Report by NRA-ILA
In recent weeks, Americans have rightly become concerned over a somewhat obscure ATF recordkeeping regulation that has a profound impact on gun rights. If gun control advocates get their way in changing this federal regulation for the worse, altering how ATF maintains these records… American gun owners would find themselves subject to what amounts to a backdoor gun registry.
The type of electronically searchable database the ATF is seeking to develop would amount to a partial firearm registry. Firearm registries facilitate firearm confiscation.
Federal law requires those who purchase a firearm at a Federal Firearms Licensee (gun dealer or FFL) to fill out a form 4473. This record of the firearm transfer is then stored by the dealer on their premises. This creates a system whereby if a gun is found at a crime scene ATF can trace the firearm to the last retail purchase. However, since the records are stored with each FFL, the system is decentralized in a manner that protects against government abuse of gun owner data.
Gun dealers are required to maintain 4473s for 20 years. When a dealer goes out of business they must send their last 20 years of records to ATF’s National Tracing Center to facilitate firearm traces. Some of ATF’s materials appear to deliberately omit the 20-year requirement, seemingly in the hopes that FFLs will send all of their records to the National Tracing Center, regardless of age.
Under this system, over a million out-of-business dealer records are sent to ATF each month. Records obtained by gun rights advocates show that in 2021 ATF processed a staggering 54.7 million of these records.
ATF proposed rule 2021R-05 would make this record-keeping requirement more burdensome for FFLs and diminish gun owner privacy. Under the proposed rule, FFLs would be required to maintain 4473s indefinitely and relinquish all such data to ATF upon going out of business. NRA-ILA is opposed to this rule change.
The type of electronically searchable database the ATF is seeking to develop would amount to a partial firearm registry. And as all gun rights supporters and gun control advocates know, firearm registries facilitate firearm confiscation.
This understanding was at the heart of the debate over the Gun Control Act of 1968 and the development of the current recordkeeping system. In 1985, Sen. James McClure (R-Idaho) explained, “The central compromise of the Gun Control Act of 1968 — the sine qua non for the entry of the Federal Government into any form of firearms regulation was this: Records concerning gun ownership would be maintained by dealers, not by the Federal Government and not by State and local governments.”
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The National Tracing Center could take another step towards a firearm registry if anti-gun lawmakers criminalize the private transfer of firearms — sometimes referred to as universal background check legislation. By funneling more firearm transfers through FFLs, lawmakers would create additional opportunities for recordkeeping on firearms and gun owners that could end up in the National Tracing Center database.
Gun owners have every reason to jealously guard information pertaining to firearm transfers. NRA-ILA will continue to work to help ensure gun owner privacy and to keep gun owners apprised of the ongoing attempts to cobble together a backdoor firearm registry.
Thanksgiving is just one week away. What better way to celebrate the Thanksgiving season than to practice your marksmanship shooting some bearded gobblers (of the paper variety). Here’s our custom Turkey Target, ready for family fun. This special Turkey Bullseye Target was created by our friend and Forum member Pascal (aka “DesertFrog”). CLICK HERE for FREE Turkey Target.
If you prefer color targets, here’s another turkey target, courtesy of the NRA. Hone your skills on a trio of turkeys. The target features three red bullseyes, centered on the gobblers. You can print the target in black and white, but they look best in color. Click the image below to download a FREE printable PDF file.
Get a Full Set of Animal Targets
For your convenience, we’ve packaged the Turkey Target along with five (5) other varmint/animal-themed targets. These are all offered in .pdf (Adobe Acrobat) format for easy printing.
The popular Talladega 600 Match is running this week (November 15-21, 2021) at the CMP’s Talladega Marksmanship Park in Alabama. Our friend Paula Crenshaw is at Talladega this week, shooting the match both as an individual and as a member of a Women’s Team. Paula says there are quite a few lady shooters at the event. Here are some images from the match. Paula, who holds the Distinguished Badge, is a member of the CMP Board of Directors.
The 4-member women’s team included Paula Crenshaw, Meredith Grant, Ashley Kennedy-Foster, and Jeannie Redicker. Ashley and Jeannie are in the photo above shooting prone. This foursome finished 4th in the team match.
Notably, in the Congressional 30 match, five women made the top 30: Haley Robinson (4th); Paula Crenshaw (15th); Ashley Kennedy-Foster (24th); Jeannie Redicker (26th); and Rachael Miller-Lansdown (29th). The Congressional 30 Overall Winner was James Fox while the High Junior was Anton Van Hoven.
