Gander Outdoors in Kenosha, WI — reader-submitted photo on GMToday.com
The ammo and primer shortage is real, and it’s here to stay — well into 2021. That’s what industry experts tell us: “With [ammunition] demand far outstripping supply and inventory levels in the channel at all-time lows, we see strong demand continuing[.]” — Christopher Metz, CEO of Vista Outdoor
Certain types of ammunition, 9mm Luger for example, are very difficult to find these days. And what IS available is often marked up 300-400% over 2019 prices. Demand has far exceeded supply. And the ammo shortage won’t end any time soon. Vista Outdoor’s CEO Metz added: “Despite us producing flat-out for six months, there is no buildup of inventory at any of our customers. In fact, every one of them would like significantly more. Simply put, consumer demand continues to outpace our ability to supply.”
Ammunition Shortage Impacts Primer Supply
Rifle and pistol primers are nearly sold out everywhere, with some less-than-reputable vendors now charging 4-5 times the normal price. So what’s going on here — why can’t you find primers? One reason is that primer producers such as Federal and CCI are using the vast majority of the primers they make to complete their loaded ammunition, which is flying off the shelves.
What is causing the ammo panic buying and primer shortage?
There are a number of key reasons:
1. Concerns over the recent election and potential Democratic Party control of U.S. House of Representatives, U.S. Senate, and the White House;
2. General worry and paranoia caused by the COVID-19 pandemic;
3. Fear of new legislation banning guns and restricting ammunition purchases;
4. Social unrest and rioting led by BLM and left-wing activists and tolerated/encouraged by Blue State government officials; and perhaps most importantly,
5. The vast increase in the number of new gun buyers.
Huge Increase in Gun Purchasing in 2020
2020 will probably set an all-time record for gun purchasing in the USA. This spike in gun buying has been propelled by the greatest annual increase in gun ownership in U.S. history. According to data from the NSSF, roughly 6.2 million Americans purchased their first firearm in 2020. A NSSF dealer survey estimates that 40% of all gun sales were conducted to purchasers who have never previously owned a firearm. And women accounted for 40.2% of first-time gun purchases. We’ve never seen that kind of spike in gun ownership in a single year. This is unprecedented.
Ammo Shortage Will Continue for Many Months, Well into 2021
What are the prospects for greater availabilty of loaded ammo in the months ahead? Not so good according to Vista Outdoor CEO Christopher Metz whose company operates Federal, CCI, RCBS, Alliant, Blazer and many other shooting industry brands. Metz declared: “We currently have over a year’s worth of orders for ammunition.” That value of those back-orders exceeds ONE BILLION dollars. “This is unprecedented for our company. With demand far outstripping supply and inventory levels in the channel at all-time lows, we see strong demand continuing[.]”
There is some good news however — the former Remington ammo factory will start cranking out ammunition again. The American Rifleman reports: “Vista Outdoor has purchased the [Remington Outdoor] ammunition factory in Lonoke, Arkansas [and will resume] production at or near full capacity. The Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette reports 300 employees furloughed by the former owner of the plant will soon be recalled to join nearly 400 still working at the facility.”
In our Shooter’s Forum there is a popular thread, Let’s See Those Hunting Rifles. This long-running thread features dozens of interesting hunting rifles of all varieties — from rimfires to big magnums. In that thread we found the focus of today’s story, a .221 Fireball. Now that we are in the thick of winter, with Christmas just two weeks away, we showcase this .221 Rem Fireball rifle from Norway. This rig belong to Thomas Haugland, aka “Roe” on our Forum. An avid backcountry hunter, Thomas also happens to be one of the best gun-content video producers on YouTube — check out Haugland’s THLR.NO YouTube Channel.
We’ll begin with two of Haugland’s remarkable videos — worth watching just for the stunning scenery. Thomas skis through the Norwegian Arctic backcountry, then successfully uses his suppressed, white-camouflaged .221 Fireball rifle to bag a Ptarmigan bird — bringing home a well-earned winter dinner.
NOTE: This is the short preview version. Watch the full hunt in second video.
The 7-minute video below shows the full ski hunt. The Ptarmigans are spotted at 4:30 time mark and Thomas takes the shot at 5:36. Great video — you feel like you are there in Norway’s white wilderness. The images above (including top photo) are pulled from this video.
