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November 6th, 2023

How to Understand Headspace — What You Need to Know

Ultimate Reloader Brownells headspacing go gage gauge barrel gunsmithing
This illustration shows headspace measurement for the popular .308 Winchester cartridge, which headspaces on the shoulder. Image copyright 2015 Ultimate Reloader.

In this Brownells Tech Tip Video, Brownells gun tech Steve Ostrem explains what headspace is and why it’s one of the most critical measurements for nearly all firearms. Even if you’re an experienced rifle shooter, it’s worth watching this video to refresh your understanding of headspace measurements, and the correct use of “GO” and “NO-GO” gauges.

Headspace Definition
In firearms, headspace is the distance measured from the part of the chamber that stops forward motion of the cartridge (the datum reference) to the face of the bolt. Different cartridges have their datum lines in different positions in relation to the cartridge. For example, 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition headspaces off the shoulder of the cartridge, whereas .303 British headspaces off the forward rim of the cartridge. If the headspace is too short, ammunition that is in specification may not chamber correctly. If headspace is too large, the ammunition may not fit as intended or designed and the cartridge case may rupture, possibly damaging the firearm and injuring the shooter. (Source: Wikipedia)

Forster Headspace diagram belted magnum rimfire

Problems Caused by Too Much Headspace
Excessive headspace issues can include: light primer strikes, failure to fire, bulged/blown cases, case separations, split shoulders, or unseated primers after firing. Case ruptures caused by excessive headspace can lead to catastrophic failures causing serious injury. That is why headspace is such an important measurement.

Problems Cause by Too Little Headspace
Insufficent (or excessively tight) headspace can prevent the firearm from going into battery, resulting in failure to fire or deformation of the cartridge case. Various feeding and functioning problems can be caused by cases with too little headspace, even if a round can be chambered (with effort).

Go gauge gage NOGO no-go field gaugesHeadspace Gauges
Headspace is measured with a set of two headspace gauges: a “Go” gauge, and a “No-Go” gauge. Headspace gauges resemble the cartridges for the chambers they are designed to headspace, and are typically made of heat-treated tool steel. Both a “Go” and a “No-Go” gauge are required for a gunsmith to headspace a firearm properly. A third gauge, the “Field” gauge, is used (as the name implies) in the field to indicate the absolute maximum safe headspace. This gauge is used because, over time, the bolt and receiver will wear, the bolt and lugs compress, and the receiver may stretch, all causing the headspace to gradually increase from the “factory specs” measured by the “Go” and “No-Go” gauges. A bolt that closes on “No-Go” but not on “Field” is close to being unsafe to fire, and may malfunction on cartridges that are slightly out of spec. (Source: Wikipedia)

You need to understand Headspace Gauges and how to use them. There are “Go”, “No-Go”, and “Field” gauges. The “Field” is actually the longest. Brownells explains: “The GO gauge corresponds to the SAAMI minimum chamber length, while the FIELD gauge usually matches the maximum chamber depth, or slightly less. NO-GO gauges are an intermediate length between minimum and maximum, that, technically, is a voluntary dimension. A firearm that closes on a NO-GO gauge and does not close on a FIELD gauge may not give good accuracy and may have very short cartridge case life [.]”

Permalink Reloading, Tech Tip No Comments »
July 6th, 2023

Precision Reloading Tips from Sinclair Int’l Experts

Froggy Reloading Bench

cartridge reloadingA while back, Sinclair International’s Reloading Press Blog featured a “round-table” discussion of reloading techniques. Sinclair’s team of tech staffers were asked: “What do you feel is the one-most crucial step in precision reloading?”

Here are their responses (along with comments from our Editors):

Phil Hoham: “I feel that when working up a load do not go too high or too low in your powder charge. Stay away from ‘suggested loads’ you hear at the range, or on the internet. Always be sure to use a published reloading manual that presents not only minimums and maximums, but also pressure, velocity, and a proper range of powders used. Do not get distracted in the reloading process, and remain focused at all times during each step involved.”

AccurateShooter.com: Some loads presented on the Internet are OK as a starting point, but it is absolutely critical to understand that pressure maximums will vary considerably from one rifle to another (of the same chambering). For example, one 6mmBR rifle shooting 105gr bullets can max out with 30.0 grains of Varget powder, while another rifle, with the same chamber dimensions, but a different barrel, could tolerate (and perform better) with half a grain more powder. You need to adjust recommended loads to your particular rifle and barrel.

