What was old is new again — metal pistol frames. Walther, which has focused on polymer-framed pistols in recent decades, has come out with a metal-framed version of its flagship Q5 model, chambered in 9x19mm (9mm Luger). We like this pistol, official called the Walther PPQ Q5 Match Steel Frame (SF). The metal frame adds mass to the gun, and lowers the center of gravity. That reduces muzzle flip somewhat, as you can see in the comparison video below. Ergonomics are very good, reports early tester Graham Baates, who tested the “optics ready” Q5 SF pistol with red dot sights.
It’s puzzling though — we wonder why Walther didn’t increase the slide weight too, by simply doing away with all the superfluous ports in the slide. That would increase gun weight, reduce muzzle flip (and perceived recoil) even more, and presumably the gun would be cheaper to produce. But maybe Walther thinks the slide cuts are a defining Q5 styling feature that needs to remain, like the Q5’s distinctive Blue Trigger. We guess styling trumps logic…
The Q5 Match SF features an optics ready slide that comes with a Trijicon RMR, Leupold Delta Point, and Docter Optics compatible mounting plate in addition to the standard competition iron sights. Along with a ported slide and the Carl Walther signature ergonomics, and a blue quick defense trigger, the Q5 SF is the flattest shooting model to date.
TECHNICAL DATA Walther PPQ Q5 Steel Frame Mod. 283001
All Steel Construction
Optics Mounting Plate
Extended Frame Rails
Ported Slide
Model: 2830001
Caliber: 9x19mm
Finish: Tenifer
Magazines Included: 3
Hand-loaders have never had so many great choices in single-stage presses, with many different configurations and features. There are classic O-Frame presses, Coax-style presses, Open-front presses, Pyramid presses, and compact C-Frame presses. Here is our 2019 Single Stage Press Showcase with products from Forster, Frankford Arsenal, Hornady, Lee, Lyman, MEC, and RCBS. We’ve included short videos showing the features of these reloading presses.
If you are shopping for a new press you should look at the various features of each. You may prefer something classic like a Rock Chucker, or the innovative open-front MEC. If you are looking for a compact press to use at the range, the new Lyman C-Frame is very impressive for the price. And the Forster Co-Ax remains a great addition to any loading room.
MEC Marksman Single-Stage Press
If you are looking for a new, full-size single-stage reloading press, definitely consider the MEC Marksman. Created by the makers of the popular MEC shotshell reloading systems, the MEC Marksman combines a sturdy cast-iron frame with a modern open-front design. With a $189.99 street price the Marksman press cost roughly $20 more than an RCBS Rock Chucker, but the MEC offers some distinct advantages — such as an open front plus a floating shell-holder system.
Our friend Gavin Gear of UltimateReloader.com got his hands on a MEC Marksman press and put it through its paces. He came away impressed with the product, saying it delivers excellent performance, and has many impressive features. Gavin tells us: “Cast iron tools and machines are a lifetime investment. The made-in-USA MEC Marksman features ductile cast-iron construction, an open-front frame design for easy cartridge access, a new floating shell-holder design with a unique retention system, and ambidextrous handle setup.” MEC also offers a wide selection of accessories for the Marksman press, including a press riser/mount, shell-holder caddy, and die trays.
Frankford Arsenal M-Press Coaxial Reloading Press
Sorry, this new Frankford Arsenal coaxial M-Press has not started shipping yet so we don’t have a video. But MidwayUSA says it should arrive by mid-February 2019. We think this new M-Press should interest Forster Co-Ax fans. While the operation is similar to the Forster Co-Ax, there are some important differences. The new M-Press mounts on a flat surface, with nothing protruding below. That is significantly different than the Forster Co-Ax. The die block is different. It also appears that the shell-holder system is different. But this still self-aligns like a Forster Co-Ax. “A free-floating design allows the die and shellplate to move on two axis, so the case is always perfectly centered in the die, minimizing bullet runout.” The way the arms move is also different. In the Forster Co-Ax, the rods slide within the press frame and the part that holds the shell is fixed to them. In this design the rods are stationary and the part that holds the shell slides on them. However, the overhead handle certainly does copy the distinctive Forster design. NOTE: According to MidwayUSA, this M-Press does NOT have priming capability, unlike the Forster Co-Ax. Credit Boyd Allen for design analysis.
