Report by Boyd Allen, IBS Executive VP
The 2017 IBS 600-Yard Nationals were held October 20-21 at the Memphis Sport Shooting Association (MSSA) Range. There was a good turn-out for the event, with 80 shooters. Conditions were challenging Saturday afternoon — strong winds that put some shooters right off the target. But those who mastered the conditions earned glory. The “Top Gun” at this year’s Nationals, earning the title of IBS 600-yard National Champion, was Andy Ferguson. In winning the Two-Gun Overall, Andy turned in a truly dominant performance, recording First Place Score in both Light Gun and Heavy Gun classes, along with second in HG group and fourth in LG Group. Finishing second Overall was Gaylan Breyans, while Jim Bauer was third.
Top Shooters (L to R): Steve Wilson, Scotty Powell, Seth Wooten, Gene Ford, Lindsey Talley, Andy ”Who” Ferguson, Gaylon Breans, Jim Bauer, Justin Dale, Darrell Jones, James Lederer, Robby Miles, Jeff Godfrey, Jason Wolfe, Mike Hanes. NOTE: CLICK PHOTO for large image of top shooters.
Today’s 600-yard benchrest rigs are capable of remarkable accuracy. Even with tough conditions in the afternoons, there was some pretty impressive shooting. Out of 640 targets that were shot by 80 competitors there were 27 scores of 50, 56 groups of 2” or less, 14 of 1.50” or less, 3 groups of 1.25″ or less, and one of 1” or less. See the FULL Results for more details.
Demonstration of Winning Form — Smooth and Fast
How do you win a 600-Yard National Benchrest Championship? Here’s a video answer to that question. To see how a top shooter handles his rifle on the bench, watch the short clip below of Two-Gun Winner Andy Ferguson shooting one of his targets with his 6BR Light Gun. Andy demonstrates smooth “table manners”. He keeps his head down, running off five shots in under 15 seconds. Note how well the gun tracks, returning to Point of Aim.
Match Winner Andy Ferguson Drills Five Shots in Under 15 seconds with his Light Gun
Notably, Andy won the match shooting the “plain vanilla” 6mmBR Norma — not a Dasher, not a 6 BRX, not a 6 BR Ackley. The parent 6mmBR cartridge can still do the job, particularly in the hands of a smooth shooter like Andy Ferguson. At the Memphis range, the usual strategy is to shoot on the sighter gong just before the switch to the record and then fire all shots on the record target as rapidly as possible to stay in the same wind condition.
600-Yard Benchrest Competition — The Basics
Two Classes — Light Gun and Heavy Gun
For those that are not familiar with this 600-yard Benchrest competition, the equipment rules are the same as for 1,000-yard Benchrest. There are two classes of rifles. The Light Gun (LG) rifles are limited to 17 pounds with no stock width or buttstock angle restrictions. The front and rear of these rifles must rest on sand bags. The rear bag may not have any provision for aiming the rifle.
Heavy Gun (HG) rifles have no weight limit. Like the LGs their stocks are not limited as to width or butt stock shape. HG rear sand bags may be supported by “mechanical” rests. Return to battery rests are not allowed for either class. Both HG and LG classes may use muzzle brakes.
Match Procedures at Memphis
In 600-yard IBS Benchrest competition, targets are measured for group size and there is also a score value based on shot placement in the target rings. Prizes are awarded for group, score, and combined. Before the first record target of an Aggregate, the sighter period is six minutes. For subsequent targets in that Agg, it is reduced to two minutes. At the end of sighter period, upon command, shooters have 10 minutes to complete their record target. Aggregates consist of eight targets. Shots that do not print on the target result in that target being disqualified (DQ), as well as the applicable Aggregate.
At this year’s Nationals, shooters rotated four benches to the right after every pair of targets was shot, continuing that rotation through both days. LG was shot on Friday, HG on Saturday. Thanks to an efficient target crew and recorded match commands, shooting was over by 2:25 pm both days.
Equipment List for Top Ten Shooters
The Top Ten Shooters all ran 6mm cartridges (6BRs and Dashers) loaded with similar components. All of the Top Ten who listed their components ran Varget powder and CCI 450 primers in Lapua brass. BAT Actions were predominant, and both Nightforce and Sightron scopes were popular. The top projectiles were Vapor Trail 103s and Berger 105s.
Top Ten Equipment List CLICK HERE for longer Equipment List.
