M107 on duty in Afghanistan with Company F, 2nd Aviation Assault Battalion, 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade’s Pathfinders. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Cody Barber, 11th PAD.
Christmas came early for Barrett Firearms Mfg. Inc. — the company was awarded an $8,000,000 U.S. Army contract for .50 BMG rifles, plus a $3.3 million maintenance support contract for M107s in service. Under the $8 million contract, Barrett will deliver new M107A1, M107, and M82A1M, Caliber .50 Cal Long Range Sniper Rifle systems with scopes, suppressors and spare parts kits. The work is expected to be completed by November 26, 2023, the United States Department of Defense reported this week.
The M107A1 was made “leaner and meaner” back in 2014, with a six-pound weight savings. That’s important to soldiers charged with carrying the big rig in the field. The M107A1 model comes with Lightweight aluminum upper receiver with integral 23″ (58.4 cm) 27 MOA M1913 optics rail, 20″ (50.8 cm) or 29″ (73.7 cm) barrel with fully chrome-lined chamber and bore, 10-round steel magazine with cartridge witness indicators, and anti-corrosive coating.
M107A1 with Quick Detach Large (QDL) Suppressor
$3.3 Million Maintenance Contract for M107s in Service
Barret Firearms Manufacturing, Inc. has also won a $3.3 million maintenance contract for the U.S. Army-issued M107, Caliber .50 Long Range Sniper Rifle system. The 5-year ID/IQ contract was awarded November 27, 2018 and will be available through November 26, 2023. The M107 Rifle System has been fielded by the U.S. Armed Forces for over 15 years.
The Official Rifle of Tennessee
Believe it or not, the Barrett Model 82/M107 is Tennessee’s official state rifle. Barrett’s plant and headquarters are situated in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The Barrett rifle is a true Tennessee success story — a rifle born from sketches drawn at a dining room table by 26-year-old Ronnie Barrett, who was born, raised, and educated in Tennessee. Using sketches of his design, Barrett worked in a one-bay garage with a tool-and-die maker to build the first prototype.
Watch Jerry Miculek Shoot .50 BMG Offhand. Action Starts at 1:20:
Since 2010, Lapua has shipped its quality cartridge brass in sturdy blue plastic boxes. Here’s a handy tip for you — don’t toss the plastic boxes when you load up your brass! These are double-duty containers. If you’re not familiar with “Blue Box” Lapua brass, you may not realize that the boxes are designed to serve as 50-round carriers for your loaded ammo and fired cases. (Yes we know some folks who’ve been tossing out their blue boxes without knowing how the boxes work as caddies.)
Snapped in place under the box lid is a rectangular plastic grid that fits in the bottom of the box. Pop the grid loose and slide it into the box with the smooth side facing up. Side supports molded into the lower section hold the grid in place.
Voilà, instant Ammo Box! Each grid contains holes for fifty (50) loaded rounds or empty cases. The convertible plastic container/ammo box is a great idea that Lapua executed very nicely. Now you have even more motivation to purchase your cartridge brass from Lapua.
USER TIPS: When transporting ammo you may want to put some foam over the loaded rounds. That will protect the bullet tips. Also, with shorter cartridges, this will help keep your loaded ammo and fired cases from moving around. You can also tape the FREE Redding Ammo Box Labels on the underside of the lids to list your load information.
The shooting world is lucky to have McMillan Fiberglass Stocks and MC3. Some companies talk about supporting competitive shooting. Maybe they bankroll a couple “rock stars” at pistol matches. But REAL commitment involves a LOT more. The kind of support that McMillan USA has shown to top shooters and top teams is truly exceptional. You won’t find a company that is more committed to supporting serious rifle competition than McMillan. The bossman, Kelly McMillan, loves the sport and is a capable marksman and hunter himself. McMillan has been a strong ally of AccurateShooter.com for many years. But more importantly, McMillan supports shooters and teams in many disciplines and McMillan donates prizes (and cash) in dozens of competitions.
Shown are some of the 2018 National Record holders who shoot McMillan equipment.
