This report comes from the American Suppressor Association (ASA).
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has announced the imminent launch of a new electronic system for NFA transfers. Known as the eForms system, this overdue modernization will allow consumers to submit both ATF Forms 1 and 4 electronically, hopefully resulting in a significant decrease in transfer times when compared to traditional paper Forms. This should speed up acquisition of firearm suppressors, since these require a Form 4.
According to ATF, the transition to the new system will occur sometime after December 15th, but before Christmas. The new eForms system will handle all existing NFA transfer forms, including the ATF Form 4, which is used for transfers of suppressors.
What is the NFA?
The National Firearms Act of 1934 (NFA) requires the Federal registration of fully-automatic firearms, of short-barreled rifles and shotguns, of rifles over .50 caliber, and of firearms sound suppressors (termed “silencers” under the NFA).
Do NOT Withdraw an Existing Form 4 Submission
If you recently submitted an NFA application, keep it in the queue. The ASA cannot stress this enough. Withdrawing your Form 4 and re-submitting electronically will take longer than allowing your Form 4 to make its way through the approval process. Withdrawing and re-submitting electronically will add months to your overall application process.
That’s because ATF isn’t going to dig through the tens of thousands of forms being processed to find your application. They’re going to wait until your Form 4 reaches an NFA examiner’s desk – the exact point at which it would normally be approved – to process your withdrawal. Instead of approving it though, they will acknowledge your withdrawal and release your serial number. You will not be able to re-submit an eForm 4 with the same serial number until ATF acknowledges your withdrawal and puts it back into your dealers’ inventory.
While traditional paper-based applications will remain a viable option, ASA recommends that suppressor buyers submit new NFA applications electronically. That’s because, if the new eForms system works as promised, it will increase efficiencies by reducing form submission and payment processing times, eliminating weeks of delays in data processing, and all but eradicating data entry errors.
The ASA plans to provide updated information about eForms as soon the ATF officially launches the new program for submitting ATF Forms 1 and 4 electronically. In the meantime, stay tuned by following the American Suppressor Association on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
Once the transition to the new eForms system begins, ATF estimates that the transition will take between two to four days to complete, at which point the new eForms system will go live. ATF has indicated that it will notify the industry 24 to 48 hours prior to the transition, and the ASA will post information as soon as it receives this notifice.
Austin Orgain was the top finisher in the 2021 Precision Rifle Series season, winning the Golden Bullet award for the second year in a row, as the Pro Class Open Points Series Champion.
PRS competitor Austin Orgain took home the Precision Rifle Series Pro Series Golden Bullet award for the second year in a row. With his many wins and top 5 performances, Austin is now ranked #1 in the PRS Bolt Gun Series PRO Division. Austin took top Pro Division honors at the PRS Series Finale held Nov. 6-7, 2021 at the NRA Whittington Center in Raton, New Mexico. Some 200 of America’s top PRS shooters competed in the challenging Finale.
Orgain’s PRS match rifle features a PROOF Research steel competition contour .243 1:7.5″-twist cut-rifled barrel chambered for the 6mm Dasher. Note the left bolt action.
Remarkable Record in PRS in 2020 and 2021
Austin Orgain has shot 61 total PRS matches, of which 47 are Pro Series matches. Orgain’s best Pro Series finish was at the 2021 PRS PRO Series Finale match where he finished first (#1) out of 214 shooters. Orgain has won his last three matches straight, for a fantastic finish to 2021:
Winner: November 6, 2021 — 2021 PRS PRO SERIES FINALE Raton, New Mexico
Winner: September 18, 2021 — BOX CANYON SHOWDOWN AG Qualifier, Medicine Lodge, Kansas
Winner: August 28, 2021 — OKIE SUMMER SHOWDOWN, Ninnekah, Oklahoma
PROOF Research’s cut-rifled barrels are designed for extreme accuracy, performance, and reliability under any environmental condition. Orgain commented, “The consistency and accuracy that I see from PROOF barrel to barrel makes my job so much easier. Break one in, load the same charge, and go hammer.” The Competition Contour barrel and all of PROOF Research’s barrels are single-point, cut-rifled, lead-lapped, and thoroughly inspected at multiple quality-control stations.
About PROOF Research
Headquartered in Columbia Falls, Montana, PROOF Research maintains research and manufacturing centers in Montana and Ohio. PROOF Research has developed next-generation composite materials for carbon fiber barrels, premium hunting rifles, and weapon systems. PROOF Research’s goal is to make reduced weight, durability, and match-grade accuracy a reality.
While Austin Orgain shoots with an all-steel barrel, PROOF Research produces advanced carbon-wrapped barrels offering significant weight savings.