A Well-Run Match
According to all reports the entire event ran like a well-oiled machine. The target crew was quick and skilled and all of the other details were handled efficiently. Prizes and trophies were in abundance. There was even some originality. Much to everyone’s amusement, instead of the usual (boring) plaque or trophy for the Two-Gun winner, a professional wrestling-style Prize Belt was awarded. Great idea! Showing off the Champ’s Belt is Two-Gun winner Andy Ferguson (Right) with past Shooter-of-the-Year Richard Schatz.
Wicked Winds Challenge Shooters on Saturday
The conditions were variously described as “horrible”, the “worst for any match on this range this year”, and so on. Conditions were worse on Saturday than Friday, blowing like stink by the end of the day. Friday morning it was cool, humid and breezy, with a wind speed of a little over 3 mph. By mid-afternoon, when the match finished, it was 20 degrees warmer and the wind had increased significantly to about 9 mph. Saturday morning was warmer, less humid, and the wind speed was about the same as Friday afternoon. But by mid-afternoon, at the end of the match, the wind was blowing 15 mph having peaked an hour earlier at 17 mph!
Doing a little research on the Berger Bullets website, with a 105gr VLD running 2950 fps, and a 15 mph wind coming from 5 O’Clock, the bullet deflection at 600 yards would be over 17.5 inches. There were a fair number of shooters with good records that missed targets.
Good Deed by Match Director Mike Moses
Match Director Mike Moses “paid it forward” this year in Memphis. Mike learned that his friend, bullet-maker Bart Sauter, had invited a young barrel-maker, James Lederer, to the Nationals. As this would be Lederer’s first 600-yard experience, Bart was going to lend Lederer one of Bart’s rifles. But it had another maker’s barrel installed. Mike decided Lederer should, fittingly, use a barrel Lederer made himself. So Mike then chambered up one of two Lederer barrels Mike had recently purchased, and fitted it to one of his own rifles. Mike then fire-formed cases, worked up a load, and assembled ammo for the match.
Mike prepared three complete rifles (and ammo) for the match — one for himself, one for his daughter (Lindsey Talley, ace photographer), and one for James Lederer. It’s hard enough to prepare a Nationals rig for one shooter. Mike did it for three people, PLUS he ran the match.
How did it work out? James Lederer finished mid-pack on Friday, and put what he had learned to good use on Saturday, taking a solid fourth place in Heavy Gun.
Both Bart and Mike have been impressed with the quality of Lederer barrels. James has several years’ experience working for a well-known barrel-maker before designing his own computer-controlled cut-rifling machine, and opening his own one-man shop.
Bauer Power — Jim and Sally Bauer at IBS 600-Yard Nationals
Jim Bauer sends 5 record rounds down range with his “Eagle” HG in Maxi-Tracker stock.
Sally Bauer shoots sighter rounds with her Stars & Stripes HG Maxi-Tracker.
The Bauers have a great transport set-up, with custom, slide-out rifle carriers fitted to their van. You can see the two Heavy Guns featured in the videos in the lower drawer.
The Memphis Sport Shooting Association Facility
The Memphis Sport Shooting Association operates an impressive facility with ranges for rifle, pistol, and shotgun. The 600-yard benchrest range, with covered firing line, is nicely sited, with thick stands of trees left and right. There are 24 very solid concrete-top benches. Plentiful rain and sunshine provide ideal conditions for trees and grass. For those of us in the arid West, the Memphis range seems green and lush. The trees on either side offer some (but obviously not complete) protection from wind.
The range was built on land that had been an across-the-course High Power range, and the raised berms for intermediate firing lines are still present. That makes the wind bit more “interesting” when head- or tail-wind angles prevail. There are no pits. For each bench, at 600 yards, two record targets are posted one above the other with a 20” square steel sighter gong directly below. The sighter plates are repainted throughout the day during target changes. CLICK HERE for a 360-degree video view of the range from the covered firing line.
To the IBS Membership — Thanks for Helping with Match Reports
Putting together these match reports for the IBS page on Accurateshooter.com is challenging and enjoyable work. The hard part is coming up with pictures and videos. This time I have been lucky and I am thankful for that. The best part is that I get to talk to some very fine people. Thank you all for taking the time to make my work possible. I appreciate it. — Boyd Allen
Credit Randy Dawson (Birdog) for most of the images and videos used here.