About the .221 Fireball Cartridge
The .221 Remington Fireball cartridge was developed by Remington in 1963 for the XP-100 bolt action pistol. Today the cartridge remains popular with hunters/varminters, both in the original version, and with wildcats such as the .20 Vartarg and .17 Fireball. Lapua started making superb .221 Rem Fireball cartridge brass starting in 2014. However, according to Lapua: “This case is no longer in active production.” But you can definitely still find it — Lapua .221 Fireball brass is in stock now at Grafs.com for $79.99/100. Lapua notes: “Fireball brass has recently seen a dramatic surge in popularity, due in large part to the efforts of wildcatters working with this versatile case. Whether used in its original form, or necked into one of the many cases that it serves as a parent for, the Lapua .221 Fireball brass is a sure winner[.]”
Haugland .221 Fireball with New Carbon Stock and Walther Barrel
Shown above is Haugland’s same .221 Rem Fireball from the videos, but with a new camo stock and new barrel. (The previous stock was painted white). Originally a Remington 700 Light Varmint, this was rebarreled to .221 Fireball with Lothar Walther 1:12″ barrel. Thomas admits he “Goofed a little on the barrel profile, so it is a tad heavier than I wanted.” The stock is a carbon-fiber Gunwerks ClymR and on top is a Leupold 3-18x44mm MK5 HD with Gunwerks RH1 reticle. Only the action and the trigger is left from the original rifle.
With the 1:12″ twist, this rifle is restricted to 55gr maximum bullet weight. Thomas posted: “Shoots well with Vihtavuori N130 and Norma N200 powders, not so good with RL7.” Due to lack of light in far-Northern Norway in winter (see photo above), Roe has not hunted with this rifle much since rebarreling, but as you can see, it’s very accurate — look at that group. Thomas says the gun shoots much better with the new barrel: “With the factory barrel (which I believe was 1:14″-twist) it didn’t shoot better than 1 MOA at 100 yards. Now it approaches half-MOA for three shots (see photo).”
And Thomas was successful with this rig as “reborn” with new stock and barrel. Here’s the gun and a Ptarmigan he shot in the Norwegian snow-covered backcountry.
If you like that Gunwerks ClymR carbon stock, here’s a Gunwerks video showcasing the ClymR Rifle System. A complete Gunwerks ClymR rifle with Titanium action and scope is a shocking $9734.99, so we can understand why Thomas went with the stock alone, paired with a older Rem 700 action.
Image Courtesy NSSF. This story is based on an NSSF Article.
‘Tis the season of gift-giving (and Christmas Day is nearly here). Perhaps you’re considering giving a a first rifle to your grandson or perhaps a carry pistol to a spouse. When making a gun gift to a friend or family member, however, there are some very important legal considerations. Also the rules on firearms gift transfers vary from state to state. Bottom line here — you need to know the law BEFORE you deliver that shiny new firearm to a family member, close friend, or relative.
The first thing to remember if you’re thinking about giving someone a gun is that … it’s a gun! You already know that ownership of a firearm brings with it some serious legal and ethical obligations that other consumer products don’t. So let’s look at some questions you may have about giving a firearm as a gift.
Image Courtesy NSSF
The first question you have to ask is whether the intended recipient can legally own the firearm where he or she lives. With more than 20,000 different gun laws on the books, even the kinds of firearms that law-abiding citizens can own vary from place to place. For example, juveniles (under age 18) generally speaking are precluded by law from possessing a handgun. Check out the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) website for an overview of local laws and, whatever you do, don’t forget that you can never under any circumstances transfer a firearm to someone you know — or have reasonable cause to believe — legally can’t own one. That’s a federal felony, so be careful.
There’s no federal law that prohibits a gift of a firearm to a relative or friend who lives in your home state. Abramski v. United States, a recent Supreme Court decision involving a “straw purchase” of a firearm did not change the law regarding firearms as gifts. The following states (California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Washington State) and the District of Columbia require you to transfer a firearm through a local firearms retailer so an instant background check will be performed to make sure the recipient is not legally prohibited from owning the gun. Maryland and Pennsylvania require a background check for private party transfer of a handgun. There are exceptions, so it’s important to check the law of your state or ask your local firearms retailer.