The Talladega 600 includes a wide variety of popular CMP Matches:
BENCHREST GARAND MATCH
RIFLE MARKSMANSHIP 101/M16 MATCH
PISTOL MARKSMANSHIP 101/M9 MATCH
GARAND/SPRINGFIELD/VINTAGE/MODMIL MATCH
CONGRESSIONAL 30
RIFLE EIC MATCH
4-MAN TEAM MATCH
CARBINE MATCH
RIMFIRE SPORTER BENCHREST MATCH
HIGH POWER DIXIE DOUBLE MATCH
VINTAGE SNIPER TEAM MATCH
RIMFIRE SPORTER MATCH
M1A MATCH
CMP MATCH PISTOL 2700
CMP AS-ISSUED 1911 PISTOL MATCH
MILITARY & POLICE PISTOL MATCH
CMP .22 RIMFIRE PISTOL EIC MATCH
EIC PISTOL MATCH
Additional events include versions of prestigious National Trophy Matches, such as the Congressional 30 (with the same Course of Fire as the President’s 100 Match) and the Dixie Double High Power Match (mirrored off of the Hearst Doubles Match).
Electronic Targets Speed Up Matches at Talladega
Kongsberg target systems are used at the Talladega Marksmanship Park. Each firing point of the 500-acre facility is equipped with a state-of-the-art KTS electronic target and scoring monitor. This speeds up relays and eliminates the need for competitors to do pit duty to pull and mark targets. Located beside the shooter on the firing line, each monitor allows the competitor to see his/her shot location and score immediately.
CZ has just introduced the new CZ 600 line of centerfire rifles. The series includes four unique models, with a variety of stock types, barrel profiles, action lengths, and chamberings. User-friendly CZ 600 features include 60-degree bolt throw, adjustable triggers, and the ability to swap barrels/chamberings using optional conversion kits. The CZ 600 Series includes four brand new models: Alpha, Lux, Trail, and Range.* These are designed for accuracy, modularity, and smooth cycling. Expect CZ 600s at dealers in early 2022.
Controlled-Feed Action with 60° Throw: CZ 600 Rifles have a 60-degree bolt throw. This cycles faster than a 90-degree bolt, with more clearance between bolt and optic, allowing for larger scopes. All CZ 600 models boast an oversized bolt knob for improved control with gloved hands. And the actions have controlled-round-feed. The 2-position safety allows bolt cycling with the safety engaged.
CZ USA offers Alpha, Range, Trail, and Lux CZ 600 versions. In Europe CZ offers a fifth model, the “Ergo” model, which is mentioned in this video.
Barrel Conversion Kits: Optional barrel conversion kits offer the ability to change cartridges (within the same-sized action) by swapping barrels, bolt face, and magazines, without the need of a gunsmith. This lets shooters use one rifle for a multiple shooting disciplines. A detachable magazine allows quick mag changes and secure magazine retention, with an optional locking feature. On most CZ 600 models, magazines can be topped off through the ejection port for convenience.
User-Adjustable Trigger: The Alpha, Range, and Lux have a user-adjustable, single-stage trigger, while the Trail model utilizes a two-stage trigger. Trigger pull can be adjusted without removing the chassis from the stock. A 4-position dial sets trigger weights from 1.3 to 3 lbs., moving over just 1/2 lb. per click.
CZ 600 Series Rifles Features:
Steel and Alloy Actions, 3 sizes
60-Degree Bolt throw
Vertical two-position safety
Controlled round feed with short extractor
Three barrel profiles: Light, Semi-Heavy, and Heavy
Adjustable trigger – no disassembly needed, 4 weights
Picatinny Rail or Remington 700 scope bases
Detachable magazine with optional lock
Caliber conversion kits (sold separately)
Accuracy guarantees: 3/4 MOA (Range), 1 MOA (Alpha, Lux), and 2 MOA (Trail)
CZ 600 Models — Alpha, Lux, Range, and Trail
CZ 600 Alpha — CZ designed the Alpha as a “do it all” rifle with guaranteed sub-MOA accuracy for a modest $749.00 MSRP. A light-weight aluminum receiver balances the semi-heavy barrel for a 7.3-lb overall weight (before optic). The CZ 600 Alpha is designed to be versatile, durable, and reliable. Available chamberings include .223 Rem, .224 Valkyrie, 6mm Creedmoor, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, 7.62×39, .308 Win, .300 Win Mag, and .30-06 SPRG.
This Petersen’s video features the CZ Alpha model on a hunt in Central California
CZ 600 Lux — The refined lines and traditional style of the CZ 600 Lux reflect a long, proud legacy. The Lux features a steel action and oil-finished select-grade walnut stock. The steel receiver is drilled and tapped for Rem 700-pattern bases. The Lux model comes with a sub-MOA guarantee. Weight is 8.2 lbs. in 308 Win without scope.
