We like the swivel (“S”) version of the Harris bipod. The swivel (actually tilting) capability of the bipod allows you to tilt (cant) your rifle around the bore axis to level the rifle on a side slope or uneven ground. Unfortunately, the swivel tensioner (friction knob) that comes standard with a Harris swivel bipod leaves much to be desired. The tensioning knob is hard to adjust with your fingers. The small knurled ring doesn’t offer enough leverage. When it’s tight enough to prevent movement it’s hard to release. For this reason, many folks replace the standard knurled ring with a rotating adjustment lever with push-button release. This works great and is easy to install.
While you can buy levers from various sources, EABCO.com has a tried-and-true system that works with both Harris and Caldwell XLA-S swivel bipods: “Our S-Lever Tension Lever is an economical replacement for the friction tensioning knob to give you much better control and leverage.” For just $16.95, Eabco.com delivers all the parts you need for the upgrade to your swivel bipod. Shown below are instructions for installing the EABCO S-Lever.
Today we feature a modern switch-barrel PRS chassis rifle set up for quick changes between 6mm Creedmoor and 6.5 Creedmoor barrels. The owner, Forum member Jeff Cosgrove (aka “Punkur67″) uses the 6 CM barrel for competition, favoring the reduced recoil over its 6.5 mm big brother. He does use the 6.5 CM barrel for practice (given its better barrel life). The 6.5 CM barrel also gives him the chance to shoot a variety of factory 6.5 Creedmoor ammo.
- Terminus Zeus action with Quick Change (QC) barrel option.
– 6mm Creedmoor Pre-Fit Bartlein Heavy Varmint 400MODBB barrel for matches
– 6.5 Creedmoor Pre-Fit Benchmark Heavy Palma barrel for training
– MPA BA Competition chassis with full weight kit
– Zero Compromise Optic ZCO 5-27x56mm FFP scope
– TriggerTech Diamond trigger
This rifle represents an evolution for Jeff. Each step along the way in his PRS journey, he has learned more about what he wants and needs in a competition rifle. And what you see here, from the $3760 ZC527 scope to his high-tech reloading equipment, represents pursuit of excellence. Jeff even created a modern, spacious man cave/reloading center in his new house (photos below).
Quick-Change Barrel System with Terminus Zeus QC Action
This rifle has two pre-fit barrels that work with the Terminus Zeus QC Action for fast and easy barrel swaps. To remove a barrel, you simply release two tension screws on the front of the action and then unscrew the barrel. To swap in a different pre-fit barrel, reverse the process and then tension the screws. The Terminus Zeus is 3-lug receiver with 60° bolt and integral recoil lug. Both the receiver and bolt are DLC-treated. Jeff reports this action is extremely smooth and has met all of his expectations. Some other Zeus features are threaded trigger pins for quick/easy trigger installation, and a roller-tipped cocking piece.
PRS Discipline Offers Fun, New Challenge for Long-Time Shooter
My name is Jeff Cosgrove, I live in Winchester, California and do commercial heating and air conditioning. I have shot for 20+ years but I found my interest in shooting was dwindling over time. I got somewhat bored with shooting paper at 100 yards or plinking cans out in the desert. About 18 months ago I decided I wanted to shoot long range. I picked up a used MPA in .300 Winchester Magnum and started shooting long range with a new buddy. That day I fell in love with guns all over again with more intensity than ever.
How I Got Started in PRS
With that new .300 WM I soon found my reloads were not up to my expectations (high ES/SD), so I purchased all new reloading hardware. One of my purchases was a used Benchsource Annealer. The guy I bought that from asked if I had ever tried PRS and he invited me to check out a match. So I went to a local PRS event as a spectator. I looked at many rigs on the firing line and took notes. By the end of the day I knew this was something I really wanted to do. I then acquired a used chassis rifle that I thought would work well for PRS. I went to a PRS match the following month but shot poorly.
After working with that first PRS rifle, a 6.5 CM with Stiller Tac30 action, MDT chassis, and Proof Carbon-wrapped barrel, I quickly learned that gun did not handle and balance the way I hoped.* It was too light in the front, the ergos were poor, and scope eye relief was not optimal. So I decided to build my own GEN 2 PRS rifle. This is the story of how I put together my new switch-barrel rig that I now use in competition.