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. Dick’s Sporting Goods — Black Friday Gun Safe Sale
Need a Gun Safe? Head down to Dick’s Sporting Goods on Black Friday (11/25/2017). The giant, 64-gun Stack-On Sentinel vault will be marked down from $1499.99 to $699.98, a $800 savings, and a killer deal on a BIG vault! A medium-sized 24-gun safe will sell for just $399.98 — $300 off the regular price. NOTE, if you cannot wait until Black Friday, you can still save with pre-Black Friday sale pricing right now. You’ll pay more than on Black Friday, but there are still some significant savings. For example, right now you can get the Field & Stream Pro 36-gun safe for $699.98, marked down from $899.99.
NOTE: The Biggest Discounts (in the Red Advert above) are for Black Friday, 11/25/2017 ONLY! Lesser discounts apply now.
2. Natchez — Rock Chucker Supreme Reloading Kit, $224.99
Everything you see above can be yours for just $224.99, after RCBS $25.00 Rebate. Hell of a Deal. Right now, Natchez is selling the Rock Chucker Supreme Master Reloading Kit for $249.99. Heck, the Rock Chucker press alone is worth $150.00+. The Natchez price is $70-$90 cheaper than many other vendors. Plus this Master Reloading Kit now qualifies for a $25.00 RCBS Rebate. That lowers your net cost to just $224.99. That an amazing deal considering all the hardware you get: Press, Primer Tool, Scale, Powder Measure, Loading Tray, Reloading Manual and more…
3. Midsouth — Radians Moldable Earplugs, $10.88
If you’re a shooter, you need hearing protection — serious hearing protection. Along with muffs and disposable foam plugs, custom molded hearing protection is an option. You can spend up to $100.00 per set for molded plugs at a gunshow or you can buy the Radian’s moldable plugs for $10.88 at Midsouth. If you follow the simple instructions, you can custom-mold these to our own ears in just 10 minutes. Many people feel this is the most secure and comfortable form of ear protection if you need hearing protection for many hours at a time. Five different colors are available. After molding, the units are washable, so they can be re-used many times. We recommend replacing the sets every few months.
If you read our recent report on fixed-power F-Class optics, you’ll know that a fixed-power scopes are not just for 100/200-yard centerfire Benchrest competition. These can be used for F-Class competition, varmint matches, rimfire BR, and air rifle matches. You give up some flexibility without the variable power, but the scope will be lighter, less expensive, and potentially more reliable. We do a lot of load development work with a Weaver 36X scope because it is “dead nuts” reliable. Right now the Weaver T-Series XR 36x40mm scope (Fine Cross-Hair + Dot) is just $369.99 at Natchez Shooter’s Supply. But it gets better — this side-parallax optic qualifies for a $30.00 Weaver Rebate PLUS you can get $20.00 off with Natchez Code DOT171110. So your total NET Cost is just $319.99. NOTE: You can get this XR scope with silver finish and FCH reticle for the same $369.99 price, with the same promotions.
5. CDNN — Savage 11/111 Rifle with Bushnell Scope, $349.99
Need a reliable sub-MOA hunting rifle? Here’s heck of a deal on rifle AND optic. Right now you can purchase a Savage model 11/111 for $349.99 after $100 mail-in rebate from Savage. And get this — that price includes a 3-9x40mm Bushnell Trophy scope. That’s right, you get a brand new Savage rifle plus a new Bushnell scope, all for $349.99 after rebate. Great Deal. Chose the Long Action model 111 or the Short Action model 11. Fifteen popular chamberings are offered, so you’re sure to find a caliber/cartridge that suits your hunting requirements. Choices are: .243 Win, .25-06, 6.5 Creedmoor, .260 Rem, 6.5×284 NORMA, .270 Win, .270 WSM, 7mm-08, 7mm Rem Mag, .308 Win, .30-06 Spr, .300 WSM, .300 Win Mag, .338 Federal, and .338 Win Mag.
Hornady has released a new FREE Ballistic Calculator App for iOS (Apple) and Android OS. This new Mobile Ballistic App includes Hornady’s advanced 4DOF™ calculator as well as a standard BC (ballistic coefficient) calculator. The Hornady Ballistic Calculator App is Bluetooth-enabled so it can communicate with select wind meters.
The Hornady Ballistic App is FREE but you do need to supply an email address. We found the App downloaded quickly and installed easily. While the Mobile Ballistic App is new, Hornady has offered a web-based online 4DOF Ballistic App since August 2016.