Curious about suppressors (aka “silencers”, “moderators”, or “cans”)? Below you’ll find an informative NSSF Infographic that covers the history, legal status, design, and operation of modern-day suppressors.
Here’s a cool video showing how suppressors work. This video features see-through rifle suppressors filmed with ultra-high-speed (110,000 frame per second) cameras. When played back in super-slow-motion, you can see the flame propagate through the suppressor and the bullet move through each baffle before it exists the muzzle. Check it out!
See Through Suppressor in Super Slow Motion (110,000 fps) — Click Arrow to Watch:
Suppressor Facts — What You Need to Know
In this infographic, the NSSF provides the history, specifications, benefits and uses of firearm suppressors. Don’t suppress your knowledge!
Suppressors reduce gunfire sound levels by using baffles that contain expanding gasses exiting a firearm’s muzzle when ammo is discharged. Suppressors are similar to car mufflers that were, in fact, developed in parallel by the same inventor in the early 1900s. Well-designed suppressors typically reduce the gun sound levels by 30-35 decibels (dB). Suppressors are becoming more popular even though it still takes many months to get approved. In fact, the number of suppressors registered with the ATF grew by over 1 million from 2011 to 2017. That’s a 355% increase.
Brownells is continuing its popular Black Rifle Friday promotion through this entire weekend. Now through midnight on Sunday 11/28/21, enjoy big savings on uppers, lowers, barrels, buttstocks, rimfire conversion kits, AR optics, magazines and much more. Along with the attractive sale prices, you can save on nearly all Brownells products with special Black Friday weekend Discount Codes. NOTE: These codes are NOT limited to AR stuff — you can save on most products in stock.* But don’t delay, the codes expire soon.
Code RFA: 11% Off $200 | Code RFB: 12% Off $300 | Code RFC: 13% Off $700
Most Sale Prices Good Through 11/28/2021 at 11:59 pm CST. The special Discount Codes expire on 11/29/2021 at 11:59 pm CST.
*Promo Code Exceptions
Promo Codes are NOT valid on these brands: B&T, Bighorn Arms (Zermatt Arms), Crimson Trace, FN USA, Franklin Armory, Galco Int’l, Glock, Holosun, Kahles, LabRadar, Leica, Leupold, Nightforce, Raven Concealment, Ruger, SIG Sauer, Swarovski, Trijicon, and Zenith Firearms. Also Promo Codes are NOT valid on these product types (and more): barrel blanks, barrels (chambered), barreled receivers, bullets, case tumblers, cleaning rods, progressive presses, reloading kits, rifle stocks, shot, shotshell presses, ultrasonic case cleaners. See ALL Exceptions.
Happy Thanksgiving folks. Many major manufacturers and online vendors are offering great bargains tomorrow, Black Friday. And many of the sales start today. We are spotlighting vendors worth visiting because they offer a wide range of discounts on a large inventory selection — in some cases, everything in stock is discounted 10%, 15%, 25% even 40%. For other sellers, only specific items are on sale, so we’ve identified some of the best deals.
Come back regularly, as we will be updating the information as Black Friday sale prices on specific products are released by some vendors late on Thursday.
ScopeList — Save 20% on Top Quality Optics
Scopelist.com, which is affiliated with EuroOptic, has some very good promotions right now. Some are special Black Friday/Cyber Monday specials, while other deals are good through December 1, 2021. Here are some of the notable special deals that can save you up to 20%:
Midsouth is one of our favorite vendors. This company respects its customers and has maintained fair pricing even during the shortages. We will update this listing with specific hot deals as soon as they are posted. Special sale items with discounted prices should be revealed at 12:01 am ET 11/26/2021.
MDT — 10%-40% off all MDT Products including Chassis Systems
MDT produces very popular chassis systems for bolt-action rifles. These MDT Chassis units are very popular with PRS/NRL competitors because they are strong, versatile, adjustable, and can be easily fitted with bipods, forearm weights, and other accessories. Right now all MDT products are at least 10% off. And the “factory second” chassis systems are now 40% off at Mdttac.com.
Graf & Sons — Big Sightron Sale
The entire Sightron line-up is on sale now at Grafs.com. Save 25% on most Sightron riflescopes, including the poplar 10-50x60mm SIII scopes which have won major benchrest and F-Class matches. In addition, some great Sightron spotting scopes are 25% off. There are also significant discounts on binoculars, sunshades, and tripods.
Sportsman’s Warehouse — Huge Black Friday Sale
The Black Friday Sale at Sportsman’s Warehouse is underway right now, and runs through Wednesday December 3, 2020. We saw some great deals on Savage rifles, SIG Sauer optics, Leupold SX-2 spotters, as well as gun safes. A wide selection of hunter camo clothing is also on sale starting 11/25/2021 (Thanksgiving Day). CLICK HERE for compressed layout with 100+ sale items on one page.