CZ 600 Range — The Range model, with its cold hammer-forged heavy barrel, was designed to give precision shooters outstanding accuracy. The CZ 600 Range features the best accuracy guarantee ever offered by CZ: Sub-3/4 MOA guaranteed at 100 meters, for 5-shot groups with match-grade factory ammo. This accuracy is verified by CZ.
CZ 600 Trail — The CZ 600 Trail is a very light-weight, compact rifle, weighing just 6.1 lbs. before optics. The Trail uses AR-15 compatible mags for .223 Rem with CZ Bren 2 magazines for the other chambering, 7.62×39. The lightweight Trail model offers AR ergonomics along with ambidextrous mag release and safety lever similar to AR-platform rifles.
CZ 600 Trail Model — Initial Field Test
*In Europe CZ offers a fifth CZ 600 model, the “Ergo” model. See the first video linked above.
Many short-range Benchresters have thought about converting their 6 PPC to shoot a 30BR for score matches, or a Dasher for mid-range (or even 1000-yard) games. That way you have a rifle that does double duty, giving you the most bang for your buck. Though an action with a PPC bolt won’t normally work with 30BR/6BR/Dasher cases with their larger .308-class rim (0.4728″ diameter), there is a pretty easy solution that allows you to cycle these bigger cartridges with a 6PPC-style bolt (designed to fit .220 Russian rims).
“Rebating case rims … lets you shoot a 30BR in score matches using your PPC action. All you need is a new barrel. This saves buying another bolt, receiver, or rifle.” — Butch Lambert
Butch Lambert of ShadeTree Engineering provided this tip. Butch notes that many 6 PPC benchrest group shooters also enjoy shooting in score matches. But to be really competitive in the BR for score game, that means shooting a 30BR, which has a wider, .308-class rim (0.4728″ diameter). Likewise, if you want to compete in 600-yard registered BR events or in varmint matches, you probably want to run a bigger case, such as the 6BR, 6mm Dasher, or 6-6.5×47. Those cartridges also have the larger 0.4728″ rims.
Rebate Your 30 BR Rims
To convert a PPC-boltface action to shoot bigger cases you can spend a ton of money to buy a new bolt. That can cost hundreds of dollars. The simpler solution is to turn down the diameter of the larger cases on a lathe. Butch explains: “We’ve seen plenty of interest in rebating case rims. This lets you shoot a 30BR in score matches using your PPC action. All you need is a new barrel. This saves buying another bolt, receiver, or rifle if you have a PPC boltface. Anyone who has access to a lathe can do this job pretty easily. Yesterday I turned 150 case in about an hour.”
At right is the lathe form tool Butch uses to rebate the case rims.
Cutting Head for Rebating Rims
Editor’s Note: Butch Lambert (and his wife) recently returned from the hospital. We send our best wishes to the Lamberts for a full recovery and happier times in the days ahead.
In the wintertime, it’s common to encounter problems with static electricity when throwing your powder charges. The static can cause powder kernels to cling to the surface of reloading components, and can cause powder clumping. Clumped or sticky powder may make your measure bind or grab in the middle of the cycle, which can throw off your charge weight. Here are a couple simple ways you can minimize the effects of static electricity and improve the consistency of your powder measuring.
Ground Your Powder Measure — If you’re throwing powder charges in the fall or winter and have problems with bridging or sticking powder, use a ground wire. Bullet-smith Victor Johnson (Johnson Precision Bullets) tells us: “I have a 25-foot piece of real small wire with alligator clips on each end. It’s that long so I can run it down the hall to a water pipe. Use the wire tie from a bread bag to hold it in a small roll to put in the range box. When using it at the range use a 6″ nail from the co-op or Lowe’s / Home Depot and just push it into the ground.”
Use Bounce Dryer Sheets — A quick pass with the thin sheets used in dryers will eliminate “static cling” on your plastic reloading parts like powder throwers, powder funnels, and reloading press guides. Thanks to Doc76251 for this tip.
Reduce Electronic Scales’ Drift with Anti-Static Spray
Reloading Tip by GS Arizona from Riflemans Journal
Apparently reducing static charges on and around electronic scales can reduce their propensity to drift, lessening the problem of “wandering zero”. Just how and why static charges interfere with scale performance is unclear, but many shooters have noticed that static electricity can cause electronic scales to behave strangely. So how do you reduce static charges around your digital balance? GS Arizona has found a very simple solution — an anti-static aerosol spray — that, by all indications, actually works. When this “spray-can solution” was suggested by a fellow shooter, GS was skeptical. However, he tried the stuff and he says that it really does help the scale maintain zero over time, with much less observed drift.
