At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. CDNN Sports — Ruger American Gen II with Scope, $649.99
⏺ Great deal on popular product
Ruger has released a Ruger American Rifle “Generation II” edition, featuring a spiral-fluted barrel and muzzle brake. As sold by CDNN Sports for $649.99, this rifle comes complete with a 4-12x40mm Bushnell hunting scope, 20″ fluted barrel, and gray stock. Many chamberings are offered: .223 Rem, 6.5 Creedmoor, 7mm-08, and .308 Winchester. In addition, for the same $649.99 price, there are versions with FDE tan stock and 16.1″ barrel offered in .223 Rem, 7.62×39, and 300 Blackout. All these Ruger American Gen II rifles come with 4-12x40mm Bushnell scope and rings, adjustable trigger, and Cerakote metal finish.
2. Natchez — Frankford Arsenal Sale, Up to 42% Off
⏺ Great Reloading Kit and save $20-$50 on Frankford Arsenal products
Natchez is running a major Frankford Arsenal Sale right now. If you’re getting started in reloading, the Frankford Arsenal Essential Reloading Kit is a great package for $349.99 ($60 off). This includes the outstanding F-1 Single Stage Press, along with Perfect Seat Hand Primer, Bench Top Powder Measure, Aluminum Powder Funnel Kit, Electronic Calipers, DS-750 Powder Scale, Powder Trickler, and Universal Reloading Tray. This very same Kit is $419.99 at MidwayUSA, $70 more! NOTE: You can also get the very good F-1 Reloading Press by itself for $114.99 at Natchez.
3. Smith & Wesson, Wheelgun Wonderland Rebate, $50 or $75
⏺ Significant rebate on high-quality revolvers
We think every gun fan should have a Smith & Wesson revolver. Right now you can get a significant S&W Rebate on both compact carry revolvers and full-size wheelguns. For the smaller J-Frame (with $50 rebate), we like the Model 638 with alloy frame and shielded hammer. You can also get a big $75 rebate on the bigger K-, L-, or N-frame revolvers. In .357 Magnum, we like the modern L-Frame Model 686.
4. Powder Valley — Popular Alliant Powders IN STOCK
⏺ Grab these great Alliant powders before they sell out
Many of the most popular powders from Alliant and Hodgdon have been very hard to find over the last couple of seasons. Thankfully a huge new shipment of Alliant Powders has been received by Powder Valley. Order your favorite Alliant powders now. Among the many Alliant powders in stock now are: AR-Comp, Power Pro 2000-MR, Reloder 10X, Reloder 15, Reloder 16, Reloder 22, Power pistol and many more. Reloder 15 is a great choice for 6mmBR and 6BRA. With burn rate very similar to H4350, temp-stable Reloder 16 works well in the 6mm Creedmoor, 6XC, and 6GT cartridges while Power Pro 2000-MR works well in .308 Win rifles.
5. Palmetto SA — Rock Island Armory TM22 Rifle, $199.99
⏺ Slick, AR-style rimfire rifle with new features
Looking to get started in NRL22 competition, or want a rimfire varmint rifle with familiar AR look and feel? Then check out the Rock Island Armory TM22. This handsome semi-auto .22 LR rimfire rig weighs 6.5 lbs. with its 18″ barrel. Now just $199.99 on sale, the TM22 sports an AR-type grip, commercial buffer tube adapter, top rail, and M-LOK fore-end. The rifle is set up with right-handed controls, but the TM22 can easily be modified for left-handed operation. The TM22 ships with two 10-rd aluminum magazines with aftermarket 15- and 25-round magazines available.
6. Sportsman’s Guide — CMMG AR Conversion Kit, $169.99
⏺ Save money with rimfire ammo for AR cross-training
The CMMG Bravo .22 LR Conversion Kit provides a replacement bolt/bolt carrier along with three 25-round magazines with special .22 LR-fitted followers and ammo slots. This allows you to shoot rimfire ammo from any AR-15 chambered for the .223 Rem (5.56×45). The CMMG Bravo has an integrated extension that fits into your current chamber. The rimfire bullet passes through this extension and then enters the barrel. This conversion kit is now on sale for $169.99. To use, simply replace the rifle’s .223 Rem bolt and carrier with the Bravo .22 LR conversion unit and load up the included magazine(s) with rimfire ammo.
7. MidwayUSA — Electronic Muffs with Walkie-Talkie, $59.99
⏺ Dual-function electronic muffs — great for range communications
Electronic earmuffs protect your hearing while allowing you to hear range commands. With these Walkie-Talkie muffs you also get 2-way communication capabilities. That lets you talk to folks in the pits or at a different section of your shooting club. The Walker Razor Slim Low Profile Electronic Earmuffs (NRR 23dB) with Walkie Talkie allows you to communicate with other FRS radios. That lets you give range commands or talk with friends without the need for a second radio. If you don’t need the two-way functionality, MidwayUSA also has the NRR 26 Walker’s Alpha Power Electronic Muffs for $69.99, and the slimmer NRR 21 Razor Slim XTRM Muffs for $49.99, $20 off.
8. Natchez — .22 LR Ammo Five to Six Cents Per Round
⏺ Big savings on .22 LR ammo from Federal, CCI, Aguila and more
Right now, at Natchez, you can save big on .22 LR rimfire ammunition. Choose among many leading brands including Federal, CCI, SK, Winchester, Remington, and Aguila, with prices starting at just 5.5 cents per round ($27.49 for 500 rd box).
9. Amazon — ShootingTargets7 AR500 Steel Targets
⏺ Good selection of AR500 steel targets with durable zinc coating
Steel targets are great for fun shooting and tactical training. Right now Amazon offers a line of USA-made Zinc-plated, laser-cut AR500 Steel Targets (#ad) starting at just $7.97 for 3″ diameter gong. Choose from a variety of sizes ranging from 3″ to 16″ diameter and thicknesses 1/4″, 3/8″, or 1/2″. There’s also a 12″x23″ torso target. The Zinc plating on the steel helps prevent rust. The maker says the zinc “is far more durable than paint or powder coat.”