K&M Shooting Products — 23% Off with Code THANKFUL23
K&M Products is running a Thanksgiving/Black Friday special offer, with 23% Off Savings on purchases over $50 (with some exclusions). K&M posted: “Happy Thanksgiving… Feast on 23% Off on $50 or more.” This promotion is good November 24-29, 2021. To get the savings, use Coupon Code THANKFUL23. Mitutoyo products, Arbor Press Case, and Benchtop machines, are excluded.
Bruno Shooters Supply — FREE Shipping for $100 (and up) Orders
Now through Monday 11/29/21 at noon, Bruno’s Shooters Supply is offering FREE Shipping (within the USA) on all orders of $100 or more. This does not cover items not currently in stock, and the Free Shipping offer excludes hazardous materials and any complete firearm. The Bruno’s storefront will be open half days on Friday and Saturday, 11/26-11/27.
Area 419 — Black Nitride Friday Discounts
Area 419 is running a “Black Nitride Friday” promotion. There are major savings on a variety of products including Hellfire muzzle brakes, Sidewinder muzzle brakes, suppressor mounts/adaptors, and thread protectors. CLICK HERE for all sale items.
KYGUNCO — Big Savings on Rifles, Pistols, Shotguns and Ammo
Shown above are just some of the deals, starting Friday. There are great prices on rifles, pistols, and shotguns. If you’re looking for a nice Bergara B-14 HMR .22 LR trainer, this is a good place to shop. NOTE: Prices go into effect on Friday, 11/26/2021. CLICK HERE for a full preview of items that will go on sale. That page has clickable links for particular products (sale prices effective 11/26/21).
Natchez Shooters Supplies — FREE Shipping for $99.99+ Orders
As a special Black Friday Promotion, Natchez Shooters Supplies is offering FREE Shipping on all orders of $100 or more. Use Code FS211125 to qualify for free shipping. This promotion is good through Monday 11/29/2021 at midnight.
Locked & Loaded — Black Friday Sale
You’ll find some attractive deals on Rifles, Pistols, and Shotguns at LockedLoaded.com now through CyberMonday at 11:59 pm. This vendor also has substantial stocks of loaded ammunition at better-than-average prices.
L.E. Wilson — Free Shipping November 26 – 28 (Fri, Sat, Sun)
L.E. Wilson will offer FREE shipping on November 26-28, 2021 for orders in the USA. At the top of the L.E. Wilson website it notes: “Black Friday Free Shipping November 26-28th (U.S. Orders) Automatically Applied.” So this offer starts tomorrow, Black Friday, and is good through Sunday, November 28, 2021.
Many gun gear makers and online vendors are offering great bargains right now through “Pre-Black Friday” promotions. Popular online stores are offering big discounts on a large inventory selection — in some cases, everything in stock is discounted 10%, 15%, even 25%.
Traditionally, a host of major sales commence on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving. However, some major Black Friday Week promotions that are already underway today, November 24th, 2021. You’ll find super deals on firearms, reloading tools, optics, shooting accessories, and more. Most of the offers shown below are active right now, or start on Thursday, Thanksgiving Day. We will release another Sale Spotlight tomorrow for deals that begin on Black Friday.
EuroOptic Black Friday/Cyber Week Savings — Major Discounts
EuroOptic is offering special Cyber Week savings on scopes, spotting scopes, binoculars, and laser rangefinders from major brands including Schmidt & Bender, SIG Sauer, Crimson Trace, Eotech and more. In addition, you’ll find discounts on Vortex, Leupold, and other brands. And not just optics are on sale — there are Cyber Week discounts on Kimber pistols, Timney triggers, Garmin gear, and SilencerCo suppressors. CLICK HERE to see ALL the EuroOptic deals.
Primary Arms Pre-Black Friday Sale
Save on AR lowers, uppers, optics, triggers, .22 LR AR conversion kits, cleaning kits, backpacks and more. Primary Arms has discounted nearly all Aero Precision products. Plus Primary Arms has complete Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 rimfire AR clones for $379.99 — that’s $70 off the regular price.
Palmetto State Armory — Pre-Black Friday Sales
Palmetto State Armory (PSA) has already kicked off a major Black Friday week sale. If you are shopping for an AR lower, upper, or magazines, this is the first place to look. PSA also has very attractive pricing on handguns for carry or competition.
Precision Reloading — Bullets, Brass, Presses, and Dies on Sale
Precision Reloading has discounted Hornady bullets, Redding dies, RCBS presses, RCBS ChargeMaster Lites, RCBS priming tools, Redding presses, Lyman tools, Starline brass, and more. This is a great opportunity to get a good press and quality dies for your next gun project.
