic strip you can easily attach the light to the inner walls of your gun safe. And then quickly remove the unit for charging with a standard USB cord (no batteries to replace!). It works, it’s handy, and it’s inexpensive — just $14.99 on Amazon. These motion-sensor LED lamps can also be used in garages or stairwells. NOTE: this is Amazon’s choice for rechargeable LED Motion-Sensor lights.
9. Amazon — Pro For Sho Shooting Ear Protection, $16.45
⏺ Very affordable, tapered design, nine color choices
Always wear hearing protection at the shooting range. We recommend double protection — earplugs under a full-protection set of earmuffs. ThePro For Sho Shooting Ear Protection muffs provide good protection at minimal cost. These lightweight earmuffs are tapered for more clearance on your stock. Pro For Sho muffs, with claimed 34 dB noise reduction (not the same as NRR), come in 9 different colors. At this price you can grab muffs for yourself and another backup set for guests.
Outdoorsmans Tripod Adapters