PRS Rifle and Gear Selection — Learning What Works
Barrel availability was limited given the current shortages. Luckily I was able to obtain a 6mm Creedmoor pre-fit Bartlein Heavy Varmint 400MODBB from Southern Precision Rifles. The 6mm Creedmoor is notorious for being a barrel burner cartridge so I went with the special 400MODBB metal. Bartlein says that barrel life expectancy is 1.5 to 2 times longer than the standard 416 grade steel. I also purchased a 6.5 Creedmoor pre-fit Benchmark Heavy Palma barrel for training (Source: Straight Jacket Armory). With the Terminus Zeus quick change system I am able to swap from my match barrel to my trainer barrel in just a couple minutes. I loosen two set screws, unthread the barrel, thread the new barrel on, and torque the set screws to 10 inch-pounds. This also affords me caliber options in case I’m in a pinch for ammo. If I have some 6.5 CM loaded up and don’t have time to load 6mm Creedmoor for a match, then I’m covered.
For the trigger, I went with a TriggerTech Diamond Pro curve model. I have Timney, Jewell, and TriggerTech triggers in other rifles. I like them all but I liked the feel of the TT Diamond the best so that is what I used on this build. I set my triggers around 18-20 oz. — I am not a fan of ultra-light trigger pulls.
MPA BA Competition Chassis with Added Weight
I went with an MPA BA Comp chassis with full internal and external weight kit. I also have Gray Ops external weight on the handguard. I had the same chassis on my .300 WinMag and felt very comfortable with it. I took a PR1 class and found that, with a different gun, I had to force a comfortable hand position for proper trigger pull. After that class I grabbed my MPA and my hand fell in to the perfect position. I did not need to hunt or index my hand with the MPA. The built ARCA rail (RAT) lowered the rifles center of gravity more than my old setup with the ARCA rail bolted to the bottom of the handguard. With the current configuration, the rifle weighs in at 24 lbs. and balances three inches in front of the magwell. I now have the flexibility to add, subtract, or move approximately 6 lbs. of weight.
The Attraction of PRS/NRL Practical Competitions
I really enjoy PRS-style shooting because there seems to be a new challenge every time you compete — no matter what. With PRS I am shooting many different positions and ranges with the pressure of a stopwatch. This keeps things interesting for me. I have taken a few training classes to help establish good, clean fundamentals.
Jeff says it is hard to practice for the many unconventional shooting positions at PRS matches.
My biggest challenges so far have been: 1) building stable shooting positions that I have not practiced enough; 2) proper equipment selection; and 3) time management. Regarding the shooting positions — PRS/NRL is not like F-Class where you can always practice from one position. And it’s hard to practice for unusual set-ups (barriers and positions) you’ve not encountered before. Concerning equipment — you need some experience in the game to determine what really works best for you.
Innovative Zero Compromise Optic — Optimized for the Tactical Game
The scope is a Zero Compromise ZC527 (5-27x56mm FFP) with MPCT2 reticle. Zero Compromise Optic is a relatively new manufacturer, but their scopes are top-flight. The First Focal Plane ZCO has excellent glass that is extremely bright and clear. With a big 36mm main tube, the ZC527 offers 35 Mils Elevation and 21 Mils Windage adjustment. The field of view is 21 feet at 100 yards — one of the widest in the industry. The ZC527 also offers illuminated reticle and locking turrets. When I was at my first PRS match I looked through several different scopes. When I got behind a ZCO scope I knew this was what I wanted — the ZCO scope was super clear, super sharp, with very positive controls.
I put a protective wrap on the scope because with some of our PRS stages it is easy to scratch or dent the scope tube. You don’t want to bang up an expensive scope — the ZC527 retails for $3760.
Reloading for 6mm Creedmoor and 6.5 Creedmoor
When starting out with a new cartridge I like to search places like AccurateShooter.com and UltimateReloder.com for popular recipes used by knowledgeable shooters. I am all about paving your own way on certain things but with the consistency, higher cost, and limited supply of components these days I try to stick with the most common loads. I also want to limit barrel wear and get through load development quickly. I don’t want to chase loads for 300 rounds to ultimately land in the same place that so many other people have already found.
I start my new barrels with virgin brass and load three rounds at each charge weight in 0.2 grain increments. I put the most popular charge weight (for my chosen bullet) in the middle of my load range and load above and below to find a good node while paying close attention for pressure signs along the way. I use the 6.5 Guys spreadsheet (see below) to help analyze my results. With those results I like to re-test a narrower range with 5-10 rounds each charge weight in 0.2 grain increments. I again use the 6.5 Guys spreadsheet to make a final charge weight selection and then I move on to seating depth. I will load different depths to tighten the groups up.
Load Development Using 6.5 Guys Custom Spreadsheet
To hold and analyze my load development data I use the spreadsheet from 65Guys.com. It helps a ton with making a decision on your final load. This Excel spreadsheet works great and makes it simple to analyze your data. You can even copy and paste your chronograph data if your chrono logs on to a SD card.
In this 6.5 Guys video Steve provides an overview and tutorial for using the Excel load development analysis model that he has developed. The Excel Load Development Analysis Spreadsheet version 2.0 is FREE. Download from the 6.5 Guys Website.