⏺ Essential leveling accessory for 1″ and 30mm scopes — real bargain
Avoid bad rifle canting by using a bubble level fitted to rail or scope. One very affordable option is the Jialitte Scope Bubble Level (#ad). This features a 30mm diameter ring, plus an inner insert ring so it will also fit 1″-diameter main tubes. The Jialitte unit, just $10.99 on Amazon, is nicely radiused with a low profile. User reviews have been very positive. You could easily pay $35.00 or more for a 30mm scope level.
BONUS: FREE Shipping $99+ Orders with Creedmoor Sports
Here’s a nice President’s Day special from Creedmoor Sports. Now through 12:00 pm CST on February 20, 2024 you can get FREE Ground Shipping on most products with an order over $99.00. Use Code PRES24. Creedmoor Sports is also running a big sale right now on Sightron Scopes.
As an Amazon affiliate, this site can earn revenues through sales commissions.
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.243 Ackley Improved for Long-Range Varminting and Benchrest Competition
Whenever Matt Bianchini brings his bright yellow .243 Ackley to the firing line, heads turn. This is one truly handsome rig–as good-looking as it is accurate. Built to smoke varmints at long-range as well as compete in 1000-yard benchrest matches, this rifle is proof that competition improves the breed. Fitted with a Farley action, Jewell trigger, Leupold LRT scope, and Lilja or Krieger barrel, the Yellow Ackley is a “no compromise” match rifle that can run with the big dogs in 1K Benchrest competition. And with the Ackley’s ability to toss 106gr Clinch Rivers at 3350 fps, this is one flat-shooting, hard-hitting varmint rifle.
Ultra-Fast, Ultra-Smooth Farley Action…and One Wicked Paint Job
The heart of Matt’s rifle is a Farley action. Farleys have found favor with Benchrest competitors, because the bolt can be worked so fast. And the Farley is as smooth as it is speedy. The difference is quite noticeable if you compare it to a blue-printed Rem 700, or even a recent Stolle Panda. Farleys were true customs, built one at a time by the Farley family in Oklahoma. Unlike a BAT action which is machined from billet steel, a Farley starts with a stainless investment casting, much like Ruger pistol frames. It uses a cone bolt for smooth, yet solid lock-up.
One of the unique features of the Farley is the ejector–it can be switched on or off, depending on the shooter’s preference. So, if you’re load testing some hot rounds, you can turn the ejector off. In a match you can turn the ejector “on” to function normally. Matt is now a confirmed Farley fanatic. He tells us: “I’ve got quite a few other very nice actions, including Nesikas. But none of them are as slick as that Farley. When you work the bolt it feels like it’s on ball-bearings.”
Matt’s Screamin’ Yellow Ackley–The Need for Speed
.243 Ackley Improved Speed Demon
In a long-range varmint rifle, speed kills. Ultra-high velocities will deliver flatter trajectories and more explosive hits on critters. That’s where the .243 Ackley Improved really shines.
Matt has explored the upper limits of .243 Ackley Improved (AI) performance with his yellow long-range rig, fitted with a 29″ Lilja 3-groove, 1:8″-twist barrel. Using a stout load of Alliant Reloder 25, Matt’s “Screamin’ Yellow Ackley” has topped 3340 fps with Clinch River 106s. That’s serious speed for heavy 6mm bullets. This shows a well-built .243 AI leaves Dashers and 6XCs in the dust when it comes to pure velocity.
Ultimate Evolution of the .243 Winchester
Matt’s show-stopping rifle is a .243 Ackley Improved (40-degree shoulder, .271″ neck), chambered with a Manson reamer. On top of the stainless Farley “S” action, in Farley 30mm rings, sits a Leupold LRT (1/16 MOA dot) boosted to 18X-40X by Premier Reticles. Matt has SIX barrels for the gun, three Lilja 3-grooves, a couple Kriegers, and a Shilen.
Matt’s gun currently sports an 8-twist 29″ Lilja 3-groove HV taper that Matt says cleans up like a dream. The stock is a Shehane ST-1000 Tracker made in fiberglass by McMillan, with a BAT trigger guard and Shehane polished billet aluminum buttplate. Prior to final finishing, Matt worked over the flats and some of the angles. That’s why the facets are so well-defined on this rifle compared to some ‘glass Trackers you may have seen. The gun was chambered by Dave Bruno of Cheswick, PA.
Matt bedded the stock and applied the stunning Sikken “Viper” yellow paint job himself. That flawless, smooth-as-glass Screamin’ Yellow finish is no ordinary paint-job, but then Matt Bianchini is no ordinary do-it-yourself painter. His family runs an automotive body-shop, so he had access to premium paints and a quarter-million-dollar spray booth with all the latest technology. Still, Matt spent many hours on this stock to get everything right, trying a couple colors before he settled on a Sikken automotive “Viper Race Yellow” formulated for the Dodge Viper sports car. After careful prep work, Matt sprayed two coats of Viper Yellow, and then added three coats of high-grade automotive clear, which was then baked-on in a heat chamber. Matt also painted the Sinclair front rest to match the stock, and even polished the surfaces of the Hoehn windage top. A lot of effort, Matt told us, was required to achieve the results you see here.
3300 fps for 1000 Yards
Though Matt’s Ackley has harvested its share of varmints, the gun was built with 1000-yard benchrest competition in mind. At left is the firing line at Thunder Valley, Ohio. Yep those targets (upper right) are 1000 yards away. Now you know why Matt has a 40-power scope.
The Yellow Ackley weighs just under 17 pounds to meet IBS and NBRSA “Light Gun” weight limits. While Matt says his bullets don’t “go to sleep” for a couple hundred yards, this gun can still shoot 1/4″ groups at 100 yards and hold that accuracy much, much farther. Matt reports, “my best-ever group was five shots in .397″ at 400 yards. Yep, I got lucky with the conditions, but this is a very accurate rifle.”