7. Amazon — Neiko Digital Calipers, $16.85
Even if you have a good set of calipers, you may want to get one of these Neiko 01407A Digital Calipers. The #1 best-selling digital caliper on Amazon.com, this Neiko tool features a large LCD Screen and measures up to 6.0 inches. With over 3000 customer reviews, this product has earned an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. It’s hard to go wrong for $16.85, even if you just use these as a spare set for measuring group sizes and case trim lengths.
8. CDNN — Ruger 9E 9mm Pistol, $279.99
There have been some great deals on polymer-framed 9x19mm pistols lately, and this is one of the best. The Ruger 9E has won many converts from Glock ranks with its comfortable ergonomics, low bore axis, and unique reversible backstrap (flat or arched) that lets you quickly customize the grip size and feel. Another nice feature is the raked front sight for easier holstering. Right now you can get the Ruger 9E for just $279.99. That’s over $200 less than a Glock 19. And though the Glock costs way more, we actually prefer the Ruger’s grip angle, sights, and controls.
9. Amazon — Mystery Deal of the Week, $649.00
Not too long ago, this big name, European-engineered item sold for $799.00 and offered best-in-class performance at that price. Now this same high-end product can be had for just $649.00 at Amazon. A key tool for hunters and tactical shooters, this compact, 6.4 oz. product offers great performance with the backing of a world-class manufacturer. If you like European electro-optics, this big-name product will help you get on target all the way out to 2000 yards. CLICK HERE to see the Mystery Deal.
Report based on story By Ashley Brugnone, CMP Writer
The CMP Travel Games will see some big changes in 2018. The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) has revamped its 2018 Travel Games schedule by adding matches and establishing its own Classification System. Starting in 2018, ALL additional Travel Games matches will be held on Electronic Targets, the CMP will take over the Creedmoor Cup Matches, and all matches will now follow CMP High Power Rifle Competition Rules. Moreover, all the Individual Service Rifle Matches will now count towards the new CMP Classification System.
Electronic Targets to Be Used for Additional Travel Games Matches
In 2018, the CMP will take over the Creedmoor Cup Matches and add new events to the CMP Oklahoma and New England Games. All additional matches will use the CMP’s Electronic Target System. This shows shot location instantly on monitors next to each shooter. The Electronic Targets also eliminate the need for pit duty, so matches run more quickly and there is less work for competitors.
New Events Added to the CMP Travel Games
Additional matches added to the Travel Games include Excellence In Competition (EIC) events that will count towards the Distinguished Rifleman Badge. All regular CMP events, such as the Small Arms Firing School, various vintage rifle competitions, Vintage Sniper Match, Rimfire Match, Carbine Match, and pistol matches (except Western), will still be included on the Travel Games schedule.
File photo from 2015 Oklahoma CMP Games. Check schedule for 2018 dates.
Match Changes for CMP 2018 Travel Games:
Oklahoma CMP Cup & CMP Games Matches — two 80-Shot (800 Aggregate) Matches and a 4-Man Team Match.
Eastern CMP Cup & CMP Games Matches — The three Creedmoor 80 Shot Matches will now be changed to three 80-Shot CMP Cup Matches (800 Aggregate). A 4-Man Team Match and EIC Rifle Match will still be fired.
New England CMP Cup & CMP Games Matches — two 80-Shot (800 Aggregate) Matches and a 4-Man Team Match.
Western CMP Cup & CMP Games Matches — The three Creedmoor 80-Shot Matches will now be changed to two 100-Shot (1000 Aggregate) Matches. A 4-Man Team Match and EIC Rifle Match will still be fired.
IMR, a Hodgdon Powder Company brand, will soon release a new, slow-burn-rate magnum powder, IMR Enduron® 8133. This new powder is designed for large, magnum cartridges, such as .300 Win Magnum, .300 Remington Ultra Magnum, and 28 Nosler, among others. With the slowest burn rate among Enduron powders, 8133 has burn properties similar to Hodgdon Retumbo. The new Enduron 8133 powder will be available in 1-lb and 8-lb canisters starting in February 2018. Load Data for this new powder is already listed on the Hodgdon Reloading Data Center.
IMR® Legendary Powders now offers five (5) Enduron powders: IMR 4166, IMR 4451, IMR 4955, IMR 7977, and IMR 8133. “It was always our intent to fill out the Enduron line with a magnum powder and we could not be happier with how 8133 performed in development and testing,” says Ron Reiber, Hodgdon ballistician. “This powder delivers the [slow burn rate] magnum-caliber reloaders require and adds all of the performance characteristics of the Enduron line of powders”. These qualities include temp stability, significantly reduced copper fouling, and optimal load density.