In this video Steve explains some key statistical concepts for performing load data analysis. He also provides tips and guidance for determining the optimal load for your rifle as you analyze the load data you’ve collected.
New House, New Man Cave/Reloading Room
Jeff recently moved with his family into a great new house. One bonus of this move was that he upgraded from a cramped reloading area to a dedicated “Man Cave” that has ample space for his gun safes, multiple presses, and all his reloading components. Large upper and lower cabinets plus a dedicated “gun closet” provide plenty of storage. Read all about this move in this AccurateShooter Forum Thread.
Here is Jeff’s first reloading area years ago: “My first reloading setup was smashed in my two-bedroom condo so I had a very small bench that was very cluttered. I had to deal with the limited space I had but I made it work. Then in our first house I had a larger bench/cabinet, but it was still not ideal.”
Here is the new Man Cave in the new house — very open, spacious, with plenty of storage.
This animated GIF shows the new Man Cave move-in process start to finish:
About Jerry Miculek… The Man, The Myth, The Legend
The video above begins: “My name is Jerry Miculek. Guns are what I do.” Jerry Miculek is a true legend in the firearms community. Acknowledged as the best wheelgun speed-shooter in history, Jerry is also an accomplished rifle and shotgun shooter with many class victories in 3-Gun competition. He also has been a prolific YouTube Video creator. For this Saturday at the Movies story, we are featuring five notable Jerry Miculek videos. You will find over 200 more informative and entertaining videos on the Jerry Miculek Pro Shooter YouTube channel
Here Jerry shoots two, double-barrel .45 ACP 1911 pistols (AF2011) at the same time, one in each hand. Jerry was the first-ever person to accomplished this 4-barrel feat with twin handguns. Employing the dual double-barreled pistols, Jerry send 20 rounds downrange in under 1.5 seconds. This amazing sequence is captured with hi-speed cameras for vivid slow-motion playback. There are some spectacular close-ups as the bullets leave the muzzles. Worth watching!
2. Take-Down and Full Cleaning of AR-15
If you want to keep your black rifle running smoothly and reliably, you must clean it regularly and follow the correct maintenance procedures. In this video, Jerry Miculek takes down and cleans an AR-platform rifle belonging to his daughter Lena. This is a good video because Lena’s rifle was “run hard and packed up dirty” so you can see where carbon and grease build up. This 35-minute video is very thorough. Jerry is one of the nation’s top action carbine shooters, so listen carefully to his advice on cleaning and lubrication.
3. Jerry Reviews Magnetospeed T1000 Target Impact Indicator
MagnetoSpeed makes more than barrel-mounted chronographs. The T1000 is a target hit indicator that illuminates a super-bright red light when you hit a steel target. The T1000 was designed to be mounted to the back side of AR500 steel targets. In this video Jerry tests the MagnetoSpeed T1000 indicator light system. We like the T1000, especially for longer ranges where impacts on plates may not be easily visible. And you never have to paint your steel targets again to show impacts!
4. Shooting 240 Yards with 85-Year-Old K-22 Rimfire Revolver
Jerry Miculek is probably the greatest (certainly speediest) revolver shooter in history. He has set multiple world records with Smith & Wesson wheelguns. Here he tests a true classic — an 85-year-old S&W model K-22 revolver chambered for the .22 LR rimfire cartridge. Jerry uses this handsome classic blued revolver to hit targets at 240 yards!
5. 80,000 Philippine M1 Garands in One Place
Last year Jerry Miculek recently the CMP where he looked at the vast inventory of military rifles, including 80,000+ M1 Garands recently received from the Philippines. CMP tech staff showed Jerry some rare Garands that had never been issued. If you’re interested in classic military arms, you should definitely watch Jerry’s video. Gina Johnson, CMP’s general manager, told Guns.com that: “We have roughly 86,000 rifles from the Philippines and roughly 13,000 rifles from Turkey in our possession”.
Along with the 80,000+ Philippines Garands, the CMP received 13,000 from Turkey. The arrival of these 99,000 M1 Garands is great news for rifle collectors. Garands have been in short supply in recent years. Garands were getting harder to acquire from the CMP. In fact, over the past two years, many common Garand varients have been “sold out” on the CMP site.
During this 4th of July Holiday Weekend there are a number of sales running at major vendors. Grayboe Stocks has knocked 20% off the price of all stocks, chassis systems and accessories. Creedmoor Sports is offering Free Shipping, Brownells is discounting guns and ammo, Midsouth has some big sales on reloading kits and bullets, while EuroOptic has huge discounts on Special Edition Independence Day AR15 and Remington 700 triggers from TriggerTech. In addition, MidwayUSA is knocking 10% off the price of “qualifying optics”– more than 1600 scopes, red dots, laser rangefinders, spotters, binoculars and ring sets are 10% Off now with Promo Code OPTICS621.