.243 Ackley Improved–More Velocity, Less Case Stretch
by Bob Blaine, Sinclair International
Parker Ackley reluctantly developed the .243 Ackley Improved (“AI”). Ackley finally gave in to his customers’ requests to develop the .243 AI. He had always felt that the .243 Winchester was already an improved configuration, but he did say that the best thing to be gained by improving the .243 Winchester was to substantially reduce the case-stretching problems. The .243 Winchester parent case has always stretched brass, almost as bad as the Swift. Even though you get more velocity with the improved .243, I’ve also found that the improved version gives a bit more throat life than the parent case does.
The .243 AI delivers more velocity by virtue of enhanced case capacity–roughly five grains more H20 capacity than a standard .243 Winchester. The .243 AI has a water capacity of approximately 57 to 58 grains, compared to 52-53 grains for the standard .243 Winchester.
Loading for Long-Range
For long-range shooting, Matt loads 106gr Clinch Rivers with 47.5gr of Alliant Reloder 25 for his Krieger barrels, a little more powder with the Lilja 3-grooves. The Lilja load runs 3342 fps, with a 3.228″ OAL. Cases are neck-turned Lapua .243 Winchester. He uses Wilson inline seater and Wilson eck-sizer dies (.267″ bushing), and a custom, reamer-cut FL sizing die.
Not Just for BR, This Gun Can Hunt
While Matt has a big stable of varmint rifles, the Yellow Ackley has seen plenty of duty in the ‘Hog fields. Matt is from a farming family and he can shoot practically right out his back door (see top photo at the farm). He has nailed some big ground-hogs at 800 yards and beyond. The .243 AI does kick a bit compared to other varmint cartridges, but even with 105-106gr bullets, it’s not bad. He has considered adding a muzzle brake at some point to one of the barrels, just so he can see impacts better.
Screamin’ Yellow Dasher?
Matt originally thought of building the gun up as a 6BR or a 6BR Improved. He has a Manson reamer similar to a 6mm Dasher, with a 40-degree shoulder and .008″ body taper. He actually chambered a couple barrels with that 6BR Improved reamer, but he hasn’t shot them yet. He was so pleased with how the gun performed in .243 AI, that he saw no reason to change. And it may be a while before he slaps a Dasher-chambered barrel on the rig: “I really like the way it shoots as a .243 AI. I’m so impressed with it that I don’t want to mess with anything. And I don’t think I’ll be running out of Ackley barrels anytime soon.”
Since the .243 Win is such a popular cartridge, all the major die-makers offer reloading dies. It’s hard to go wrong with a Redding Type ‘S’ Full-length bushing die–item 77114 for the standard .243 Win and item 77420 for .243 AI. Whidden Gunworks also makes great .243 Win sizing dies (and custom .243 Win AI dies on request). These will both resize the case (and bump the shoulder) as necessary, and allow you to adjust neck tension with bushings. Alternatively, you can go with a body die, and a separate neck bushing die.
If you load primarily one brand of bullets, another slick set-up is to buy a Forster or Whidden full-length, non-bushing .243 Win sizing die, and then have Forster or Whidden hone the neck for your desired amount of tension. This elegant one-pass sizing solution produces very straight rounds with low run-out.
For bullet seating, both the Redding Competition Seater (item 55114) and the Forster Ultra-Seater (item U00034) work great for the standard .243 Win case. If you shoot a .243 Ackley, Redding’s .243 AI Comp Seater (item 55420) costs quite a bit more than the standard version Forster doesn’t list a .243 AI seater in their catalog. However, you can just run your chambering reamer into the inner sleeve of either seating die to fit the .243 Ackley Improved case.
If you want the “Cadillac” of production seater dies for the .243 Win, order the Wilson Stainless Micrometer seater (item 50-1114S) from Sinclair International. Costing only a few dollars more than a Redding Comp seater, this die is a joy to use, providing very positive control over bullet seating depth. When used with a quality arbor press, the Wilson offers unrivaled “feel” for bullet-seating force. This can help you monitor neck tension, one of the most critical factors in maintaining low ES and SD for long-range accuracy.
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Brownells received a large shipment of Alliant reloading powder this week. If you need Reloder 10X, 15, 15.5 TS, 16, 17, 19, Power Pistol or other popular powders, you may want to head over to Brownells and grab some very soon. We expect the most popular Alliant powders will sell out soon. In addition, there are per-customer purchase limits for many of the Alliant powder varieties. For example, with Reloder 15.5 TS and Reloder 16 you can buy two (2) 1-pounders, or one (1) 8-pound jug.
UPDATE: The Alliant 15.5 TS one-pounders sold out in minutes after we released this report. The 8-pounders are still available as of 9:50 am CT 7/16/22.
As of 9:30 am CT on July 16, 2022, here are Alliant powders in stock at Brownells: Reloder 10X, Reloder 15, Reloder 15.5 TS, Reloder 16, Reloder 17, Reloder 19, Reloder 50, 20-28 Shotshell Powder, Bullseye, Green Dot, Red Dot, Blue Dot, Power Pistol, Promo, 2400 Smokeless, E3 Shotshell, BE-86, Pro Reach Shotshell, Extra Lite.
Current Brownells Discount Codes
Brownells has a number of discount codes that can save you 10% or more on your purchase. Use these codes during checkout to save on your orders. Note: Unless otherwise stated, these codes may expire at any time, so place your orders soon.