Creedmoor Sports — Pre-Black Friday Savings on Many Products
Creedmoor Sports is running a big Thanksgiving Week Sale with significant savings on dozens of popular items including signature Creedmoor Sports shooting coats, shooting mats, carts, rifle cases, scope stands, and much more. There are also big discounts on Sightron and Hi-Lux optics, electronic hearing protection, reloading tools, and other hardware. CLICK HERE to see all products on sale now.
Walmart — Hewlett Packard Core i3 Windows Laptop, $279.00
⏺ GREAT price for HP laptop with Windows 10 and very fast SSD
Here is a killer pre-Black Friday deal at Walmart. Get a fine Hewlett Packard (HP) 15.6″ Laptop computer with Windows 10 software for just $279.00! This HP features a fast Intel i3 processor, 8GB of RAM and 256GB of super-fast SSD storage, plus FREE Windows 11 upgrade. With this device you can can monitor a shot-marker, record match results, and access load data at the range. NOTE: If you prefer a faster processor, Walmart also offers a similar HP laptop for $379.00 with Intel i5 processor, Windows 11, and 8GB RAM/250GB SSD.
Sportsman’s Warehouse — Early Access Black Friday Sale
Sportsman’s Warehouse is running an “Early Access” Sale with major discounts on firearms, hunting gear, outdoor clothing, and optics. You’ll find great deals on scopes, rangefinder, and binoculars from Vortex, Nikon, Crimson Trace, Leupold, SIG Sauer and other top brands. You can save up to $500 on Crimson Trace scopes. If you want even bigger savings, CLICK HERE for a preview of the featured Black Friday sale items starting 11/26/2021.
Longshot — Big Cyber Days Savings on LR Target Cameras
Longshot makes the best long range target cameras on the market. These offer great image quality and unrivaled range. In addition, Longshot offers a cool system that works with spotting scopes, allowing you to video-record your strings and even score shots. Right now you can save $100.00 on the superb Longshot LR-3 UHD system with 2-mile range. Save up to $250.00 on multi-camera systems.
Big Shot Tumblers — FREE Shipping through December 5, 2021
Forum member F-Class John offers the superb, high-capacity Big Shot Tumblers in two high-capacity sizes, BST-40 and BST-60. These Big Shot Tumblers put lesser machines to shame. If you regularly tumble large quantities of cases, you should definitely get a Big Shot Tumbler. These start at $380 for the 40-lb capacity BST-40 model. Now through 12/5/2021, you can get FREE SHIPPING on your orders. Use coupon Code BIGSHIP during check-out.
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 Lite Scale/Dispenser, $234.49
⏺ Save $30 or more on this very popular Scale/Dispenser
Dispensing very accurate powder charges is critical for precision reloading. One of the most popular electronic powder scale/dispensers is the ChargeMaster Lite. Featuring an easy-to-use digital keypad, large powder hopper, accuracy to +/- one-tenth of a grain, the ChargeMaster Lite will help you load more accurate charges AND save time.
2. Sportsman’s WHSE — Savage 110 Switchback Rifle, $499.99
⏺ Excellent choice for hunting rifle, with nice, adjustable stock
Savage produces good, accurate rifles at attractive prices. If you are looking for a new hunting rig, consider the Savage 110 Switchback bolt action rifle. Available in many of the most popular hunting chamberings, the Savage Switchback features an ergonomic stock with adjustable length of pull, a one-piece +20 MOA rail, and a flush-fit muzzle brake. These are featured-packed hunting rifles at a good price.
3. Midway — 10% OFF Qualifying Optics (Many Brands)
⏺ Large selection of big name optics on sale with Bonus 10% Discount
Right now Midway has a wide variety of quality scopes on sale, with big discounts shown with RED Sale Prices. Plus if you use Code optics111721 during checkout, you will get an additional 10% Off ALL qualifying optics. Choose from many top optics brands including Vortex, Leupold, Sightron, Holosun, and more. You’ll find everything from simple red-dots up to high-magnification competition scopes. In addition, binoculars and rangefinders are on sale as well. To get 10% Off use Code optics111721.
4. Lock & Loaded — EAA Girsan MC9 Pistol with Red Dot, $491.85
⏺ Impressive 9mm for Action Pistol matches, with Red Dot
We love finding deals on high-quality pistols that can be used for competition and defense. A great example is the EAA Girsan MC9 9mm pistol. With its 17rd high-capacity magazine, interchangeable backstraps, ported slide, and included Red Dot sight the EAA MC9 is match ready. Priced at under $500, this is a great deal on a sophisticated 9mm handgun that can win matches.