MidwayUSA Optics Sale — 10% Off with Promo Code OPTICS621
MidwayUSA is knocking 10% off the price of “Qualifying Optics” — Over 1600 items. Here is just a small sample of the 1600+ discounted scopes, LRFs, spotting scopes, binoculars, Red Dots, and ring sets. Use Promo Code OPTICS621 during checkout to save 10%:
To SAVE 10% on these and 1600+ more optics products, use Promo Code OPTICS621 during check-out.
Brownells Made-in-America Independence Day Promo
With the Made-in-America Sales Event now through 7/5/21 at Brownells, you can save on Black Rifle components, optics, triggers, and more.
EuroOptic TriggerTech Trigger Sale
Great deals on Special Edition TriggerTech triggers. Don’t delay, we expect these to sell out.
Grayboe Stocks — 20% Off ALL Products
Here’s a great opportunity for anyone who needs a new stock or chassis. Grayboe Stocks has knocked 20% off the price of all stocks, chassis systems, and accessories.
Palmetto State Armory July 4th Sale — ARs, Pistols, Optics
Looking for a Black Rifle, AR upper, or AR lower? Plenty of AR hardware is on sale now, along with pistols, optics and more. SALE OPTICS HERE.
Creedmoor Sports — Free Shipping with Code FREEDOM
For the 4th of July Weekend, Creedmoor Sports is offering FREE Shipping with orders over $50.00.
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 — Sierra MatchKing Bullets in Stock
⏺ Excellent .224, 7mm, and .308 Match Bullets IN STOCK now
2. Sportsman’s WHSE — Savage 64 FV-SR with FDE stock, $189.99
⏺ Reliable with surprising accuracy for such an inexpensive rifle
Would you like to campaign a sub-$200 rifle and beat guys with rimfire rigs costing TEN times as much? That’s actually possible in the NRL22 game with the budget-priced Savage Model 64 SV-SR. This comes with a threaded, 16.5″ button-rifled heavy barrel that offers suprisingly good accuracy. The rifle comes with a one-piece Picatinny scope rail. The muzzle is threaded to accept brakes and suppressors. This can both be a great first rifle for a junior shooter as well as a fun tactical comp rig for an adult. NOTE: Most Savage 64 FV-SRs have black stocks, but these Sportsman’s Warehouse rigs have tan (Flat Dark Earth) stocks.
⏺ Excellent FFP MOA-value Scope for Varminting or PRS/NRL
Are you into PRS/NRL, or just looking for a FFP scope for target shooting and varminting. Then here’s a killer deal. Right now you can save $600.00 (50%) on an excellent first focal plane 4.5-27x50mm Bushnell scope with a great reticle. Price is now just $549.99 with FREE shipping from MidwayUSA. The Bushnell Forge Rifle Scope boasts side parallax, locking zero stop, and high contrast lenses. Click values are 1/4 MOA. We really like the Deploy MOA reticle which has the “Christmas” tree wind-hold marks. Also if you prefer a Second Focal Plane optic, Palmetto State Armory has the Bushnell Forge 3-24x56mm SFP scope on sale for $499.00.
4. MidwayUSA — Texas Star AR500 Steel Target, $239.99
⏺ Cool Large Spinner Target like those used in Major Steel Tactical Matches
Here’s a great new product for fun, reactive shooting with pistols, rifles and shotguns. Birchwood Casey’s Texas Star Target is a rifle-rated mechanical target. Sturdily built, this target features FIVE 6″-diameter AR500 steel plates. The 4 foot high target will rotate (swing) when the plates are hit. The target moves on 2 industrial greaseable bearings. The target comes powder coated black on all metal components. The target breaks down for easy transport.
5. Midsouth — Fiocchi 9mm 115gr FMJ Ammo 50rds, $27.99
⏺ Good 9mm pistol ammo at a decent price (finally!)
Finally we are starting to see popular ammo coming down in price. This quality Fiocchi 115gr 9mm ammo is $27.99 for 50rds at Midsouth. That works out to $0.56 per round. Grab this while you can. If the Fiocchi sells out at Midsouth, Palmetto State Armory has 100-round boxes of Armscor 9mm ammo for $59.99. That’s 60 cents per round — still a lot better than you’ll find at most vendors.
6. Amazon — Stack-On Security Cabinet, $142.00
⏺ Additional Secure Storage to complement heavy Gun Safe
This Stack-on Steel Security Cabinet holds 8 rifles or shotguns up to 52 inch tall. Includes a removable steel shelf. Foam padded bottom and barrel rests, plust removable steel Shelf. NOTE, this arrives in a flat box and must be assembled, but that’s pretty easy. The unit includes pre-drilled mounting holes in the bottom and back to allow attachment to floor or wall. The 3-Point locking system has a a double-bitted, key coded lock. Adjustable shelves are included. NOTE: This is NOT a heavy, thick-walled gun safe. But it can provide security in a work room or RV.