GS explains that the use of “Static Guard” spray helped mitigate the problem of a drifting zero on his Ohaus electronic scale: “My electronic scale… suffers from drifting zero (as they all seem to). I’ve read dozens of forum posts about drift and how to minimize its occurrence, so I know this problem isn’t limited to my scale or my workshop. Sometime last year, John Lowther mentioned the use of anti-static spray as a solution to the drift problem. John stated that the spray had virtually eliminated drift for him.”
GS found that the Static Guard actually worked: “The spray works great, just as John said it would. I spray all surfaces that I touch with my hands and arms as well as the pan (top and bottom), the metal tray on which the pan rests and the table under the scale. In six months or so of using the spray I’ve re-applied it about two or three times; it certainly isn’t something that you need to do each time you sit down to load. Before using the spray, it was not uncommon for me to re-zero the scale 10 times in the course of loading 72 rounds; now it might need it once during a session.”
This Wednesday, November 17, Shooting USA will feature the Adaptive Defensive Shooting Summit (ADSS) held September 10-11, 2021 at the SIG Sauer Academy in Epping, New Hampshire. Camp Freedom and SIG Sauer teamed up with Trevor Baucom for the third year of this accessible shooting event, designed for people with disabilities. The ADSS helps adaptive shooters train and learn at a world class facility. For persons with disabilities, including injured military and law enforcement members, the ADSS Summit provides the opportunity to learn new skills and adapt to challenges.
This hour-long episode will be broadcast on the Outdoor Channel Wednesdays at 9:00 pm Eastern/Pacific, and 8:00 pm Central. The entire episode can also be streamed later online for a small fee.
Adaptive Shooting Programs
Marksmanship is one of the few sports where physically-challenged persons can compete at the highest level — with some provisions for wheelchair access and mobility. For example, in the world of F-Class competition, Matt Schwartzkopf is one of the best in the nation. Matt, a rangemaster at Ben Avery in Arizona, is a double amputee (below the knee). He hasn’t let that challenge stop him. He has been a Top-10 finisher at major F-Class matches, and was chosen to shoot with F-TR Team USA.
NRA Resources for Adaptive Shooting Events
The NRA Adaptive Shooting Program also provides information for organizations planning an event to include person with disabilities. Events may be organized by veterans’ groups, rehabilitation facilities, and gun clubs. For more information visit AdaptiveShooting.NRA.org.
Making Ranges Suitable for Disabled Shooters
The NRA Club Connections magazine has a feature on Adaptive Shooting. This article explains how range owners can make their lines of fire more accessible with the addition of a simple mat.
NRA’s Hunter Services and Adaptive Shooting Programs have maintained a list of organizations offering people with disabilities outdoor opportunities. Now available in a searchable database, any adaptive shooter can easily choose from adventures such as guided whitetail hunts, chartered fishing trips, and accessible hiking trails anywhere across the country. To find a program, visit the NRA Adaptive Shooting Program’s Hunting/Fishing Trip Database.
Adaptive Shooting Programs in the United Kingdom
Across the pond, the National Rifle Association of the United Kingdom (NRAUK) also has adaptive shooting programs. The NRA.ORG.UK website has a wealth of information for disabled shooters.
The NRAUK states: “There are many different types of target shooting available… in Great Britain. Some of them are readily accessible to disabled people, others less so. Also, shooting clubs and facilities do not all cater for every discipline; some only offer one, whilst larger complexes can cater for many of them.”
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. Bruno Shooters Supply — Reloading Press Sale
⏺ Good sale on single-stage and turret presses
Bruno’s is running a good SALE on Reloading presses, with some of the best prices we’ve found. Get significant savings on RCBS, Lyman, and Redding presses — single-stage presses along with turret presses. The classic RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme is now $180.00 at Bruno’s — that’s $30 cheaper than MidwayUSA. Check out these offerings:
2. Norma — Centerfire and Rimfire Ammo Direct from Norma
⏺ Great savings on excellent ammo, plus free shipping over $150
Good news for rimfire and centerfire shooters. Norma is now selling ammunition direct through its website NormaShooting.com at very competitive prices. What’s more you get FREE Shipping on all orders over $150, plus free insurance with all orders. Norma’s online ammo store has both centerfire and rimfire ammunition “in stock, ready to ship… there is plenty of ammo for sale at Norma Shooting.” The Norma 9mm Luger ammo is a good value at $17.99 for 50 rounds. And Norma’s 55gr .223 Rem ammo is just $15.49 for 30 rounds, 30% OFF the regular price.
