Sightron is now offering big discounts on popular scopes with its Summer Instant Savings Promotion. You can save up to $200.00 on select premium riflescopes: the S-TAC, SIII PLR, and S30 RDS. With Father’s Day and graduation just around the corner, now is a great time to save hundreds on some of Sightron’s most popular models. This instant rebate promotion kicked off May 1st and runs through June 30, 2022.
You can get these Sightron deals through an an authorized Sightron retailer, such as Creedmoor Sports, or you can order direct from Sightron, via the Summer Instant Savings Page.
SIGHTRON is offering up to $200 in savings on select premium riflescopes:
Save $200 on SIII PLR (Precision Long Range) — Designed for long-range target and competition shooting, the PLR series offers 6-24x50mm, 8-32x56mm, and 10-50x60mm models (shown below). All models employ a new optical design, Zact-7 Plus Revcoat multicoating technology, internal zero-stop, and illuminated reticles. Sightron SIII PLR scopes offer premium performance at an unbeatable price.
Save up to $120 on S-TAC — Excellent choice for hunting or competitive shooting, the S-TAC 3-16×42 and 4-12×50 riflescopes have the features you need to get on target and stay there. Available in SFP and FFP models, the S-TAC series features Zact-7 Revcoat multicoating technology applied to high-quality Japanese precision-ground glass for excellent, crisp, and clear color-corrected images.
Lifetime Warranty on All Sightron Scopes
All Sightron riflescopes are backed by a Lifetime Performance Guarantee that protects buyers. If you ever have an issue, Sightron’s skilled technicians will fix your scope or Sightron will replace it.
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Sightron is now offering “instant holiday savings” on two premium riflescope lines, the SIII Precision Long Range (PLR) models as well as SVIII FFP tactical scopes. These are high-end optics, ready for competition. Save $250 on the SIII PLR optics and a whopping $800 on the SVIII. It is rare to see these kind of instant discounts on high-end optics.
Sightron’s 2021 holiday sales event kicked off on November 1st and runs through December 31, 2021. Visit an authorized Sightron retailer or online vendor to take advantage of these big discounts. For more information on the holiday sale visit: Sightron.com/collections/holiday-instant-savings.
Sightron SVIII ED $800 Instant Savings
Now get an instant savings of $800 off the very impressive new SVIII 5-40x56mm ED optic with low-dispersion ED lenses. This illuminated First Focal Plane (FFP) riflescope was designed for long range target shooting, tactical competitions, and hunting. The scope provides 20 MILS of windage and 40 MILS of elevation with 0.1 Mil tactical knobs.
Sightron SIII $250 Instant Savings
SIGHTRON is now offering a $250 instant rebate off all SIII Precision Long-Range (PLR) Series scopes. These SFP riflescopes are optimized for long-range benchrest, silhouette, and F-Class competition and general precision target shooting. Models include the 6-24x50mm, 8-32x56mm, and 10-50x60mm. The 10-50X optic (shown below) is a top choice among long-range benchrest shooters and F-Class competitors.
Here’s something of interest for benchrest competitors, particularly those who shoot at 100/200/300 yards. In those disciplines, high magnification is very important, and fixed-power options are popular. And in a game where the goal is to shoot in the ones and zeros, it is absolutely vital to have a scope that never experiences even the slightest shot-to-shot change (drift), and that allows very precise adjustments for windage and elevation. If you have a scope that moves internally, even the slightest amount, from one shot to the next, that can ruin a group.
Sightron recently introduced a new competition scope that should be a serious option for benchrest shooters. The new Sightron SIII SS 36x45mm ED riflescopes offer quality glass, precise adjustments, and reticles that hold steady — with no drift from shot to shot. This is a side-parallax scope with 1/10 MOA click values. MSRP is $1249.99* with an expected “street price” around $1100.00. Two Reticles are offered: Fine Crosshair (FCH), and FCH with 0.125 MOA Target Dot.
Sightron ExacTrack Windage and Elevation
When you’re trying to shoot one-hole groups, you need a scope that holds its values, and can also give precise, 100% repeatable adjustments when you need to dial a windage or elevation change. This SII SS ED’s ExacTrack windage and elevation adjustment system maintains proper alignment of the adjustments to the erector tube. That, Sightron says, ensures “precision and accuracy even when the most dramatic adjustments are applied.” NOTE: The adjustment values for both windage and elevation are 1/10th MOA. That is unusual. We usually see 1/8th MOA clicks in this type of scope. Here the click values are one-tenth Minute of Angle. (NOT 1/10 MIL). Sightron note: “Precise target knobs with 1/10th MOA click value provide hair-splitting accuracy.”