7. Midsouth — Lyman Tac-Mat Shooting Mat, $55.33.
⏺ Thick padded mat offers better comfort
Comfort counts when you’re on the ground for hours. We like this Lyman Tac-Mat 71″ x 36″ shooting mat. It has more padding than most mats on the market, providing better comfort. This is a good deal. This same Lyman shooting mat is $87.64 on Amazon.
8. Creedmoor Sports — Radians Ear Muffs on Sale
⏺ Comfortable Radians Muffs, choose basic or electronic
Creedmoor Sports has been running a sale on all Radians products, including ear protection. You can get the basic, low profile NRR 21 Lowset Muffs for just $13.45 or upgrade to the NRR 23 R3200 Dual-Mic Electronic Muffs for $32.25. Electronic muffs allow you to hear range commands better. NOTE: If you want something even more advanced, check out the Radians R3700 Quad Mic Muffs with Bluetooth. With these you can receive phone calls or listen to music.
⏺ Quality name-brand shooting eyewear — buy multiples at this price
Every shooter needs eye protection EVERY TIME you go to the shooting range. Right now Midsouth has the good Radians clear Lens Outback Shooting Glasses for just $5.88. These ANSI Z87.1 Radians Shooting Glasses provide 99.99.9% UVA/UVB protection with the coated lenses. These offer excellent wrap-around protection and are fairly light and comfortable. A handy neck cord is included. With this low $5.88 price, you can buy 3 or 4 sets and keep spares in your vehicles, so you always have protective eyewear for yourself and your friends.
10. Amazon — SnapSafe In-Wall Safe $209.99
Most readers probably have a nice big safe for long guns and other bulky items. But it would be nice to have a hidden secondary safe that fits in a wall. This SnapSafe In-Wall Safe can hold cash, valuables, passports, and a handgun or two. This In-Wall Safe fits between two wall studs. It sits flush, so it can easily be hidden by artwork. There is even a special “false bottom” that provides a secret hiding spot for cash, keys, and credit cards. On sale for $209.99 on Amazon, this in-wall safe is offered to Sportsman’s Guide Buyer’s Club Members for $189.99, a $20 savings.
On August 9, 2021 the Vintage Sniper Team Match returns to Camp Perry, Ohio. We’re glad to see this popular match return after it (and other Nationals events) were cancelled in 2020 due to the Pandemic. This unique Sniper Team event is a two-man team competition using scoped rifles of WWI and WWII Vintage. This has become one of the most popular CMP rifle matches held at Camp Perry, with over 200 teams competing in recent years. Many competitors use some version of the M1903 Springfield, but you’ll also see scoped M1 Garands, M1917s, K31s, Mausers, and even a Lee-Enfield or two. There are both bolt action and semi-auto classifications, with each division being scored separately.
We expect 200+ teams to compete for the Vintage Sniper Trophy this summer. Two-person teams will fire 10 rounds in 20-second intervals from scoped vintage military rifles set on sand bags. One team marksman shoots from the prone position at 300 and 600 yards, while the other serves as a spotter to relay shot position. Marksman and spotter switch positions on the firing lines, allowing each teammate to play both roles. Scores are then combined for an Aggregate team total.
Who can identify this rifle, with its unusual scope mount?
“Walking down the … line one can find a plethora of various rifle models. Although 1903A4 and USMC M1941 builds made up a significant majority of the rifles on the line, other models such as the K98, M1C, M1D, M91/30, Swedish Mausers, and the No4 Mk1 (T) had their place in the hands of various shooters.” — Criterion Barrels Article
Our friends at Criterion Barrels have published a great article about the Vintage Sniper Rifle Match. This story offers a fascinating “insider’s perspective” on the Match, plus Vintage Sniper gunsmithing tips, Anyone considering shooting the Vintage Sniper match for the first time should definitely read this article.
About the Match and the Rifles
The Vintage Sniper Match was the brainchild of Hornady’s Dave Emary. The competition was inspired by his father, a World War II scout sniper, who carried a rifle similar to the 1903A4 rifle builds that can be found today on the Camp Perry firing line. Bob Schanen worked alongside Dave and the CMP staff in establishing the various competition rules prior to the first official Vintage Sniper Match in 2011. The match developers made a point to offer some level of flexibility in rifle configuration, allowing specific types of non-issue optics and rifle rebuilds. This helped make the match more inclusive.