3. Savage — November Rimfire Rebate — $50 or $25 Back
⏺ Get $50 or $25 money-back rebate on Savage rimfire rifles
Let Rimfire Ring… Purchase any Savage A or B Series rimfire rifle and receive a $50 mail-in Rebate, or purchase any Savage Rascal, 93, or 93R17 Rifle and receive a $25 mail-in Rebate. These rebate offers apply to rifle purchases between 11/1/2021 through 11/30/2021. CLICK HERE for Rebate INFO. Purchasers can REDEEM Online or return their Rebate Form through the mail. DEADLINE for mail-in or online submission is 12/31/2021.
4. Midway USA — Vortex Scopes Clearance Sale, Save 30-35%
⏺ Big-time 30-35% savings on many popular Vortex riflescopes
Vortex Optics riflescopes are reliable and are protected by one of the best warranties in the business. Right now you can save big on Vortex scopes for competition and hunting. Save 30-35% with MidwayUSA’s Vortex Clearance Sale. In addition to the optics shown above, there are a dozen other models on sale including: Viper PST Gen II 3-15x44mm, Viper HS 6-24x50mm, Viper HS LR 4-16x44mm, Viper HS 2.5-10x40mm, Viper 3-9x40mm, Viper 4-12x40mm, Viper PST 1-4x24mm and more.
5. CDNN Sports — Winchester Wildcat with Reflex Optic, $299.99
⏺ Handy .22 LR rimfire with Reflex optic, and easy take-down
Here’s fun, functional rimfire rifle for under $300 with reflex optic. This special edition .22 LR Winchester Wildcat features a field-removable lower receiver, ambidextrous magazine release, integral Picatinny top rail, and rear barrel access for easy cleaning. There is even a Picatinny rail on underside of forearm for mounting bipod or accessories. This SHOT Show Special Wildcat comes with a Reflex-style electronic optic, plus ghost ring rear sight and post front sight. TFB praised the one-button takedown and 10/22 magazine compatibility (see video). This can be a great fun plinker or first rifle for a family member. CDNN Sports also offers the Wildcat without Reflex sight for $279.99.
6. Amazon — BOG Deathgrip Aluminum Tripod, $137.99
⏺ Versatile tripod mounts quickly, securely — use for PRS/NRL or hunting.
This is a great tripod for long-range hunters and PRS/NRL competitors. The Clamp-type head quickly secures to your rifle’s forearm for a secure shooting solution. The BOG Deathgrip Aluminum Tripod is on sale now on Amazon for $137.99 (add to cart to see price). If weight is critical, there is also a lighter BOG carbon fiber tripod for $249.99. For the extra $112 you save a pound in total weight (7.5 lbs for carbon vs. 8.5 lbs for aluminum).
7. MidwayUSA — Frankford Large Rotary Tumbler, $149.99
⏺ Big Capacity, Great Deal — save $77 over typical price
If your brass is dirty on the outside or if you want to get it “squeaky clean” before annealing, a Rotary Wet Tumbler is a smart option. Right now the large, full-size Frankford Rotary Tumbler is on sale. Order it now from MidwayUSA for just $149.99 including 5 pounds of 304 stainless media pins and a packet of Frankford Brass Cleaning Solution. NOTE: You must ADD to CART to see that $149.99 price. This a great deal — this tumbler sells elsewhere for $220 or more. Note: if you already have stainless media, you can also buy the unit by itself from Amazon for $149.99, with free shipping for Prime members.
⏺ Affordable padded mat rolls up for easy transport
When shooting prone, it’s really important to be comfortable. You need a good mat that offers some padding along with plenty of room for your gear. The Redneck Convent Padded Shooters Mat fits the bill. Measuring 64 inches by 21 inches it boasts plenty of room and features 1/2″ padding top to bottom. This mat rolls up for easy storage/transport (Rolled size is 21″x8″) with handy built-in rolling straps. This is also available in Black for $35.99.
9. Midsouth — Hornady Quick Change Die Bushing Kit, $17.99
⏺ Great upgrade to any brand single-stage reloading press
With this inexpensive Hornady Lock-N-Load Die Conversion Kit, you can swap dies in and out of a press in a few seconds. This is great if you worth with multiple cartridge types, or size and seat on the same single-stage press. Simply insert the Hornady conversion bushing into a Rock Chucker or other press that uses a standard 1-1/4:12 thread. Then put the die bushing on your die. This Lock-N-Load Conversion Kit includes three die bushings and one conversion bushing.