ED (Extra Low-Dispersion) Glass in New 36x45mm Optic
The new SIII SS 36×45 ED features precision ED glass for crisp, razor-sharp views with minimal chromatic aberration — Sightron promises “crystal-clear target definition” with no color hazing. The SIII SS 36x45mm ED boasts Zact-7 Revcoat multi-coated precision ground lenses. Sightron claims “the highest quality light transmission in the industry”.
A side parallax adjustment knob allows the riflescope to focus from 10 yards to infinity. All SIII SS ED competition target riflescopes are compatible with all air guns and are backed by SIGHTRON’s lifetime limited warranty.
* The Sightron Press release lists a $1249.99 MSRP, but on the Sightron website we are see a $1150.00 price for the SIII 36x45mm ED scope models SIIISS36X45EDTD/FCH.
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Sightron has launched its new Precision Long-Range (PLR) Riflescope Series. The Sightron SIII PLR Series offers high-end optics performance at reasonable prices, starting at $1325.00 MSRP. There will be three second focal plane (SFP) models: 6-24x50mm, 8-32x56mm, and 10-50x60mm. In addition there is an impressive new 6-24x50mm first focal plane (FFP) model.
Sightron’s new SIII PLR riflescopes feature 30mm tubes, a new internal zero-stop mechanism, and several illuminated reticle options. All models sport a black satin finish with high visibility markings. The large, oversized tactical knobs are easy to adjust and are resettable to zero. The new internal zero-stop mechanism provides a tactile and audible positive stop for dead-on zero setting. The windage knob is marked for left and right, so there is no second-guessing when making adjustments. Click values for PLR scopes are either 1/4 MOA or 0.1 MRAD. Sightron’s patented ExacTrack Windage and Elevation System is standard on all models. ExacTrack provides super-precise windage and elevation adjustments while maintaining a positive point-of-contact with the internal erector tube.
All PLR scopes boast Sightron’s Zact-7 Revcoat Plus™ Enhanced Lens Coating for increased light transmission and improved clarity. And all PLR reticles are illuminated with a side-mounted 11-position on/off rotary-type dial. The side-mounted focus system has been redesigned for improved close focus performance. These PLR scopes all ship with 3-inch sunshade, flip-up lens covers, Torx Key/Allen wrench, and CR2032 battery. Like all Sightron scopes, the PLR series optics are nitrogen-charged for a 100% waterproof and fog-proof system.
First Focal Plane Scope for Tactical Disciplines
The new 6-24x50mm SIII PLR FFP riflescope features the first focal plane design favored by PRS/NRL and tactical shooters. This allows the shooter to range and holdover with speed and accuracy, knowing that the reticle dimensions will remain constant on all magnifications.
Sightron President Mack Matsumoto states: “Our engineers worked hard to improve the precision, function, and cosmetics of the already-popular SIII Long-Range Series. You will … experience a higher level of precision from the new internal Zero-stop to the Zact-7 Revcoat Plus multicoating technology that improves light transmission, color and clarity.”
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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. Cabela’s — Bergara B-14 HMR, $949.99
⏺ Good Ergonomics, Works for Hunting plus PRS Factory Class
Bergara rifles offer excellent value for the money. They combine accuracy, good ergonomics, and smooth function at a lower costs than many other brands. If you’re looking for a new rifle that’s capable of hunting, PRS competition, or target shooting, check out the Bergara B-14 HMR now on sale. Available in 6.5 Creedmoor or .308 Win for $949.99, the B-14 HMR features a quality synthetic stock with adjustable cheek-piece. The 24″ barrel has a threaded muzzle, so you can add a muzzle brake or suppressor.
2. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Perfect Seat Priming Tool, $69.79
⏺ Precise Depth Control, 12 Shell Holders, Quick-Change, Carry Case
Seating primers to a consistent depth helps deliver enhanced accuracy and low ES/SD. However, most priming systems don’t allow precise depth control. If you’re looking for a priming tool that allows you to adjust primer seating depth, check out the Frankford Arsenal Perfect Seat Hand Primer. This tool comes in a protective case along with a full set of case holders and primer flip tray. A quick thumb release system allows you to switch from small to large primers quickly.
3. Precision Reloading — H4350 and Reloder 16 in Stock
⏺ Great Temp-Stable, Match-Grade Powders in Stock
The most popular powders, such as H4350 and Reloder 16, can be hard to find. But we’ve located these outstanding temp-stable powders at two leading vendors. Right now Precision Reloading has both Hodgdon H4350 (1-lb and 8-lb) and Alliant Reloder 16 (1-lb) in stock. In addition, Powder Valley has popular H4350 in stock (1-lb and 8-lb). These powders are both great choices for 6.5 Creedmoor, .284 Win, and other match cartridge types.