Forster Co-Ax Press
If you are not yet familiar with the many unique features of the Forster Co-Ax, we recommend you watch the video above, a very thorough video review by Rex Roach. This shows how the press operates and highlights the design elements which set the Co-Ax apart from every other reloading press on the market. This 14-minute video shows the key Co-Ax features, explaining how the floating case-holder jaws work (3:30 time-mark), how the dies are held in place (4:40 time-mark), how spent primers are captured (6:10 time-mark), and how to set the primer seating depth (10:00 time-mark). We’ve used a Co-Ax for years and we still learned a few new things by watching this detailed video. If you are considering purchasing a Co-Ax, definitely watch this video start to finish.
In recent years, Forster Co-Ax® presses have been somewhat hard to find, as demand has out-stripped supply. The Co-Ax has many dedicated fans, given its unique features, such as the floating case-holder jaws, and easy, rapid slide-in/slide-out die placement. We’ve also found that Co-Ax presses load very straight ammo and we like the ability to switch between short handle (good for bullet seating) and long handle (ideal for heavy case-sizing tasks). We also think the Forster Co-Ax has one of the best spent primer capture systems on the market — a straight drop into a removable plastic cup. Simple and it works.
Lyman Brass Smith Victory Single-Stage Press
Lyman’s New Victory Single-stage Press competes with the RCBS Rock Chucker Press. With beefy cast iron construction, the Victory’s strength and leverage rivals the Rock Chucker. If you like to prime on a press, this Victory has a priming system that’s much easier to use than the Rock Chucker system. The priming tube is right up front. Simply push the shuttle at the button of the tube to advance the primer into place. The entire primer-loading system can also be removed so it doesn’t interfere with case and bullet-handling operations. We generally prefer to prime cases separately using a dedicated hand- or bench-mounted tool, but the Victory press does the job nicely. Overall, the Victory is a great value in a full-size “O-Frame” press. It’s on sale now for $154.99 at Midsouth.
RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Single-Stage Press
Nearly every serious hand-loader has owned or used the RCBS Rock Chucker press. This Editor still uses a Rock Chucker passed down by his brother 20 years ago. And yes, it is still going strong. The latest Rock Chucker Supreme single-stage press features an improved “upside-down Y-path” dual-bin spent primer catcher. Otherwise the Rock Chucker Supreme remains big, strong, versatile and sturdy. It has very strong linkages, with a compound leverage system providing plenty of power — FL-sizing is a breeze even with large, magnum cases. The 1″-diameter ram has 12.5 sq. inches of ram-bearing surface.
Some people may not know that the Rock Chucker offers a secondary 1 1/4″ x 12 thread for shotshell reloading dies and Piggyback 3 upgrade. The Rock Chucker Supreme retails for under $180.00 ($167.50 now at Bruno’s). The RCBS Rock Chucker is definitely a quality product that can last a lifetime. For heavy-duty sizing chores this remains one of the best choices in single-stage presses. We do recommend shopping around. You can sometimes get a pretty big discount on Rock Chuckers and RCBS has regular rebate programs.
Lyman Brass Smith Ideal C-Frame Compact Press
The Lyman Brass Smith Ideal Press is a very affordable, cast iron C-Frame reloading press. We think it is the new “class leader” in compact presses. This works great as a secondary press for your reloading room or a small press you can take to the range. The large front opening allows you to access the shell holder without hitting the support bar on other types of presses. Unlike other compact presses made from aluminum, Lyman’s Ideal press is cast iron so it is rigid and strong. The high-quality steel ram is one inch in diameter. The Brass Smith is a true ambidextrous press that can be accessed from either side and mounted the same. This is a great choice for a second, auxiliary press for depriming and bullet seating.
Hornady Iron Single Stage (Open-front) Press
In this “Reloading with Rosie” video, the attractive female host loads some ammo using the Hornady Iron Press. With a beefy, pyramid-style cast-iron frame with an open front, this press offers some advantages over a traditional “O-Frame” type press. Access is considerably easier, for one thing. And the top of the press includes slots to hold dies and tools — that’s really a very nice feature that saves time. Also an optional “automatic” priming system shuttles primers from a vertical tube in the back to the shell-holder in the front. That’s clever. Over all the Iron Press is a nice piece of engineering — good job Hornady.
Lee Classic Cast (Iron) Breech Lock Press
The Lee Classic Cast Breech Lock Press offers excellent value for the money ($112.00 at Midsouth). Based on the proven design of the Classic Cast press, the updated Breech Lock series adds the quick-change die bushing and an improved primer drop system. This press is strong, with cast iron frame, all-steel linkage, and 12 square inches of ram bearing surface.