10. Amazon — 12″ x 12″ Splatter Grid Targets, 10 for $10.99
⏺ Great for hunting rifle Sight-In and easy to estimate group size
This 12″x12″ Splatterburst Target combines splatter shot marking with a grid background, with five aiming points. The bright neon shot circles make it easy to see your shots. And the handy grid lets you quickly estimate your group size. Get a 10-pack for $10.99, or a 25-pack for $18.99 (better deal). This particular target has earned rave reviews — 87% of verified buyers gave this a FIVE-Star rating. One example: “Excellent quality and durability. The adhesive is really strong and the splatter contrast is [great].”
Protect Your Hearing — Wear Protection Whenever You Shoot
Noise induced hearing loss and tinnitus are two of the most common afflictions for recreational shooters and hunters. Everyone knows that gunfire is loud, but very few people understand the repercussions that shooting can have on their hearing until it’s too late.
The better quality suppressors can reduce the noise of a gunshot by 20 to 35 decibels (dB). Good muffs or plugs will reduce sound by 23 to 33 dB. By decreasing the overall sound signature, suppressors help to preserve the hearing of recreational shooters and hunters. Even the most effective suppressors, on the smallest and quietest calibers (.22 LR) reduce the peak sound level of a gunshot to between 110 to 120 dB. To put that in perspective, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), that is as loud as a jackhammer (110 dB) or an ambulance siren (120 dB). For normal caliber handguns and rifles, suppressed sound levels routinely exceed 130 dB, just shy of OSHA’s “hearing safe” threshold of 140 dB.
According to Dr. William W. Clark, the current Director of the Washington Univ. School of Medicine’s Audiology/Communication Sciences Program, a “serious threat to hearing comes from recreational hunting or target shooting”. This is in large part due to the fact that many people choose not to use traditional hearing protection devices like earplugs and earmuffs because they want to be able to hear their surroundings. Multiple studies have found that between 70 to 80% of hunters never wear earplugs or earmuffs, and nearly half of all target shooters don’t consistently wear traditional hearing protection. Thus, it should come as no surprise that for every five years of hunting, hunters become seven percent more likely to experience high frequency hearing loss.
This article is based on information from the American Suppressor Association (ASA). Since the ASA’s formation in 2011, three additional states have legalized suppressor ownership and 18 states have legalized suppressor hunting. For more information, visit www.AmericanSuppressorAssociation.com.
Pursuit of Accuracy’s Josh Thomas has done well with his upgraded CZ 457 precision rimfire rifle. Shown above are Open Division trophies he won in the 2021 season.*
Interested in the Rimfire Precision game — NRL22 and PRS Rimfire? Then this article is for you. Today we feature the CZ 457 of Joshua Thomas, the talented host of the Pursuit of Accuracy YouTube Channel. Josh loves his CZ 457, which has been upgraded with a Lilja barrel and Timney trigger. Josh tells us: “You don’t need to spend $3000 on a precision rimfire — you can win with a $700 CZ. Here’s how….”
Rimfire Precision Report by Joshua Thomas, PursuitofAccuracy.com
In the precision .22 LR market, the CZ 457 offers stellar performance for the price. For $400 to $1000 you can pick one of many CZ 457 models that will suit your needs and shooting style. Every model offers the same exact receiver and trigger assembly. I have found both standard 457 and the “match chamber” 457 barrels to be accurate and extremely well-made. There are lots of aftermarket choices for the rifle that make it easy to get exactly what you are looking for out of your rifle — triggers, stocks, chassis sytems, barrels, bolt knobs, scope rails, and more.
Best Features of the CZ 457
The CZ 457 may be the most modular precision rimfire on the market. You can swap barrels and magazines easily. The interchangeable barrel feature is by far the best feature of the CZ 457. Want to shoot .22 WMR for varmint hunts then transition to a .22 LR for precision shooting? No problem — five minutes and four screws are all you need. The CZ 457 is also an excellent value — it’s WAY better than a 10/22 but a fraction of the cost of high-end custom rimfire rigs. [Editor: Josh does own a Vudoo V22, but he says with a barrel upgrade the CZ 457 offers very similar performance at a fraction of the cost].
With his CZ 457 Josh drives nails at 100 yards. But it did take multiple shots.
CZ 457 VPT MTR Equipment List
Barrel: Lilja 1:16″-twist, 21″, .920″ straight taper
Scope: Athlon Cronus BTR Gen II 4.5-29x56mm
with Mil APRS1 Reticle
Rings: Athlon 34mm Low height rings
Scope Base: Area 419 +30 MOA base
ARCA Swiss Rail: Area 419 14″ weighted
ARCA Clamp: RRS ARCA clamp (Atlas)
Trigger: Timney 457 Curved Shoe (5 oz.)