Modern Powder Technology for Enhanced Performance
Copper fouling reduction – these powders contain an additive that drastically reduces copper fouling in the gun barrel. Copper fouling should be minimal, allowing shooters to spend more time shooting and less time cleaning a rifle to retain accuracy.
Temperature change stability – the Enduron line is insensitive to temperature changes. Whether a rifle is sighted in during the heat of summer, hunted in a November snowstorm or hunting multiple locations with drastic temperature swings, point of impact with ammunition loaded with Enduron technology will be very consistent.
Optimal load density - Enduron powders provide optimal load density, assisting in maintaining low standard deviations in velocity and pressure, a key feature for top accuracy.
Environmentally friendly - Enduron technology is environmentally friendly, crafted using raw materials that are not harmful to the environment.
The Enduron Line-Up of Five Powders
IMR now offers FIVE Enduron powders that cover a broad range of burn rates. They are suitable for a wide variety of cartridges, from small varmint cartridges all the way up to the .338 Lapua Magnum.
IMR 4166 possesses the fastest burn rate in the Enduron lineup. It is the perfect burn speed for cartridges such as .308 Win, 7.62mm NATO, 22-250 Rem and 257 Roberts. A versatile, match-grade propellant, IMR 4166 is comparable to Hodgdon® Varget.
IMR 4451 is a mid-range burn speed powder, ideally suited for cartridges such as .270 Winchester, .30-06 and 300 Winchester Short Magnum. This powder is comparable to Hodgdon H4350.
IMR 4955 is a medium burn speed powder, falling in between IMR 4451 and IMR 7977 in burn speed. It provides top performance in big game cartridges such as 25-06, 280 Remington and 300 Winchester Magnum. This powder is comparable to Hodgdon H4831.
IMR 7977 has the second slowest burn rate among the Enduron Technology powders. It yields great performance in .300 Winchester Magnum, 7MM Remington Magnum, and .338 Lapua Magnum. IMR 7977 is comparable to Hodgdon H1000.
IMR 8133 is designed specifically for magnum calibers, such as .300 Remington Ultra Magnum, 28 Nosler, or the .264 Winchester Magnum, among many others. This new powder has the slowest burn rate among the Enduron powders and compares in burn rate to Hodgdon Retumbo.
You may not be aware, but the Civilian Marksmanship Program runs a reliable, reasonably-priced maintenance/repair facility for USGI-issue rifles. Since October 2013, the CMP Custom Shop (Anniston, AL) has provided gunsmithing services for a wide range of U.S. Military rifles, specifically those issued in early eras. As well as repairs and troubleshooting, the CMP Custom Shop can upgrade, accurize, customize, and refinish the types of rifles the CMP sells.
CMP will work on the M1 Garand, M1 Carbine, 1903 and 1903A3 Springfield, the 1917 Enfield and the Krag. Other rifles like the Remington 40X, Mossberg 44, and H&R Model 12 can also be serviced. CMP will NOT work on shotguns, pistols, revolvers, M14/M1A, AR15-style rifles or other commercially-produced modern rifles. For a list of services (with prices) visit the CMP Custom Shop webpage.
NOTE: Before you can send a rifle to the CMP Custom Shop you must be a customer on file in the CMP system. Customers must meet the same eligibility requirements as for CMP rifle purchases. Once qualified, you can purchase a rifle from the CMP and have the CMP Custom Shop make modifications to it prior to shipping.
CMP Custom Shop Can Work on USGI Rifles Purchased from Other Sources
The CMP Custom Shop can work on rifles that may have been purchased elsewhere as long as they were made by a USGI contractor. Some examples include: Springfield Armory (not Springfield Inc.), Harrington & Richardson, Winchester, International Harvester, Remington, Rock Island, Eddystone, Inland, Underwood, Rock-Ola, Quality Hardware, National Postal meter, Standard Products, IBM, Irwin-Pederson and Saginaw. NOTE: There are many NON-USGI copies of the M1 Garand, 1903 Springfield and especially the M1 Carbine that CMP will be unable to work on.
