Today’s video showcase covers bore-sighting methods and technology. Bore-sighting the old-fashioned way — by looking down the bore of a rifle at a target — is not difficult. With a conventional bolt-action rifle, visual bore-sighting can be done quickly and easily. Rest your gun securely on bags, remove your bolt and set up a 50-yard target with a large bright orange or black center circle. Look through the back of the action and you should be able to sight down the bore with your own eyes just fine. There’s no need for expensive hardware. In fact it may be easier to bore-sight the “old-fashioned way” rather than try to see a laser in bright sunlight at 50 yards (or even 25).
However, with lever guns and semi-auto rifles, including the popular AR15, M1 Garand, and M1A, the design of the receiver may make it virtually impossible to sight down the bore with the naked eye. That’s where a modern laser bore-sighting device comes in handy. For those situations where a bore-sighting tool is needed, we recommend a laser bore-sighter that fits inside your chamber. An in-chamber laser device, as shown below, is handy and has less safety risk than a tool which fits in the end of the barrel.
How to Bore-Sight Your Rifle in Five Minutes
This video from Australia shows the basics of the bore-sighting process. First set up a target 50 yards (or closer) from your shooting station. Make sure the rifle is well-supported and stable. When the target is ideally centered in the BORE of the barrel, then adjust the reticle on your scope to center the crosshairs on the middle of the target. Then, after checking down-range, take a few test shots. Finally, move the target out to 100 yards and confirm your zero, as explained at the close of today’s article.
Vortex Shows How to Bore-Sight Rifles
This well-made, informative video from Vortex covers the basics of bore-sighting. Bore sighting your rifle is a simple way to establish an initial zero to get you on target faster and save you ammo at the range. Thankfully, it doesn’t take a ton of gear or ammunition to bore-sight a rifle effectively. Video host Jimmy from Vortex provides a handy, step-by-step guide in this 10-minute video.
Bore-Sighting Using a Barrel-Mounted Laser Bore-Sighter
If you wondered why a barrel-mounted laser bore-sighter was off-center? Or if you want to learn how to use one properly, this video shows how to safely and properly zero a scope using a barrel-mounted laser bore sight device. Another option is a small cartridge-sized laser that fits inside the chamber. These sell for under $25.00 and are convenient. There are safety advantages to in-chamber lasers.
Initial Bore-Sighting at Home (Before You Head to the Range)
This useful video shows how to bore-sight a rifle at home. This can save time (and money for ammo) when you do get to the range to confirm your scope’s zero. This home procedure works best if the target is well-illuminated while the rifle is in a shadowed area, creating the best contrast. Also make sure the rifle is on a steady support — such as a portable gun vise or sandbags front and rear.
Bore-Sighting with a Red Dot (Reflex) Sight
As with conventional scopes, if you have a red dot sight or reflex optic, you’ll need to bore-sight your rifle, then zero the optic. [Reflex sights use a reflex lens to project a dot or reticle onto the target, whereas red dot sights use a flat, reflective surface to display a red dot reticle.] In this video, retired Navy SEAL Mark Cochiolo demonstrates how to bore-sight then adjust a red dot. Bore sighting allows you to zero your red dot so that your shots hit near your intended point of impact.
Learn More about Bore-Sighting with Tools
To learn more about bore-sighting, you can view a detailed article on the Warne Scope Mounts website. This features through-the-barrel images and discussion of tools that fit in the chamber or barrel to project a laser beam down-range. Shown below are cartridge-sized projecting lasers that fit in a rifle’s chamber. These are available for a wide variety of cartridge/chamber sizes.
WARNING: If you use an in-barrel laser be sure to remove it BEFORE chambering a round. ANY obstruction in the barrel can cause serious injury or even death if you fire a round.
Bore Sight Grid Tool with Arbors
The Bushnell Bore Sight with Arbors is a bore-sighting tool that many gun stores and gunsmiths use. This device uses arbors but does not transmit a laser.
You attach the tool to the end of the barrel and align it with your scope. A grid is visible inside the bore-sighter. Look at that grid and then and align your scope’s reticle with the grid. This Bushnell unit ships with three expandable arbors in 22-270 caliber, 7mm-35 caliber, and 35-45 caliber.
How to Zero a Hunting Rifle Efficiently
Once you have bore-sighted your rifle to get “on target” successfully, then you want to zero your optic so that the shot falls exactly where you want it at your target distance, typically 100 yards. This Vortex video shows you how to quickly and efficiently sight-in and zero a hunting rifle before heading out into the field. This video explains a simple procedure that lets you get a solid zero in just three shots. Of course you probably want to fire a few more rounds to confirm your zero before you head off to your hunting grounds, but this will let you get on-target with a minimum amount of time and ammo expended. This helpful video now has 3.2 million views on YouTube!