Lee says this press has the “largest opening and the longest stroke in the industry” among O-frame type presses. The handle can be mounted on either side. We love the fact that the handle angle can be adjusted, as well as the lever arm length — that allows you to adjust travel and leverage to suit your preference. Smart engineering.
The new spent primer drop features a large-diameter hollow ram with clear hose that drops primers straight to a bin — that’s simple and effective. The press is very rigid and the base is wide enough for good stability. We have one of these Classic Cast Breech Lock Presses in our reloading room and it works well.
A while back, RifleShooter online magazine published a list of the purported Ten Best Bolt-Action Rifles of All Time. Ten classic rifle designs (including the Remington 700 and Winchester Model 70) were featured with a paragraph or two explaining their notable features.
“Best” Lists Stir Controversy…
These Top 10 lists are always controversial. While most readers might approve of half the entries, there are always some items on the Top 10 list that some readers would challenge. Here is RifleShooter’s Top 10 list. What do you think? Are there some other bolt-actions that are more deserving?
1. Springfield M1903
2. Mauser 98
3. Winchester Model 70
4. Remington Model 700
5. Weatherby V
6. Sako L61/AV
7. Savage Model 110
8. Ruger M77
9. Tikka T3
10. Mannlicher-Schonauer
How is a modern, metal-chassis rifle built? This very cool video from Masterpiece Arms answers that question. The nicely-edited video shows the creation of a Masterpiece Arms tactical rifle from start to finish. All aspects of the manufacturing process are illustrated: 3D CAD modeling, CNC milling of the chassis, barrel threading/contouring, chamber-reaming, barrel lapping, laser engraving, and stock coating. If you love to see machines at work, you will enjoy this video…
Nightforce Optics has introduced a second focal plane version of the popular ATACR™ 7-35×56 F1 scope. The First Focal Plane (FFP) 7-35X ATACR scope is very popular among PRS/NRL competitors. In fact, according to the Precision Rifle Blog, the 7-35x56mm F1 ATACR is a top choice among surveyed PRS/NRL shooters: “The Nightforce ATACR 7-35×56 F1 was on more rifles than any other scope. 20% of them to be exact. It has only been out a couple of years, but has quickly become a favorite among this crowd.” This scope offers ED glass, very good resolution, excellent reliability and stout construction.
Seeing the popularity and success of the FFP 7-35x56mm ATACR, Nighforce decided to bring out a Second Focal Plane (SFP) version. “The F1 first focal plane-version has been so successful, that we wanted to make the same … performance available to those who prefer a second focal plane reticle”, said Nightforce’s Alan Stillwell. We think that’s a good option. For slow-fire target shooting, at known distances, we often prefer the visual “stability” of a Second Focal Plane reticle, which stays constant (in the circle of view) with any magnification (meaning the reticle lines do not grow or shrink as you zoom in or out). MSRP for the new SFP 7-35x56mm ATACR F2 is $3,100.00.
The ATACR™ 7-35x56mm F2, built on a 34mm tube, provides 100 MOA/29 MRAD of elevation adjustment and 60 MOA/17 MRAD of windage adjustment. Nightforces claims that this scope “delivers superb clarity at every power setting, allowing detailed rendering and identification of small targets at extreme ranges”. The new 7-35X ATACR F2 is offered with either the MOAR-T™ or MIL-C™ proprietary Nightforce reticles. DigIllum reticle illumination and ZeroStop elevation are standard.
New Nightforce MIL-XT Reticle
Nightforce has a new illuminated MIL-XT™ reticle, available in 16X, 25X and 35X ATACR™ F1 (first focal plane) riflescopes. It is designed for precision rifle competition (PRS and NRL). By providing precise hold-over and hold-off points, this reticle helps competitors engage targets rapidly without needing to dial windage or elevation, allowing faster hits “on the clock”. Main lines feature .2 Mil-Radian holds, while each whole Mil-Radian is numbered for fast reference.
Below center, there are .2 Mil-Radian-spaced floating dots at every vertical Mil-Radian. Whole Mil-Radians dots are larger in size for fast counting. Numbers below center vary in size and are placed on each side for easy counting and verification of appropriate hold points. Nightforce says: “The MIL-XT™ provides excellent range estimation, rapid target engagements and precise first-shot placement.”
Happy New Year to all our readers worldwide, and especially the 43,200 members of our AccurateShooter Forum. We hope 2019 brings you happiness in your lives and success in your endeavors. And we wish for small groups, good scores, and successful hunts in the New Year.