4. Graf & Sons — 25% Off All Sightron Scopes
⏺ Great 25% Sale! Sightrons Rival Optics Costing Hundreds More
Need a high-quality optic for your match rifle or hunting rig? Looking for a specialized “big wheel” scope for Field Target airgun competition? Sightron offers a wide range of quality scopes at affordable prices. And now the deals are even better. Right now Grafs.com is offering 25% Off ALL Sightron scopes in stock. This sale is good through 11:59 pm CT on July 10, 2020.
5. Amazon — Lyman Xpress Case Trimmer, $114.99
⏺ Great Tool — EZ Length Adjust, Variable Speed, Carbide Cutter, 10 Bushings
Trimming cases to length is a critical for precision reloading. Unfortunately, many trimmers are inefficient and/or clunky. If you want a fast, easy, and precise way to trim brass look no further than the Lyman Xpress Case Trimmer. This boast a super-sharp carbide cutter head plus a variable speed control. The unit ships with 10 shoulder bushings to cover most cartridge types. The carbide cutter trims fast and clean.
6. Amazon — Teslong Rod-Type Digital Borescope, $79.99
⏺ Handy Rod Borescope with Sharp Digital Images and Video
Teslong digital borescopes have been a huge success and earned high praise from our Forum members. First there was the cable-type plug-in model, then a Wifi Teslong that works with all types of mobile devices. The latest Teslong features a metal shaft, with length markings. This makes it easier to inspect your bore with precision. This compact, electro-optical, Rod-type Borescope ($79.99) outputs sharp, high-rez images and VIDEO to desktop computers, laptops, as well as Android tablets and smartphones.
7. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal or Lyman Brass Tumbler Sale
⏺ Great Sale Pricing, Choose Lyman or Frankford with Clear Top
⏺ Huge Discounts on Weaver Tactical, Hunting, and Competition Optics
Weaver scopes have always been a top optics option. Weaver offers models for just about any discipline. If you’re in the market for a new scope check out the amazing Weaver Scope Blowout SALE at Natchez. Natchez has a good assortment of quality Weaver scopes at crazy low prices up to 55% off. NOTE: There may be changes in Weaver scope production. Contact Bushnell for ongoing warranty policies.
9. Brownells — TriggerTech Trigger Sale
⏺ Good Selection for ARs and Rem-Compatible Bolt Guns. Save 25-35%
TriggerTech makes quality trigger with crisp breaks and adjustable pull weights. With a protectice housing, tThese triggers are very resistant to dirt and debris. If you’ve been looking for a new trigger, check out the TriggerTech Trigger Sale at Brownells. There are substantial discounts. For example the AR15 Independence trigger is discounted from $229.99 to just $149.99 — a 35% savings.
10. Midsouth Shooters Supply — Berger Ammo Sale
⏺ True Match-Grade Factory Ammo with Lapua Brass and Berger Bullets
Berger Bullets is a renowned bullet-maker. But did you know Berger makes loaded ammunition as well? Available in many calibers for both hunting and target shooting, Berger ammo is a great choice for those who want quality without hand-loading. Midsouth Shooters is running a Berger Ammo Sale. You’ll find 6.5 Creedmoor, .260 Rem, .308 Win, .300 Win Mag, .338 LM and other popular types. This ammo shoots great — check out this Berger 6.5 Creedmoor Ammo Test.
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Sightron SIII 45x45mm Competition with ED Glass — Review by James Mock
Sightron has introduced a new, high-magnification Benchrest scope, the SIII SS 45x45mm Competition. This new-for-2019 45-power scope now offers very high-quality glass. In response to consumer demand, for this model, Sightron has upgraded to premium ED (extra low dispersion) glass. This kind of superior glass has been available with other more-expensive premium optics brands, and now Sightron has joined the ED-Glass ranks.
Testing the 45x45MM ED Sightron Benchrest Scope
Most of my shooting is done at 600 yards now. New for 2019, Sightron has introduced an impressive new 45-power competition scope, offered with either a Target Dot (EDTD) or Fine Cross Hair (EDFCH) reticles. I was able to test the target dot model. With this model I can check the ED glass used by Sightron and 45X is certainly enough for the 300- and 600-yard competitions I shoot.
Although this scope lacks some of the new features found on the SVSS models, it is designed for the shooter who wants a quality scope that is light enough to be used in short range Benchrest. It seems that Sightron designed this scope for the short range Benchrest shooters. They skipped all of the frills and designed this scope for PERFORMANCE.