5. Cabela’s — SIG Kilo 2200 BDX Laser Rangefinder, $279.97
⏺ Quality laser rangefinder that communicates with BDX scopes
Knowing the distance to your target or game is critical for safe and effective shots. The SIG Sauer KILO 2200 BDX Rangefinder is a very good LRF for the price. With the industry’s fastest digital signal processor, this Kilo 2200 BDX rangefinder delivers near-instantaneous rangings. This “smart” rangefinder also communicates with BDX-enabled scopes, showing range and holdover points in your BDX scope’s reticle. SIG Sauer states that the KILO 2200 BDX can reliably range deer out to 1000 yards, trees to 1400 yards, and reflective targets way out to 2,200 yards.
6. Creedmoor Sports — MTM Wind Flag, $19.95
⏺ Effective wind reading tool at a fraction of the price of other wind flags
Serious benchrest competitors always employ wind flags. And even when you are doing load development or practicing, it makes sense to have your own flags. Wind flags provide a constant “read” of current wind angles. This will help you stay on target. And watching the flag will quickly improve your understanding of wind patterns. If you are looking for a simple, affordable wind flag, the MTM Wind Reader Shooting Range Flag is a bargain at just $19.99, including stake-type support and tail ribbon. This MTM wind flag is easy to set up and it stores flat for transport.
7. Amazon — Magpul Rifle Bipod, $99.80 – $115.02
⏺ Strong, versatile bipod with M-LOK and Picatinny options
The Magpul Bipod is an excellent, mid-priced general purpose bipod which can be used on anything from PRS rigs to hunting rifles. This sturdy bipod features spring-tension legs that stow neatly forward and lock into place. The leg extensions slide and lock securely with the push of a button on seven half-inch spaced locking detents. Amazon’s Magpul Bipod prices start at $99.80, varying with color and attachment options (M-LOK, 1913 Picatinny, A.R.M.S. 17S, Sling Stud QD).
⏺ Well-designed, stable pistol rest, at a great price
When you’re testing the accuracy of any kind of handgun, it’s important to have a stable support. Consider the Caldwell Matrix Adjustable Shooting Rest. This ambidextrous rest is designed with a wobble-free front cradle plus padded support for the bottom of the pistol grip. It is easily adjusted With a spring-loaded tension mechanism and height adjustment knob. NOTE: This versatile rest features a removable rear section with V-cradle for a rifle buttstock. This allows the rest to be used with a rifle. However it is primarily designed for handgun use.
9. ShootSteel.com — 35% Off Steel Targets with Code
⏺ Use Code IMPACT to save 35% on steel targets
Shooting reactive steel targets is fun. And now you get get a whopping 35% off quality targets from SteelTargets.com. With this early Black Friday Deal, with Code IMPACT you can save 35% on a wide variety of tough AR500/550 steel targets including poppers, dueling trees, silhouettes, Texas Stars, speed racks, rimfire racks, and more. For the larger complex targets, this promo can save you over $300! In addition, surplus 1/2″ AR500 steel is 40% off with no code required. All orders over $350 ship FREE.
10. KYGunco — Anderson AM-15 Lower, $38.99
⏺ Super low price on a good AR-15 lower receiver
With Federal politicians threatening new gun regulations, you may want to get your “black rifle” while you still can. If you don’t want to purchase a complete AR-platform rifle at this time, consider just getting the lower receiver — the key serialized part purchased through an FFL. One of the best current deals is the Anderson AM-15 No Logo Lower Receiver currently selling for just $38.99. This anodized aluminum lower receiver can be finished with the fire-control group, grip, and stock of your choice, all sold separately.
Pursuit of Accuracy’s Josh Thomas has done well with his upgraded CZ 457 precision rimfire rifle. Shown above are Open Division trophies he won in the 2021 season.*
Interested in the Rimfire Precision game — NRL22 and PRS Rimfire? Then this article is for you. Today we feature the CZ 457 of Joshua Thomas, the talented host of the Pursuit of Accuracy YouTube Channel. Josh loves his CZ 457, which has been upgraded with a Lilja barrel and Timney trigger. Josh tells us: “You don’t need to spend $3000 on a precision rimfire — you can win with a $700 CZ. Here’s how….”
Rimfire Precision Report by Joshua Thomas, PursuitofAccuracy.com
In the precision .22 LR market, the CZ 457 offers stellar performance for the price. For $400 to $1000 you can pick one of many CZ 457 models that will suit your needs and shooting style. Every model offers the same exact receiver and trigger assembly. I have found both standard 457 and the “match chamber” 457 barrels to be accurate and extremely well-made. There are lots of aftermarket choices for the rifle that make it easy to get exactly what you are looking for out of your rifle — triggers, stocks, chassis sytems, barrels, bolt knobs, scope rails, and more.