Magazine and extensions: Anarchy Outdoors
Dope Card: Coletac Cheatsheet
Cheek Rest: Victor Titan universal cheek rest
Bipod: Atlas BT46-NC
CZ 457 Accuracy — What Can It Deliver?
I have done extensive testing with my CZ 457 using both factory and aftermarket barrels. You can expect the stock barrel to group most match ammunition around 0.3″ at 50 yards. This can obviously vary but this is a good general standard. Aftermarket barrels, such as the Lilja, are capable of shrinking those average group sizes down to 0.2″ or lower. I have personally shot a few 0.1″ groups with my Lilja at 50 yards with ELEY Match ammunition. While this doesn’t sound like a huge difference at 50 yards that variance between the factory barrel and the Lilja grows the further out you go.
Upgrade Strategies for the CZ 457
As I’ve noted, the CZ 457 is easily upgraded. But first buyers need to make an initial decision. Do they want to build a CZ 457 or just slowly upgrade as they go? If a buyer wants the best performing rifle he/she can start with the cheapest 457 model they can find. Remember all CZ 457s have the same receiver assembly. Then buy a Timney trigger, buy a Lilja custom barrel (e.g. .920″ straight taper), and upgrade to your choice of stock or chassis. I recommend a Manners stock if you don’t already have a different preferred aftermarket chassis.
For those looking to upgrade as they go on a tighter budget I would recommend the YoDave trigger kit — basically a spring change. With the YoDave upgrade my trigger averaged around 9-10 ounces. Next I would buy the Lilja barrel, then a stock later.
Ammo Selection for the the CZ 457 — Why Comparison Testing Is Important
Every gun and barrel is different, so you so should always lot test your gun with various ammo types and lots. If you’re serious about rimfire accuracy, then lot testing is a must, whether at your own rage or a testing center. There is no replacement for starting with a good lot of ammunition your rifle likes. A lot of guys want to buy various ammo in small quantities then use a tuner or sorting to get the ammo consistent. If you compare how much ammo you’re wasting in that endeavor it’s much more cost effective to lot test FIRST and buy a case of what your rifle likes.
Lot Testing Ammo — What You Will Discover
Improving Results for Your Rimfire Rifle
To get the best results from your CZ 457 rifle, first check your action torque — that’s something many rimfire precision shooters overlook. Then collect as much data as you can. From a cold bore find out how long it takes to foul-in, and determine the round count for the best accuracy. And learn how many rounds you can shoot before you need to clean (this will vary from gun to gun).
Also work on your gun handling. With a rimfire, good follow-through is vital because of the “long barrel dwell time” of the rimfire bullet. (A rimfire bullet, since it runs 1000-1100 fps vs. 2800-3200 fps for a centerfire bullet, spends much more time inside the barrel). Follow-through is huge in 22s as far as accuracy goes. For my rifles I try to keep a relatively light but constant pressure on the butt/comb.
Comparison — CZ 457 vs. Vudoo V22 vs. Ruger Precision Rimfire
Editor: Josh owns a top-tier Vudoo V22 as well as CZ 457 rifles. In this video, he tests his Lilja-barreled CZ 457 head-to-head vs. the much more expensive Vudoo V22. The results may surprise you.
Here is the Vudoo V22 with F3R Machine +20 MOA mount.
In this video Josh compares the Ruger Precision Rimfire to a CZ 457 AT-ONE .22 LR. Josh reports: “We show accuracy at 100 yards and talk about the advantages and disadvantages to each rifle. If you are looking for your next .22 LR purchase check out the video and see which rifle comes out on top for you.”
Favorite Accessories: Timney Trigger, Area 419 scope base and ARCA rail
The Timney trigger is the best aftermarket trigger available for the 457 currently. Mine averaged 5-6 ounces and is extremely crisp. It’s a great trigger for Benchrest or PRS/NRL style shooting. The Area 419 Scope Base has the best fit and finish in the market with no close seconds, in my opinion. It is available a +15, +30, and +50 MOA versions. This can allow rimfire competitors to reach 400+ yards without needing to hold over. That’s roughly 20 Mils of elevation travel at 400 yards.
The Area 419 ARCA rail is another best in class in my opinion. The 14″ universal weighted ARCA rail really helps for for PRS / NRL style shooting. The rail’s weight helps the rifle settle into the support bags, and helps to steady the reticle for cleaner shots off of barricades and props.