Consider a Gift Card Instead of Direct Gift
The ATF recommends that if you want to give someone a new firearm, rather than going to a gun store and buying the gun on your own, consider instead purchasing a gift certificate/card from your favorite gun retailer. Then give that gift card as the present. That way the recipient can choose the exact gun he or she wants, and there’s no question about who is “the actual buyer of the firearm,” which is a question any purchaser must certify on the Federal Form 4473 at the time of purchase. The Gift Card option avoids any “straw purchaser” issues.
Right now, with loaded ammunition and primers hard to find, many shooters are exploring air rifle options to enjoy target shooting and maintain their marksmanship skills. While air rifles don’t use powder and primers, there IS a propellant — compressed AIR, very highly compressed air. Some of the premium air rifles on the market now run at 4500 PSI. How do you get that kind of pressure safely? You need a very good air compressor, preferrably with smart technology to run to max without over-pressure risks. Thankfully, there are some very advanced air compressors on the market today, including a new ReadyAir “oilless” compressor from Umarex and the popular Air Venturi II portable sold by Pyramyd Air. Both electrically-powered units can safely fill airgun reservoirs up to 4500 PSI.
UMAREX ReadyAir Oilless Airgun Compressor
Umarex USA recently introduced a new oilless portable air compressor to fill high-pressure air guns. The innovative Umarex ReadyAir pump is a “smart device” with electronically-controlled fills up to 4500 PSI. It utilizes a patented oilless piston compression technology to fill PCP reservoirs up to a true 4500 PSI in a few minutes. The oilless design means less maintenance hassles.
“In a growing market of 3000 PSI and greater airguns, shooters need an easy, yet reliable and portable air source. The Umarex ReadyAir reliably fills … 4500 PSI airguns like that of our Umarex Hammer and other big game hunting air rifles in just minutes”, said Richard Turner, President of Umarex USA.
The oilless system is simple and requires less maintenance allowing shooters to spend more time shooting and less time maintaining their compressor. The ReadyAir is the only smart airgun compressor in its class engineered to be oilless AND control the extreme heat generated by the compression of air. Umarex claims “the heavy-duty quality components plus smart electronic governors increases its life expectancy and decreases maintenance while eliminating the need for liquid cooling or lubrication.”
The Umarex ReadyAir can run from standard 110-volt electrical outlets without an external converter box. Or it can run from a 12-volt vehicle battery with the included 8-foot battery cables. The ReadyAir can be electronically programmed to fill to any desired pressure up to 4500 PSI. It is managed by a smart on-board computer that automatically shuts the compressor off if the set running temperature is ever exceeded. It also features a compressed activated charcoal filter to prevent dirt and moisture from entering an airgun’s reservoir.
UMAREX READYAIR FEATURES:
Oil-Free: Requires no oil or water
Smart Digital Auto-Shut-Off Control: Stops at your Set Pressure
Temp Protection: Smart Auto Shut Off prevents over-heating
Legitimately Fills to 4500 PSI
Electric: Use standard 110 volt or 12 volts with no external converter
Dual Language Capability: English / Spanish
High-Pressure Hose, Long 12 volt cables and 110 volt power cable included
Maintenance Kit Included
The portable Umarex ReadyAir has an attractive $549.99 MSRP, half the price of some other 4500 PSI compressors. (Order from Pyramyd Air for $529.99). Each ReadyAir includes the compressor unit with carry handle, 110V power cord, 12V battery clamp cable, and a high-pressure hose with quick connect fittings.
Air Venturi Nomad II Electric Air Compressor
Another very good value in a 4500 PSI electric-powered air compressor, is the Air Venturi Nomad II 4500 PSI Portable PCP Compressor. Priced at $699.99, the Nomad II offers features and performance that could cost $1000.00 or more with other machines capable of quick air fills up to 4500 PSI. Weighing under 20 pounds, and sized just 10.6″ L x 8″ W x 7.9″, the fan-cooled Nomad II is truly a “portable” unit that even includes a travel bag and a converter so you can power this pump from your vehicle’s 12-volt battery. NOTE: This requires lubricant — you must use pure silicone oil with the Nomad II Compressor.