McMillan is a company that really supports both individual shooters and talented teams of competitors. Here is the story behind McMillan’s commitment to our sport and our Champion shooters (and rising stars).
Why We Support Competitive Shooting — McMillan’s Commitment
by Kelly McMillan
Anyone who knows the history of McMillan Fiberglass Stocks, knows that our roots are firmly planted in competitive shooting, and specifically short-range benchrest. We were in business several years before we made a stock other than a competition stock. It is where we made our reputation for high quality stocks and first rate customer service. For several years while I was running McMillan Firearms Manufacturing, I let the focus of the stock company drift a bit. I wasn’t donating to as many matches or events and was not sponsoring any shooters. When I sold the rifle company it was made clear to me almost immediately that there were competitors of mine that were taking advantage of my loss of focus, and making huge inroads into the field that used to be dominated by McMillan.
Kelly and the Talented Xit Strategy Ladies Team:
It has always been obvious to us that if we want this business to prosper for generations to come, we need to do everything we can to get young shooters and women shooters involved in the shooting sports. I personally have been sponsoring youth shooting sports, e.g. The Scholastic Clay Targets program, Boy Scouts, NRA U-25 USA team and many individual shooters. I also sponsor a Texas junior girls F-Class team as well as many individual youth and female shooters. Team Xit Strategy is an F-TR team comprised of both adult and junior female shooters. It is the only exclusively female team in the National F-Class circuit. The team includes Laura Perry 2017 (World Champion 8-person Team member), Jen Bondurant, a top level F-TR competitor, as well as Claudette Joe, one of the top juniors in F-Class currently.
Dollars and Sense — How McMillan Supports the Shooting Sports
Below is a list of the matches, teams, and shooters that McMillan has supported over the last year. Kelly notes that McMillan Fiberglass Stocks has donated $63,000 while McCubed (Mc3) has donated $6700 in gift certificates and products to various matches and conservation efforts. Kelly adds: “We have also contributed over $15,000 cash to various events. In addition, we have contributed $30,000 in cash to Team Sponsorships as well as 60 stocks of assorted types for team members.” Take note those numbers are for just ONE YEAR — yes, all that support in product and cash for just one year’s worth of sponsorship.
Match Sponsorships
All NRL matches
All Guardian matches
Arizona Elk Society
Sportsman’s Challenge
Lone Survivor Foundation
Berger SW Nationals
Boy Scouts Troops
Various PRS matches
NRA ELR Nationals
GAP Grind
Rocky Mountain Big Horn Society
AZ Mule Deer
Hillsdale College
FClass Championships
Cactus Classic
King of 2 Mile
King of 2 Mile Television Show
JC Steel Challenge Matches
France’s PRS Match
World’s Long Shot Challenge
Bushnell Elite Tactical Sniper Challenge
WTRC/Wyoming Tactical Rifle Championship and
WYSHOT
Team Sponsorships
Team Michigan
Team USA U-25 (2021 Open)
Team Xit
US Rifle Team
US Navy Marksman Team
Team Xit Strategy
Team Savage
Shooter Sponsorships
Regina Milkovich
Tim Milkovich
Andy Puzsman
Randy Galvan
Texas Youth Girls F-Class
Cody Hartsock
Derek Rodgers
Paul Phillips
Daniel J. Pohlabel
Jeff Rorer
Mark V. Lonsdale
David Mann
Rick Jensen
Stan Pate
Mike Miller
Warren Dean
Monte Milanuk
Dan Lentz
Austin Elbert
McMillan Also Sponsors Team Savage
Grow the Sport By Helping Shooters Improve Their Performance
Kelly explains McMillan’s mission in supporting the shooting sports: “In competitive shooting it is fairly simple. If people who use your product win matches, and more importantly, improve their own personal scores, it shows potential customers that they can expect the same type of improvement. It sounds more simple than it is. Getting some of the best shooters in the world to shoot your stock requires more than just giving it to them. Remember these guys (and ladies) are at the top of their game so when you offer them something they have to be shown that it will actually improve their scores and if it doesn’t, no way they are changing to your product. Finally, I am sure I have forgotten some shooters and if so I apologize to each individual.”