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Looking Forward to 2019
Every year, we work to improve AccurateShooter.com. In 2016 we completely overhauled the Forum, making it faster and mobile-friendly. In 2017 we upgraded our servers to improve speed and security. In 2018 we started vetting every new sign-up to prevent scammers. And we have continued our popular Deals of the Week and launched a weekly Video Product Showcase. We hope you’ll continue to enjoy our feature articles, our Daily Bulletin, our match reports, and our Forum Classifieds. The formula seems to be working — our audience is bigger than ever.
Forum Membership Grows 14% in 2018
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The U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit (USAMU) has published a series of reloading “how-to” articles on its Facebook Page. This post explains how to uniform primer pockets and remove burrs in flash holes. These brass prep operations can help ensure greater consistency, shot after shot. Visit the USAMU Facebook Page for other, helpful handloading tips.
Primer Pocket and Flash-Hole Conditioning
This week, we’ll address a question that frequently arises: “Do you uniform primer pockets and deburr flash-holes?”
As we tailor our handloading methods to the specific needs of each instance, the answer, not surprisingly, is “occasionally!” Generally, the USAMU Handloading Shop does not uniform primer pockets (PP) or deburr flash holes (FH) of our rifle brass. That’s not to say we’re against it — rather, it reflects the very high volume of ammunition loaded, the fact that very few cases are ever re-loaded for a second firing, and the types of brass we use. However, as a need is perceived, we DO deburr flash holes (of which, more later.)
As to the type cases we use, many thousands of our long-range 5.56x45mm cases come to us from the arsenal with the primer of our choice pre-installed and staked in per their usual practice. Obviously, we could not uniform either FHs or PPs on this live-primed brass. However, after careful sorting, inspection and preparation, we do obtain match-winning results with it. Regular readers have seen photos of some of the tiny 1000-yard test groups we’ve fired with weight-selected domestic brass which had neither Primer Pockets uniformed nor flash holes deburred.
Figure 1 shows a fired, deprimed 7.62×51 case with primer residue intact. In Figure 2, the primer pocket has been uniformed to SAAMI specs. Note the shiny finish — evidence of the metal removed to uniform and square the primer pocket.
Shooters who reload their brass several times may decide to uniform PPs and deburr FHs, especially on their “300-yard and beyond” brass. Unlike us, they will be using their cases many times, while the operations are only needed once. Also, most handloaders only process a relatively moderate amount of brass compared to our 20-thousand round lots. Having high quality Long Range (LR) brass helps. Many of the better brass manufacturers form their flash holes so that no burrs are created.
Still, it does pay to inspect even THESE manufacturer’s products, as occasional slips are inevitable. Very rarely, some of these makers will have a significant burr in, say, 1 per 1000 or 2000 cases, and it’s worth catching those. Recently, we began processing a large lot of match brass from a premier manufacturer, and were startled to find that every case had a burr in the FH — something we’d never before seen from this maker. We then broke out the FH deburring tool and went to work.
For those who do opt for these procedures, note that various tool models may have adjustable depth-stops. Pay attention to the instructions. Some flash hole deburring tools which enter the case mouth, not the primer pocket, depend on uniform case length for best results.
Does It Really Make a Difference?
It can be difficult to truly verify the contribution to accuracy of these procedures, particularly when firing from the shoulder, in conditions. Members of this staff, as individual rifle competitors, do often perform these operations on their privately-owned LR rifle brass.
One could ascribe this to the old High Power Rifle maxim that “if you think it helps, then it helps”. Another thought is to “leave no stone unturned” in the search for accuracy.
However, an extremely talented World Champion and Olympic Gold/Silver medalist commented on his own handloading (for International competition, which demands VERY fine accuracy). He noted that he did seem to see a decline in accuracy whenever he did not uniform FH’s, deburr FH’s and clean primer pockets before each reloading; however, with the wisdom of decades’ experience, he also remarked that “It could have been that I just wasn’t shooting as well that day.”
The 6BR Improved cases have become very popular in tactical competitions. In fact the Precision Rifle Blog reports that the majority of Top 10 PRS and NRL shooters are now running some version of the 6mmBR Norma case — such as the 6mm Dasher, 6BRX, or 6BR Ackley. In fact “40% of those ranked in the top 10 in either league were running a 6mm Dasher”. This short, fat 6BR improved case can push the 100-107gr bullets to 2950+ fps, a well-known accuracy node. Yes the 6mm Creedmoor and 6XC can push heavy 6mm projectiles faster to be sure, but there is a trade-off in barrel life. The 6BR Improved cases represent a “sweet spot” for the tactical game, offering outstanding accuracy, with less recoil than bigger cartridges, including the 6.5 Creedmoor.