Pete Petros: “This could be a very broad topic, but if I were to pick one, it would be making sure to pay close attention, and weigh each and every powder charge to ensure that each load is exact and consistent. This is important not only for accuracy, but also for safety reasons.”

AccurateShooter.com: If you’re shooting beyond 200 yards, it is critical to weigh your loads with an accurate scale or automated system such as the AutoTrickler V3/V4. Loads that are uniform (within a few kernels) will exhibit lower Extreme Spread and Standard Deviation. And remember, even if you stick with the same powder, when you get a new powder lot, you may have to adjust your load quite a bit. For example, .308 Palma shooters have learned they may need to adjust Varget loads by up to a full grain from one lot of Varget to the next.

Ron Dague: “I feel that the most important step(s) in reloading for accuracy are in the initial case prep. Uniforming the primer pocket to the same depth to ensure consistency in primer seating is a crucial step. Additionally de-burring the flash holes, each in the same way to clean up and chamfer the inside is important. It ensures that the ignition from the primer is uniform and flows out in the same consistent pattern. Doing so will create uniform powder ignition and tighten up your velocity Extreme Spread.”

AccurateShooter.com: With some brands of brass, primer pocket uniforming and flash-hole deburring is useful. However, with the best Lapua, Norma, and RWS brass it may be unnecessary, or worse, counter-productive. So long as your Lapua brass flash-holes are not obstructed or smaller than spec, it may be best to leave them alone. This is particularly true with the small flash holes in 220 Russian, 6BR, and 6.5×47 cases. MOST of the flash-hole reaming tools on the market have cutting bits that vary in size because of manufacturing tolerances. We’ve found tools with an advertised diameter of .0625″ (1/16″) that actually cut an 0.068″ hole. In addition, we are wary of flash-hole deburring tools that cut an aggressive inside chamfer on the flash-holes. The reason is that it is very difficult to control the amount of chamfer precisely, even with tools that have a depth stop.

Rod Green: “I feel that bullet seating is the most important step. If you had focused on making sure all prior steps (case prep, powder charge, etc.) of the process have been carefully taken to ensure uniformity, bullet seating is the last step, and can mean all the difference in the world in terms of consistency. Making sure that the bullet is seated to the same depth each time, and time is taken to ensure that true aligned seating can make the load.”

Bullet seating arbor press

Bob Blaine: “I agree with Rod. I strongly feel that consistent bullet seating depth is the most important step in creating the most accurate hand loads. I have seen the results in both my bench and long range rifles. Taking the time to ensure exactness in the seating process is by far, the number one most important step in my book.”

AccurateShooter.com: Agreed. When loading match ammo, after bullet seating, we check every loaded round for base of case to ogive length. If it varies by more than 3 thousandths, that round is segregated or we attempt to re-seat the bullet. We measure base of case to bullet ogive with a comparator mounted on one jaw of our calipers. You may have to pre-sort your bullets to hold the case-base to ogive measurement (of loaded rounds) within .003″.

Permalink Bullets, Brass, Ammo, Reloading No Comments »
July 4th, 2023

AR Platform Video Series from Brownells — Watch and Learn

Brownelss tech tip video AR15 ar platform rifle gunsmithing

Do you own or shoot an AR-platform “black rifle”? Then you know these rifles run dirty, and have some unusual maintenance requirements. On the other hand, the AR “Modern Sporting Rifle” is fun and versatile with a vast range of options among buttstocks, barrels, handguards, and grips. You can assemble a simple 16″ barrel .223 Rem rig for home defense, or build a long-barreled 6mm ARC rifle with bag-rider buttstock and high-magnification optic for long range target work. The choice is up to you.

To help with your black rifle journey, here are four helpful videos from Brownells. These will help ensure your AR rifle cycles reliably and runs longer, with reduced wear. Brownells also explains how to choose the optimal barrel twist rate. CLICK HERE to order AR parts, accessories, and ammo from Brownells.