Kelly McMillan is also an avid hunter. Here’s Kelly with Derek Rodgers (front) and Paul Phillips (top), two of his sponsored competitors. Derek is the reigning F-TR World Champion and previous King of Two Miles.
A pre-cut hole at the rear of each receiver allows easy insertion of a cleaning rod to clean the bore from the chamber. The Brownells BRN022 receiver will take all accessories/parts made for the Ruger 10/22. You can order factory bolt parts, and a premium barrel.
Now you can build the ultimate 10/22 with an affordable railed receiver. Precision-machined from billet 6061 aluminum, the Brownells BRN-22 receiver is fully compatible with components for the Ruger 10/22 platform. Brownells offers both standard factory 10/22 top profile (with drilled/tapped scope mounting holes), and a Railed Receiver (shown above) with an integral Picatinny top rail. We think most buyers will get the railed version shown above. At $69.99 (on sale), it’s only $7 more than the $62.99 basic version.
Some folks may ask — “Well why not just purchase a production Ruger 10/22 rifle from the factory? It will come complete with barrel, trigger, and stock…” The answer is the components. By starting with a bare bones receiver you can have better-than-factory components from the start — a better barrel, a premium trigger. Plus the Brownells BRN-22R Railed Model comes with a built-in Picatinny rail — that makes it easy to mount optics. And, if you want a specialty stock — say for rimfire tactical games — you can purchase an aftermarket stock that fits your requirements. Finally, the action has a port in the rear so you can insert a cleaning rod to clean from the breech end. This avoids potential cleaning rod damage to the muzzle.
The first part of the video features the all-new Brownells BRN-22R Railed Receiver:
Railed Receiver with Installed Barreled for $139.99
Brownells also sells BRN-22 receivers complete with pre-installed .22 LR barrels. The BRN-22 Barreled Receiver features a 16″ long barrel in either sporter or heavy contours, threaded at the muzzle. SALE Price is $134.99 (std) and $139.99 with Railed Receiver with either sporter or heavy barrel. We recommend the railed Heavy barreled receiver on sale. Then you can add the remaining components — your choice of trigger, stock, sights/optic, and muzzle device.
NOTE: This is NOT a complete barreled action — you will still need bolt, bolt handle, and trigger group — but all those parts can be easily acquired by direct mail-order. Like the bare BRN-22 receiver, this barreled receiver is the “gun” component for ATF purposes, so this must be shipped to your FFL. If you don’t want the rail, get the standard barreled receiver and save $6.00.
BRN-22 Barreled Receiver Features:
Receiver machined from 6061 T6 aluminum billet
Matte black hardcoat anodized receiver finish
1/2″-28 tpi muzzle threads for brakes and suppressors
Matte black oxide finish on barrels
Compatible with all components that fit a factory Ruger® 10/22®
FFL required for purchase
Barrels are available in Sporter and Heavy profile, both in 16″ length, while the Heavy barrel is also available in a short, 10″ length for pistol or SBR builds. All barrels come with ½”-28 tpi muzzle threads for the installation of a compensator, flash suppressor, or silencer.
The 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge has become extremely popular in the last few years. It is a favored cartridge among PRS and tactical competitors, and has been used successfully by deer hunters and High Power shooters. Notable major manufacturers such as Ruger and Savage are selling popular rifles chambered for this mid-sized cartridge. The availability of affordable factory rifles chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor further fuels its popularity.
To celebrate the 6.5 Creedmoor as 2018’s mid-size popularity contest winner, we’ve sourced five recent videos from YouTube. These videos cover loading for the 6.5 Creedmoor and also test accuracy in both custom and factory rifles. Enjoy this 6.5 Creedmoor Video Fest:
1. Gas Gun Shoot-Out: 6.5 Creedmoor vs. .308 Win
In this TFB TV video, testers put a 6.5 Creedmoor up against a .308 Winchester with AR-10 type rifles. The head-to-head test compares the ballistics, trajectory, recoil, and inherent accuracy of the two popular cartridge types. We can’t call this a definitive test because most 6.5 Creedmoor shooters run bolt-action rifles. The key take-aways are that the 6.5 Creedmoor has significantly less recoil, and a flatter trajectory (at least with typical factory ammo). Still, the video is a good starting point for anyone considering a gas gun in 6.5 Creedmoor.