The only real downside to the short/fat 6BR-based cartridges is that they can be finicky when feeding from a magazine, at least without some modifications to the follower and feed lips. There are kits that can help with this, but now there is an even better solution — a premium custom action designed specifically to feed the 6mm Dasher (and similar cartridges) from a magazine. This action, the Borden Super Short 6, was recently, unveiled on Facebook by PRS competitor John Hargett. This action, available in both right- and left-hand versions, features a dedicated new Super Short 6 (SS6) magazine optimized for Dasher-sized cartridges. The bolt has a shorter throw than a standard Rem short action. We think this new action could become VERY popular with tactical shooters, and varmint hunters.
John Hargett says: “Installing spacer kits or possibly having a nose dive in full-size .308 mag is in the past! This will fit all 700 stocks and chassis and AICS bottom metal. So no need to change what you are already using. Borden creates a masterful action at an extremely affordable price.”
Key Facts about the Borden Super Short 6 Action and SS6 Magazine:
1. Rem 700 Footprint — The Borden Super Short 6 action is internally tailored to the 6mmBR cartridge and its wildcats, but externally maintains Rem 700 action dimensions. This means the action IS compatible with the stock and chassis you currently own. And, the Borden Super Short 6 comes in both right-hand and left-hand versions, with PVD coating available (on action and/or bolt).
2. Rem Trigger Compatibility — The Borden Super Short 6 action works with Rem-compatible triggers, and the actions are specifically timed to work with trigger of your choice.
3. Dasher-friendly New Mag Design — The patent-pending Super Short 6 magazine is sized right for the 6mm Dasher and all the 6BR family. The follower and feed lips are configured to allow smooth, reliable feeding with no “magazine nose dives”. Even with the optimal design, the SS 6 magazine will work with all chassis profiles and bottom metal made for AICS-type magazines.
Here is the description from Borden Rifles website:
“The new action from Borden Accuracy (Borden Super Short 6) features a Rem 700 short action-compatible footprint with a shortened magazine well and shortened port set up specifically to reliably feed 6 BR, 6 Dasher, 6 BRA, 22 BR cartridges. The bolt has modified Borden bumps to aid in cycling in the dirty environment. The pictured action shows our standard bolt handle and tear drop knob. Production models will feature a handle that is threaded on the end so individuals can use their preferred knobs. I have been one of the individuals that developed the bolt timing and neutral handoff with the trigger for competition shooting to minimize rifle upset in the bags when closing the bolt. These actions will be available with either the neutral timed handoff or with about .03 to .035 inch cock on close. The cock on close option has much easier bolt lift that seems to be favored by PRS competitors. For now the bolts will have spiral flutes but future versions will have diamond flutes as an option. Development work will be done to also handle the .223 Rem and the PPC family.”
6mm Dasher and 6BR Wildcats Favored by Top PRS/NRL Shooters
1. The vast majority of PRS Shooters surveyed are now shooting a 6mm cartridge of some kind.
2. While the 6mm Creedmoor is still very popular, the 6mm Dasher is now the #1 cartridge among leading PRS and NRL competitors surveyed. (SEE Chart HERE)
3. If you include the 6BRX, 6BRA, and original 6mmBR cartridge along with the 6mm Dasher, this full family of short, fat cartridges is now used by twice as many top PRS/NRL competitors as the 6mm Creedmoor. And the 6.5 Creedmoor has really fallen from favor.
Credit Boyd Allen for Borden Action product find. Credit PRB for data on PRS/NRL cartridge use.
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. Brownells — Howa 1500 USA Flag Chassis Rifle, $1299.99
With its “battleworn” stars and stripes Cerakote finish, Howa’s USA Flag Chassis Rifle is an eye-catcher. AND this handsome Howa shoots as good as it looks. This .308 Win rifle features a quality 26″ barrel with factory muzzle brake. The Howa 1500 action cycles very smoothly (better than a Remington or Savage), and this rifle comes with Howa’s fine HACT 2-stage trigger. This rifle includes a 4-16x50mm Nikko Sterling scope mounted to an EGW +20 MOA scope rail, Luth AR buttstock, plus a 10-round detachable box magazine. Howa even includes a Buffalo River swivel bipod with 6″-9″ adjustable legs. With this rig, all you need is ammo! Price is $1299.99 with scope and bipod. NOTE: This is also offered in 6.5 Creedmoor, but that is currently out-of-stock. Check with other vendors.