Pressures up to 4500 PSI
Integrated LED lights on underside of the unit for low light use
Capable of running off 110V or 220V outlet or 12V car battery
Fan-cooled power supply for electrical outlet use is built-in
External Lubrication Port (Use Silicone Lubricant only)
Hose with integrated moisture catch and female QD fittings
Noise level while running is 92 dB
Jumper cables included
Efficient High Pressure Hand Pumps
Have you ever wanted to shoot at a range or in the field where there is no electrical power and you don’t have a gas-fueled pump of some kind? There IS an human-powered way to fill your air rifles — if you’re willing to expend some energy.
For the money, we like the GX PCP 4500 PSI Hand Pump, $159.99 at Amazon (shown above). This well-designed pump features a 3.5 Stage high pressure fill function along with built-in Oil-Moisture Filters. The exclusive 3.5 Stage pump design compresses the maximum amount of air possible from each stroke. That means fewer strokes and less work to fill your air gun. The design also has a wide-spread base that keeps the unit nice and steady while you are pumping.
Umarex also offers a specialized hand pump rated for 4500 PSI — though a 3000 PSI fill is more common. The Umarex SuperFill High Pressure Hand Pump compresses the maximum amount of air possible from each stroke. About 150 strokes of the pump will fill a 13ci (200 cc) tank to 3000 PSI. For $49.99 you can add the patented Dry-Pac system that removes up to 90% of moisture in the compressed air. With this pump Umarex includes a female quick-disconnect fitting that threads onto the end of the hose. This SuperFill Hand Pump costs $179.99 from Umarex
In this video, Eydin Hansen explains how to use high-pressure hand pumps. The key is to use steady strokes both up and down. Use your body-weight on the down stroke, when there is the most resistance. Hansen also suggests pumping in stages — pump for 5 minutes, then let it cool down for 15. Them pump another 5. Hansen recommends keeping Keep your airgun’s cylinder topped off so that future pumping won’t require more than the one, 5-minute session. “Slow and steady wins the race”, says Hansen.
What kind of accuracy do you think is possible from a rimfire benchrest rifle? If we said 0.44 MOA you might not be surprised, thinking this was at 50 yards. But how about 0.44 MOA accuracy at TWO HUNDRED yards. Now that’s impressive. Consider this — at 200 yards, a 10 mph crosswind will push that little 40gr bullet 15.3 inches. Here’s the story, which comes from the Land Down-Under, Australia.
A couple seasons back, Australian John Lavaring shot a group at 200 yards that would make most centerfire shooters proud. The five-shot group, with all shots in the center 10-ring, measured just 0.93 inches. That works out to 0.44 MOA at 200 — mighty impressive for a .22 LR. Recorded at a Rimfire Fly Shoot benchrest event in Canberra, Australia, this 200-yard target set two new Australian SSAA National records! John was using ELEY Tenex ammunition.
Congratulations to John Lavaring for a spectacular demonstration of how well a rimfire rig can shoot — even at 200 yards. We rarely shoot our .22 LR rifles past 50 meters. Maybe it’s time to start a Rimfire ELR series, with targets at 200 or even 300 yards. What do you think of the Rimfire ELR idea? Leave comments below.
Anschutz 54 Benchrest Rig
The rifle was a Anschutz model 54 Match in a custom benchrest stock. John’s record-setting rig features a barrel block, which you can see forward of the action. Scope is a Bausch & Lomb BR model. We don’t have the round count on Lavaring’s barrel, but good rimfire benchrest rifles can often get 10,000 rounds (or more) of accurate life.
Rimfire Ballistics at 200 Yards
Some folks may be wondering about .22 LR ballistics at 200 yards. Well, with a 25-yard zero, the 200-yard drop for John’s 40gr Tenex ammo is 54 inches, assuming 0.145 G1 BC and 1085 fps muzzle velocity per ELEY website. And at 200 yards, a 10 mph crosswind will push that little bullet 15.3 inches! We’re told the winds were pretty tricky when Lavary shot his record group. This makes his achievement all the more impressive — we have to admire John’s wind-reading ability.
This ELEY ammo has proven to be exceptionally accurate. Here is a short video showing TEN rounds of Tenex shot from a machine rest with target at 50 meters.