Hornady’s Dave Emary and “Gunny” R. Lee Ermey (RIP):
Camp Perry — The Venue
The hallowed grounds of Camp Perry have hosted some of the nation’s finest shooters each summer for more than a century. Some of the world’s greatest marksmen have accomplished remarkable feats on the ranges of this lakeside military outpost. Located on the coast of Lake Erie, Camp Perry is positioned just outside of the scenic town of Port Clinton, Ohio. It is our firm belief that every shooter should make the pilgrimage to the Camp Perry at least once in their lifetime. If not participating in an event, visitors should at least make an attempt to meet the competitors, witness the wide selection of firearms used by participants, and pay a visit to the various vendors on base.
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.
⏺ Nicely equipped semi-auto .22LR — Good for NRL22 matches
Are you looking to get into the NRL22 discipline but don’t have a rifle to do it with? Check out the Thompson Center T/CR22 .22 LR Rimfire Rifle. This features a 17″ barrel (with front and rear sights) and the stock has a handsome Mossy Oak Camo finish. Equipped with a Picatinny Rail, this is ready to mount a scope for competition. This is a good starter rifle for NRL22 and other tactical rimfire games. Plus it can serve for fun plinking and hunting small varmints.
⏺ Save $110-$125 on quality spotters with Big 82mm objectives
Having a quality spotting scope is critical for a successful hunt or for reading wind and mirage at a match. One of the absolute best scope for the money is the Kowa 82sv and right now you can take advantage of the Kowa Scope Specials over at Creedmoor Sports. You can pick up the 82sv along with a cover plus your choice of the 25x LER eyepiece or the 20-60x eye piece and be ready for whatever adventure is next on your list.
3. Bullet Central — Berger 7mm 180gr Hybrid Bullets, $63.99
⏺ Choice of Champions — Get Berger 7mm 180s while you can
One of the most sought-after match bullets right now is the Berger 7mm/.284 180gr Hybrid Match Bullet. Many vendors are sold out. But we found them in-stock at Bullet Central and ready to ship. Considering the demand, we wouldn’t wait long to order and we’d probably order enough for your upcoming matches this year (including the F-Class Nationals).
4. Amazon — Roll-Up Shooting Mat with Bonus Sand Bag, $34.99
⏺ Great value, rolls-up into small format, free support sandbag
Traveling for matches can often mean stripping down to the bare minimum of gear and that usually mean leaving behind large padded shooting mats. A good option instead is a packable shooting mat such as this 78.5″ x 28.5″ Depring folding mat. This mat folds up into a very small footprint making it great for throwing in your checked baggage. FOUR Colors are offered, all priced at $34.99: Tan (shown), OD Green, Black, and Camo. These Depring shooting mats ship with a FREE 6″ x 3.75″ “Unfilled Gun Rest Sand Bag” which can be used for front or rear support.
5. Midsouth — LEE Breech Lock Reloader Press, $41.99
⏺ Great deal on compact press with breech lock quick die changes
Every handloader can benefit from a compact, secondary press for decapping at home and/or seating bullets at the range. Weighing under 2.5 pounds, this LEE Breech Lock Reloader Press is easy to transport. The open front design makes it easy to insert/remove cases. This LEE press offers Breech Lock functionality for rapid die changes. With the Breech Lock bushing in place, you can instantly swap dies with a twist of the wrist. Right now this LEE Reloader Press is on sale for $41.99 at Midsouth
6. Natchez — Federal XM193 5.56×45 Ammo 400rds, $399.99
⏺ Big savings on CCI 9mm ammo and XM193 ammo for ARs and .223 Rem rifles
Natchez is running a special ammo deal right now. You can save on rifle and pistol ammo AND get FREE SHIPPING. Choose one of three bulk packs: CCI Blazer 9mm 500 rounds for $549.99; or Federal XM193 5.56×45 400 rounds in can for $369.99 ($319.99/400 rds if you buy two cans); or Winchester Lake City M193 5.56×45 1000 rounds in box for $779.99. NOTE: The rifle bulk packs are officially 5.56x45mm ammo, but it should also shoot fine in most modern rifles chambered for .223 Remington. The CCI 9mm and Winchester M193 are priced very competitively, so don’t hesitate.
7. Sportsman’s Warehouse — Allen Soft Rifle Case Sale, 20% OFF
⏺ Huge selection of soft-side rifle cases on sale starting at $16
You can never have enough protection for your rifles while transporting them which means having a quality soft case. A great place to start is with the Allen soft case sale over at Sportsman’s Warehouse. You’ll find everything from simple single gun cases to deluxe double rifle cases — all at 20% off.
⏺ Durable, fitted pistol cases for 3 or 6 handguns
Do you find yourself needing to transport several pistols at a time but are tired of having a case for every gun? A handy, affordable solution are the MTM Tactical Pistol Handgun Cases. These fitted cases are offered in different sizes to accommodate 3 to 6 pistols with ease. These can also be locked up to comply with just about any state requirement. They also feature a rubber O-Ring for weather protection.