The Sightron SIII 45x45mm has a simple side-focus parallax adjustment that works very well. The ocular focus is like the older models in that it has a locking ring rather than the fast focus. It has a 45mm objective lens. The model that I have features a 1/10th MOA dot reticle while the click adjustments are 1/10th MOA. NOTE that — the clicks are one-tenth MOA, NOT the 1/8th MOA you might expect.
At 20.5 ounces this scope will allow shooters to make most of the weight requirements found in Benchrest shooting. With the superb Japanese ED glass, it equals or surpasses the image quality of scopes of equal magnification costing twice as much.
Although this scope lacks some of the frills, it has the features that serious shooters appreciate. It has 7-layer coating on all lens (termed Zach 7), 1/10th MOA adjustments, 1/10th MOA dot reticle (or fine crosshair), generous eye relief, life time warranty, and 30mm main tube.
Testing Procedure for Sightron SIII 45x45mm
For testing the scope, I mounted it on my BAT/Leonard Benchrest rifle (shown above). The rifle is chambered in 6mm BRAI and I will shoot the rifle at 300 and 600 yards. The 300-yard match consists of three, 10-shot targets on the IBS 300-yard target. The 600-yard match consists of four, 5-shot targets. Both are shot for score only. So far the scope has performed flawlessly and the image is bright and the resolution was superb. One thing that I have dreamed about is a scope that will resolve 6mm bullet holes at 600 yards. Since I have shot this scope only during the summer months in Louisiana I cannot see bullet holes at 600 yards. However, in fairness to the scope, I don’t think the Hubble telescope would resolve the holes in the mirage and heat evident this summer.
I have tested scopes that cost over $3000 and this Sightron (street price $900-$1000) held its own with those higher-priced models and surpassed many of them. I wish that this scope would have been available back when I was shooting short range Benchrest. It is truly a great value for today’s shooter.
The first test performed was “shooting the square” in which I fired five (5) shots in order, cranking the turrets from shot to shot. This scope passed test #1 with flying colors — the fifth and last shot went through the same hole as shot #1. Here’s the process. After Shot One (lower left), I then cranked the scope up 4 MOA and fired Shot Two. For the third shot, I moved the scope to the right 4 MOA followed by a 4 MOA adjustment down. Next, I adjusted 4 MOA left and fired the fifth. If the scope tracts properly, the fifth shot should hit close to the first. In fact, Shot Five went through the same hole as Shot One. Of course one must have the same aiming point and an accurate rifle.
Shown above is the target that I shot at 100 yards. This was shot with my 6 BRAI rifle with 30.4 grains of H4895 and Bart’s 105gr VLD “Hammers” seated .006“ into the lands. This “square” shows perfect tracking and absolute accuracy in both windage and elevation adjustments. (However, note that the target itself was a little crooked as stapled to the backer). Sightron’s ExacTrac turret technologies shown below may be the reason for such great “shooting the square” results:
The above picture was taken from the Sightron catalogue and it illustrates what may be the most important feature for Benchrest shooters. They named it the ExacTrack and it features a cone shaped contact point on the windage and elevation knobs that allow constant and even pressure on the erector tube. In the picture above the left side shows conventional scope erector tube contact (figures 1 and 2). Figures 3 and 4 show how the Sightron system works. This unique system solves the problem of a flat tip pushing a round tube. My tests showed that this scope holds point of aim exceptionally well.
Using the Sightron 45X Scope in Match Conditions
I recently tested the the 45x45mm Sightron in competition for the first time. In preparation for this match, I tried four loads at 200 yards. I was impressed with the positive and accurate adjustments without the “mushy” feel that many scopes with fine adjustments exhibit.
I shot 3-shot groups and the groups measured as follows: 1) 30.0 grains H4895/Fed 205/Bart’s Gungnir = .605”; 2) 30.5 grains H4895/Fed 205/Bart’s Gungnir = .945”; 3) 30.0 grains H4895/Fed 205/Berger 108gr BT = .459”; 4) 30.4 grains H4895/Fed 205/Bart’s Hammer = .309” (this is my 600-yard “go-to” load).
The 300-yard match saw 101° temperatures with light, switching head winds up to 5 mph. The mirage was very noticeable but I was still able to see bullet holes. The scope performed well (although I did not). The click adjustments were precise and positive with both tactile and audible indicators. This is a quality scope.
SUMMARY of Test — Final Impressions
I am more than satisfied with this scope and I believe it represents a great value for competitive shooters. It has great glass, with positive adjustments that hold point of aim. Because of the ED glass, the image has correct color and is sharp to the edges. The scope’s reticle features a 1/10th MOA dot. The turrets use 1/10th MOA adjustments that allow precise aim and point of impact adjustments.