$120 Off Orders $1000+
CODE: JULY120
Expiration date 7/31/2022
$55 Off $500+
CODE: JULY55
Expiration date 7/31/2022
$25 Off $250+
CODE: JULY25
Expiration Date 7/31/2022
$45 Off $450
CODE: 45OFF450
Expiration Date Unknown
$35 Off $350
CODE: 35OFF350
Expiration Date Unknown
$15 Off $150
CODE: SAE
Expiration Date Unknown
$10 Off $100
CODE: PTT
Expiration Date Unknown
$15 Off $150
CODE: TAG
Expiration Date Unknown
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The shape of powder grains has a profound effect on the performance of the powder charge, as it concerns both pressure and velocity. There are multiple powder shapes including flake, ball, and extruded or “stick” (both solid and perforated).
All Vihtavuori reloading powders are of the cylindrical, single-perforated extruded stick type. The differences in burning rate between the powders depend on the size of the grain, the wall thickness of the cylinder, the surface coating and the composition. Cylindrical extruded powders can also have multi-perforated grains. The most common types are the 7- and 19-perforated varieties. A multi-perforated powder grain is naturally of a much larger size than one with a single perforation, and is typically used for large caliber ammunition.
Other types of powder grain shapes include sphere or ball, and flake. The ball grains are typically used in automatic firearms but also in rifles and handguns. The ball grain is less costly to produce, as it is not pressed into shape like cylindrical grains. Flake shaped grains are typically used in shotgun loadings.
Web thickness in gunpowder terminology means the minimum distance that the combustion zones can travel within the powder grain without encountering each other. In spherical powders, this distance is the diameter of the “ball”; in flake powder it is the thickness of the flake; and in multi-perforated extruded powders it is the minimum distance (i.e. wall thickness) between the perforations.
The burning rate of powder composed of grains without any perforations or surface treatment is related to the surface area of the grain available for burning at any given pressure level. The change in the surface area that is burning during combustion is described by a so-called form function. If the surface area increases, the form function does likewise and its behavior is termed progressive. If the form function decreases, its behavior is said to be degressive. If the flame area remains constant throughout the combustion process, we describe it as “neutral” behavior.
The cylindrical, perforated powders are progressive; the burning rate increases as the surface area increases, and the pressure builds up slower, increasing until it reaches its peak and then collapses. Flake and ball grains are degressive; the total powder surface area and pressure are at their peak at ignition, decreasing as the combustion progresses.
So how does the shape affect pressure and muzzle velocity? In general, it can be said that powder that burns progressively achieves a desired muzzle velocity at lower maximum pressure than a powder that burns neutrally, not to mention a degressive powder. As grain size increases, the maximum pressure moves towards the muzzle, also increasing muzzle blast. Muzzle velocity and pressure can be adjusted by means of the amount of powder or loading density, i.e. the relationship between the powder mass and the volume available to it. As the loading density increases, maximum pressure grows.
Do you shoot a magnum cartridge? Here are two modern-formulation powders you may want to try: Reloder 23 and 26. We have been particularly impressed with Reloder 23. It has worked well in competition for target cartridges such as the 7mm RSAUM. Reloder 23 is like a slower version of Reloder 16 — a very temp-stable powder which has proven a worthy rival to H4350.
Ever heard of Alliant Reloder 23? Or Reloder 26? These two relatively new European-produced Reloder propellants were introduced in 2014. Most folks haven’t tried these Reloder powders because it took quite a while for the first shipments of RL 23 and RL 26 to arrive in the USA. But now these two new propellants are available in the USA, with substantial inventories in stock at some larger vendors. For example, Powder Valley has both RL 23 and RL 26 in stock now at $23.50 per pound. Many other vendors have ample RL 23, but RL 26 is a bit harder to find.
From our Forum members who shoot large magnum cartridge types with heavy bullets, we have heard good things about both RL 23 and RL 26. Reports from the field indicate that both these powders are delivering impressive velocities with low velocity ES/SD.
What are the characteristics of RL 23 and RL 26? That question was answered by Paul Furrier who works for ATK, the parent company of Alliant Powders. Posting in our Shooters’ Forum, Paul writes:
“Let me provide some factual info about these products. Some of the stuff that gets propagated is not correct. Reloder 23 is produced by our Swedish partner Bofors, and Reloder 26 is produced in Switzerland by our extremely capable partner Nitrochemie. I have seen it stated that they are both made by Bofors, so that is incorrect.
I have also noticed people are equating Reloder 23 to Reloder 22, and Reloder 26 to Reloder 25. Both of those statements are definitely incorrect. We do state that the performance of Reloder 23 is similar to Reloder 22, and it is, in general burn speed terms, but they are most certainly not the same. We have worked quite a lot of recipes for Reloder 23, and they are not the same as Reloder 22. Reloder 26 is definitely slower burning than Reloder 25, so there shouldn’t be any confusion there either.”
Furrier says that RL 23 is NOT sensitive to temperature shifts: “Reloder 23 was developed to bring a truly temp-stable powder to the Reloder 22 burn-speed range using Bofors new process technology. This is the second product developed for us with this TZ® process, the first being AR-Comp™. We see terrific efficiencies, SDs, accuracy and flat temp response from these powders. Please try them, I think you will be impressed.”
Day after day, one of AccurateShooter’s most-visited web pages is a reference guide featuring a comparative burn rate chart, ranking powders from fastest to slowest. Compiled by Hodgdon Powder Co., this Burn Rate Chart displays the relative burn rates of 163 different powders. Here is the latest table, released by Hodgdon in November of 2019.
You’ll want to download this Powder Burn Rate Table. This table shows the latest IMR powders including the Enduron series (IMR 4166, 4451, 4955, 7977), highlighted in green. This 163-entry comparison table provides vital information for hand-loaders. Note — this invaluable chart is not limited to Hodgdon and IMR propellants. This burn rate chart ranks powders from eight major powder-makers: Accurate, Alliant, Hodgdon, IMR, Norma, Ramshot (Western), Vihtavuori, and Winchester.
This chart provides useful information for all hand-loaders. When doing load development, and testing one powder versus another, it’s generally wise to choose propellants that share the same relative burn rate, as least for starters.