For more information, call (256) 835-8455, x1113, or send email to customshop [at] thecmp.org. Shipping and Correspondence address for the CMP Custom Shop is:
Repeated firings at stout pressures can cause primer pockets to grow in diameter. This can create an unsafe condition if your primers are not seating properly. Are your primer pockets “good to go”, or have they been pushed to the point of no return? Do you really know? Many guys try to gauge primer pocket tightness by “feel”, as they seat the primer. But that method isn’t precise. Now there’s a better way…
The folks at Ballistictools.com have created a handy set of precision-machined gauges that let you quickly and accurately check your primer pockets. These gauges are offered in two sizes — for large and small primer pockets. A two-piece set of both large and small gauges costs just $19.99. These gauges let you quickly measure the depth of a primer pocket, and check if the crimp has been removed properly. Most importantly, the gauge tells you if the primer pocket has opened up too much. One side of the gauge has an enlarged diameter plug. If that “No-Go” side fits in the primer pocket, you should ditch the case — it’s toast.
Precision ground from O-1 tool steel, these primer pocket gauges serve multiple functions. The inventor of these tools explains:
I created the prototype of this tool for my own use in brass processing. I needed a way to quickly and easily measure primer pockets that was reliable and did not require wasting a primer. This tool has been indispensable for me and I would never go back to the old method of uncertainty and guessing.
One side of this gauge is the “go” side which quickly tells you the depth of a primer pocket, whether any crimp is properly removed, and whether the primer pocket is loose. If it feels loose on the “go” side, use the other end of the tool, the “no go” side, to test to see if the primer pocket is too loose to hold a primer. If the no-go slides into the pocket, then you know to junk that brass.
Product tip from Boyd Allen. We welcome reader submissions.
“On that day, let us solemnly remember the sacrifices of all those who fought so valiantly, on the seas, in the air, and on foreign shores, to preserve our heritage of freedom, and let us reconsecrate ourselves to the task of promoting and enduring peace so that their efforts shall not have been in vain.”
– 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower, Veterans Day proclamation.
On the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month of 1918, bugle calls signaled the ‘cease fire’ ending the First World War. (The official Armistice was signed earlier that morning.) To those who endured it, WWI was the “Great War”, “the War to End All Wars.” Tragically, an even greater conflict consumed the world just two decades later.
Today, 99 years after the end of WWI, Americans mark the anniversary of the WWI Armistice as “Veterans Day”. In Canada it is known as Remembrance Day. On this solemn occasion we honor all those who have served in the military in times of war and peace.
While more WWII veterans pass away each year, there are still over 21.8 million veterans in the United States. Take time today to honor those soldiers, sailors, and airmen who have served their nation with pride. Today we remember that… “All gave some, and some gave all.”
Former Secretary of Veterans Affairs Dr. James Peake asked Americans to recognize the nation’s 21.8 million living veterans and the generations before them who fought to protect freedom and democracy: “While our foremost thoughts are with those in distant war zones today, Veterans Day is an opportunity for Americans to pay their respects to all who answered the nation’s call to military service.”
On Veterans Day we especially need to remember the seriously wounded combat veterans. These men and women summon great courage every day to overcome the lasting injuries they suffered in battle. Some of these soldiers have lost limbs, yet volunteered to return to combat duty. That is dedication beyond measure.
National Veterans Day Ceremony
The Veterans Day National Ceremony is held each year on November 11th at Arlington National Cemetery. The ceremony commences precisely at 11:00 a.m. with a wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns and continues inside the Memorial Amphitheater with a parade of colors by veterans’ organizations. The ceremony is intended to honor and thank all who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Major regional ceremonies and events are also held throughout the country.
Finding Peace On The Other Side Of War NRA Blog Storyby Catherine Parks, Divide Camp Volunteer
For combat veterans there is a great divide between life pre-war and life post-war. Soldiers prepare, train and are equipped to go to a war zone, but, upon returning home, physically and psychologically injured veterans struggle to assimilate back into a normal life. Divide Camp, located in northeastern Oregon, honors the service of post 9-11 combat veterans through small-group outdoor adventures. The non-profit camp offers hunting, fishing, and other recreational activities. Learn More HERE.
Divide Camp provides lodging, home-cooked meals and transportation at no charge to the veterans served. The camp features 40 acres of remote forestland, six cabins, a shop and an outdoor picnic shelter. In 2014, The NRA Foundation funded its first grant to Divide Camp — $15,000 for an Action Trackchair — to allow amputee veterans to traverse the mountain terrain.
Another grant in 2015 funded pistol range construction, safety gear and targets. Initial range work for a competition 3-D archery course shootable from a Trackchair began with funding from an NRA Foundation grant in 2016.
