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February 5th, 2011
Bryan Litz, Ballistician for Berger Bullets, has created a fantastic 10-minute video that covers the recent Berger Southwest Long-Range Nationals from start to finish. Bryan, Overall Match Winner in the Sling Division, had his still and video cameras rolling for each phase of the popular event, including the Tuesday training seminars, Wednesday’s mid-range fun match, three days of scored long-range shooting (Friday – Sunday), and the awards ceremonies. The 2011 SW Nationals was a big success, drawing 161 shooters from 12 states and even Canada. There were clear skies with 70° highs every day — welcome weather for the Snow-birds who came down to compete.
Video Offers “Shooter’s Eye View”
During the score matches, Bryan had multiple cameras running, with one focused through a spotting scope. This allows you to see shooting, shot-marking, and target movement in real time. If you watch carefully, you can also see bullet trace on many shots. Bryan delivers a “Shooter’s Eye View” of the match with these multiple camera sequences.
Bryan covers all the top shooters and winning teams. One of the highlights of Bryan’s video is an interview with Danny Biggs, who set a new National F-Open class record, shooting 200-15X, not once but twice (the second time in really tough conditions). Danny was shooting a 7mm RSAUM with Berger 180gr Hybrid bullets, using a Barnard action and straight-contour 1:9″-twist Krieger barrel. He was loading Hodgdon H4350 in Remington Brass. NF Benchrest scope of course.
Berger Awards 30,000 Bullets and $2,000+ in Cash Prizes
Berger did a great job sponsoring this event. Overall, Berger awarded 30,000 bullets to shooters, along with over $2,000 in cash prizes. Engineer Hat’s off to Bryan for making such a fine video. And remember… Bryan managed to shoot this video, while finishing First Overall in Sling Division. Impressive.
February 5th, 2011
Experienced tactical shooters will tell you that a first focal plane (FFP), mil-mil scope is the smart way to go — if you need to range targets at unknown distances. This gives you mil dots for measuring the size of a target, a reticle that can range at all power settings, plus 1/10th mil-radian turret clicks for compatibility. There are a lot of “tactical” scopes marketed these days, many of which are just medium-power target scopes with bulky turrets. The top-end tactical scopes do offer the right combination of features, but you can easily spend $2000.00 or even $3000.00 on a good FFP mil-mil optic.
Save Hundreds on 30mm, Mil-Mil Illuminated Bushnell Tactical Scopes
With its Elite 4200 series of tactical scopes, Bushnell has created a truly affordable series of quality 30mm-tube, mil-mil optics. The FFP Elite 4200s rival some tactical scopes costing twice as much (honest). And right now you can save even more. Through the end of February 2011, MidwayUSA is offering huge discounts on the Bushnell 4200 FFP 3-12x44mm and 6-24x50mm tactical scopes. Both these scopes feature FFP mildot reticles, 30mm tubes, 1/10th mil adjustments, and illumination. And the prices are amazing. The 3-12X is marked down from $849.99 to $594.99, a $255.00 savings. The 6-24X price has been slashed from $999.99 to $699.99, a $300.00 savings.
Go ahead and comparison-shop the price. We think you’ll find these deals hard to beat. And this scope comes with all the right features out of the box. Here’s what one 3-12x44mm owner says: “This is the best scope [value] on the market right now that offers mil/mil, good glass, tactical turrets, [and] rugged reliability. [T]his scope has optics as good as my Vari-X-III 4.5-114x50mm and is mil/mil and more rugged! Great scope!”
Midway’s prices are good through 2/28/2011. If you need a good tactical scope for under $700.00 these Elites will do the job. And for those who want a solid hunting scope with good glass, MidwayUSA is also discounting the Bushnell Elite 4200 2.5-10X50mm scope with illuminated T-Dot Reticle. The rugged 2.5-10X features 1/4-MOA clicks, and is now just $405.99 on sale, marked down from $579.99.
Note: As Bushnell’s Elite 4200 series scopes have somewhat limited elevation range compared to the high-dollar tactical scopes, we recommend mounting these optics on a +10 or +20 MOA rail.