NOTE: Hodgdon powders are blue, IMR Enduron powders are green, IMR standard powders are yellow, and Winchester powders are red. DOWNLOAD Chart HERE.
Day after day, one of AccurateShooter’s most-visited web pages is a reference guide featuring a comparative burn rate chart, ranking powders from fastest to slowest. Compiled by Hodgdon Powder Co., this Burn Rate Chart displays the relative burn rates of 163 different powders. Here is the latest table, released by Hodgdon in November of 2019.
You’ll want to download this Powder Burn Rate Table. This table shows the latest IMR powders including the Enduron series (IMR 4166, 4451, 4955, 7977), highlighted in green. This 163-entry comparison table provides vital information for hand-loaders. Note — this invaluable chart is not limited to Hodgdon and IMR propellants. This burn rate chart ranks powders from eight major powder-makers: Accurate, Alliant, Hodgdon, IMR, Norma, Ramshot (Western), Vihtavuori, and Winchester.
This chart provides useful information for all hand-loaders. When doing load development, and testing one powder versus another, it’s generally wise to choose propellants that share the same relative burn rate, as least for starters.
NOTE: Hodgdon powders are blue, IMR Enduron powders are green, IMR standard powders are yellow, and Winchester powders are red. DOWNLOAD Chart HERE.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
1. Cabela’s — Big Second Amendment Sale
Now through March 11, 2020, Cabela’s is running a great Second Amendment Sale, with big discounts on firearms, ammo, optics, hunting gear, and other accessories. Many items are being offered at discounts up to 33%. For example, Frankford Arsenal products are now 20% OFF. Hundreds of items are on sale — a small sample is shown above. CLICK for SALE.
2. Midsouth Shooters — Berger Bullet Sale
In a wide variety of competitive shooting disciplines, Berger bullets are a top choice. Bergers are well-made and consistent. They win matches and have set many records. Plus Berger has just released a line of Long Range Hybrid Target (LRHT) bullets. Right now, Midsouth has a big Berger bullet sale including the new Long Range Hybrid Target Bullets at the lowest prices we’ve seen this year.
3. A&A Optics — Refurb Vortex Golden Eagle 10-60x52mm, $900
The 10-60X Vortex Golden Eagle is, justifiably, very popular among top benchrest and F-Class shooters. Ian Klemm won back-to-back USA F-TR Championships with this scope. Right now you can snag either the Refurbished Golden Eagle 10-60x52m w/ SCR-1 reticle for a crazy low price of $900 or the Refurbished Golden Eagle 10-60x52m w/ ECR-1 reticle for $1100. NOTE: These Refurb Golden Eagles still come with the Vortex Lifetime guarantee so you can buy with confidence.
4. Bruno Shooters Supply — Alliant Powder Sale
Alliant powders are popular for good reason. Many modern Alliant powders work great over a large temperature range and boast very consistent performance from lot to lot. Reloder 16 is a great option for H4350 users. Right now Bruno’s is running site-wide Alliant sale with every Alliant powder in stock on sale at some of the lowest prices we’ve seen in a while.
5. Sportsman’s Warehouse — Sig Kilo Rangefinder Sale
Successful hunters and competitive shooters know the key to accurate shots is accurate ranging of a target. You can pick up one of the Sig Kilo Laser Rangefinders models 1000, 1200, 1400 or 1800 at up to 25% off and always know your distance so you can take a safe and accurate shot at any target.
6. Amazon — Mac Folding Cart, starting at $56.99
Heading to the range or a match always requires transporting gear from your vehicle to the firing line. Most shooters use a cart, but many have small or narrow wheels and are tough to drag across sand, grass or rocks when fully loaded. We like Mac Sports Folding Carts which fold flat yet offer plenty of cargo space for your gear. Amazon offers 35″x20″ Mac Carts starting at $56.99 for Camo and $57.69 for Red, with many other colors. We do recommend spending $23 more for the $79.99 heavy-duty Mac Cart available at Costco. This larger (37″x22″) gray Costco cart boasts much WIDER WHEELS so it rolls way better in sand or gravel. The Costco Mac cart also has a 300-lb carrying capacity.
Whether hunting or target shooting, spotting scopes help you get on target faster and easier than using bare eyes or scope. If you’re in need of good all-purpose spotter check out the Vortex Diamondback 20-60x60mm angled spotting scope. It offers great clarity, a compact form design and an unconditional lifetime guarantee.
8. Keen — Men’s Gypsum II Waterproof Shoe, $69.99
Whether shooting at a match or out in the forest having good footwear is critical to your comfort and safety. If you attend any regional or national match and look at what people are wearing, you’ll see quite a few people wearing Keen shoes and for good reason. They’re rugged, durable and probably the most comfortable outdoor shoe this editor has worn for days on end. If you’ve been looking for an extra pair or maybe want to try them for yourself, head over to the Keen website where the Gypsum II waterproof hiking shoe is 47% off. They also have some great sales on other men’s and women’s shoes right now.
9. Grizzly — High-Quality Range Bag Clearance, $13 to $24
Every shooter needs a good range bag. Grizzly is near the end of its clearance on range gear and the clearance range bags are now just $13 to $24. Your Editor uses this range bag to carry spotting scopes and camera gear (see photo below).
These quality bags have high-density foam sidewalls and internal padded “shelves” that make these much better than typical floppy range bags. These are more like a premium camera case that holds its shape. There are nice front and side pockets with quality zippers. FYI the $12.97 bag really is a hot pink, though it may look red on your monitor. The photo above is a 20″ bag in original red (sold out).
10. Amazon — Anti-Fog Safety Glasses, $16.94
All recreational and competitive shooters should have quality Z87-rated protective eyewear. Folks, you only have one set of eyes. Without eye protection, a single blown primer could seriously damage your eyesight. Right now you can grab this 3 pack of anti-fog safety glasses and always have an extra pair when you need them.