Fouling Shots and Cold Bore Condition
If you recently cleaned your rifle, you may want to fire two or three fouling shots before you start this procedure. But keep in mind that you want to duplicate the typical cold bore conditions that you’ll experience during the hunt. If you set your zero after three fouling shots, then make sure the bore is in a similar condition when you actually go out hunting.
NRA Media offers a series of 40 informative videos about the Science of Shooting, covering a wide range of topics, from eye dominance to long-range ballistics. These videos feature high production values, with super-slow motion segments, as well as helpful computer graphics to illustrate the principles covered.
The videos are narrated by Jessie Duff, a top action pistol shooter (and the first women ever to achieve USPSA Grand Master status). Jessie is assisted by talented shooters such as Top Shot Season 4 Champion Chris Cheng. There are forty videos in the Firearm Science Video Series. Here are five NRA videos, with links to others below. You’ll find all 40 NRA Firearm Science Videos HERE.
Eye Dominance — How to Determine Which Eye is Dominant
Host Jessie Duff and longtime shooter Krystie Messenger demonstrate how eye dominance affects aim and teach you how to determine your dominant eye in this edition of Firearm Science. There are very simple tests you can do to determine your eye dominance. This Editor is right-handed but left-eye dominant. All competitive shooters should check for eye dominance. If you are cross-dominant, you can alter your head position or put a paper patch on one frame of your shooting glasses.
Eye Protection — Effect of Different Color Lenses
No matter what you’re shooting, eye protection should always be worn. But with so many choices, what should you wear? In this edition of Firearm Science, two-time Olympic trap shooter Corey Cogdell explains lens color options for protective eyewear. Different colors may be selected according to the light conditions and the sport. For most rifle shooters using magnified scopes, clear lenses are probably the best choice, except on very bright summer days.
Iron Sights vs. Optics
Host Jessie Duff and shooter Krystie Messenger demonstrate the benefits and drawbacks of using iron sights and optics in this edition of Firearm Science. For AR-type rifles, choosing the right option depends on the intended use of the rifle and the rules of competition. For example, a “Standard military Rifle” for CMP competition must have iron sights. But current NRA service rifle competition (and CMP unlimited military rifle class) allows scopes. Olympic smallbore shooters and Palma shooters have shown that extreme accuracy IS possible with sophisticated target sights. Below is the iron-sights Palma rifle with which John Whidden (Whidden Gunworks) won NRA Long-Range National Championships.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
⏺️ Complete AR-15 rifle for less than you might pay for assembled upper
You can’t beat this price for a complete AR-15 — $369.99 from CDNN Sports. You could easily pay MORE for an assembled upper alone. The Radical Firearms RPR AR-15 rifle features MIL-STD upper and lower receivers along with 15″ RPR rail system. The 16″ 1:7″-twist barrel is 4140 Chrome Moly Vanadium. The lower is forged 7075 T6 aluminum with Type III anodizing. The buttstock is adjustable and there is a long rail on the top of the forearm for mounting optics and accessories. NOTE: No iron sights come standard, but these can be added to the top rail.
2. Midsouth — RCBS Buy Green Free Bullets Promotion
⏺️ FREE Sierra or Barnes bullets with $100 or more RCBS product purchases
If you’re looking to grab a new reloading tool from RCBS you can now also get FREE bullets with Midsouth’s BUY GREEN, Get Premium Bullets Sale. Spend $100 and choose from a selection of free Sierra and Barnes bullets (quantity of 40 to 100 bullets). If you spend $400 you can choose from variety of 200-ct to 500-ct bullet packs. Those 500 free Sierra bullets could be worth up to $295 (for .308 168gr MatchKings) — so this is a great deal! NOTE: To get the FREE bullets you’ll need to fill out a RCBS Rebate Form. CLICK HERE for full chart of BUY GREEN free bullets.
⏺️ Very good .22 LR Target/Training pistol now under $250
All shooters should have a quality .22 LR rimfire pistol with a good trigger, ergonomic grip, and excellent accuracy. With the Walther P22 Target Model, you can get all those things for just $248.76 at CDNN Sports. The P22 is a very nice rimfire handgun with a 5″ barrel plus a forward ported compensator. The ergonomic grip has an interchangeable backstrap. Compared to most other rimfire pistols in this class, the trigger is very good with a light, crisp pull. We also like the ambidextrous controls. A rare feature for a rimfire, the P22 is covered by the Walther Legendary Lifetime Limited Warranty.
⏺️ Great price on press and complete reloading system
Natchez is offering Hornady’s L-N-L Classic Single Stage Press Reloading Kit for $344.99, a $149.00 discount. This kit includes a nice press, manual powder dispenser, electronic scale, priming tool, powder trickler, chamfer/debur tool, case lube, shell block and more. As a special bonus, Natchez is including the powered Hornady Case Prep Duo Chamfer tool, a $49 value by itself.