2. Ruger Precision Rifle with Norma 6.5 Creedmoor Ammo
In this video Gavin Gear tests Norma-brand factory ammo in a Ruger Precision Rifle chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor. Gavin reports: “Norma is known for its high-quality brass and ammunition. Recently, I saw that Norma had announced a new addition to their Professional Hunter lineup of ammunition: in 6.5 Creedmoor! I thought I should try some out with the Ruger Precision Rifle. As you saw in the video, this ammunition behaves more like match ammunition.”
3. 6.5 Guys Test Lapua 6.5 Creedmoor Brass in Tactical Rifles
If you have a 6.5 Creedmoor rifle, or are considering getting a gun chambered for this cartridge, we strongly recommend you watch the full 6.5 Guys Video. Ed and Steve spent a lot of time conducting this test, and the video includes helpful summaries of their findings.
4. Reloading for the 6.5 Creedmoor — Gear and Components
If you own a 6.5 Creedmoor rifle, and plan to start hand-loading for the popular cartridge, this video may help you select effective load components. The video examines a wide variety of brass, powder, and bullets options for the cartridge. In addition the reviewer looks at various reloading dies and tools suitable for 6.5 Creedmoor hand-loading.
5. The Springfield Armory M1A — Now Offered in 6.5 Creedmoor
Many folks may not realize that Springfield Armory now makes an M1A chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor. With considerably less recoil, this 6.5 CM version is easier to shoot than the classic 7.62×51 M1A: “Having a 6.5 Creedmoor caliber in the M1A lineup gives long-range shooters more choices with the precision and accuracy they require,” says Springfield Armory CEO Dennis Reese.
What if you could have a normal-height rear sight that could dispense with the need to align front sight and rear sight? In fact, what if that rear sight could eliminate the need for a front sight altogether?
Meprolight FT Bullseye system does. Employing fiber optics and tritium, the FT Bullseye provides a bright aiming dot inside a circle — no front sight is needed. When the dot is centered in the circle, you’re on target. It’s as simple as that! The front blade is rendered superfluous. This really is innovative technology, albeit expensive — the FT Bullseye’s street price runs from $99 to $150, depending on pistol make and model — not cheap.
Traditionally, a shooter aims by aligning the front and rear sights. Meprolight combined the dot and the circle on the rear sight, eliminating the need to use the front sight altogether. This sight is fast on target and works in all light conditions.
Red dot and reflex systems also work without iron sights, but red dots are tall and bulky, and they don’t work well at all for shooters with astigmatism.
Meprolight’s engineers created a sleek, low profile rear sight by combining fiber optics with tritium. For concealed carry, this is better than a bulky red-dot. The low-profile design allows the shooter to draw from holster without worrying about snagging a bulky red dot or reflex sight assembly. To see how the FT Bullseye sight works, watch this video.
The fiber optic technology used in the FT Bullseye was pioneered by Tactical Aiming Systems (T.A.S.) an Israeli company. Meprolight dramatically improved the TAS system, adding tritium and an enhanced dot/circle reticle. The FT Bullseye is also smaller and sleeker than the original T.A.S. rear sight. The FT Bullseye is currently available in red or green dot/circle for all Glock models. Meprolight guarantees the tritium to last 12 years. MSRP is $199.00.
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.
This being Cyber-Monday, we focus on a few more tech products than normal, understanding that today’s shooters also need advanced chronographs, battery packs, laser rangefinders, and other digital gadgets. Please note that many of the Black Friday deals we featured are still in effect through 11:59 pm Monday 11/26/2016. CLICK HERE for Black Friday FEATURE.