Are you thinking of getting into the NRL22 game next season, our would you just like to add a modern chassis-style rimfire rig to your rifle collection? Here is a cool new MDT chassis that can transform a basic CZ 457 .22 LR rifle into something much more modern and versatile. With this $499.95 MDT XRS Chassis system, you can build a very competitive NRL22 rig for under $1000.00 (before optics). Right now a basic CZ 457 rifle costs just $427.00 at Bud’s Gunshop, with heavy-barreled 457s $80-$120 more.
MDT Offers New CZ 457 Inlet for MDT XRS Chassis System
MDT now offers a CZ 457-inletted MDT XRS Chassis System. This modern modular aluminum chassis transforms a “plain Jane” CZ 457 into something that can really perform in rimfire tactical competitions. The XRS Chassis System provides adjustability and features that can benefit tactical shooters. The stock features adjustable cheekpiece and adjustable length of pull. The 12.12″ long fore-end comes with M-LOK slots built in for accessory mounting and attachment of ARCA or Picatinny rails. With a rail on the bottom you can slide your bipod fore and aft to adapt to various stage positions and supports.
Weighing in at 3.9 pounds, the XRS features an adjustable length-of-pull (via spacers) from 13.25″ to 15.0″. There is also a handy quick-adjust cheek piece. This affordable XRS chassis is a great upgrade for a basic CZ 457 .22 LR bolt-action rimfire rifle. The CZ 457 American, shown below. is under $470.00.
Each XRS is constructed from a full-length, CNC-machined core of aircraft-grade aluminum with textured polymer outer panels (for durability and “feel”). The precision aluminum bedding system helps maximize the accuracy of the CZ 457 action. The XRS features a replaceable over-molded and textured grip system, with BOTH angled and vertical grips included with purchase.
CLICK HERE for more information on the MDT XRS Chassis System with a starting price of $499.95.
Nosler has just released the Nosler Reloading Guide #9, the latest in a respected series of hardback Nosler load manuals. This 800-page guide covers 101 cartridge types. New in this edition you’ll find the popular 6mm Creedmoor, 6mm XC, 6.5 PRC, and 7.62×39, along with 20 Nosler, 22 Nosler, 24 Nosler, 27 Nosler and 33 Nosler. This new guide draws from thousands of hours in the Nosler Ballistic Lab, along with the experience of many respected experts.
The book is available right now for $24.99 at Grafs.com. In addition, much of the book’s latest load data is available for free on the Nosler.com online LOAD DATA Center. But to get ALL the data, PLUS the technical article, you’ll need to buy the book.
The Nosler Reloading Guide 9 Reloading Manual provides load data for 101 rifle and handgun cartridges with hundreds of new powder additions. A comprehensive data set for today’s reloader, this manual is current with every bullet that Nosler offers through 2020 from 17 caliber up to 458 caliber in the rifle section and 9mm up to 45 caliber in the handgun section. Nine new cartridges were added to this manual. These include: 20 Nosler, 22 Nosler, 24 Nosler, 6mm Creedmoor, 6mm XC, 6.5 PRC, 27 Nosler, 7.62×39 and 33 Nosler. Also new for the Nosler Reloading Guide #9 are cartridge introductions written by veteran outdoor writers and industry tech experts. The 800-page book also has helpful “how-to” sections such as “Getting Ready to Reload”.
Q. Why Buy a Book when Load Data is Available Online from Powder Makers?
There are good, solid reasons to buy print-format loading guides produced by bullet-makers. If you go to the Hodgdon online Reloading Data Center you’ll only find loads with Hodgdon, IMR, and Winchester powders — the key brands they sell. In a book such as this Nosler #9 or the Sierra Reloading Manual, you will find loads with a much wider selection of powders including Vihtavuori, Alliant, Accurate, Norma, Ramshot, and other brands. You won’t find a Reloder 16 or VV N140 load on Hodgdon’s website.
In addition, it is handy to have loads in a print edition which is easy to access on your load bench. You don’t need a computer or an internet connection. And using a book is often faster than a web interface when quickly scanning through a variety of bullet choices for a cartridge.
Along with the new Nosler #9 Manual, here are four other recommended Reloading Manuals:
Lyman’s Auto Advance Target System is an innovative product for rimfire shooters. Shoot more, with less time wasted changing targets. The Auto Advance features a motor-driven roll of targets that can be “refreshed” with a radio remote-control. Here’s how it works — a 50-foot-long target roll is mounted in the top on the target stand. When you’re ready for a new target, push a button and a fresh target rolls into place. The radio remote-control activates a battery-powered electric motor that conveniently rolls a new target into place after the current target is shot out. The remote-control works at distances up to 200 yards. NOTE: This target system is rated for rimfire and air rifle use only — no centerfire.