5. EuroOptic — Major Leupold Sale, 20-40% Off
⏺️ Save hundreds on spotters and 5X and 6X zoom ratio riflescopes
If you need a spotting scope or rifle optic check out the current EuroOptic Leupold Sale. You’ll find savings of 20% to 40% on a variety of quality spotters and rifle scopes. Among the best deals, we like the 20-60x85mm SX-4 Spotter for $649.99 ($350 off), and the 3-15x44mm VX-5HD scope for $999.00 ($500 off).
6. Locked & Loaded — Federal .22 LR Ammo, $159.99 3250 rds
⏺️ Amazing deal on good Federal .22 LR 40gr Ammo — 5 cents per round
Rimfire shooting is fun, and decent .22 LR ammo is a fraction of the cost of centerfire fodder. And here’s one of the best bulk bargains we’ve found. Right now Locked & Loaded has a 3,250-round pack of good Federal 40gr .22 LR ammunition for just $159.99. This price works out to under FIVE CENTS per round. At that price you can shoot 100 rounds for just five bucks!
7. Midsouth — Lee Breech Lock Press, $49.99
⏺️ Budget-priced Lee press works well as secondary or range press
Need a simple, reliable press that doesn’t take up a lot of bench space? A good choice for a small, secondary press is the Lee Breech Lock Reloader Single-Stage Press. Weighing just 2.1 pounds this compact press is easy to transport to the range. And you can change dies quickly using the Lee quick change bushing system — with a twist of the wrist you can remove a die in a few seconds.
8. Locked & Loaded — CCI Blazer 9mm Ammo, $214.99 1000 rds
⏺️ Quality 9mm brass-cased ammo at a super-low price — $22 cents/round
CCI makes very reliable pistol ammo with reloadable brass cases. Right now you can get 1000 rounds of CCI Blazer 9mm FMJ ammo for just $214.99 at LockedLoaded.com. The price for this 124gr CCI Blazer 9mm ammo works out to just $10.75 per 50-round box — a fantastic price. This very affordable CCI 9x19mm ammo is excellent for practice/training, and it is more reliable than commercial reloads.
9. Amazon — Earmuffs Plus Safety Glasses Combo, $24.99
⏺️ Good deal on Muffs/safety eyewear combo
Here’s a good set of NRR 28-rated earmuffs plus Z87.1-approved, wrap-around shooting glasses. This combo offers great protection for the price. The muffs come in multiple color combos: Yellow/Black (as shown), Gray/Black, Blue/Black, Pink/Black, and Purple/Black. Get the muffs and one set of safety eyewear for just $24.99 on sale (#ad). Or, for $6.00 more you can get a $30.99 kit with TWO sets of safety glasses, one tinted and one clear.
10. CDNN Sports — Camo Pack with Hydration Bladder, $9.99
⏺️ Versatile, handy hiking pack for water and basic supplies
This rugged, comfortable Backpack with 1.5 liter water bladder is a very useful gear item for hikes. The hose allows easy hydration without removing the pack. This hydration pack will hold 1.5 liters (0.4 gallons) of liquid. In the two zippered pouches you can stow other items such as: lunch snacks, a small first aid kit, a hat, extra socks, and a GPS. We have a similar bag that has worked great for many years.
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At long range, small bullet holes are much easier to see “in the white” than in the black center of the normal High Power target. When you’re practicing at long range using a scoped rifle, one way to enhance your ability to see your bullet holes is to print a “negative” version of the regulation bullseye target so that your black center is now white.
How do you create a “negative” of a target image? Many image programs, including the FREE Irfanview software, have a “Negative” function in the pull-down menu. If you don’t see a “Negative” menu option in your program, look for a “substitute colors” option. Many printers also have a “reverse colors” function. If you can’t find a solution with your computer or printer, just take a normal bullseye target to a copy shop, and the staff can easily print you a set of targets with white centers in black fields.
Forum member Watercam has a Pentax PF-80ED spotting scope that allows him to see 6mm bullet holes in the white at 600 yards. However, 6mm holes in the black are only visible out to 400 yards or so. Accordingly, Watercam uses a modified “reversed” black-to-white target for 600-yard practice. Watercam explains: “[Using the Pentax] With my 6mm and limited mirage I see defined, 6mm holes in the white out to 600. In the black, however, I can see bullets holes at about 400. I now use reverse-color targets for training without a pit partner at the 600-yard line.”
The Hi-Viz Solution — Day-Glo Pasters
If you’re not concerned with official scoring rings, you can use an all-white target with a bright, fluorescent target dot in the middle. A 2″- or 3″-diameter stick-on target dot is highly visible at 600 yards. Birchwood Casey Target Spots® assortment #33928-TSA offers neon orange target dots in 1″, 2″, and 3″ diameters.