How Divide Camp Helps Rebuild Lives
Army veteran Jose Martinez stepped on an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan. Following numerous surgeries and months of therapy, Jose was fitted with prosthetics, which allowed him to walk. Still, extreme depression set in and two suicide attempts followed. On his first day at Divide Camp, Jose used the new all-terrain wheelchair to hunt. “I missed the first couple of times, but my friends didn’t give up on me and Divide Camp didn’t give up on me, and I got one the next morning,” Jose said. “Elk hunting was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. How many amputees in California can say they shot an elk?” Jose stayed in a new cabin built to accommodate veterans with disabilities.
Just being in nature is an amazing healer
Julie Wheeler, Divide Camp executive director, has served as a critical incident stress worker to help others prevent post-traumatic stress disorder. She is familiar with what happens when people are exposed to high stress and trauma. “I know it takes a long time to overcome,” Julie said. “I think they need help beyond what’s provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs, which is drugs and therapy. Just being in nature is an amazing healer.”
Not so long ago, .22 LR Rimfire ammunition was in very short supply. And when you could find decent .22 LR ammo, it was very expensive. High demand and reduced supply lead to high prices. Hoarding by some rimfire shooters didn’t help the situation either. But, thankfully, those days are behind us. Major brand .22 LR rimfire ammunition is now widely available again at reasonable prices. This is good news for all shooters, especially for rimfire competitors and clubs that run youth training programs. Here are some of the best deals we’ve found this week. NOTE: Some of the deals expire soon — if you see something you want, don’t delay.
MidwayUSA — 1500 Rounds Norma Tac-22 Ammo, $109.99
7.3 Cents Per Round
Check out those groups. That’s impressive accuracy at 50 yards. You’d expect to pay $10.00 or more per box for rimfire ammo that can shoot this well. But you can now get the Norma Tac-22 for the equivalent of $3.66 per box in this package deal — 1500 rounds in Ammo Can for $109.99. This works out to just 7.3 cents a round for very good .22 LR rimfire ammo — that’s a steal. NOTE: The target photos come from Champion Shooters Supply. This vendor tells us: “We have found this to run very well in Ruger rifles, handguns, and target pistols. These are 5-shot groups at 50 yards with an Anschutz 1913 rifle. This is an incredible value.”
Outdoor Ltd. — Winchester in Wood Box, $29.99 for 500 Rounds
6 Cents Per Round
This 36gr Winchester .22 LR ammo would make a nice gift item. The 50-round packs come with a nice slide-top wooden box. For $29.99 you get ten (10) 50-count boxes that fit inside the wood Display Box. That works out to just six cents ($0.06) per round. NOTE: Photo shows a full case in large cardboard box. Outdoor Limited’s $29.99 price is for 500 rounds (ten 50-ct boxes) with wooden Winchester case.
Grafs.com — Browning BPR 40gr, $19.99 for 400 Rounds
5 Cents Per Round
The “good old days” are back. You can now buy 400 rounds of Big Name, American-made .22 LR Rimfire ammo for under twenty bucks. That’s just five cents ($0.05) per round. Right now Grafs.com is offering Browning Performance Rimfire (BPR) 40gr LRN rimfire ammo for just $19.99. This is one plastic container with 400 rounds. That works out to just five cents ($0.05 per round). Send 100 rounds down range for the price of a Big Mac at McDonalds.
AmmoMen LLC — Federal Champion, $2.05 for 50 Rounds
4 Cents Per Round
To be honest, we couldn’t believe the price on this Federl 40gr LRN Champion Ammo. Just $2.05 for a 50-round box of name-brand, USA-made ammo. That can’t be right — just four cents ($0.04) per round? Well we called the vendor, AmmoMenLLC.com and confirmed this price is real. Grab it while you can. This is one of the best deals we’ve seen in a long time.
Thousands of new products will be on display at SHOT Show 2018, the huge gun industry trade show held each January in Las Vegas. Some of the most highly-anticipated products (such as new Lapua ammo with Berger bullets) have not yet been revealed. However, the SHOT Show Product Planner offers a “sneak peak” at nearly 100 new-for-2018 products. More will come in the weeks ahead. For the time being, however, here are six interesting new products. Since these are all completely new items, we haven’t been able to test them yet. All product descriptions are provided by the manufacturers.