Best Features of the CZ 457
The CZ 457 may be the most modular precision rimfire on the market. You can swap barrels and magazines easily. The interchangeable barrel feature is by far the best feature of the CZ 457. Want to shoot .22 WMR for varmint hunts then transition to a .22 LR for precision shooting? No problem — five minutes and four screws are all you need. The CZ 457 is also an excellent value — it’s WAY better than a 10/22 but a fraction of the cost of high-end custom rimfire rigs. [Editor: Josh does own a Vudoo V22, but he says with a barrel upgrade the CZ 457 offers very similar performance at a fraction of the cost].
With his CZ 457 Josh drives nails at 100 yards. But it did take multiple shots.
CZ 457 VPT MTR Equipment List
Barrel: Lilja 1:16″-twist, 21″, .920″ straight taper
Scope: Athlon Cronus BTR Gen II 4.5-29x56mm
with Mil APRS1 Reticle
Rings: Athlon 34mm Low height rings
Scope Base: Area 419 +30 MOA base
ARCA Swiss Rail: Area 419 14″ weighted
ARCA Clamp: RRS ARCA clamp (Atlas)
Trigger: Timney 457 Curved Shoe (5 oz.)
Magazine and extensions: Anarchy Outdoors
Dope Card: Coletac Cheatsheet
Cheek Rest: Victor Titan universal cheek rest
Bipod: Atlas BT46-NC
CZ 457 Accuracy — What Can It Deliver?
I have done extensive testing with my CZ 457 using both factory and aftermarket barrels. You can expect the stock barrel to group most match ammunition around 0.3″ at 50 yards. This can obviously vary but this is a good general standard. Aftermarket barrels, such as the Lilja, are capable of shrinking those average group sizes down to 0.2″ or lower. I have personally shot a few 0.1″ groups with my Lilja at 50 yards with ELEY Match ammunition. While this doesn’t sound like a huge difference at 50 yards that variance between the factory barrel and the Lilja grows the further out you go.
Upgrade Strategies for the CZ 457
As I’ve noted, the CZ 457 is easily upgraded. But first buyers need to make an initial decision. Do they want to build a CZ 457 or just slowly upgrade as they go? If a buyer wants the best performing rifle he/she can start with the cheapest 457 model they can find. Remember all CZ 457s have the same receiver assembly. Then buy a Timney trigger, buy a Lilja custom barrel (e.g. .920″ straight taper), and upgrade to your choice of stock or chassis. I recommend a Manners stock if you don’t already have a different preferred aftermarket chassis.
For those looking to upgrade as they go on a tighter budget I would recommend the YoDave trigger kit — basically a spring change. With the YoDave upgrade my trigger averaged around 9-10 ounces. Next I would buy the Lilja barrel, then a stock later.
Ammo Selection for the the CZ 457 — Why Comparison Testing Is Important
Every gun and barrel is different, so you so should always lot test your gun with various ammo types and lots. If you’re serious about rimfire accuracy, then lot testing is a must, whether at your own rage or a testing center. There is no replacement for starting with a good lot of ammunition your rifle likes. A lot of guys want to buy various ammo in small quantities then use a tuner or sorting to get the ammo consistent. If you compare how much ammo you’re wasting in that endeavor it’s much more cost effective to lot test FIRST and buy a case of what your rifle likes.
Lot Testing Ammo — What You Will Discover
Improving Results for Your Rimfire Rifle
To get the best results from your CZ 457 rifle, first check your action torque — that’s something many rimfire precision shooters overlook. Then collect as much data as you can. From a cold bore find out how long it takes to foul-in, and determine the round count for the best accuracy. And learn how many rounds you can shoot before you need to clean (this will vary from gun to gun).
Also work on your gun handling. With a rimfire, good follow-through is vital because of the “long barrel dwell time” of the rimfire bullet. (A rimfire bullet, since it runs 1000-1100 fps vs. 2800-3200 fps for a centerfire bullet, spends much more time inside the barrel). Follow-through is huge in 22s as far as accuracy goes. For my rifles I try to keep a relatively light but constant pressure on the butt/comb.
Comparison — CZ 457 vs. Vudoo V22 vs. Ruger Precision Rimfire
Editor: Josh owns a top-tier Vudoo V22 as well as CZ 457 rifles. In this video, he tests his Lilja-barreled CZ 457 head-to-head vs. the much more expensive Vudoo V22. The results may surprise you.
Here is the Vudoo V22 with F3R Machine +20 MOA mount.