Upgrades — Installing and Headspacing a Lilja Barrel
One advantage of the CZ 457 platform is the ease with which the barrel can be upgraded. In this video, Joshua installs and headspaces a Lilja .22 LR match barrel onto his daughter’s CZ 457 AT-ONE rifle. The video shows the process for setting headspace.
Josh explains: “Different rimfire ammunition manufacturers use different rim thickness for their ammunition. CCI, Lapua, and SK have a thicker rim thickness than that of ELEY. I like to start at the standard of .043″ for headspace and work my way in .001″ at a time. I’m working my way in looking at accuracy changes, extraction reliability, and the feel of the bolt close. I have found that this will vary barrel to barrel as the chambers are slightly different. For the Lilja I have found .041″ was best for Lapua, SK, and CCI while .039″ was what worked best for ELEY.
Always follow the barrel manufacturer’s directions and work in small increments. Lilja provides instructions on how to set your headspace, and how to make the required measurements to achieve this. I believe Lilja currently is the only barrel manufacturer that is offering a barrel for the CZ 457 for which the end user can easily set the headspace themselves.”
Reactive Targets — Why They Are Fun to Shoot and Good for Training
I love to shoot small steel swinger targets. Reactive targets give the shooter instant positive feedback that what they have done is correct or working. These can be great training tools for both the novice shooter and the expert shooter. However I recommend competitive shooters use smaller reactive targets so they don’t get over-confident with big plates. I like to stick to 1-2 MOA size targets in relation to the distance.
If the rifle is capable of 1″ groups at 150 yards I will use a 2″ – 3″ target as I’m usually shooting these from a field position and not a bench. This allows for small errors on my part and wind calls without making it so easy a bad shot hits.
About the Pursuit of Accuracy Video Channel
Mission Statement: We push the boundaries of rimfire accuracy through education and a shared learning experience with our audience. We claim no professional status … we are simply a small team of dedicated marksmen attempting to redefine the generally-accepted limits of what can be done with .22 LR rifles. We remain committed to our viewers and community. We do not conduct paid reviews. We feel this must be the standard as the trust and honesty we share with our viewers is simply worth more than any paid product review.
Q: What is the biggest challenge in creating videos?
Josh: The biggest challenge with creating rimfire content is dealing with changing environmentals. Not only does all the preparation to film need to be completed but the weather must also cooperate. It’s nearly impossible to demonstrate the accuracy of a platform with a varying amount of wind affecting bullet flight.
Q: How has making videos has helped your shooting and your knowledge of rifles?
Josh: Creating content for YouTube has pushed me to shoot nearly every single day of the week. The increased time behind the trigger and the opportunity to see my mistakes on camera afterwards create a unique learning environment. I have thousands of people seeing my mistakes and quickly pointing them out to me. The amount that I have learned in the last seven months of daily rimfire shooting has proven to me I didn’t know nearly as much as I thought I did! You can always keep learning and improving.
Joshua also competes with his daughter. The young lady is a talented shooter and has actually outscored her father on occasion:
Q: What you like most about making rimfire marksmanship videos?
Josh: Making videos for YouTube constantly pushes me to rise to challenges I would have never thought achievable with .22 LR rifles. My audience is attentive and well-informed. That makes me bring my best game to the range every time I have the camera in hand.
* Trophies for 2021 Open Division Precision Rimfire matches: Large IPSC plate for 2nd overall in VOD 2021 series; Small IPSC plate for 2nd overall VOD series finale; State of NC trophy for VOD rimfire 3rd overall; Gray griffon trophy for Liberty Precision rimfire 4th overall; Small IPSC dark plate for Top MIL/LEO in Frontline Defense Match.
Federal law requires those who purchase a firearm at a Federal Firearms Licensee (gun dealer or FFL) to fill out a form 4473. This record of the firearm transfer is then stored by the dealer on their premises. This creates a system whereby if a gun is found at a crime scene ATF can trace the firearm to the last retail purchase. However, since the records are stored with each FFL, the system is decentralized in a manner that protects against government abuse of gun owner data.
Apparently reducing static charges on and around electronic scales can reduce their propensity to drift, lessening the problem of “wandering zero”. Just how and why static charges interfere with scale performance is unclear, but many shooters have noticed that static electricity can cause electronic scales to behave strangely. So how do you reduce static charges around your digital balance? GS Arizona has found a very simple solution — an anti-static aerosol spray — that, by all indications, actually works. When this “spray-can solution” was suggested by a fellow shooter, GS was skeptical. However, he tried the stuff and he says that it really does help the scale maintain zero over time, with much less observed drift.
CZ 457 VPT MTR Equipment List