1. Many Vendors — LabRadar Chrono $60 Off through December 9
If you’ve been wanting to get a LabRadar Chronograph, here’s your chance. Now through Dec. 9th you can save $60 on this very advanced piece of technology — probably the most sophisticated chronograph system ever offered to the general public. That’s notable because you almost never see this discounted below the $559.95 MAP price. Recent updates also now allow you to operate your LabRadar with your mobile device making it that much more amazing. You can take advantage of this deal and grab one for $499.95 or $499.99 at Brownells (Code VB5 for FREE Shipping), Bruno’s Shooters Supply, Creedmoor Sports, or Midsouth Shooters, or MyLabRadar.com.
2. Sportsman’s Guide — 30%, 40%, 50% Off Today Only
Sportsman’s Guide is running a huge CYBER MONDAY SALE on hundreds of items. You’ll find them on the SALE PAGE grouped by discount — 30%, 40%, and 50%. We found scopes, gun cases, hunting gear, tools, and lots more. You should definitely check this out. Some incredible deals. Also, for other items, you can get double Buyers Club discount with CODE SH2625.
3. TargetVision — 15% Off All Camera Systems Through Nov. 30th
Now through November 30, 2018, save 15% on all TargetVision Camera systems. We think these are some of the most sophisticated wireless target imaging systems you can buy. These really do work at 1000 yards and below. The software is reliable and will display your shots on your favorite mobile device. In addition, you can get a TargetVision Cam + LabRadar bundle with 2-year “bullet proof” TargetVision warranty.
Versatile and totable, this compact Samsung Galaxy 7″ tablet computer is just what you need at the range to run your Ballistics Apps, get WiFi images from your target Cam, or “talk” to your LabRadar. The Galaxy Tab A 7.0 inch can also get internet weather reports and email. Heck you can even use it to post on our AccurateShooter’s Forum. This is a modern device with myriad capabilities — all for under $100.00. You won’t find more bang for the buck in a digital device. NOTE: This is WiFi only — it is NOT a like a cellphone. It works via an internet connection (and blue-tooth).
5. Graf’s — 25% Off All Sightron Scopes in Stock
If you need a good scope at a great price, now’s a great time to buy. This week Graf’s is running a Sightron Holiday sale with 25% off most Sightron scopes. For example, the Sightron SIII 10-50x60mm FCH scope is marked down from $1089.99 to just $817.49. That’s a killer deal on a scope that is good enough to win major matches. Many other products are on sale at Graf’s this week.
6. EuroOptic — 20% Off Sale on Sig Electro-Optical Products
Save 20% or more today on Sig Sauer Electro-Optical products. These include red dot sights, and conventional Sig “Tango” and “Whiskey” zoom scopes that have illumination or other electro-optical features. For example, the illuminated Tango4 6-24x50mm is marked down from $1099.99 to $869.00, a $230.99 savings. SIG SALE HERE.
7. McMillan and MC3 — 15% Off Stocks on Cyber Monday
Need a high-quality hunting, tactical, or target-shooting stock. Save 15% TODAY ONLY on McMillan and McCubed (MC3) stocks purchased online. This deal is ONE-DAY only, expiring at 11:59 PM MST on November 26, 2018. Here’s your chance to save $100 or more on a premium McMillan or MC3 stock. NOTE: To save 15% use CODE cybersale3 during check-out. SHOP McMillan HERE | SHOP McCubed HERE.
8. Natchez — Rock Chucker Supreme Reloading Kit, $269.99
Everything you see above can be yours for just $269.99. Great Deal. Right now, Natchez is selling the Rock Chucker Supreme Master Reloading Kit for $269.99, a great price considering all the hardware you get: Press, Primer Tool, Scale, Powder Measure, Loading Tray, Reloading Manual and more. Heck, the Rock Chucker press alone is worth $160.00+. This is good starter kit for any reloader with sturdy items (like the Rock Chucker press), that will last a lifetime.