In this video Josh compares the Ruger Precision Rimfire to a CZ 457 AT-ONE .22 LR. Josh reports: “We show accuracy at 100 yards and talk about the advantages and disadvantages to each rifle. If you are looking for your next .22 LR purchase check out the video and see which rifle comes out on top for you.”
Favorite Accessories: Timney Trigger, Area 419 scope base and ARCA rail
The Timney trigger is the best aftermarket trigger available for the 457 currently. Mine averaged 5-6 ounces and is extremely crisp. It’s a great trigger for Benchrest or PRS/NRL style shooting. The Area 419 Scope Base has the best fit and finish in the market with no close seconds, in my opinion. It is available a +15, +30, and +50 MOA versions. This can allow rimfire competitors to reach 400+ yards without needing to hold over. That’s roughly 20 Mils of elevation travel at 400 yards.
The Area 419 ARCA rail is another best in class in my opinion. The 14″ universal weighted ARCA rail really helps for for PRS / NRL style shooting. The rail’s weight helps the rifle settle into the support bags, and helps to steady the reticle for cleaner shots off of barricades and props.
Upgrades — Installing and Headspacing a Lilja Barrel
One advantage of the CZ 457 platform is the ease with which the barrel can be upgraded. In this video, Joshua installs and headspaces a Lilja .22 LR match barrel onto his daughter’s CZ 457 AT-ONE rifle. The video shows the process for setting headspace.
Josh explains: “Different rimfire ammunition manufacturers use different rim thickness for their ammunition. CCI, Lapua, and SK have a thicker rim thickness than that of ELEY. I like to start at the standard of .043″ for headspace and work my way in .001″ at a time. I’m working my way in looking at accuracy changes, extraction reliability, and the feel of the bolt close. I have found that this will vary barrel to barrel as the chambers are slightly different. For the Lilja I have found .041″ was best for Lapua, SK, and CCI while .039″ was what worked best for ELEY.
Always follow the barrel manufacturer’s directions and work in small increments. Lilja provides instructions on how to set your headspace, and how to make the required measurements to achieve this. I believe Lilja currently is the only barrel manufacturer that is offering a barrel for the CZ 457 for which the end user can easily set the headspace themselves.”
Reactive Targets — Why They Are Fun to Shoot and Good for Training
I love to shoot small steel swinger targets. Reactive targets give the shooter instant positive feedback that what they have done is correct or working. These can be great training tools for both the novice shooter and the expert shooter. However I recommend competitive shooters use smaller reactive targets so they don’t get over-confident with big plates. I like to stick to 1-2 MOA size targets in relation to the distance.
If the rifle is capable of 1″ groups at 150 yards I will use a 2″ – 3″ target as I’m usually shooting these from a field position and not a bench. This allows for small errors on my part and wind calls without making it so easy a bad shot hits.
About the Pursuit of Accuracy Video Channel
Mission Statement: We push the boundaries of rimfire accuracy through education and a shared learning experience with our audience. We claim no professional status … we are simply a small team of dedicated marksmen attempting to redefine the generally-accepted limits of what can be done with .22 LR rifles. We remain committed to our viewers and community. We do not conduct paid reviews. We feel this must be the standard as the trust and honesty we share with our viewers is simply worth more than any paid product review.
Q: What is the biggest challenge in creating videos?
Josh: The biggest challenge with creating rimfire content is dealing with changing environmentals. Not only does all the preparation to film need to be completed but the weather must also cooperate. It’s nearly impossible to demonstrate the accuracy of a platform with a varying amount of wind affecting bullet flight.
Q: How has making videos has helped your shooting and your knowledge of rifles?
Josh: Creating content for YouTube has pushed me to shoot nearly every single day of the week. The increased time behind the trigger and the opportunity to see my mistakes on camera afterwards create a unique learning environment. I have thousands of people seeing my mistakes and quickly pointing them out to me. The amount that I have learned in the last seven months of daily rimfire shooting has proven to me I didn’t know nearly as much as I thought I did! You can always keep learning and improving.
Joshua also competes with his daughter. The young lady is a talented shooter and has actually outscored her father on occasion:
Q: What you like most about making rimfire marksmanship videos?
Josh: Making videos for YouTube constantly pushes me to rise to challenges I would have never thought achievable with .22 LR rifles. My audience is attentive and well-informed. That makes me bring my best game to the range every time I have the camera in hand.
* Trophies for 2021 Open Division Precision Rimfire matches: Large IPSC plate for 2nd overall in VOD 2021 series; Small IPSC plate for 2nd overall VOD series finale; State of NC trophy for VOD rimfire 3rd overall; Gray griffon trophy for Liberty Precision rimfire 4th overall; Small IPSC dark plate for Top MIL/LEO in Frontline Defense Match.