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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. CDNN Sports — Thompson Center Compass, $249.99
Hunting season is fast approaching and if you’re in need of a great starter or backup rifle we found it for you. CDNN is running an amazing sale on the Thompson Center Compass. At just $249.99, this is a perfect first rifle for a family member. This is a $150 savings over normal retail. At this ultra-affordable $249.99 price, nine (9) different chamberings are available: .223 Rem, 22-250, .243 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, .270 Win, 7mm-08, .308 Win, .30-06 Springfield, and .300 Win Magnum.
2. Midsouth — Frankford Click-Adjust Hand Priming Tool, $61.99
This is a GREAT primer seating tool. It has good feel, plenty of leverage, and the primer feed-from-tray works well. Importantly, it has a click-adjust wheel for precise primer seating depth control. Read our Frankford Primer Seating Tool Product Review by gunsmith Jim See. Now discounted from $72.49 to $61.99 at Midsouth, this is a great product for the price. The tool comes complete with 12 precision shell holders. See how this tool works in this video:
3. Vault Pro USA — Monster Safe Sale
We’ve featured single safes in the past but Vault Pro USA is running a monster site-wide sale on all kinds of safes. Head over to Vault Pro USA where you will find everything from simple closet safes to complete custom vault setups. These are high-quality, made-in-USA safes with good dials/keypads and above-average wall thickness. If you’re looking for a great price on a safe, don’t delay — this sale concludes 9/12/19 at 11:59 pm.
4. Optics Planet — BOGO Two-For-One Burris Scope Sale
When’s the last time you saw two quality, big-name scopes sold together as a pair for $369.99? Optics Planet is running a great Double Up Burris sale. Buy a 4.5-14x42mm Fullfield optic for $369.99 and get a 3-9x40mm Fullfield for free. Or get that 4.5-14x42mm Fullfield for free when you purchase the 3-15x50mm Burris Veracity scope. With either option, you Buy One and Get One Free (BOGO). This is great chance to grab a couple scopes to outfit two rifles for hunting season. Burris also has BOGO Red Dot Optic deals for pistols or rifle/shotgun applications.
5. Brownells — Alliant Powder Rebate
In today’s world you can never have enough powder especially with potential shortages always on the horizon. With that in mind you may want to grab some more powder from Brownells where you can get a rebate for $2 per pound up to $20. Just purchase your powder of choice, then complete this online or mail in rebate form and you’ve saved yourself some money.
6. Amazon — Plano All-Weather Gun Cases
Match season is in full swing and for most of us that means hauling gear either in cars or on planes. Either way you need a good case for you gun and we found the Plano All Weather Gun Cases at the lowest prices of the season. These are well built and designed to protect whatever you put in them for about half of some of the other more well known brands. Here’s a great article that shows off these cases.
Are you checking your headspace to ensure you’re pushing your shoulders back the correct amount? If you’re not using a tool like the Hornady Headspace Gauge with 5 bushings then you are just guessing and you’ll never know for sure. Using one of these headspace gauges is one of the best ways to control your full-length sizing and thereby improve the consistency of your handloads.
8. Palmetto State Armory — Taurus G2c 9mm Pistol, $184.99
This is a good little compact carry gun at a great price. Palmetto State Armory has the black-on-black Taurus 9mm G2c for just $184.99. This affordable 9mm handgun is a true compact, 6.25″ OAL, and weighing just 21.2 oz. unloaded. Despite its small size, the G2c has a 12-round magazine. We like the fact it has a left-side manual safety (unlike the Glock).
9. Amazon — Jialitte Scope Bubble Level, $10.99
All serious rifle shooters need a scope level. This nicely designed Jialitte Scope Bubble Level features a 30mm milled inside diameter, plus an inner insert ring so it will also fit 1″-diameter main tubes — that dual-diameter versatility is a nice feature. We also like the way the unit is nicely radiused, and has a low profile in the middle. Price is just $10.99 with free shipping. User reviews have been very positive. You could easily pay $35.00 or more for a 30mm scope level. Purchasers have praised this product — nearly all verified buyers rated this five stars.
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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. Bud’s Gun Shop — Howa American Flag Chassis Rifle, $1100.99
What better way to celebrate the 4th of July this week than with a Stars and Stripes rifle? Legacy Sports offers a special American Flag Chassis Rifle with a USA flag-theme red, white, and blue Cerakote finish and 3-chamber muzzle brake. Components include APC modular chassis and Luth-AR adjustable butt-stock. This special edition is sold with a Nikko 4-16x50mm scope and shipped in a hard case. Choose either the 6.5 Creedmoor version ($1100.99 at GunPrime.com), or the .308 Win version ($1116.52 at Bud’s GunShop). Note: Act soon — these special editions with scope are almost sold out!
2. EuroOptic — Minox Scope Sale, Up to 56% off
Minox may not be a household name for riflescopes but make no mistake, Minox makes great scopes for the money. While Minox scopes are always attractively priced, right now they are a GREAT value over at EuroOptic. You can grab a variety of Minox scopes in popular zoom ranges for up to 56% Off. Heck of a bargain. A new Minox may just what you need to finish off that recent build. These German optics offer a great balance between performance and p;rice.
3. Brownells — HOWA 6mm Creedmoor barreled action, $429.99
Choosing the parts for a custom build can be a daunting process and it often requires having a gunsmith properly headspace and build a barreled action. Now you can skip that step by picking up one of these Howa barreled actions in 6mm Creedmoor for $429.99 (on Sale). Barreled actions in many other popular chamberings are also available including 6.5 Grendel for $349.99 (on Sale), 6.5 Creedmoor, .243 Win, .308 Win and more (SEE ALL). Howa barreled actions are sold in several barrel lengths/contours, and all come with an excellent HACT 2-stage trigger.