2. Bruno’s — Nightforce Competition 15-55x52mm Sale, $2160.00
You can’t walk up to any respectable match line and not see a bevy of Nightforce scopes. The Nightforce 15-55x52mm Competition scope is still one of the very best scopes for serious F-Class and long-range competitors. Now Bruno’s is selling the 15-55x52mm NF for $2160.00 — that’s nearly $200 cheaper than other vendors. Bruno Shooters Supply has the Nightforce Competition 15-55x52mm optic as well as countless other Nightforce scopes on sale. Get yours now before prices go back up.
3. Midsouth Shooters Supply — End of Year Clearance Sale
End of year means CLEARANCE at Midsouth Shooters Supply, with prices up to SEVENTY PERCENT (70%) off normal pricing. We’ve posted just a few of the nearly 800 items we found in their clearance section and with prices that can’t be beat it’s worth your time to scour the pages. Head to the Midsouth clearance sale to what you can’t live without before you hit the range again. Note, this End-of-Year Clearance sale ends today December 31, 2018. Don’t hesitate if you see a bargain you like.
The Leupold Ventana S-1 15-45x60mm spotting scope offers a good 15-45X range of power along with a 60mm objective. For a competitor using the spotter mostly for watching mirage and shot markers, this may be all you need in a spotter. And this is compact and easy to transport in a range bag. As one Amazon reviewer said, “TERRIFIC scope! 45X is plenty. Most people with 60X scopes rarely use more than 40X power so I decided to go for this smaller, lighter scope. We used it on wolves in Yellowstone this week at distances of 1/2 to 1 mile. This scope is tack sharp. I was able to compare to Swarovski, Vortex, and Nikon and this Leupold seems just as sharp at a fraction of the price. The amount of eye relief is generous, even better than some of the Swarovskis I looked through.”
5. Midsouth — Hornady L-N-L Auto Progressive Press, $378.99
If you need large quantities of pistol or rifle ammo, it makes sense to get a progressive press. This auto-indexing, 5-station press will give you one loaded round for every complete cycle of the loading handle. We’ve used this Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Progressive press and can confirm that it works well. We actually prefer the rotary powder measure to the sliding powder system on Dillon progressives. We find it much easier to change load weights with the Hornady system (which uses inserts), and it is more precise with certain types of powder. This press also uses convenient quick-change die bushings. Right now you can save $113.00 with the $378.99 sale. NOTE: Press purchasers can get 500 free bullets through the Hornady Rebate Program but that ends 12/31/2018!
6. EuroOptic — Leica CRF 2000-B, $399.00
This may be the best deal we’ve seen on the vaunted Leica 2000-B Laser Rangefinder (LRF) with 7-power optic. This unit is rated out to 2000 yards on reflective objects (in real-world use it will laze a deer well past 800 if you can hold steady). The Leica 2000-B features air pressure and temperature sensors, plus on-board inclinometer. Angle correction works out to 1200 horizontal yards equivalent, with the true hold-over displayed in both MILs and MOA. The compact Leica CRF 2000-B weighs just 6.5 ounces and measures 4.5″ L x 2.25″ H x 1.25″ W. It has a waterproof outer shell.
Are you tired of using pan scales and trickling your charges just to spend a day at the range? Now for under $170.00 you can set your charges and watch them automatically drop quickly and efficiently. The Hornady Lock-N-Load auto charge powder dispenser gives you the confidence and speed whether you’re doing load development or just looking to make some rounds for a day at the range. With this $164.99 sale price, this Hornady dispenser over $90 cheaper than an RCBS Chargemaster Lite.
Have you ever been ready to run to the range and blow off a few rounds only to find that you’re out of targets? If you’re like us that’s one of the most frustrating things that can happen when heading to the club and nobody likes using printer paper and a marker to make a target. Pick up this 100 count set of sight-in targets and you won’t have to run to the store last minute or dig through the range trash cans hoping to find a barely-used target. This is a great value — only 18.4 cents per target!