9. Midsouth — Hornady Auto Charge Scale/Dispenser, $147.99
The Hornady Lock N Load Auto Charge Electronic Scale/Dispenser is now on sale for just $147.99 at Midsouth Shooters Supply, discounted way down from the regular $228.98 price. That’s the lowest price we’ve seen on this product in a long time, making this a real bargain. If you are looking for an affordable combination digital scale and powder dispenser, this is very attractive pricing. By comparison, the new RCBS ChargeMaster Lite sells for around $250.00 and is back-ordered at most vendors. That means you can save at least $90.00 by buying RED instead of GREEN.
10. MidwayUSA — Sig Sauer 3-9x40mm Scope, $109.99
Here’s a stunning deal if you’re looking to build a budget varmint or hunting rifle. With MidwayUSA’s Cyber-Monday pricing, you can get a quality Sig Sauer 3-9x40mm scope for just $109.99 — less than some guys will pay just for a set of rings. This waterproof Sig scope features LD glass and 1/4-MOA clicks. It comes with full Sig Sauer warranty, so you can purchase with confidence.
11. 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. 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.
We ran a big story on Black Friday Weekend bargains from a dozen leading vendors. GET THAT INFO HERE. While some of the listed bargains expired, many of those deals are still in effect. Here are some more specials good now (Sunday 11/25/18) and beyond. While most of these specials expire at 11:59pm on Monday 11/26/18, some extend into early December. Please check each deal for specifics.
TargetVision — 15% Off All Camera Systems Through 11/30/18
Now through November 30, 2018, save 15% on all TargetVision Camera systems. We think these are some of the most sophisticated wireless target imaging systems you can buy. These really do work at 1000 yards and below. The software is reliable and will display your shots on your favorite mobile device. In addition, you can get a TargetVision Cam + LabRadar bundle with 2-year “bullet proof” TargetVision warranty.
Optics Planet — 11% Off Products with Code BFCYBER
The Optics Planet Black Friday Sale is good through Monday, 11/25/2018 at 11:59 pm. Use Code BFCYBER to save 11% on virtually everything in stock, including highly desired Kowa spotting scopes, Nightforce scopes, Leica Rangefinders, Vortex scopes and more. In addition, there are special deeper discounts on 126 featured products, listed at up to 61% off. These include gun cases, buttstocks, magazines, pistol sights, ear-muffs and more. But the big deal is being able to get that exact scope you want at 11% off normal retail.
Creedmoor Sports — Sales on Berger, Lapua, SK, LabRadar
Creedmoor Sports has extended its Black Friday Sale through Monday 11/26/2018 at 11:59 PM. There are some great products on sale, including Berger Bullets, Lapua Brass, SK Ammo, Kowa Spotting Scopes, and the state-of-the-art LabRadar Chronograph. See other General Sale items HERE (some special items will be on sale past Monday).
JP Enterprises — Sales on Guns and Gear Through Monday
JP Enterprises, a leading producer of AR-type rifles, uppers, trigger groups, and accessories, has extended its Black Friday special through Monday 11/26/18 at 11:59 PM. With this Cyber-Sale, you can save 10% on high-end MSR (Modern Sporting Rifle) components, handguards, trigger groups, as well as cartridge brass. This deal also includes free ground shipping in the lower 48.
Steyr Arms + Jadghund Gear at Huge Disounts
Hunters rejoice. Steyr Arms is running a big sale on Steyr Products and Jaghund hunting gear. Save up to 35% on hardware and up to 70% on clothing. This sales runs through 26th, 2018 with great savings on Steyr, Merkel, JAGDHUND, and X JAGD products.
Chistensen Arms — Barrels, Stocks, and Accessories on Sale Now
Christensen Arms has slashed prices on a full range of components and accessories: barrels, stocks, muzzle brakes, AR uppers, Timney triggers, bipods, gun cases and more. See Sale Items HERE.
Sales Located by EdLongRange. We welcome reader submissions.
As posted in the Calguns.net a few years back, there was a nasty out-of-battery firing incident involving a BOHICA Arms .510 DTC AR15 upper. The cause of the out-of-battery firing is not certain but it appears that the ammo was not sized properly and the firing pin may have been stuck in the extended position. As a result, the round went off before the bolt was closed with the lugs seated. In the process, the bolt handle broke off, as the bolt retracted violently, actually ending up outside the bolt raceway.