Is there anything that I would change? No, not for short range Benchrest (100/200/300yards), but for 600-yard shooting, I prefer a more detailed reticle with MOA-based hash-marks. With vertical and horizontal hashmarks one can quickly determine the amount of clickes needed to correct impact. Also, a variable power scope is very handy for those days when mirage does not allow precise aiming. Readers should note that Sightron does make a variable power 10-50x60mm ED scope featuring a reticle with MOA-based hash-marks. That should be a good option for shooters who need a high-magnification, variable-power comp scope.
But for those who prefer a fixed-power scope, Sightron’s new SIII SS 45x45mm is a smart option, that is a very good value. If you are in the market for a fixed-power 45X benchrest scope, I can heartily recommend this new offering from Sightron. — James Mock
Short History of “Freezing” Benchrest Scopes
Several years ago, many Benchrest shooters were having trouble with their riflescopes holding point of aim. Cecil Tucker, Jackie Schmidt, Gene Bukys, and Bob Brackney modified some scopes to “freeze” the adjustments. This worked fairly well but it hindered a shooter’s ability to make fine adjustments quickly.
The late Ron Hoehn along with others started using small Delrin screws to stabilize the erector tube. This brought about my first use of Sightron scopes. I contacted Sightron and asked if they would furnish a scope for me to try this procedure and they agreed. A friend and I drilled the two holes and tapped them to apply the Delrin screws. Surprisingly, this system worked well on the Sightron 36X SII model. As a matter of fact, COL Billy Stevens won the Super Shoot using one of those SII Benchrest scopes. There was a drawback however. When one tightened the screw against the erector tube there was a slight point of aim movement. This was not too noticeable in group shooting but hampered the score shooters.
The scope pictured above another Sightron I’ve used, a 10-50x60mm. This medium-priced scope offered excellent value-for-money and it sold very well. It performed superbly for me and in my opinion represents one of the best buys in a long range scope. About two years ago, Sightron decided to put out a more advanced scope. Sightron added locking turrets, 34mm tube, and a few more “premium” features. Of course the price reflected these changes but there was not a severe price increase.
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Here is Ernie Bishop’s pride and joy, a specialty pistol nicknamed “Batman” because the black carbon-fiber stock looks like the Batmobile. This is one sophisticated handgun. Complete with scope, the Batman pistol weighs under 7.5 pounds, thanks to the ultra-light stock. The carbon stock is 6 inches wide at the fore-end, yet weighs just one pound. Ernie tells us: “This gun shoots amazing and is easy to shoot especially with my SEB MAX Rest.” Ernie adds, “The gun will soon also have a field-usable rear-grip stock so I can shoot it prone from a bipod as well.”
The Batman pistol is chambered for the 6mm “Long Dasher”, a 6mm 40°-shouldered variant of the 6.5×47 Lapua. Ernie loads Berger 105gr Hybrid bullets pushed by Hodgdon H-4350 powder.
Gun Specifications The gun, crafted by Eric Wallance of Nawaka Firearms, features an XP-100 action, Jewell trigger, and 15″-long, Brux 1:8″-twist barrel with aluminum muzzle brake. Interestingly, this gun does not have a traditional recoil lug. Instead, gunsmith Wallace milled out a lug from the bottom of the XP-100 action to save weight. On top of the action, the rig carries a Sightron Inc S-III 6-24X56mm scope in Kelbly rings on a custom +20 MOA rail.
Long Dasher Wildcat
Shown at right is a “Long Dasher” 40° wildcat created by Forum member Sunbuilder. This is very similar to Ernie Bishop’s chambering, though there may be small variations related to reamer design (such as freebore). Sunbuilder’s 6-6.5×47 Improved (aka “Long Dasher”) reamer was made by Dave Kiff of Pacific, Tool & Gauge. This wildcat cartridge adds about 2.0 grains capacity to the 6.5×47 necked down to 6mm. The case certainly is impressive with that 40° shoulder. We’re just waiting for the tactical guys to starting run this improved cartridge with its original 6.5mm bore.
Here are three FIVE-shot groups at 500 yards, shot by Ernie’s Batman pistol. The first is marked with pink dots, the second with green dots, and the third is being measured with calipers:
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At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every 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. CDNN — Savage 11/111 Rifle with Bushnell Scope, $349.99
Need a reliable sub-MOA hunting rifle? Here’s heck of a deal on rifle AND optic. Right now you can purchase a Savage model 11/111 for $349.99 after $100 mail-in rebate from Savage. And get this — that price includes a 3-9x40mm Bushnell Trophy scope. That’s right, you get a brand new Savage rifle plus a new Bushnell scope, all for $349.99 after rebate. This has got to be the best rifle deal around for the 2017 hunting season. Chose the Long Action model 111 or the Short Action model 11. Fifteen popular chamberings are offered, so you’re sure to find a caliber/cartridge that suits your hunting requirements. Choices are: .243 Win, .25-06, 6.5 Creedmoor, .260 Rem, 6.5×284 NORMA, .270 Win, .270 WSM, 7mm-08, 7mm Rem Mag, .308 Win, .30-06 Spr, .300 WSM, .300 Win Mag, .338 Federal, and .338 Win Mag.