Free Rain Suit with Purchase of Any Bushnell Elite Riflescope
As an added incentive, Bushnell is offering a FREE two-piece olive drab rainsuit to all purchasers of Elite riflescopes. To get your rain suit, just send in the product UPC code, a copy of the sales receipt, and $15.00 to cover shipping and handling. This offer is good through 12/31/2011.
CLICK HERE for free Rain Suit Offer
Story Sourced by Edlongrange. Disclosure: MidwayUSA advertises with this website.
February 4th, 2011
Here’s a one-day only Harbor Freight special sale on a 33-lb safe with electronic keypad. Made by Bunker Hill Safes, this 0.71 cubic foot capacity safe measures 9-7/8″ H x 13-3/4″ W x 11″ D. It would be a good small office safe for valuables or handguns (however, check with your local laws to see if this safe qualifies as a “gun safe”.) In addition to the AA-battery powered digital keypad, there is a hidden key-lock (two keys provided). Tomorrow, Saturday February 5, 2011, with the coupon below, this safe is just $59.99, marked down from $79.99. Today (Friday) it is available for $69.99, but that price is subject to change. To get the safe for $59.99 at a Harbor Freight store, print the coupon below. To order the safe online, use Coupon Code 49202492. Remember the $59.99 price is good on SATURDAY, 2/5/2011 only!
Editor’s NOTE: We haven’t tried this safe. We cannot vouch for its quality or how long it can run on one set of batteries. But the price is low enough that we figure some of you guys would be interested. Based on purchaser comments be aware that this safe requires frequent battery replacement. Also, and this is VITAL — TEST the BACKUP KEYS before you leave the store. If ordering online, as soon as you receive the safe, make sure the backup keys fit the lock. The safe does come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Story Sourced by Edlongrange.
February 4th, 2011
Great deals on Swarovski and Zeiss Demo riflescopes are available right now through Cameraland. These are mostly demo items used in trade shows. You can save up to $500.00 on some of these items from Zeiss and Swarovski. Cameraland explains: “As all of these items are limited quantities we have not posted all of them on our web site so please feel free to call Doug or Neil at (212) 753-5128 to place an order.” Supplies are limited. These prices only apply to special demo inventory in stock — when they’re gone, they’re gone. All orders over $100.00 include Fed Ex ground shipping to a street address in the USA. Editor’s NOTE: There is not enough room to list all the sales items. Other, lower-power demo riflescopes, spotting scopes, and binoculars are also on sale. Call for more info.
Zeiss
Conquest 3.5-10x50mm Riflescope:
#20 Z-Plex Reticle – $629.99, reduced from $749.99
#71/#72 Rapid Z-600 or Z-800 Reticle $649.99, reduced from $824.99
Conquest 4.5-14×44 Riflescope:
#72/#73 Rapid Z-800 or Z-1000 Reticle – $699.99, reduced from $874.99
#43 Mildot Reticle, Target Turret- $749.99, reduced from $949.99
Conquest 4.5-14x50mm Riflescope:
#72/#73 Rapid Z-800 or Z-1000 Reticle – $769.99, reduced from $924.99
#43 Mildot Reticle, Target Turret- $749.99, reduced from $949.99
 Conquest 6.5-20x50mm Target Turret Riflescope:
#20 Z-Plex – $759.99, reduced from $999.99
#4 – $759.99, reduced from $999.99
#43 Mildot – $799.99, reduced from $1049.99
#73 Rapid Z-1000 – $869.99, reduced from $1074.99
#75 Rapid Z-Varmint – $869.99, reduced from $1074.99
#521777-9920 Diavari 4-16×50 T* FL Riflescope 2nd IP 30mm tube, with #20 Z-Plex Reticle, Hunting ASV only $1999.99, reduced from $2499.99
Swarovski
All of these riflescopes are in as new condition and come complete same as a new one, in their original box/packaging.
#59027 Z3 4-12×50 BRX Riflescope only $799.99. This scope is normally $1299.00. It is on Anniversary Sale promotion right now @ $999.00.
#59212 Z6 1.7-10×42 4 Riflescope only $1349.99 This scope is normally $1899.00. It is on Anniversary Sale promotion right now @ $1699.00.