9. Amazon — Caldwell Zeromax Rifle Rest, $28.99
No this basic, inexpensive rest won’t work for benchrest matches. However, it will suffice to sight-in a hunting or varmint rifle. AND it will do double duty as a cradle for rifle cleaning and maintenance. In fact this Caldwell rest is less expensive than some cleaning cradles than can’t be used for shooting at all. Pick up one of these Caldwell Zeromax Rests for only $28.99 and you’ll have a handy back-up rest you can keep in a vehicle or lend to a friend. Plus, some low-cost modifications can improve the rest’s adjustability. One purchaser noted: “The back foot is just a threaded bolt with a rubber end cap, but it does not turn or move. Changing the elevation with the front two bolts, and keeping everything level can be a challenge, so I added elevation adjustments to the back bolt as well. I did this by taking a bolt spacer from Ace Hardware super glued to a nut, and using that to lift or drop the back. Total cost was about $4.”
Credit Forum Member F-Class John for preparing most of this week’s deals.
Thousands of new products will be on display at SHOT Show 2019, the huge gun industry trade show held each January in Las Vegas. Some of the most highly-anticipated products have not yet been revealed, including new rifles, chassis systems, and state-of-the-art optics and LRFs. However, the SHOT Show Product Planner offers a “sneak peek” at 296 new-for-2019 products. More will come in the weeks ahead. For the time being, however, here are TEN interesting new products. Since most are completely new items, we haven’t been able to test them yet. Accordingly the product descriptions are provided by the manufacturers.
1. MDT Adjustable Core Competition (ACC) Chassis
The MDT ACC (Adjustable Core Competition) Chassis was designed around an integrated, modular weight system that allows shooters to fine tune chassis weight and balance point. A series of weights (up to 9 lbs. of steel) can be added to either the buttstock, interior fore-end or exterior fore-end. With action, barrel, scope and accessories, shooters can configure their rifles upwards of 25-30 lbs. in the ACC. The ACC weight management system allows shooters to rapidly adjust the feel and recoil characteristics of their rifle — at the range or during a competition. Other features include: full 17” ARCA/RRS fore-end, flared mag well, extended barricade stop, widened thumb shelf, and adjustable cheek riser/length of pull.
The new GRS Bifrost stock is made of glass fiber-reinforced composite material with tactile rubber surfaces on the grip and fore-end zones. The SpeedLock 2.0 system has LOP and Cheekpiece adjustment, like the original Speedlock system, but also includes a height-adjustable and cant-adjustable recoil pad. This allows for the perfect stock to shooter fit. Picatinny Rail mounts are located on the bottom and both sides of the fore-end, and the bottom of the buttstock. This allows easy attachment of lights, lasers, monopods, and bipods. Two Picatinny rails are included with the Bifrost stock, which retails for $730.00, as inletted for a variety of popular actions.
3. TargetVision Hawk WiFi Spotting Scope Camera
The Hawk Smart Scope is the next evolution of digiscoping. This TargetVision product turns any regular spotting scope into a smart scope in just minutes. Simply slide the Hawk over the spotting scope’s eyepiece, activate the signal, and open the Targetvision App on a smartphone or tablet. The Hawk camera connects to the mobile device via WiFi. Then you can view the camera feed (from the spotter) and unlock all of the App features. Basically this lets you position your spotting scope remotely and watch it through a digital screen. You’ll find more info (plus “how-to” videos) at TargetVisioncam.com. Price: $225.00 Pre-Order Special (Reg. $299.00)
4. Scope Comparison Platform from Rack’em Rack
This innovative Scope Comparer allows consumers to compare rifle scopes side-by-side. Simply slide the plate laterally to compare rifle scopes. This system ships with three different plates — One Plate for 30mm tube scopes, one for 1″ tube scopes, and a third (with rail) for red dot-type optics. An optional plate for 34mm-tube scopes is also available. All the sliding plates easily remove with the pull of a pin. Made by Rack ‘Em Racks, the novel Scope Comparer retails for $199.00.
5. Swagger Bipod — Telescoping Field Support for Hunters
The new Swagger bipod replaces a conventional bipod as well as shooting sticks. With a huge adjustment range from 6 3/4″ to 29″, the Swagger is ideal for western hunters, spot-and-stalk situations or anywhere long shots from the ground are likely. Notably, you can switch from a rigid attachment to a flexible attachment. And you can angle the legs forward, rearward, or to either side. When needed, remove the rubber footpads to use spiked feet for more “grip”. The Swagger’s telescoping legs fit inside a polymer housing mounted to your rifle’s forearm. Assembled weight is 23.6 oz, complete with Nitride finish springs/spring housing and reinforced bungee.