The shooter was badly injured, with broken bones and ligament damage to his left hand and tissue damage to his right hand. The shooter was holding the rifle with his left hand near the front of the chamber where a gas vent was located. Gas and shrapnel existed the vent hole causing the severe injuries to the left hand.
From range reports, it appears that the shooter had been struggling to chamber previous rounds, and was having trouble closing the bolt. After talking with one of the rangemasters, a poster on AR15.com reported: “The guy was using new reloads that weren’t exactly fitting well into his chamber. [The shooter] was slamming the bolt handle with his palm trying to get the cases to lock in. The guy was also slamming the bolt forward full force from the rearmost position back and forth trying to ram the cases into chamber in an attempt to squeeze the rounds in so the bolt could close. Finally, on one of the attempts … the possibly stuck firing pin rams into the primer and explodes the round when he slams the bolt forward (zero lug engagement hence the KB) and shooter puts himself into a world of hurt.”
Lessons Learned — Don’t Try to Force Oversize Ammo into a Chamber
By all reports, the shooter’s ammo wasn’t fitting his chamber properly. In an effort to force the ammo into the chamber, he worked the bolt with excessive force. That MAY have caused the firing pin to extend or the hammer to fall without the trigger being pulled. One theory is that the trigger system may have been modified, allowing the hammer to fall from the force of slamming the bolt forward. Others have speculated that the firing pin may have failed to retract because the bolt handle was over-torqued — a safety issue listed in the BOHICA manual.
Whatever caused the out-of-battery firing, it appears that improperly-sized ammo (or a poorly-cut chamber) was the root cause of the problems. If you go to a range and find your bolt does not close easily over the ammo — STOP SHOOTING — don’t try to force the issue. Disaster may result. To paraphrase Johnnie Cochran: “If the ammo doesn’t fit, it’s time to quit”.
Photos by Wildcard, originally posted on Calguns.net.
Looking for bulk ammo for your pistol or rifle? Right now Federal Ammunition is running a “Black Pack” promotion, just in time for the Black Friday/Cyber Monday Weekend. With this deal you get a direct Federal factory rebate up to $100.00 on Federal, Blazer Brass, or American Eagle Black Pack Ammo. The Rebate program is good through December 2, 2018. Combine this Factory Rebate with special Black Friday Weekend pricing from Brownells, and you can get reliable, brand-name USA-made ammo at bargain basement prices.
Here are some Federal Black Pack deals right now at Brownells (partial sample):
NOTE: These aren’t everything!! There are also Black Pack Rebates for .22 LR, 9mm, .40 SW, 12 gauge shells, and other ammo types. Just look for for Federal, Blazer, and American Eagle with Black Labels!
SPECIAL BONUS SAVINGS at BROWNELLS:
NOTE: If you purchase at least $200 before 11/25/2018 at 11:59 PM, you can get an additional $20 Off your order with Brownell’s Code FN2, or 10% Off your order over $300 with Code FN3! Remember though — this deal ends Sunday 11/25 at midnight!
How the Federal Black Pack Rebate Works:
Purchase ONE (1) case of Federal, Blazer® Brass or American Eagle® BLACK PACK bulk case or can ammunition and receive $20 back. Limited to FIVE (5) cases/cans or $100 per household. Valid manufacturer product numbers limited to: 5202BF350, 5200BF500, 5220BF350, 5230BF300, AE223BF300, 788BF and BF127 00AC1. Product must be purchased between 11/16/2018 through 12/2/2018. DEADLINE for mail-in or online submission 1/2/2019. See Terms and Conditions.
Meprolight FT Bullseye system does. Employing fiber optics and tritium, the FT Bullseye provides a bright aiming dot inside a circle — no front sight is needed. When the dot is centered in the circle, you’re on target. It’s as simple as that! The front blade is rendered superfluous. This really is innovative technology, albeit expensive — the FT Bullseye’s street price runs from 