There are currently four (4) target roll options: Five Bullseye Target, 11-Bull Smallbore Target, Silhouette Target, and Varmint Target. MSRP is $149.95; street price is currently $112.99 on Amazon.
This helpful Lyman video shows all the features of the Auto Advance, with instructions for frame assembly, target-roll loading/removal, and use of the remote control.
Lyman states: “The new Lyman Auto-Advance Target System offers shooters the ability to change targets at up to 200 yards with the press of a button! No more walking downrange to replace targets, or waiting for cease-fires! The Auto-Advance Target System is battery-operated, so there is no need for wires and power outlets, plus it disassembles easily for transportation back and forth to the range. The Auto-Advance Target System has steel protection plates that are rated for use with all rimfire calibers. The Auto-Advance Target System comes with a roll of standard bullseye targets. Additional 50-foot target rolls are available with bullseye, animal and silhouette designs.”
With the current acute shortages of ammo and reloading components (particularly primers), many shooters are doing more dry-fire training. This method allows you to practice your hold, aiming, and trigger-pulling skills without using precious components and/or barrel life. Here are three systems employed for Dry Fire Training. The first device, the Mantis X Series, fits on a Picatinny rail and has a full-featured App that records your sessions and offers training tips. The Strikeman, used primarily by pistol shooters, features an in-chamber laser and a smartphone App that “reads” a proprietary target. The third device, the SCATT MX-02, is favored by top air rifle Olympic shooters and smallbore marksmen, but it can also be effectively used with centerfire rifles also. AND it can work for LIVE-fire as well as dry-fire training.
Mantis Systems — X2 for Dry-Fire, $99.99
Built for dry-fire use only, the Mantis X2 ($99.99) provides real-time, shot-by-shot feedback for both pistol and rifle users. You can track multiple training sessions with data-driven insights, and monitor your progress. This unit has earned high user reviews such as: “As a new gun owner the Mantis X is a game changer for me. I have not been able to get to the range during the lockdowns and being able to practice at home [is great].” And another: “Easy to install[.] The App is free and easy to use. I can’t make it to the range very often so I love being able to improve at home. It holds its charge for a long time.”
Guns America Digest has reviewed the Mantis X2. Tester Edgar Sherman says it offers good functionality for the $99.99 MSRP: “[The X2] is a clip-on attachment you can put on your handgun or rifle to test your accuracy [and see] how much movement you produce when breaking your shot. I use this system for myself to check my grip and trigger press [and] help new shooters eliminate variables. This tool will link up to your phone via Bluetooth and a free [Android App].” The Mantis X2 is a good value. The manufacturer states: “There is nothing at this price point that will give you this level of feedback for dry fire.”
There are actually four Mantis versions for firearms: X2 ($99.99), X3 ($169.99), X7 Shotgun ($199.99) and X10 Elite ($249.99). The X3 adds live fire functionality, allowing you to delve into and compare performance improvements between dry and live fire sessions. The capabilities of each system are found on the Mantis Model Comparison Page. NOTE: If your pistol/rifle lacks a standard accessory rail, Mantis offers a variety of Clamp-on Rail Adapeters.
Strikeman Training System
In this video Dustin Ellerman shows how to use the Strikeman Dry Firing System.
The Strikeman system is designed for dry-fire training primarily with handguns. This $99.99 system has four components: 1) a laser cartridge (similar to a bore-sighter) that fits in your chamber; 2) a special target; 3) a mount for your smartphone; and 4) a smartphone App that records your aiming. During practice, you set up your smartphone to point at the target, and the App record the laser movement, effectively tracking your muzzle movement. The manufacturer explains: “By using our signature target, laser cartridge and smartphone holder in unison with our phone App, you can safely practice your shot in the comfort of your home. The target includes a removable mount and suction cups. Our custom designed smartphone holder allows you to adjust your smartphone effortlessly.” Users seem to like this system, and Strikeman even offers a 15-day sastisfaction guarantee: “The Strikeman Training System is guaranteed to improve your shot accuracy, or your money back. Try it risk free for 15 days!”