#59613 Z6 3-18×50 4A Riflescope only $1549.99 This scope is normally $2229.00. It is on Anniversary Sale promotion right now @ $1999.00.
#59617 Z6 3-18×50 BR Riflescope only $1599.99 This scope is normally $2299.00. It is on Anniversary Sale promotion right now @ $2069.00.
#59887 Z5 5-25×52 BRX Riflescope only $1299.99 reduced from $1639.00.
SPECIAL: AT 80 HD Spotting Scope #49214 with 20-60x Zoom Eyepiece only $1399.99 (Display Item from Dealer that sold off inventory.)
Story Sourced by Edlongrange.
February 3rd, 2011
MidwayUSA has a great deal on Accurate Arms 2230 powder. Now through 2/28/2010, Accurate 2230 is on sale for just $12.99 per pound. Formerly Accurate M-23, this double base, spherical propellant was developed for use in the .223 Remington (5.56 NATO). It’s one of Accurate’s most popular powders, and can be used effectively in the 6BR (60-70gr bullets), 22BR (light bullets), and .308 Win, as well as the .223 Remington.
Here are some comments from Accurate 2230 Users:
“Very good powder for the .223 Remington. It meters very well and is consistent, similar to H335 but just a hair slower. I used it with a 55FMJ for a M193-type load, and with the 69gr SMK.” — Rick J., PA
“I started using the 2230 to reload my 223s, but found out that it is an excellent choice for reloading my 308s as well. It burns nice and clean and it does provide an accurate grouping. I use less powder than with what I used to use and sacrificed nothing.” Alfred A., TX
“I have found this powder to be economical to buy and requires smaller volumes per load. I shoot 30 cal. and this powder is the most versatile I’ve found for bullets 170 grains and under. Its ball shape allows it to flow cleanly and measure easily while loading.” Dave C., CA
February 2nd, 2011
The Berger SW Nationals at the Ben Avery Range outside Phoenix concluded this weekend. Congratulations to: Bryan Litz (Overall Champion — sling), Trudie Fay (Palma Rifle Winner, 2nd Overall), Danny Biggs (F-Open Winner), and John Hayhurst (F-TR Winner). Among sling shooters, Bryan shot a 1441-77X, Trudy scored 1432-63X, and Gary Eliseo and Leo Ahearn tied with 1430-74X, with Gary getting the 3rd place spot on a tie-breaker.
Photos Courtesy Rick Curtis. CLICK HERE for more match photos.
Bryan Litz and Gary Eliseo Loads
For the Palma matches, Bryan Litz was shooting a .308 Win with 185gr, .30-cal LRBT Berger bullets, seated .015″ off the lands in Lapua brass. The load, pushed by Hodgdon Varget and CCI BR2 primers, ran slightly over 2800 fps. For his “Any Rifle” stages, Bryan shot a straight .284 Winchester at “about 2850 fps”, using 180gr Berger Hybrid match target 7mm bullets seated about .015″ off the lands. Bryan’s .284 Win load used Hodgdon H4831sc powder, CCI BR2 primers, and Lapua 6.5-284 brass, necked-up to 7mm. While Bryan favored a 7mm “Any Rifle” chambering, Gary Eliseo did well with a 6mm solution. Gary told us that, except for the Palma match, he was shooting his regular Across-the-Course load: 6mm BRX, 107gr Sierra MK jumped .025″, running about 2940 fps. This is a mild load for the 6BRX and it proves the little cartridge can be competitive at 1K even in tough conditions.
 Biggs Breaks F-Class Record
In winning the F-Open Division, Danny Biggs broke Charles Ballard’s 1000-Yard F-Open National record twice with two 200-15X scores. This was an amazing performance by Danny, who finished with 1439-76X Agg, five points ahead of runner-up David Mann. Forum member TonyR, who shot in the match, reports: “The big story is really Danny’s second 200-15X. He shot that through several big switches and most of us can’t figure out how he did it. I shot the same relay he got the first one on and I wasn’t surprised that someone broke the record on that one, but I was scoring another shooter on the relay when he set the second one and I was just amazed that he did what he did under those conditions.”