TARGET TIP — Use Chart Paper
For practice backers for the Day-GLo pasters at long distance, use Flip Chart Paper (aka Easel Pads) marked with graph lines at 1″ intervals. Available either regular or self-stick, one sheet can hold 4-8 pasters and the white paper allows for easy spotting of the holes and quick estimation of group size. Get Flip Chart Paper at Amazon.com, Staples, or Office Depot.
Brits Use White-Field Target for F-Class
In the UK, some ranges are now using a “reverse-style” target with a mostly white area. Laurie Holland says this allows shooters to see shots much more easily. Laurie reports: “Here’s a photo of the 500/600 yard F-Class match target we use in PSSA comps at Diggle Ranges with club members Chris Hull (L) and Terry Mann (R). We now use this target form at all ranges up to 1K for F-Class, and, yes you can often see your hits at 600 yards on the target before the markers pull it. Regards from England — Laurie”.
Industry Day at the Range is a unique event. Gun industry representatives are able to view, inspect, and shoot scores of new rifles, shotguns, and pistols provided by 200+ manufacturers from around the globe. In addition, new optics and shooting accessories are on display. Hundreds of media members and other gun industry personnel visited the Boulder City, Nevada gun range on 1/20/25 to test a wide variety of new firearms. There were many notable, innovative new rifles, pistols, and optics on display.
Conditions were pretty challenging, with gusty winds and cool temperatures in the mid-40s in the morning. Still most of the shooting was at targets inside 50 yards so those breezes didn’t stop the show. It did make it more challenging to hit the longer range targets set up on the upper rifle bay. Still, media members were excited to see the scores of new rifles, pistols, and shotguns on display. See Range Day Map.
Notable New Guns and Products Previewed at Range Day
Tikka T3X Ace Precision Rifle
Tikka unveiled the new T3X Ace at an early preview at the Desert Sportsman’s Club range outside Las Vegas. This GunsAmerica video, hosted by our friend True Pearce, provides a first look at an impressive bolt-action rifle for PRS/NRL competition. Pearce praised the rifle’s function, ergonomics, and accuracy.
Burris XTR PS Scope with Internal Ballistics Display
The new Burris XTS PS scope combines traditional glass lenses with an internal electronic display that shows hold-over and ballistic data to the shooter. Customizable “data zones” display dial-to-distance, wind hold, wind speed/direction, density altitude, angle compensation, and scope level. The scope features a unique new clickless turret with a digital position sensor for ultra-fast 1/30 MIL elevation adjustments.
BioFire Biometric Smart Gun (Fingerprint and Face Recognition)
In this video, GunsAmerica Editor True Pearce tests the radically innovative Biofire “Smart Gun”. This features a biometric fingerprint sensor plus an onboard facial recognition system that scans the shooter’s face. The purpose of the technology is to prevent unauthorized use of the pistol. The potential downside is that anti-Second Amendment politicians might try to mandate this kind of built-in gun control.
Shadow Systems CR920XP Rapid Fire
New .338 ARC Cartridge in Bolt-Action AR
New SIG Sauer Romeo 8T-AMR Smart Optic
Glock Pistols with AimPoint Optics
Impressive Zeiss optics were on display this year, as shown here in 2020.
One of the best things about Industry Day at the Range is the FREE Ammo provided by Federal and other manufacturers. Rifle, pistol, shotgun — the ammo is ALL FREE.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
SPECIAL — Precision Reloading FREE HAZMAT with $149+ Buy
Click image to get FREE HAZMAT with $149+ powder/primer purchase through 1/25/2025.
1. EuroOptic — Athlon Optics Sale
⏺️ Major savings on very good FFP and SFP scopes
Athlon makes quality optics for hunting, PRS/NRL, and other disciplines. User reports have been very positive. Right now Athlon scopes are ON SALE at EuroOptic.com starting at just $374.99 for a 4.5-27x50mm Athlon Midas. Ranging from 1-6X to 4.5-30X with MIL or MOA reticles, there are a large selection of scopes on sale with discounts up to 53% off MSRP.
2. Creedmoor Sports — Berger Bullets January Sale
⏺️ Major savings on very popular Berger Match, Varmint, and Hunting bullets
Creedmoor Sports kicks off the New Year with a major Berger Bullet Sale. You’ll find a huge selection of high quality Berger bullets: Hybrid Target, VLD Match, OTM Tactical, Boat-tail Target, Elite Hunter, FB Varmint bullets and more. Prices start at just $34.95 per hundred for 20 Cal FB Varmint projectiles. Popular 6mm 105gr BT Target bullets are now just $46.95 per hundred.