The Strikeman is currently offered for seven (7) different cartridge types: .380 ACP, 9x19mm, .357 SIG, .38 SPL, .40 SW, .45 ACP, .223 Rem/5.56. The manufacturer’s video below shows how to place the Strikeman laser cartridge in your pistol and set up your smartphone and the special target:
SCATT MX-02 for Dry-Fire and Live-Fire
The SCATT MX-02 ($1799.99) is an electronic shooter training system that can be used effectively for dry-fire training. However, it it is also capable of operating outdoors with live, centerfire ammunition, at distances from 25 yards to 600 yards. Tony Chow tested this product for AccurateShooter.com. As fitted to his AR-15 Service Rifle, Tony found this is a very useful tool that can help High Power competitors refine their technique and shoot higher scores. CLICK HERE for MX-02 3000-word Review. There is a newer SCATT MX-W2 model ($1899.00) that offers all the same capabilities with a Wireless configuration.
How the SCATT MX-02 Works
The SCATT sensor mounted on the end of the barrel has a digital camera that recognizes the black bullseye in the target, even in broad daylight outdoors. Using the bullseye as a reference, the SCATT software tracks the movement of the muzzle relative to the center of the target. The unit can plot these movements as a continuous trace, which appears on a monitor as a squiggly, colored line. By sensing the exact moment of shot release, the SCATT can also interpolate relative shot placement (for a single shot or series of shots) — but this is not the same as an electronic target which actually records the exact shot impact location on the target.
Emil Praslick III is widely recognized as one of the greatest wind wizards on the planet — a master at identifying wind value and direction, and predicting wind cycles. As coach of the USAMU and top civilian teams, Emil has helped win many high-level championships. In the three videos we feature today, Emil, who works with Capstone Precision Group (Berger, Lapua, SK, Vihtavuori) and Team Applied Ballistics, explains how to determine wind direction and velocity using a variety of indicators. Praslick, now retired from the U.S. Army, was an 18-time National and 2-time World Champion coach with the USAMU.
Video ONE: Wind Theory Basics — Understanding “Wind Values”
In this video from UltimateReloader.com, Emil explains the basics of modern wind theory. To properly understand the effect of the wind you need to know both the velocity of the wind and its angle. The combination of those variables translates to the wind value. Emil also explains that the wind value may not be constant — it can cycle both in speed and velocity. Emil also explains some of the environmental conditions such as mirage that can reveal wind conditions.
Video TWO: Determining the Direction of the Wind
Key Point in Video — Find the Boil
Emil explains how to determine wind direction using optic. The method is to use spotting scope, riflescope, or binoculars to look for the “Boil” — the condition in mirage when the light waves rising straight up. The wind will generate that straight-up, vertical boil in your optics when it is blowing directly at you, or directly from your rear. To identify this, traverse your scope or optics until you see the boil running straight up. When you see that vertical boil, the direction your optic is pointing is aligned with the wind flow (either blowing towards you or from directly behind you).
Video THREE: The No Wind Zero Setting
In this second video, Emil defines the “No-Wind Zero”, and explains why competitive shooters must understand the no-wind zero and have their sights or optics set for a no-wind zero starting point before heading to a match. In order to hit your target, after determining wind speed and direction, says Emil, “you have to have your scope setting dialed to ‘no wind zero’ first.”
Coach of Champions — Emil Praslick III
SFC Emil Praslick III, (U.S. Army, retired) works with Berger Bullets and Applied Ballistics. Emil served as the Head Coach of the U.S. National Long Range Rifle Team and Head Coach of the USAMU for several years. Teams coached by Emil have won 33 Inter-Service Rifle Championships. On top of that, teams he coached set 18 National records and 2 World Records. Overall, in the role of coach, Praslick can be credited with the most team wins of any coach in U.S. Military history.
About the .221 Fireball Cartridge
The first question you have to ask is whether the intended recipient can legally own the firearm where he or she lives. With more than 20,000 different gun laws on the books, even the kinds of firearms that law-abiding citizens can own vary from place to place. For example, juveniles (under age 18) generally speaking are precluded by law from possessing a handgun. Check out the 
Consider a Gift Card Instead of Direct Gift
For the money, we like the 
Anschutz 54 Benchrest Rig