⏺ Versatile knife for camping and home, sharp stainless blade
Sometimes you just need a simple, no-nonsense knife in the field that doesn’t cost a lot in case it’s lost or broken. We found this Morakniv Craftline Pro S Fixed Blade Utility Knife which fits the bill exactly. It’s stainless steel, comes with a sheath, and is 3.6″ long making it well-suited for a multitude of cutting tasks. It also makes a good marine safety knife.
10. Amazon — MTM 50rd Deluxe Ammo Carry Box, $11.49
⏺ Hinged top, bullet tip protection, secure latches
Carrying 50 rounds of .20 Practical, .222 Rem, .204 Ruger, or .223 Rem/5.56×45 ammunition has never been easier thanks to the MTM H50-RS Deluxe 50-Round Rifle Ammo Case. These stackable MTM ammo boxes feature a strong, durable mechanical hinge. This provides years of use and allows the lid to sit flat. This MTM Deluxe case also has specially designed slots that hold the cartridges in place while protecting the bullet tips. Maximum Overall Cartridge Lenthe is 2.37″ bullet up and 3.45″ bullet down.
Palmetto State Armory (PSA) is running a big Father’s Day Sale right now. Scores of popular products are deeply discounted — typically 20-30%. For some products the prices have been cut in half! Save on AR Uppers/Lowers, Handguns, Shotguns, Rimfire rifles, Triggers, Optics, Chassis Systems, Magazines, and more. Don’t delay as inventory is limited for many of these items, and the sale prices may expire after Father’s Day (Sunday, June 20, 2021).
Here are EIGHT GREAT Father’s Day Deals at PSA today. CLICK HERE view ALL items on sale (over 250 total as this is released):
Click on Photos to Access Sale Items at Palmetto State Armory
The .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) is the planet’s most popular ammunition type and firearm chambering. The .22 LR is used in the Olympics by 3P marksmen, but it also serves benchrest competitors, NRL22 shooters, backyard plinkers, small-game hunters, and tactical trainers. With the expansion of NRL22 matches (and the PRS equivalent), the humble .22 LR is undergoing a major resurgence in the USA. And with centerfire powders and reloading components so difficult to find these days, many folks are shooting less centerfire, but way more rimfire.
With the growth of rimfire tactical competition and the rising popularity of rimfire silhouette shooting, the .22-Caliber rimfire rifle is more popular than ever. This new Gun Digest book covers the latest trends in rimfire hardware. Every major gun manufacturer has brought at least one new rimfire rifle to the market in the last two years. These new models are covered in detail. Other Key topics included in this new, full-color book include: rimfire semi-autos and how they work; bolt-action accuracy; match shooting skills; DIY precision gunsmithing; hunting with rimfires; and the future of the rimfire market.
This 272-page book also covers .17-caliber rimfire cartridges: 17 HM2 (Mach 2), 17 HMR, and 17 WSM. These are all excellent varmint rounds, with the 17 WSM effective out to 250 yards. The 17 HM2 will run in a normal .22 LR action and feed from standard .22 LR magazines. So, for most rifles, all you need to do a .22 LR to 17 HM2 conversion is a barrel switch. That gives your rimfire rig twice the versatility. Shoot .22s and .17s with the same gun.
NRL22 — Challenging Practical Competition with .22 LR Rifles
The USA has seen a big growth in rimfire tactical matches over the last four years. Right now there are probably ten times as many rimfire tactical matches as actual sanctioned PRS and NRL centerfire matches. The reason is simple — ammo is much less costly, and you run a challenging rimfire tactical match at nearly any shooting range that allows shooting out to 200+ yards.
NRL22 Competition — Tactical Rimfire Matches
The NRL22 match format is a great shooting discipline. NRL22 offers a high fun factor at relatively low cost. You don’t have to reload match ammo. A couple of 50-round boxes of .22 LR ammo will get you through the match. While some people bring lots of gear to matches, that’s by choice and not by necessity. You can keep it simple and still be competitive (and win).
Tips for NRL22 Competitors by Jonathan Ocab
I am a match director at my gun club and run our local NRL22 matches. People often ask me for tips for competing in NRL22. First, I recommend getting the course of fire for the month in advance and practicing those stages at the range. Here are other specific tips that should help NRL22 competitors improve their gun-handling and match results.
1. Dry Fire Practice — If you are not able to do live fire practice at the range, I encourage shooters to practice their shooting positions at home via dry fire. Setup props or barricades with pasters or other faux targets on a wall in the garage or inside the house and run through each stage.