If you want a good, compact AR-class defensive rifle, here’s a very affordable option. Right now the Palmetto State Armory PA15 16″ M4 Carbine is just $429.99 — that’s less than the price of many pistols. Chambered for 5.56×45 NATO, this modern rifle boasts Magpul MOE SL furniture and black Nitride finish. Users say the adjustable buttstock works well and this rifle has shown very good reliability. It has a flat top with rail and front sight, so the owner will need to add a rear sight and/or optic.
4. Graf & Sons — Sierra Ammunition Sale, Save up to 15%
⏺️ Excellent hunting and match ammo with high-quality Sierra bullets
Graf’s is running a good sale on Sierra-brand loaded ammunition. Matchking competition ammo and a variety of hunting and varminting ammo types are on sale. Save up to 15% by ordering ammo through this Sierra ammo sale. We do like the 22-250 varmint ammo, and the .30-06 Gamechanger Hunting ammo.
5. Natchez — RCBS Buy Green Free Bullets Sale
⏺️ FREE Sierra or Barnes bullets with $100 or more RCBS product purchases
If you’re looking to grab a new reloading tool from RCBS you can now also get FREE bullets with the Natchez BUY GREEN, Get Premium Bullets Sale. Spend $100 and choose from a selection of free Sierra and Barnes bullets (quantity of 40 to 100 bullets). If you spend $400 you can choose from variety of 200-ct to 500-ct bullet packs. Those 500 free Sierra bullets could be worth up to $295 (for .308 168gr MatchKings) — so this is a great deal! CLICK HERE for full chart of BUY GREEN free bullets.
6. Amazon — Plano AW2 All Weather Rifle Case Sale, $170.72
⏺️ Excellent wheeled case big enough for F-Class and Palma rifles
Traveling with a long gun requires a quality case that protects your valuable firearm. If you’re in need of a new case for your next hunting or match trip check out the 52″ Plano All Weather Rifle/Shotgun Case (#ad). With a 52″ internal length, this is long enough for most F-Class, PRS, Palma, and Benchrest rifles. You can also fit two hunting rifles inside (see photo). This all-weather case is strong, tough, and seals out moisture. With a Durashell Plus outer shell, this case is relatively lightweight yet durable. If you don’t need a 52″ case, Plano also offers 36″-long and 42″-long cases capable of carrying two rifles or shotguns.
7. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Folding Reloading Stand, $178.49
⏺️ Folding stand holds reloading press and equipment
For anyone who’s tight on reloading space the Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Reloading Stand (#ad) might just be the answer. Able to handle a press and a powder measure at the same time, this highly adaptable bench also features collapsible shelves that create more space and tuck away for easy storage. Whether you are doing a quick reload, or simply need something that takes up a little less space, this reloading table is perfect for you.
8. Amazon — Hornady Rapid Night Clock Gun Safe, $242.80
⏺️ Handy pistol safe that appears to be nightstand alarm clock
Here’s a good, readily-accessible handgun storage solution. The Hornady Rapid Safe Night Guard (#ad) stores a handgun in a housing that does NOT look like a gun safe. Disguised to look like an alarm clock, this unit uses RFID technology to unlock instantly — faster than a keypad type system. Four included RFID tags can be selectively programmed to open this safe and any other RFID gun safe you own.
9. Scheels — RCBS Universal Priming Tool, $64.99
⏺️ Recommended tool that adapts to multiple case rim sizes
The RCBS Universal Hand Primer tool can handle both large rim and small rim cases without any parts change. Leverage is good and the primer feeding tray is very reliable. This is a recommended tool for both beginning handloaders and expert-level reloaders. Another good feature of this tool is a patented safety gate that isolates the primer seating operation from the primer supply, lowering risk of tray detonation.
10. Amazon — Deyace Extra Large Shooting Mat, $37.99
⏺️ Nice, relatively big shooting mat with good padding
When shooting prone, you need a good shooting mat. The Deyace Extra Large padded shooting mat (#ad) is a great value for just $37.99. Measuring a generous 78″x28.5″, this XL mat has nice padding for elbows and knees, and the mat folds up nicely for transport. This mat is offered in four colors: Green, Tan, Tan Camo, and Black. For transport, we like this mat’s integral straps and carry handle.
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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 objective of the tall target test is to insure that 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. The goal is to calculate a correction factor that you can apply to a ballistic solution which accounts for the tracking error of your scope. For example, if you find your scope moves 7% more than it should, then you have to apply 7% less than the ballistic solution calls for to hit your target.
NOTE: When doing this test, don’t go for the maximum possible elevation. You don’t want to 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’re not the same.”
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.
ZEISS, a world leader in optics, has released two very impressive new 15-power binoculars: the Conquest HDX and Conquest HDX LRP. These can be used with tripod supports for spotting duties, and with 56mm lenses they offer exceptional low-light performance. The all-new ZEISS Conquest HDX LRP 15×56 (LRP stands for “Long-Range Precision”) is an advanced optic developed specifically for use in Precision Rifle Series (PRS) and National Rifle League (NRL, NRL22, NRL Hunter) competition.