Sierra Spindle Shooters Top F-Open Team Events
In the team events, the Sierra Spindle Shooters’ Team did very well, winning both the Palma Match and the 1000-yard Team Match, and scoring 2558-102X overall. Team Berger (2550-97X) finished second in the Team Aggs, with Team Berger member Larry Bartholome posting a 645-24X, the best individual performance in the Team comps. In the photo below (left to right), are Spindle Shooters team members Jeff Cochran, Bret Solomon, Shawn Ahrens and Jeff Traylor. Jeff reports: “The medals are for winning the F-Open Team Agg. In the last few years we’ve won the F-Class Nationals with Nancy Tompkins or Emil Praslick coaching. At this match both of them had other obligations so Bret and Shawn co-coached. They did a great job working together beating out several teams with world class coaches. We hold both the 600 and 1K F-Open team records with and had a good shot at the Palma record in this match but came up a bit short. I think if Nancy wasn’t tied up with the U.S. Palma team we might have beat the record. She’ll be with us again soon at the Nationals this fall in Lodi, Wisconsin.”
Photo courtesy Jeff Cochran.
Three Shots under 1″ at 1000 yards
As a demonstration of the potential accuracy of these long-range rifles, Dennis Selfridge fired a three shot group under an inch at 1K yards with his 6.5X47 in conditions! Check it out:
Complete Match Results
Sling Class Individual Aggregate
Sling Class Team Aggregate
F-Open Class Individual Aggregate
F-TR Class Individual Aggregate
F-Open Team Aggregate
February 2nd, 2011
If you need a good, basic, reliable 3-9X40 hunting scope, Natchez Shooting Supplies is offering great deals right now on Nikon ProStaff and Omega riflescopes. You can select among a variety of reticles, including medium plex (NikoPlex) and bullet-drop compensation (BDC). Sale scopes are offered in Matte Black, Silver, or Real-Tree Camo finishes. While discounts vary, prices on many of these scopes have been slashed 30% below normal levels. For example the Nikon ProStaff 3-9×40 Matte is now just $109.95, marked down from $159.95, a 31% savings. Nikon binoculars are also on sale.
CLICK HERE for Natchez NIKON Optics Sale
Story Sourced by Edlongrange.
February 1st, 2011
The new, 9th Edition of the Vihtavuori Reloading Guide has been released. The complete Reloading Guide can be downloaded for FREE as a PDF (Adobe Acrobat) file. The rifle reloading data has been expanded and revised with more powder selections for existing bullets. The load data for .243 Winchester has been revised extensively, and there is new caliber data for 6mm Remington, 6.5×55 Swedish and 6.5×55 SKAN. Load info for the .260 Remington, 6.5×55 Swedish, 30-06, and 45/70 has also been expanded in the 9th Edition of the VV Reloading Guide.
CLICK HERE for FREE Download of Vihtavuori 9th Ed. Reloading Guide PDF.
| The 9th Edition includes updated loading data for the following cartridge types:
Centerfire Handgun
.45 ACP
Centerfire Rifle
6mm Remington
.243 Winchester
.260 Remington
6.5×55 Swedish (Modern Action)
6.5×55 SKAN (Modern Action)
.30-06 Springfield
.45-70 Government |
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Error Correction: In the hard-copy, USA-printed version of the 9th Ed. Vihtavuori Reloading Guide, there is an error on page 25 concerning modern 6.5×55 loads. The data is correct in the PDF version of the Reloading Guide (linked above). CLICK HERE to download print version correction.
Story sourced by Edlongrange.
February 1st, 2011
The ISSF has issued new Rule Interpretations regarding shooting coats, pants, shoes, and headgear. Existing ISSF Rules limit how thick and stiff clothing can be. Shooting outfits have gotten progressively thicker over the years, and for 2011 the ISSF has adopted new procedures for policing clothing standards. In addition, the ISSF ruled that use of body taping (such as ankle taping) is illegal.