2. Scope Magnification Level — The most common issue I see with newer shooters in NRL22 is the tendency to maximize their scope magnification. The timer will start, and the shooter gets into position on a target, but the scope is set to 15x or higher and the shooter can’t find the target. The shooter lowers the magnification, locates the target, and then increases the magnification again, takes the shot, transitions to another target, and repeats the process of decreasing magnification, locating target, etc. Novice NRL22 shooters should try using the mid-range magnification. Try shooting 7x-12x and learn to balance field of view and target image.
A major ELR match took place this past weekend in Wyoming, the Nightforce ELR Steel Challenge. A familiar name finished first — Applied Ballistics founder Bryan Litz. Bryan had a convincing victory over some 220 other shooters. Bryan earned praise from his colleague and past K02M winner Mitchell Fitzpatrick: “Congrats to Bryan Litz on winning the 2021 Nightforce ELR Steel Challenge! This match is tough, and winning it is no small feat… especially considering there were 221 competitors this year. Bryan and I were both shooting Barrett MRADs in .300 Norma with Nightforce 5-25 ATACR scopes, shooting Berger Bullets 245gr Elite Hunters pushed by VV N565. Absolutely killer combination.”
The match was held June 12-13 2021, at the Tillard 55 Ranch near Casper, Wyoming. This major ELR competition feature some amazing terrain, plus targets out to 2100 yards.
After the match, Bryan told us: “I learned a lot shooting this match last year. Came back with a better plan and more suitable equipment (stock Barrett MRAD in .300 Norma Magnum, Berger 245gr Hybrids, Vihtavuori N565). I also got a lot of great advice from my team-mates who are more experienced in this kind of competition. For ballistics I ran the Garmin Tactix with the Personal Drag Model (PDM) from Radar testing on Friday — it was SPOT ON.
Thanks to Scott Satterlee and his awesome crew of ROs. This match takes a lot of work to set up. Also thank Nick Setting and all the sponsors… especially title sponsor Nightforce. Looking forward to coming back next year!”
Here’s Bryan taping data to his rifle — a tip he got from Chase Stroud.
Personal Drag Models Set with Doppler Radar
Bryan Litz wasn’t just there to compete. Prior to the match Bryan and his Applied Ballistics Team helped competitors develop custom Long Range Ballistics curves for their loads and rifles. This was done with sophisticated Doppler Radar units. As Bryan noted: “Doesn’t get any better than a [ballistics] model built from a Radar track of YOUR bullets from YOUR rifle, the day before the match.”
During Personal Drag Model testing, participants would shot 10 rounds under the Radar. Once the PDM data was gathered, Bryan explained to the testers how to use the custom curve with Applied Ballistics software.
Match Was a Sell-Out with Huge Prize Table
Was this a popular event? Does this ELR stuff generate interest among commercial sponsors?
Absolutely. With 221 shooters, the event was a “sell-out”, with many folks who had to be turned away. The list of sponsors is staggering — over 60 companies — so the prize tables were over-flowing with gear. With great scenery and this treasure trove of prizes, we understand why the match is so popular.
2021 Nightforce ELR Steel Challenge Sponsors
Accuracy International USA
Alamo Precision Rifles
American Precision Arms
American Rifle Company, Inc.
Applied Ballistics LLC
BadRock Rifles
Barrett
Bartlein Barrels, Inc
Bison Tactical
Bix’n Andy USA
Blue Mountain Precision
Brux Barrels
Bullet Central
Burris Optics
Cole-Tac
Cutting Edge Bullets
Defiance Machine
Elite Iron
Foundation Stocks
Garmin
GRAYBOE
Gunwerks
Hawkins Precision
Hawk Hill Custom
Hornady
H-S Precision
Impact Shooting
Kahles North America
Kelbly’s Actions
Kestrel Ballistics
KMW Long Range Solutions
Kreiger Barrels
Leupold Optics
Lilja Precision Rifle Barrels
Lone Peak Arms
Magnetospeed LLC
Modular Driven Technologies – MDT
Mile High Shooting Accessories
Nightforce Optics
Precision Rifle Works
PROOF Research
Really Right Stuff SOAR
Reasor Precision
Sako
Sawtooth Rifles
SilencerCo
SPUHR
SWAROVSKI OPTIK Hunting
Revic
Terminus Actions
Tikka
Timney Triggers
Triggertech
U.S. Optics
Vapor Trails
Warhorse Development
Warner Tool Company
West Texas Ordnance
WieBad.com
XLR Industries
Zermatt Arms
ZRO Delta
Traveling for matches can often mean stripping down to the bare minimum of gear and that usually mean leaving behind large padded shooting mats. A good option instead is a 
Carrying 50 rounds of .20 Practical, .222 Rem, .204 Ruger, or .223 Rem/5.56×45 ammunition has never been easier thanks to the 