Which of these six (6) new products is your favorite? Which do you think will be the biggest commercial success? List your responses in the Comments section below.
New Accu-Tac Precision Bipod (Quick Detach with Traverse)
The Accu-Tac FC-5 QD F-Class Bi-Pod with quick detach was designed for long-range, target, competition, and tactical shooting. The FC-5 QD is 100% billet aircraft aluminum. Our quick detach rail mount is simple, quick, and very secure. The quick detach attaches to a 1913 Picatinny rail and mounts in seconds without the need to use extra tools for tightening. Our F-Class bipod has the ability to pan and the leg design allows the shooter to quickly adjust to 5 different positions and position each leg differently. Leg positions can be deployed in a 45 or 90 degree position either forwards or backwards, locking securely into 5 positions through a 180 degree arc.
PRICE: $430 | LINK: Accu-Tac.com
New LEO TakeDown Barrel Attachment System for AR-Platform Rifles
The LEO TakeDown is rapid barrel removal and attachment system. The LEO TakeDown retrofits direct impingement AR-15, M-4, and M-16 service rifles that utilize a MILSPEC grade upper receiver. Designed for durability and reliability, the LEO is made of military grade steel. The Upper Receiver Case replaces the D-Ring assembly. The Barrel Coupling is designed to accept commercially-available handguards and integrates with the Upper Receiver Case for a positive lock between the barrel chamber, the index pin, and the upper receiver. Once installed, the barrel chamber remains within headspace gap tolerance, lateral and fore/aft movement of the barrel is restricted (no movement). The cycle of operation is normal, and battle sight zero remains intact.
PRICE: $350 | LINK: LEOTakedown.com
New Magnetospeed T1000 Target Indicator
Magnetospeed’s new T1000 target hit indicator features a weatherproof enclosure and long battery life. It was designed to be mounted to the back side of AR500 steel targets at least 10″ wide. While mounted, it is in an always-on state waiting for the next shot. How does it hold up? The flexible rubber reflector is designed to withstand many impacts before needing to be replaced. Target preparation for the T1000 is quick and simple, and the T1000 can be transferred to multiple targets using Industrial Velcro. The T1000 has multiple operating modes and is easily seen through any optic that can “see” your target at your shooting distance.
PRICE: $150.00 | LINK: Magnetospeed.com
New Noize Barrier Electronic Ear Plugs
Otto Communications’ NoizeBarrier High Definition Electronic Earplugs offer situational awareness … while also providing hearing protection from loud noises. The dual-mode NoizeBarrier earplugs [feature] noise-isolating eartips combined with proprietary sound processing electronics. The earplugs provide normal situational awareness when sound levels are safe, a higher level of protection (up to 15 dB) when there is sustained loud noise, and maximum protection (up to 40 dB) from loud impulse noises. With a simple press on the touch pad, the enhanced hearing mode provides 5X amplification of soft sounds, while maintaining the impulse noise protection.
LINK: OttoFedMil.com
New Lyman Compact Reloading Press
Lyman’s new Brass Smith C-Frame Press is designed as an affordable press for beginners AND for use as a secondary press for experienced reloaders. The compact C-Frame Press requires minimal bench space. Small but strong, the rugged press frame is made of cast iron, while other components are all steel. The press features compound linkage for optimum leverage, a 1” diameter ram, and a 3 7/8” press opening which can handle cartridges with a loaded length of up to 3.700”. The press has a central handle position for easy ambidextrous use and a ball handle for comfortable operation. The C-Frame Press accepts all 7/8×14 thread dies and standard shell holders. The press… is the perfect auxiliary press for whose wishing to perform a specific operation separate from their main press.
Price: $99.95 | LINK: LymanProducts.com
New .300 Norma and .338 Norma Brass from Peterson
Peterson Cartridge Co. dedicated much 2017 to developing .300 Norma and .338 Norma brass that rival the internal volume consistency you receive from Norma, but also holds more pressure and offers more reloads per casing. One tester said: “The Peterson brass I’ve been testing in .300 Norma Mag is by far the best .300 Norma brass I’ve used to date… The accuracy is OUTSTANDING.” Peterson anticipates this brass will start shipping in the first quarter of 2018.
LINK: Peterson Cartridge Company
Credit EdLongRange for finding the 2018 Product Planner. We welcome reader submissions.
For more information, call (256) 835-8455, x1113, or send email to customshop [at] thecmp.org. Shipping and Correspondence address for the CMP Custom Shop is:
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