Developed with input from top competitors, the Conquest HDX LRP 15×56 incorporates an advanced milliradian reticle etched onto the internal lens. This reticle helps the spotter determine accurate leads for moving targets and evaluate down-range bullet impacts. This reticle also allows the spotter to make better wind calls and assess needed corrections more quickly and accurately if there is a miss. That all works to help secure maximum points in every stage.
CLICK HERE for full details on the impressive new Conquest HDX LRP and its MRAD reticle.
The Conquest HDX LRP 15×56 reticle — a combination of T-style and tree-style designs with a floating center dot — should be familiar to competition PRS/NRL shooters. It matches the reticle pattern commonly used in FFP MilRad riflescopes — especially so with ZEISS LRP riflescopes. That assists with ease of use and making quick calls. The ZEISS HDX LRP reticle design offers a good balance of reference marks and line thickness. The precise, low-center placement of the LRP reticle was selected after extensive testing. It helps reduce eyestrain and curvature distortion.
In this video top PRS competition shooters work with the new Conquest HDX LRP long-range binoculars with MRAD reticle. They show how the reticle can be used to range targets and evaluate shot accuracy to maximize scores during a match.
Also unique to the HDX LRP version are two locking diopter adjustments. One allows for razor-sharp focusing of the reticle. The second allows for an overall sharply focused image of the entire field of view. These adjustments are specific to the individual user’s eyes but are easily changed when necessary.
You’ll want a high-quality tripod for effective use of high-magnification binoculars in PRS/NRL competition. The ZEISS Conquest HDX LRP 15×56 incorporates a 1/4-20 tripod adapter port that allows easy installation of the standard ARCA-Swiss tripod adapter — also included with the HDX LRP model.
The basic 15X Conquest HDX has a retail price of $1,899.99 and is available now. The HDX LRP version with MRAD reticle will be available in mid-February with a retail price of $1,999.99. For more information on all ZEISS Conquest HDX binoculars, visit the ZEISS Conquest HDX INFO Page.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. EuroOptic — Tikka T3x Rifle Blow-Out Sale — Save 35%
⏺️ Tikka makes great hunting rifles now offered at major savings
With this Blow-Out Sale at EuroOptic.com, you can save $120-$530 on quality Tikka T3x hunting rifles, starting at just $599.99. Multiple models are on sale including T3x Lite, T3x Lite Compact, T3x Lite Stainless, T3x Hunter, T3x Laminated, and T3x RoughTech. Both right-hand and Left-hand versions are offered. The Hunter models feature a handsome wood stock. These rifles can deliver sub-MOA accuracy with good hand-loads.
2. Precision Reloading — 10% Off All Berger Bullets
⏺️ Great top-tier, high-demand bullets on sale through 1/17/2025
Berger bullets are used by top competitors in many disciplines — F-Class, Benchrest, PRS/NRL, Service Rifle, ELR and more. Now through 1/17/2025 you can get 10% off the full range of Berger match and hunting bullets. Precision Reloading has a large stock of Berger bullets currently, including high-demand 6mm, 6.5mm, 7mm, and .30-caliber bullets.
3. Sportsman’s WH — Flash Sale on Optics, Knives, and More
⏺️ Great deals — save up to 50% on optics, ammo, and knives
Get major savings on optics, ammo, knives, and some firearms with the January Flash Sale at Sportsman’s Warehouse. We saw some amazing deals on Leupold and Vortex optics. And there are some very good deals on knives with savings up to 50%. CLICK HERE to see all 36 current Flash Sale bargains.
4. Creedmoor Sports — ADG Brass Sale, Std. + Magnum Cartridges
⏺️ ADG makes great brass for larger F-Class, hunting, and ELR rifles
If you are a F-Open shooter or a hunter using a modern magnum cartridge, head over to Creedmoor Sports. Currently top-quality ADG brass is on sale with significant savings of 10% or more on notable cartridge types including 6.5 PRC, 7 SAUM, 7mm Rem UltraMag, 300 PRC, 300 WSM, and more. This ADG brass is very strong and consistent.
⏺️ Great products — Wipe-Out, Carb-Out, Patch Out — save time/effort.
Sharp-Shoot-R Precision makes fantastic barrel cleaning products including Wipe-Out Foam, Carb-Out, Patch Out, Wipe-Out Accelerator, Tactical Advantage, and No-Lead. In addition Sharp-Shoot-R makes Maxx and Slicker lubricants. We use Wipe-out, Carb-out, and Accelerator and these products have dramatically reduced the amount of brushing required and have detered hard carbon fouling. All Sharp-Shoot-R products are currently on sale at Precision Reloading. You can save on these truly outstanding cleaning items.