ISSF Statement Concerning Shooting Clothing
The ISSF urges all National Federations to study these rule interpretations carefully to ensure that their athletes and coaches who will compete in the 2011 World Cups are prepared for them. For rifle shooters whose shooting jackets, trousers and boots were in full compliance with ISSF Rules during 2010 competitions, these rule interpretations should not require them to make any significant changes.
For shooters who try to use jackets and trousers that measure at or near the maximum stiffness of 3.0mm, they will need to make sure their clothing is somewhat more flexible since stiffness measurements below 3.0mm and thickness measurements greater than 2.5mm are not acceptable. The small percentage of rifle shooters who have persisted in walking stiff-legged and flat-footed must learn to walk normally when they wear their trousers and boots. Competitors with any clothing item that has small panels or large pads that make it impossible to find a 60mm area to measure stiffness must be aware that measurements of those panels will now be made over the pads, seams or letters if necessary. Any athletes who may have tried taping techniques need to know that this is illegal and will be checked.
ISSF Clothing Standards:
1. Stiffness Rule — Jackets and trousers will be tested for stiffness both before competitions and after matches. The amount of flexibility must measure 3.0mm or higher in 60 sec. Clothing with stiffness factors below 3.0 will be rejected.
2. Thickness Rule — During Equipment Control jacket and trouser thickness testing, both before competitions and in post-competition checks, all clothing panels must measure 2.5mm or less in thickness. No measurements above 2.5mm will be accepted.
3. Trouser Limits — The top of the trousers’ seat pads must be at least 150mm below the top of the waistband/trousers. Stiffness may be measured over the seat pad if necessary. There can be a maximum of 7 belt loops with at least 80mm between belt loops.
4. Shoe Flexibility — A walking test to demonstrate the flexibility of the shooting shoes and trousers will be enforced by Juries anywhere on the range. Violators will first receive a warning, then a 2-point penalty for a second offence and disqualification for a third offence.
5. Body Support Taping Prohibited — Kinesio taping and medical taping is contrary to ISSF rules and is not permitted. Shooters will be subject to post-competition testing to ensure compliance.
6. Headgear — No part of a cap or visor may touch or contact the rifle sight or rifle.
Related Article: New Rifle Clothing Rule Enforcement for 2011 and 2012
Story sourced by Edlongrange.
February 1st, 2011
Here’s a simple device that can help you zero your rifle in two or three shots. The new Click Stick Pro Tool is an L-Shaped ruler marked with scales corresponding to 1/8 MOA, 1/4 MOA, and 1/2 MOA clicks at 100 yards. To zero your rifle at 100 yards, take one shot, then position the tool so the bullet hole is at the elbow of the unit (for 1/8 MOA clicks) or at the slotted elbow (for 1/4 MOA clicks). Then square the tool so it aligns with the vertical and horizontal lines on the target. Finally, read the needed click movement off the tool’s scales. Get the horizontal correction from the horizontal scale and the vertical correction off the vertical scale. This device works great, and is inexpensive. The patent-pending Click Stick Pro Tool is sold in a kit for $19.95, bundled with 10 sight-in targets (red center with heavy black lines — see below).
Sighting-In at 25 Yards or 50 Yards
With a brand-new rifle and scope combination, you may want to sight-in at 50 or even 25 yards. You can still do this with the Click Stick Pro Tool. For a 50-yard sight-in follow the same procedure, but multiply the scales’ click value by two (2X). At 25 yards, multiply the scales’ click value by four (4X).
Tool-less, Simple Sight-In Procedure
While we like the Click Stick Pro Tool, you don’t really need the tool at all if you can hold your gun steady while you click the windage and elevation knobs. First, put the center of your crosshair on the target and take one shot. Then, before you touch the scope knobs reposition the rifle in your bags (or on your rest) so the center of the reticle is on the center of the target. Make sure the rifle is secure in this position (have a friend hold the rifle if necessary).
Now, using your elevation and windage controls (while looking through the scope), simply dial the center of the crosshair to the center of the bullet hole — without moving the rifle. You are moving the reticle on to the bullet hole. Take a second shot. The second bullet hole should now be in the center of the target. Repeat the process if needed with a third shot to confirm your zero. This procedure works at any distance. See our explanation of the Simple Zeroing Procedure.
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