2. Amazon — Sightron 10-50x60mm SIII Scope, under $970.00
Match photo courtesy Varide Cicognati, Sightron dealer in Italy.
This 10-50x60mm Sightron recently faired very well in recent tests when compared to high-magnification scopes costing twice as much. It displayed excellent repeatability and click precision. It may not have the fancy name, but this 10-50X optic is definitely good enough to win long-range benchrest and F-Class matches. It is now available with MOA grid or Fine Cross Hair reticles for under $970.00. At that price, the Sightron is over $1350 cheaper than the 15-55X Nightforce. It is even $400+ cheaper than the old 12-42x56mm NF Benchrest scope. On a value-for-money basis, then, the Sightron 10-50x60mm makes sense for competitors on a budget. The money you save (vs. 15-55X NF) will pay for a nice BAT, Borden, or Kelbly custom action. NOTE: Other versions with Mil-Dot or Target Dot reticles currently run $1050-$1090 on Amazon.
3. CDNN — Walther Creed 9mm Pistol, $269.99
The Walther Creed offers excellent ergonomics, good accuracy, and well-designed controls at a killer price — $269.99 at CDNN Sports. This gun, designed to be a value-leader, emulates Walther’s more expensive PPQ model (MSRP $649.00) at a much lower price. The Creed’s frame size and shape is the same as the PPQ, but the Creed lacks interchangeable backstraps. Slide and trigger are very similar. The Creed features a snag-free bobbed hammer. Testers have praised the new Creed, saying that, despite the bargain price, it “sacrifices little to nothing in… ergonomics, accuracy, and reliability.”
4. Grafs.com — Hornady Auto Charge, $179.99 + Free Range Bag
Here’s an excellent promo from our friends at Grafs.com. Hornady’s versatile Lock-N-Load Auto Charge™ Powder Scale and Dispenser is on sale for $179.99. And now for a limited time you get a FREE deluxe range bag ($43.99 value) with the purchase of the Hornady Scale/Dispenser. This is a good unit with a nice keypad. NOTE: You can also get the FREE Range Bag when you buy the Hornady Case Prep Center at Grafs.com for $419.99. That’s pretty pricey — getting Scale/Dispenser with the Range Bag is the better deal.
5. MidwayUSA — Packable Shooting Mat, $19.99
Here’s a heck of a deal on a good light-weight shooting mat. MidwayUSA has slashed the price on its Packable Shooting Mat. Available in Coyote Tan or Olive Drab, this 67″ Long x 31″ Wide padded mat is now just $19.99. This Packable Mat has some nice features, such as 12″ front flap, elbow pads, 0.15″ thick padding, and six staking grommets. It’s easy to transport, rolling up to a 9″ x 4.5″ package, secured with a heavy strap. If you need a low-cost, basic shooting mat, check out this deal. Weighing just 1.5 pounds, this a good, light-weight mat to keep in a vehicle or to use on a “walk-around” varminting hunt.
If you are serious about your precision firearms, you need one of these. We use the Lyman Electronic Trigger Pull Gauge to test the triggers on all our match and varmint rifles. The unit is precise and repeatable. Once you try one of these you won’t want to go back to crude spring trigger gauges. Amazon.com offers this unit for $46.32 with free shipping (third party sale).
Need quality .22 LR rimfire ammo at an affordable price? Consider Norma. Most folks think Norma only produces centerfire ammo and cartridge brass. As a result, people haven’t been looking for Norma rimfire ammo. Their loss is your gain. Accurate, reliable Norma .22 LR ammunition is in-stock right now at leading online vendors. This is good quality ammo, made in Europe. Bullets.com has Norma Tac-22 ammo in stock at $4.75 per 50-rd box (SKU: BL7819). In addition, Bullets.com offers Norma Match-22 ammunition at $6.50 per 50-rd box (SKU: BL11887).
We like reactive targets. It’s fun to “ring steel” and see a target move instantly when hit. For just twenty bucks (including shipping), it’s hard to go wrong with this 8″ AR500 Steel Gong. The 8″-diameter size is big enough for zeroing at 200 yards, yet offers a nice challenge at 500 yards and beyond. There is also a 6″-diameter model for just $14.00.