4. Midsouth — Nikon Special 4-12x40mm scope, $99.99
For you guys looking for a bargain scope for a hunting rifle (or maybe your son’s first rifle), here’s a great deal. Right now Midsouth is offering Nikon 4-12x40mm scopes with a BDC reticle for the crazy-low price of $99.99. This is a very good scope for the money. It comes with a solid guarantee and should offer years of reliable service on a hunting or varmint rifle. Put the money you save into brass and bullets.
5. Precision Reloading — Alliant Powder Sale, 15% Off
Dedicated hand-loaders should keep an ample supply of their favorite powders “for a rainy day” (or maybe new legislative regulations). If you’ve been waiting for a great sale, check this out. Precision Reloading is now offering 15% OFFall in-stock Alliant powders. This covers all Alliant powders on hand. But don’t wait long. This sale concludes July 2, 2019 at 11:59 pm.
6. Grizzly — Bald Eagle Priming Press, $80.97
Any serious competitor will tell you that consistent primer seating is one of the most critical steps in reloading. There are lots of choices out there for bench and hand-held primers but NONE of then match the Grizzly priming press which can be found for $80.97. It features a beautifully-made system that is click adjustable to .002″ and incredibly repeatable. If you’re in the market for something that’s easy on the hands and works like units that cost hundreds more give this one a look.
7. Midsouth — NEW Sierra 6th Edition Manual, $28.89
Yes you can get starting load data from friends (or websites) but official loading manuals help ensure you’re stay within safe margins. In addition, these printed manuals provide more data, more recipes, and more details than you can readily find online. We like Sierra Manuals because they cover a wide selection of powders (from all major propellant-makers) and Sierra’s max loads run on the conservative side. Midsouth now offers the new-for-2019 Sierra 6th Edition Loading Manual for just $28.89. This is the best price we’ve seen — save $8-$10 at Midsouth.
8. Amazon — MTM Stackable Ammo Crate/Utility Box, $13.59
Good storage, whether for ammo, survival supplies or any other items, is something shooters and outdoorsmen need in abundance. With that in mind, consider grabbing a few of these MTM Ammo Crate/Utility Boxes. These stackable polymer storage crates cost just $13.59. They are LOCKABLE and they have great carry handles. Grab a couple of them at this price. We best you’ll quickly find many good uses.
9. Cabela’s — Ruger EC9S Carry Pistol, $219.97
Here’s a good little 9mm carry pistol for a crazy-low price. Right now, CDNN is selling the popular Ruger EC9S 9MM pistol for $219.97 — that’s $30 off the regular $249.99 price. This gun is light (17.2 ounces) and thin so it’s easy to carry discretely. The EC9S is 6″ overall with a 3.12″-long barrel. The EC9S features integral sights and ships with a single 7-round magazine.
10. Amazon — Two Rolls of 3″ Neon Target Stickers, $14.99
We like these bright, Neon 3″ target stickers. They are big enough to see easily at 600 yards, giving you a 1/2 MOA target center at that distance. For $14.99 at Amazon.com, you get 250 3″-diameter self-adhesive centers (125 targets per roll) that stick to almost any surface The high-contrast fluorescent red/orange color provides an excellent HI-VIZ aiming point, along with good contrast for bullet holes that fall within the 3″ circle. To help line up your reticle cross-hairs, the target centers feature black markers at 3, 6, 9, and 12 0’Clock. NOTE: These stickers may qualify for FREE Shipping with combined orders over $25.00.
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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. PSA — 6.5 Creedmoor Savage Axis II, $296.99 with Rebate
The 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge is the hottest thing going these days. And now you can get a good-looking, ultra-reliable 6.5 Creedmoor Savage Axis II rifle for under $300.00. The Axis II in Realtree Timber Camo is on sale now at Palmetto State Armory (PSA) for just $329.99. But you can save another 10% with the Savage Tax Season Rebate. That lowers your net cost to just $295.99 after rebate. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better-shooting hunting rig for anywhere near this price. This rifle weighs 6.2 pounds (before optics) with 20″, 1:8″-twist barrel. It comes with a Picatinny Rail mounted.
2. Precision Reloading — FREE HazMat on Alliant ($125 Minimum)
Don’t delay! Now through 11:59 pm on Wednesday May 15, you can get FREE Hazmat on Alliant Powders at Precision Reloading. If you buy at least $125.00 of Alliant propellants, there is NO HazMat. And yes, Precision Reloading has the very accurate and temp-stable Reloder 16 in stock in both 1-lb and 8-lb containers. If you like H4350, you should definitely try Reloder 16. It works great in the 6mm Creedmoor, 6XC, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .284 Win match cartridges. You’ll find other great Alliant powders, such as Reloder 23 (like RL16 but slower), AR Comp, and Unique in stock at great prices.
Benchrest Matches have been won (and many records set) with 36X Weaver T-Series optics. Our friend Boyd Allen observed “You can pay three or four times as much for a scope but not necessarily be more competitive — a 36X front objective Weaver is enough to win with…” The Classic T-Series Weaver has proven to be one of the most reliable high-magnification scopes ever made. The “old-fashioned” adjustable objective works well and the Weaver Micro-Trac turret system delivers precise and repeatable elevation and windage control. You can also save money on rings since the main tube is 1″ diameter. The Weaver T-36 with 1/8 MOA clicks and Fine Cross-hair reticle costs $339.99 at Natchez Shooters Supplies. NOTE: Natchez also has the classic T-36 scope with 1/8-MOA Dot reticle for $379.99.
4. Krieger Barrels — Discounted Overstock Barrels
Krieger barrels have a strong tradition of being at the top of leaderboards year after year. But like any good barrel company they often need to be ordered months ahead of time. A little-known secret is that Krieger maintains a supply of Krieger overstock barrels that are priced to move and available right now. These are absolutely first-run quality, but just represent excess volume in particular contours and calibers. We’ve ordered Krieger overstock barrels and have never been disappointed — especially when the barrel shows up a week later.