6. Vaultek Bio-Metric WiFi-Enabled Gun Safe
The WiFi-enabled RS500i is Vaultek’s newest and largest safe. Holding up to 4 four full-size rifles, this high-tech safe features full WiFi connectivity, providing quick access via oversized biometric scanner, Smart Key, backlit keypad, and standard backup keys. With WiFi connectivity you have complete remote management and live push notifications. With the all-new online dashboard or your smartphone you can securely monitor critical safe data from anywhere. A variety of modular accessories allow full customization of the LED-lit safe interior for magazines, handguns, and barrel mounts for rifles. Learn more at Vaulteksafe.com.
7. X Products Ambidextrous Side-Charging AR Upper
Here’s something we haven’t seen before — a side-charging AR upper that can be configured for either side — right port or left port. That’s clever. This exclusive X Products side-charging upper (SCU) boasts dual-side ejection ports with an off-side cover and interchangeable grip and off-hand slide handles, making it completely customizable to right- or left-handed shooter. The proprietary carrier introduces a new charging method that puts the force lower on the axis for smoother, more linear operation. The non-reciprocating charging handle can lock forward to prevent movement during operation. Price: $199.00
8. Breakthrough Carbon Fiber Cleaning Rods
Breakthrough® Clean Technologies’ carbon fiber cleaning rods offer a safe, effective way to clean the inside of your barrel. Featuring an ergonomic handle and two premium ball bearing sets, the rod can smoothly pass through the bore of your barrel without binding up under pressure. The lightweight yet durable carbon fiber construction is long lasting and won’t permanently bend or break under pressure. When kept free of debris, carbon fiber shafts are gentle on your barrel’s rifling. Available in the following sizes, all with standard 8-32 threads:
$29.95 5mm diameter, 12″ length .22 cal thru .50 cal handguns
$45.95 5mm diameter, 39″ length .22 cal thru .50 cal rifles
$49.95 7mm diameter, 45″ length .30 cal rifles thru 12 gauge shotguns
9. Kalispel Caseline Aluminum Gun Cases
Kalispel Caseline aluminum rifle cases are made in the USA from .080 marine-grade aluminum. They feature closed waterproof rivets, military spec hardware and stainless steel locking rod assemblies. These metal cases features Heliarc welds for strength and security, not fused joints like other lesser brands. Each case is hand-inspected for quality control. Kalispel has been making cases for many years, but there are new models for 2019. Powder coating and color options available. Prices range from $160 to $550.
10. RifleKuhl Barrel Cooling Unit from MagnetoSpeed
Tired of waiting for your rifle barrel to cool down? MagnetoSpeed’s new Riflekuhl barrel cooler, is designed to get barrel temperatures down to intended operating levels quickly. The turbocharger-inspired impeller produces great air flow in a small package. Powered by a single CR123A Lithium battery (included), ambient air is forced through the extendable nozzle down the bore of the rifle. This pushes air flow down the barrel where it’s needed to efficiently cool barrels, typically under 7 minutes. RifleKuhl doubles as a chamber flag and features an exclusive built-in air filter to prevent dust and dirt from being blown into your rifle. Price: $59.99
CREDIT EdLongRange for locating the 2019 New Product Showcase website.
If you are not yet familiar with the many unique features of the Forster Co-Ax, we recommend you watch the video above, a very thorough video review by Rex Roach. This shows how the press operates and highlights the design elements which set the Co-Ax apart from every other reloading press on the market. This 14-minute video shows the key Co-Ax features, explaining how the floating case-holder jaws work (3:30 time-mark), how the dies are held in place (4:40 time-mark), how spent primers are captured (6:10 time-mark), and how to set the primer seating depth (10:00 time-mark). We’ve used a Co-Ax for years and we still learned a few new things by watching this detailed video. If you are considering purchasing a Co-Ax, definitely watch this video start to finish.
Nearly every serious hand-loader has owned or used the RCBS Rock Chucker press. This Editor still uses a Rock Chucker passed down by his brother 20 years ago. And yes, it is still going strong. The latest Rock Chucker Supreme single-stage press features an improved “upside-down Y-path” dual-bin spent primer catcher. Otherwise the Rock Chucker Supreme remains big, strong, versatile and sturdy. It has very strong linkages, with a compound leverage system providing plenty of power — FL-sizing is a breeze even with large, magnum cases. The 1″-diameter ram has 12.5 sq. inches of ram-bearing surface.
The Lee Classic Cast Breech Lock Press offers excellent value for the money (