9. Amazon — Mystery Deal of the Week with 57% Price Reduction
Here’s a versatile, compact product that every hunter and tactical competitor can use. It can replace two or three common gear items and includes a high-tech system that makes it work better, helping you get on target faster and spot game easier, even in low light. When introduced, this item earned great reviews when it sold for $499.99. Now it is available through Amazon for just $215.00. That’s a full 57% off the original price. We think any game hunter or PRS shooter will want this high-tech unit. The super-low price makes it hard to resist.
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Report by David and Donna Matthews
The 2015 IBS 1000-Yard National Championships were held September 4-5 at the Hawks Ridge Gun Club in Ferguson, North Carolina. Attendance was great, with 103 Registered Light Gun shooters and 89 Heavy Gun competitors. After a practice day, the competitors tried on Friday and Saturday to master the unpredictable conditions at Hawks Ridge. The 1000-Yard National Match for 2015 featured a three-target Aggregate for each Division (i.e. six targets total for both classes).
The Hawks Ridge range is quite unique — it’s a very wide-open, over-the-hills range. Conditions constantly change (and change very quickly according to several competitors). The management and membership of this range put on a great event this year. Several shooters said this was one of the best-run National-level matches they had ever attended.
Jim Bauer Won the IBS 2015 Nationals shooting a 6mm Dasher in both Light Gun and Heavy Gun Classes. Here’s his match-winning Heavy Gun. Smithed by Gordy Gritters, Bauer’s Heavy Gun featured a BAT action, Kreiger barrel (in barrel block), Shehane stock, and Nightforce scope.
Bauer Drives Dashers to Victory The Two-Gun Champion and Overall winner was Jim Bauer with 24 rank points. In second place was Robert McMichael with 36 rank points. Bauer shot great in both Light Gun (LG) and Heavy Gun (HG) matches, posting Top 10 finishes in both classes. Bauer ran 6mm Dashers in both Divisions (LG and HG) with Vapor Trail bullets. By contrast, McMichael shot big cartridges — a .284 Shehane in LG and a .300 WSM in HG, using Berger Bullets for both calibers. Top lady shooter was Donna Matthews while Amber Brewer won the Junior Division. John Stecik won a BenchSource Annealing machine for shooting the Best Light Gun Target (50 score with a 3.758″ group). Steve Knight shot the Best Heavy Gun Target (100 with 4.407″ group), to win a Douglas barrel.
PDF File — scroll to bottom of document for EQUIPMENT LIST.
The Hawks Ridge Gun Club Range and Facility
The 1000-yard shooting facility is a covered pavilion that has 15 shooting benches located in the rolling hills of Wilkes County North Carolina. The Club has a great Barbeque grill on site, which the McNeil family employed to perfection, delivering an outstanding Barbeque chicken meal on Friday night.
One veteran shooter commented that when you can take 103 of the best shooters in the country and hold a event that had very little to any issues you have accomplished something. Range officials were quick to point out that it took a lot of hard work from Hawks Ridge Club members as well as support from the IBS, the sponsors, and the competitors.
Outstanding Prize Table
Over $20,000 worth of prizes were awarded at this year’s IBS 1000-Yard Nationals. Prizes included: Nightforce scopes, Sightron Scopes, BAT Action, Defiance Action, Baity Action, Shehane stocks, rests, reloading tools, Sierra and Berger bullets, and more. Many thanks should go to Stanley Taylor from Douglas Barrels for his time and energy in acquiring prizes for the match.
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Well it looks like there’s some real talent in the next generation of IBS Benchrest shooters. Watch out for those young guns — they can give seasoned veterans a run for their money — and then some. Young Kevin Donalds Jr. fired a perfect 250-25X score to win a 100-yard IBS score match at the Thurmont, Maryland range on May 18th, 2013. At just 12 years of age, Kevin is already showing he has the focus, talent, and determination to win. And, yes he managed to beat his proud father Kevin Donalds (Sr.) who finished second with a 250-23x. Like father, like son. It’s great to see a father and son who shoot together — and share the podium together.
Above, 12-year-old Kevin, match winner, is shown flanked on his left by his father (second place), and on his right by third place finisher Larry Fritz. Young Kevin was shooting a 30BR (no surprise), with a BAT action, Krieger barrel, and an affordable Sightron 8-32X scope (about $860). The rifle was smithed by Sid Goodling and stocked by Roy Hunter. The load was a stout charge of Hodgdon H4198, fired by Federal primers, pushing BIB 112gr bullets.