5. Bruno’s — Vihtavuori N133 On Sale with Low HazMat
Short-range Benchrest competitors (and varminters) here’s your chance to save on ultra-accurate Vihtavuori N133, a superb propellant for the 6 PPC and other smaller cartridges. Bruno Shooters Supply has N133 on Sale for $204.99 for 8 pounds. That works out to $25.62 per pound. In addition, you can get FREE HazMat if you buy four 8-lb kegs, or get half-price HazMat if you purchase two 8-pounders. One-pound containers are also available. Bruno’s has other attractive promotions currently including FREE Shipping on Jewell Triggers.
6. Midsouth — Frankford Arsenal Rotary Tumbler LITE, $99.99
Wet-tumbling with stainless media gets large quantities of cartridge brass clean inside and out. If you’ve wanted to try wet-tumbling, here’s your chance. Midsouth has the Frankford Arsenal Platinum LITE Tumbler on sale for just $99.99 — a total steal. If you run large quantities of brass, you can get the larger-capacity Frankford Arsenal Platinum Tumbler for $179.99. Either one of these is a reliable, durable (and watertight) machine that should provide years of worry-free tumbling.
7. CDNN Sports — Walther Creed 9mm — $249.99
The Walther Creed offers excellent ergonomics, good accuracy, and well-designed controls at a killer price — $249.99 at CDNN Sports. This gun, designed to be a value-leader, emulates Walther’s more expensive PPQ model (MSRP $649.00) at a much lower price. The Creed’s frame size and shape is the same as the PPQ, but the Creed lacks interchangeable backstraps. Slide and trigger are very similar. The Creed features a snag-free bobbed hammer. Testers have praised the new Creed, saying that, despite the bargain price, it “sacrifices little to nothing in… ergonomics, accuracy, and reliability.”
8. Amazon — MPow 28 NRR Safety Earmuffs, $10.99
These MPow 28 dB NRR earmuffs are Amazon’s “#1 Best Seller” in safety muffs. Purchasers report that the ear padding is quite pliant and comfortable (much better than most inexpensive muffs). Selling for just $10.99 on Amazon, these muffs are a great deal. These muffs work well for indoor pistol shooting, for free-recoil style benchrest shooting, or outdoors 3-Gun and action shooting. For PRS shooting or prone rifle shooting (with your head on the stock), we recommend a lower profile muff with earplugs underneath.
9. Amazon — NcStar Vism Shooting Mat, $24.99
Looking for a good mat at a great price? For $24.99 now you can grab this NcStar Vism shooting mat. This has decent padding, and reinforced areas for elbows and knees. Full dimensions are: 69″ Long x 35″ Wide. This mat has straps for pre-loading your bipod. When you’re done simply fold in the edges, roll it up into a compact 19.50″ W x 8.50″ H package — about the same size as a sleeping bag. You can pay twice as much for a shooting mat and not get much more quality. Purchaser reviews have been very positive. This mat has earned 79% Five-Star buyer ratings on Amazon.
10. Amazon — Jialitte Scope Bubble Level, $10.99
All serious rifle shooters need a scope level. This nicely designed Jialitte Scope Bubble Level features a 30mm milled inside diameter, plus an inner insert ring so it will also fit 1″-diameter main tubes — that dual-diameter versatility is a nice feature. We also like the way the unit is nicely radiused, and has a low profile in the middle. Price is just $10.99 with free shipping. User reviews have been very positive. You could easily pay $35.00 or more for a 30mm scope level. Purchasers have praised this product — nearly all verified buyers rated this five stars.
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Long-time site sponsor Powder Valley notified us about some great Rebate offers from Vista Outdoor companies Alliant, CCI, Federal, and Speer. If you need powder, primers, or bullets, now is a great time to buy. The rebated offers are good now through June 30, 2019. These rebates may also be available when you purchase qualifying products from other vendors Bruno’s, Graf’s, Midsouth, and Precision Reloading.
1. ALLIANT Powder — More Bang for your Buck$ Rebate
If you buy at least four (4) pounds of powder you get $2.00 back per pound, with a rebate limit of $20 (for ten pounds). Minimum purchase four (4) pounds required. This is a great deal when you combine the rebate with Powder Valley’s already low prices.
2. Federal — Handload and Save Rebate
Spend at least $100 on Federal® reloading components (including bullets, brass and primers) to get 20% of the purchase price back. Rebate amount calculated on purchase price only, does not include taxes and/or shipping/handling fees. Maximum rebate $100 per person or household. Minimum spend $100 required.
3. CCI — Primed for Action Rebate
Spend at least $100 on CCI® reloading primers to get 20% of the purchase price back. Rebate amount calculated on purchase price only, does not include taxes and/or shipping/handling fees. Reloading components only; offer does not apply to percussion caps. Maximum rebate $100 per person or household. Minimum spend $100 required.
4. Speer — More Bullets for your Benjamins Rebate
Spend at least $100 on Speer® component bullets to get 20% of the purchase price back. Rebate amount calculated on purchase price only, does not include taxes and/or shipping/handling fees. Maximum rebate $100 per person or household. Minimum spend $100 required.
Get up to $320 Total Rebate — Alliant, CCI, Federal, and Speer
These Rebate Offers are good through June 30, 2019. Powder Valley explains that these rebates are all separate programs: “Each of these brands have their own rebate, No Mixing and Matching of these brands unless you want to participate in all four rebates. If you have any questions please read the Terms or call us to explain.” To get any particular rebate you’ll need to buy the qualifying amount of product for that particular brand. If you do all four Rebates, you could get a total of $320.00 back.
Ultimate Evolution of the .243 Winchester
If you load primarily one brand of bullets, another slick set-up is to buy a Forster or Whidden full-length, non-bushing .243 Win sizing die, and then have Forster or Whidden hone the neck for your desired amount of tension. This elegant one-pass sizing solution produces very straight rounds with low run-out.