To win in competitive shooting you need an accurate rifle, excellent ammo, good sights/optics, and good physical fitness. But in addition, there is the “mental game”. You need to be mentally prepared for the match. You should be focused yet relaxed, and be able to deal with stresses from a bad shot or rapid wind change. Experts say you also want to visualize the perfect shot.
One great Shooting Sports USA article, Shooting is 90% Mental, was penned by Chip Lohman (SSUSA’s former Editor). With the help of two very smart Ph.D types, Judy Tant and Mike Keyes, Lohman examines the mental processes involved in the shooting sports. Chip’s co-authors have impressive credentials. Dr. Judy Tant is a Clinical Psychologist and National Bullseye Pistol Champion. Dr. Michael J. Keyes, is a licensed Psychiatrist and former physician for the U.S. Shooting Team. CLICK HERE to read article.
Recommended Books to Focus Your Mental Game and Improve Your Shooting
Along with the article above, there are a number of good books than can help you improve your mental game and perform better in competition. Here are seven recommended books that can help your mental game and shooting skills. These are available from Creedmoor Sports and Amazon.com.
The Bullseye Mind
Bullseye Mind is the first mental training book written specifically for sport shooters.
Mental Training in Shooting
Mental training in Shooting” is a practical book packed with good, straightforward advice about techniques and mental preparation.
Mental Game and Marksmanship Books on Amazon
Mental Preparation for Shooting Matches
Advice from Emil Praslick
Along with these books we offer some smart advice from Emil Praslick III, former USAMU coach. Considered one of the best wind readers on the planet, Praslick also was known for his ability to help his shooters master the “mental game”. Here is an article from the CMP Archives in which Praslick explains how to focus your mind to achieve greater success.
Thinking Your Way to Success by Emil Praslick
Why does it seem that the same small group of shooters wins the majority of the matches? What is the difference among shooters who are technically equal? Confidence. A confident shooter is free to execute his shots without the fear of failure, i.e. shooting a poor shot.
Negative thoughts (can’t, won’t be able to, etc.) will destroy a skilled performance. The mind’s focus will not be on executing the task, but on projecting fear and self-doubt. Fear is the enemy, confidence is the cure. How does a shooter on the eve of an important match … attain the confidence needed to perform up to his potential? A pre-competition mental plan can assist in acquiring that positive mental state. The plan can be broken down into a few phases.
Build a feeling of preparedness. Developing and executing a plan to organize your equipment and pre-match routine will aid you in feeling prepared on match day.
Avoid negative and stressful thoughts. Focusing on “winning” the match or shooting for a specific score (like making the “cut” or making the President’s 100) can cause undue stress. Good shooters focus on aspects that are within their control: their sight picture, their sight alignment, their position. Each shot should be treated as an individual event.
Train stage-specific tasks during your practice sessions. Instead of shooting matches or practice matches only, include some drills that focus on your problem areas. Training in this manner will assist your level of confidence.
As part of your pre-match routine, imagine yourself shooting perfect shots. Visualize getting into the perfect position, acquiring a perfect sight picture, and perfect trigger control.
In the face of growing online censorship across many popular social media sites (such as YouTube), Brownells has launched a new online resource to help customers build their own AR-15 rifles at home. Hosted at Brownells.com/HowToBuild, the new web page features step-by-step, interactive videos. Featuring Brownells Gun Tech Caleb Savant, the videos show the AR-15 build process with easy-to-follow directions and expert advice. There are currently four AR Build videos: Introduction, How to Build Your Lower, How to Build Your Upper, and Troubleshooting Guide. See all videos at: Brownells.com/HowToBuild.
Each of the videos have an easy search button on the upper left-hand corner, allowing viewers to navigate to specific parts of the video. This will help viewers access key parts of each video and find the information they need. For example, the Lower Video has specific sections on trigger and buttstock installation. There is also a video on how to properly test fire and troubleshoot an AR-15 once it’s built.
In addition to the instructional videos, Brownells’ AR Builder Site also provides links to all the parts, tools, and accessories required to build an AR-15 rifle. There are specific links to uppers, lowers, triggers, grips, buttstocks, bolt carrier groups, handguards, barrels, gas blocks, muzzle brakes and more.
“Several social media platforms have banned videos and other content showing how to build firearms,” said Brownells V.P. of Marketing Ryan Repp. “Because of Brownells’ long-time support of the Second Amendment and individual freedom, it made sense for us to create a professionally-produced video and resource center to assist rifle builders of all skill levels make the rifle of their dreams in the comfort of their own home or workshop.”
CZ 457 VPT MTR Equipment List