6. Midsouth — 2000 Rounds Aguila .22 LR ammo, $114.99
⏺️ Good reliable rimfire ammo for just six cents a round
Here is one of the best deals on rimfire ammunition that we’ve seen in years. Right now at Midsouth, you can get 2000 rounds of Aguila .22 LR Super Extra HV ammo for just $114.99 on sale. That works out to just $3.00 per box (6 cents per round). This would work great for pistol and rifle plinking.
7. Midsouth — LEE Breech Hand Press Kit, $68.99
⏺️ Compact hand press can do a number of key tasks — Great Sale
The LEE Breech Lock Hand Press Kit combines the popular LEE Hand-Held Press with a LEE Breech Lock System that allows reloaders to quickly change dies without having to readjust dies. This hand-held reloading press weighs only 1.5 lbs and works well for depriming tasks or bullet seating at the range. This kit, now just $68.99 on sale at Midsouth, includes Hand Press, Ram Prime Unit, Powder Funnel, and Resizing Lube.
⏺️ Great price on versatile rapid access 2-gun security safe
If you want handy storage for two handguns or one pistol, watches, and other valuables, consider this SnapSafe 2-Gun Keypad Vault, now just $59.99 at Grafs.com (54% off). Along with the keypad, there is a backup rotary key lock. The spring-loaded door opens immediately with your programmable code. A protective foam liner safeguards contents, the interior shelf is removable, and the base is pre-drilled so the vault can be bolted in place. This is a great deal — the very same SnapSafe 2-gun vault costs $134.99 right now at MidwayUSA — nearly twice as much.
⏺ Very comprehensive set covers huge range of calibers
Successful and safe reloading requires knowing your base to ogive measurement. The AltitudeCraft Bullet Comparator Kit (#ad) allows you to get that key measurement for a huge range of bullet sizes. The AltitudeCraft bullet comparator kit has 14 precision inserts that fit a carrier that attaches easily to your calipers. This allows you to measure calibers from 0.17 to 0.45, so this one kit will cover the vast majority of popular rifle and pistol cartridge types.
10. Amazon — Splatterburst Targets 50pk, $39.99
⏺️ Targets have fifteen 3″ bulls per sheet — bullet impacts show bright yellow
Splatterburst Targets make spotting bullet impacts easy, with hi-viz, bright yellow shot marks. With fifteen 3″ bullseyes, this Splatterburt target sheet is great for rimfire or centerfire practice. And you can see bullet impacts out to 400 yards. And right now you can get FIFTY (50) of these 15-bull target sheets for just $39.99 on Amazon (#ad) — that’s just 80 cents per target sheet. The BRIGHT yellow bullet holes are visible in all light conditions, great for people with weak vision.
As an Amazon affiliate, this site can earn revenues through sales commissions.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. Brownells — Crimson Trace Optics Sale
⏺️ Quality Crimson Trace scopes now at very significant discounts
Brownells is running a major sale right now on quality Crimson Trace Optics. Along with rifle scopes (both FFP and SFP versions) with a wide range of magnification levels, there are red dots for pistols. With this notable Crimson Trace Optics Sale you can save up to 60% on quality optics with very positive user reviews. We would definitely consider a FFP Crimson Trace for a PRS rifle.
⏺️ High-quality match-winning 6BR brass, works for Dasher and 6BRA too
The original 6mmBR Norma cartridge and its wildcats such as the 6mm Dasher and 6BRA have been hugely popular for many disciplines — Benchrest, PRS/NRL, varminting. But with this popularity has come short supply. 6mmBR brass has been hard to find in recent months. But take heart — Whidden Gunworks has Lapua 6mmBR Brass in stock at $119.99 for 100 cases — a good price. If Whidden Gunworks sells out, Bruno Shooters also has Lapua 6mmBR brass in stock for $122.80 per 100, just a few bucks more.
3. Palmetto SA — SAR9 Sport 9mm Pistol, $299.99
⏺️ Save $300 off MSRP on good full-size 9mm pistol
This is a great deal for a modern, reliable 9mm pistol with better ergonomics than a Glock (at less than half the price). The lightweight polymer-framed, striker-fired SAR9 points naturally and has three insertable back straps to customize fit. We like the 20-degree grip angle which points well for most users. This ported slide version with 5.2″ barrel is a great gun for IDPA, USPSA, and other pistol matches. The listed $299.99 sale price is $300.00 off the original $699.99 MSRP. The slide has two threaded holes that allow an optic to be attached, but it does not have a removable plate like some newer pistols.
4. Graf & Sons — Unis Large Rifle Primers, 5000 for $399.00
⏺️ Get Large Rifle Primers — in stock now at Graf’s
Large rifle primers have been hard to source lately. But Graf & Sons now has ample inventories of Unis Large Rifle Primers. You can get a big 5000-count case of UNIX Large Rifle Primers for $399.00, a 15% discount. That price works out to just eight cents per primer. Manufactured in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Unis “Ginex” primers are used by major ammunition manufacturers world-wide. With consistent ignition and uniform size these will work for anything from plinking to competition.