AR Bolt/Bolt Carrier Lubrication — Smarter Methods

This video shows the proper way to lubricate an AR-15 bolt-carrier assembly. The video identifies the key metal-on-metal friction points where you actually need lubrication: the rails on the underside of the carrier, shiny wear points on top, and just a dab on the cam pin. How much oil/lubricant should you use? The AR-15 is pretty forgiving on that point. Some spots work best with grease, others work best with a lighter oil. Just keep it out of the combustion areas. Those little holes in the carrier are gas vent holes, NOT oil holes!

AR Barrel Twist Rates — What You Need to Know

AR barrels can be ordered with a variety of twist rates from 1:12″ to 1:7″. Basically, the longer/heavier the bullet you plan to shoot, the faster the twist rate you need. For example, Sierra recommends a 1:7″ twist rate for the 90gr SMK. A 1:12″ could work with the small lightweight bullets up to 55 grains. The 1:9″ barrel will stabilize the light and mid-weight bullets up to about 77 grains. We recommend a 1:8″ or 1:7″ twist rate for the best versatility. You’ll find a detailed discussion of AR twist rates on PewPewTactical.com.

Barrel Gas Block Alignment — Key to Reliable Cycling

In this Tech Tip, Brownells gun tech Steve Ostrem explains surefire methods to align your gas block. The most common problem with AR builds is poor cycling, commonly caused by misalignment between the gas block and the barrel’s gas port.

Setting Up Gas Tube Systems

This Tech Tip examines AR-platform gas systems, and shows how to select the proper length gas tube, and how to configure multiple tube systems if you change your barrel to different lengths. This is worth watching for anyone re-barreling an AR.

Permalink - Videos, Gunsmithing, Tactical No Comments »
June 27th, 2023

How to Clean Your AR-15 — Helpful Maintenance Tips & Videos

AR15 AR AR-15 MSR black rifle cleaning maintenance bolt lubrication
Scottsdale Gun Club offers an AR-15 Cleaning Clinic on August 25, 2022.

AR-platform rifles can be maintenance-intensive beasts. They need regular inspection, cleaning, and lubrication. But some AR owners make the situation worse by not regularly cleaning important small parts, or by using too MUCH oily/greasy lubricants in the wrong places. A properly maintained and lubricated AR15 can shoot hundreds of rounds (between cleanings) without a problem. If you learn where (and where not) to apply lubricant, you’ll find that your AR will run more reliably and the task of cleaning the bolt, bolt carrier, and upper receiver internals will be less of a burden.

Here we showcase videos that show how to field-strip an AR-15, inspect the key parts, clean components, and lubricate internal parts as needed. Along with these videos, we recommend you read the comprehensive AR-15 Gun Cleaning Clinic article on the Brownells website. This explains in detail important procedures that the videos might only cover in a few seconds.

If you want to keep your black rifle running smoothly and reliably, you must clean it regularly and follow the correct maintenance procedures. Here are five videos that explain how to properly disassemble and clean AR-platform rifles.

AR15 AR-15 AR bolt carrier cleaning videos

1. How To Clean Your AR-15 | Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

This is a quick 90-second starter video that may help new AR owners. Ricky Lehnhardt of OTIS Technology demonstrates the basics of cleaning and maintaining your AR-15. Lehnhardt does a good job identifying the points that need cleaning on the inside of ARs. However he works very quickly in the video. You may want to pause the video at some points. Also, Lehnhardt employs a cable for pulling patches and brushes through the barrel. Yes this is fast and easy. However, for match AR rifles, we recommend that you instead use a cleaning ROD with fitted bore guide.

2. Take-Down and Full Cleaning of AR-15 by Jerry Miculek

Here ace shooter Jerry Miculek takes down and cleans an AR-platform rifle belonging to his daughter Lena. This is a good video because Lena’s rifle was “run hard and packed up dirty” so you can see where carbon and grease build up. This 35-minute video is very thorough. Jerry is one of the nation’s top action carbine shooters, so listen carefully to his advice on cleaning and lubrication.

3. AR-15 Maintenance: Field-strip, Clean and Lubricate an AR-15

Gunsite Academy instructor and gunsmith Cory Trapp demonstrates the proper way to field-strip, clean, and lubricate an AR-15 carbine. In this 30-minute video, Trapp offers several important technical tips and hints. For example, at 11:05 Trap demonstrates how to determine if your bolt needs new gas rings. Along with cleaning procedures, this video explains how to inspect key components and how to function-test your AR before each shooting session.