We know that many readers, particularly target shooters and long-range varmint hunters, are looking for a fairly high-magnification optic that is also affordable. A common question in our Shooters Forum is: “I can’t afford a Nightforce. Is there a quality scope with more than 25X magnification that costs under $900.00.” Fitting that bill are two scopes that have been on the market for a while — the Bushnell Elite 6500 4.5-30x50mm, and Sightron SIII 8-32x56mm. Now there’s a new optic from MINOX to add to the list of quality, high-magnification scopes that can be purchased for well under $1000.00.
Great Glass in 6-30x56mm MINOX
There is a new 6-30 power scope from Minox that offers impressive features at an affordable under-$900.00 price point. The Minox ZA 5 6-30x56mm SF riflescope offers a wide 500% zoom range, 30mm main tube, and outstanding Schott glass from Germany. These scopes are engineered in Germany and assembled in the USA. The Minox 6-30×56 offers a handy side-focus parallax control. What’s more, the Minox has a European-style diopter eyepiece, with a -2 to +1.5 range. That’s great for shooters who would otherwise require corrective lenses. Leupold and Bushnell don’t provide a diopter eyepiece — that’s something you normally find on high-end European scopes (such as Schmidt & Bender).
The Minox 6-30x56mm riflescope is offered with three reticle choices: MinoPlex (Medium Plex), BDC (bullet drop compensating), and XR-BDC which has finer lines in the central zone, with both vertical and horizontal stadia (hash-marks). We favor the XR-BDC for target use.
Minox offers a strong “no-fault” lifetime warranty on its scopes. The MINOX Lifetime Total Coverage Warranty “provides protection against manufacturing defects, functional failures, or any accidental damages to the covered product, including breakage, water damage, or any accident”. Put simply, “MINOX will repair or replace any damaged MINOX Riflescope with no questions asked.”
Features of Minox ZA 5/30 6-30×56 SF Riflescopes:
Side Focus Parallax Adjustment
Ample 4″ plus Eye Relief
Premium lenses by SCHOTT AG of Germany
Zero resettable 1/4 MOA Windage and elevation knobs
Fast-focus European-style diopter eyepiece (-2 to +1.5)
Minox M* multi-coated lenses for improved contrast, detail, and brightness
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Sightron is offering $75 rebates on its SII Big Sky™ line of riflescopes. To qualify, just purchase any new Sightron SII Big Sky™ from the Models listed below between August 15, 2011 and December 31, 2011. CLICK HERE to review Sightrong Rebate Terms and to print out $75.00 Rebate Coupon.
Rebate Rules and Conditions: Purchaser must submit Sightron coupon with original sales receipt, warranty card, and UPC sticker by March 31, 2012. Purchase must be made between August 15th, 2011 and December 31, 2011. Offer cannot be combined with any other discounts or offers. Please Allow four to six weeks for processing of rebate. Remit Rebate Coupon to:
Sightron Inc.
Dept: 2011 Rebate Offer
100 Jeffrey Way, Suite A
Youngsville NC. 27596
Story Tip by EdLongrange. We welcome submissions from our readers.
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The gun, crafted by Eric Wallance of Nawaka Firearms, features an XP-100 action, Jewell trigger, and 15″-long, Brux 1:8″-twist barrel with aluminum muzzle brake. Interestingly, this gun does not have a traditional recoil lug. Instead, gunsmith Wallace milled out a lug from the bottom of the XP-100 action to save weight. On top of the action, the rig carries a Sightron Inc S-III 6-24X56mm scope in Kelbly rings on a custom +20 MOA rail.
The Two-Gun Champion and Overall winner was Jim Bauer with 24 rank points. In second place was Robert McMichael with 36 rank points. Bauer shot great in both Light Gun (LG) and Heavy Gun (HG) matches, posting Top 10 finishes in both classes. Bauer ran 6mm Dashers in both Divisions (LG and HG) with Vapor Trail bullets. By contrast, McMichael shot big cartridges — a .284 Shehane in LG and a .300 WSM in HG, using Berger Bullets for both calibers. Top lady shooter was Donna Matthews while Amber Brewer won the Junior Division. John Stecik won a BenchSource Annealing machine for shooting the Best Light Gun Target (50 score with a 3.758″ group). Steve Knight shot the Best Heavy Gun Target (100 with 4.407″ group), to win a Douglas barrel.
Great Glass in 6-30x56mm MINOX
Minox offers a strong “no-fault” lifetime warranty on its scopes. The MINOX Lifetime Total Coverage Warranty “provides protection against manufacturing defects, functional failures, or any accidental damages to the covered product, including breakage, water damage, or any accident”. Put simply, “MINOX will repair or replace any damaged MINOX Riflescope with no questions asked.”