5. Creedmoor Sports — $20 Off All Rifle Cases
⏺️ Creedmoor Sports makes some of the best soft cases — save $20 now
For decades Creedmoor Sports has offered some of the best fabric rifle cases you can buy. These cases are very popular with Palma, High Power, and Service Rifle competitors. They have quality zippers and handy outside pockets and are offered in a variety of sizes and colors. Right now these Creedmoor Sports gun cases are $20 OFF on Sale through 1/11/25. With a variety of size, pocket, and color options this is a great opportunity to pick up a new gun case for 2025.
6. Scheels — Forster Co-Ax Primer Seater, $119.99
⏺️ Great product, with significant savings over other sellers
If you load lots of cartridges, it’s wise to have a high-leverage, stack-loading bench-mounted primer tool that gives repeatable results. This allows you to prime hundreds of cases efficiently without the hand pain from repetitive gripping. A great choice is the Forster Co-Ax Primer Seater with E-Z-Just Shell Holder Jaws. This system has an adaptive rim holder so separate shell holders are not needed. The E-Z-Just jaws can grip rifle and pistol cases with a rim thickness of .045″ to .072″. Primers stack in vertically-oriented primer tubes (separate tubes for large primers and small primers are supplied). The primers stack sideways — outer diameter to outer diameter — for added safety.
7. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Tumbler Combo Kit, $99.99
⏺️ Complete tumbling kit — tumbler, separator, bucket, and media
Cleaning your brass is a critical step in the reloading process and we found a great kit if you’re in the market for one. The Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-EZ Case Tumbler Kit (#ad) has everything you need to get started. With Quick-N-EZ Case Tumbler, Quick-N-EZ Rotary Media Separator, 4 oz. Brass Polish, 3 lb. Cleaning Media and a Plastic Bucket you’ll be up and running in no time.
8. Amazon — Wheeler Trigger Pull Gauge, $61.49
⏺️ Good very consistent and reliable trigger gauge
Competitive shooters as well as hunters need to accurately monitor trigger pull weights. Having optimal (and consistent) pull weights is key for shooting performance and safety. You may also need to verify pull weight to comply with match rules. One of the best trigger gauges out there is the Wheeler Professional Digital Trigger Pull Gauge (#ad). With digital display and 1 oz. increments this Pro Trigger Gauge is a great tool for target shooters and gunsmiths, allowing precise trigger settings. This digital gauge boasts accuracy to +/-0.5% over a range of 0 to 12 pounds.
9. Amazon — Lockdown Hidden Storage Shelf, $99.99
⏺️ Great design provides security in a living area
It can be challenging to keep firearms in your house in a manner where they are both secure yet readily accessible. One way to accomplish this is with the Lockdown Hidden Compartment Shelf (#ad). This has a hidden horizontal storage area where you can keep a pistol and other key items. The Lockdown Shelf mounts easily on your wall. With a simple swipe of the included magnetic key, you have instant access to firearms and other important items.
10. Amazon — Digital Microscope, $29.99
⏺️ Very low price on great tool for inspecting bullets, brass, primers
Do you wish you had a way to cheaply and easily inspect your primer pockets, trimmed brass, or pointed bullets? We like this 4.3″ 1080p HD 1000x Zoom Microscope (#ad) that allows you to go from 5X to 1000X with an easy-to-use focus. This advanced electronic magnifying system is priced at just $29.99, a very low price for such a sophisticated device. NOTE: This is a limited time deal that may expire very quickly.
11. TargetSports USA — Self-Inking Stamp for Targets, $5.99
⏺️ Handy tool to stamp your own 2″ bullseyes on target
Are you tired of buying targets or wasting expensive printer ink just to shoot holes in paper? Consider this handy, low-cost Self-Inking Target Stamp. With an easy-to-fill ink reservoir, you can stamp a grid of multiple targets or add 2″ red bullseyes to a printed target. NOTE: This target stamp is listed at 51mm, so it makes bulls 2 inches in diameter.
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Forum member Watercam has a Pentax PF-80ED spotting scope that allows him to see 6mm bullet holes in the white at 600 yards. However, 6mm holes in the black are only visible out to 400 yards or so. Accordingly, Watercam uses a modified “reversed” black-to-white target for 600-yard practice. Watercam explains: “[Using the Pentax] With my 6mm and limited mirage I see defined, 6mm holes in the white out to 600. In the black, however, I can see bullets holes at about 400. I now use reverse-color targets for training without a pit partner at the 600-yard line.”
Verifying Scope Level With Tall Target Test