4. AR-15 Dissassembly and Cleaning Guide

This video does a good job, with close-ups, showing how to remove the bolt carrier and clean the inside of the upper receiver. Then you can see how to work with various tools to clean the bolt, bolt carrier, and inside of chamber. We also recommend that you inspect the ejector recess and extractor recess. When we’ve inspected ARs that failed to cycle properly, we have often found nasty gunk (mixture of carbon, greasy lube, and brass particles) in these areas.

5. Basic AR-15 Quick and Easy Field Maintenance

In this NSSF-sponsored video, pro shooter Ryan Muller demonstrates basic, quick field maintenance of his AR-15. This would be for a quick cleaning and lubrication of the reciprocating parts. This covers rapid maintenance in the field. For full field-stripping and thorough cleaning, watch the previous videos.



Handy Mat for Cleaning AR Rifles

When working on an AR-15, it’s smart to have a pad that can absorb solvents and cushion your upper and lower. The $24.99 Real Avid Smart Mat is a good choice. This features printed take-down instructions and it has a handy parts tray on the right side. The mat rolls up for convenient storage. Click HERE to learn more.

AR15 AR AR-15 MSR black rifle cleaning maintenance bolt lubrication

Vital Inspections You Should Do After Disassembly

Last but not least, here are recommended inspections you should do every time you do a full field-strip and cleaning of your black rifle:

AR 15 maintenance and inspection

Permalink - Articles, - Videos, Tech Tip 1 Comment »
May 26th, 2023

Brownells Memorial Day Weekend Sale and Discount Codes

brownells cci ar15 magpul .22LR ammo memorial day sale discount code

Brownells is running a big Memorial Day Weekend Sale, which runs now (Friday 5/26/23) through the end of the three-day weekend. Over 100 items are featured in this sale, including tools, optics, and AR equipment, along with ammo and primers.

To add to the savings, you can get 15% off $200+ purchases with coupon code MDAY15. Now through May 28, 2023 use MDAY15 during checkout to save 15%. Then, on Monday, May 29th, you can use code MDAY20 to save 20% off purchases of $200 or more. NOTE: CODE MDAY20 will work on May 29th (Monday) only. Until then use code MDAY15.

Good Memorial Day Weekend DEALS at Brownells.com

Here are eight (8) of the 103 Memorial Day Weekend Deals on the Brownells website currently. Along with AR uppers and lowers and magazines, you’ll find centerfire and rimfire ammunition on sale. And handloaders should definitely check on the discounts on CCI 400 Small Rifle Primers and CCI Pistol Primers.

brownells cci ar15 magpul .22LR ammo memorial day sale discount code

Permalink Bullets, Brass, Ammo, Hot Deals, Tactical No Comments »
March 16th, 2023

Save Big Buck$ with Brownells Discount Codes

Brownells discount code savings bargain

If you’ve been thinking about a big purchase at Brownells, here are some money-saving codes. Brownells is currently offering $200 Off a $1000+ purchase, $125 Off a $500+ purchase, $50 Off a $200+ purchase, 10% (or $15) Off a $150+ purchase, and $10 Off a $100 purchase. It’s simple to get these discounts — there are no buyers’ clubs to join, no forms to fill out. Just use the appropriate Discount Code during online check-out.

Listed below are the Codes to use. Simply use the appropriate Code for your purchase at Brownells.com. NOTE: Most of these codes have no listed expiration date, so Brownells could terminate them at any time. Accordingly, we recommend you do your shopping soon. Also if the highest value code no longer works, try a lesser value CODE.

Brownells discount code savings bargain

Coupon Code: MARCH200 — $200 Off Orders $1000+
(Excludes Firearms)
Expiration date: Unknown

Coupon Code: MARCH125 — $125 Off Orders $500+
(Excludes Firearms)
Expiration date: Unknown

Coupon Code: MARCH50 — $50 Off Orders $200+
(Excludes Firearms)
Expiration date: Unknown

Coupon Code: CART30 — $30 off $200
Expiration date: Unknown

Coupon Code: TRIGGERED — 10% Off $150+
Expiration date: Unknown

Coupon Code: TA10 — 10% Off $150+
Expiration date: Unknown

Coupon Code: BACK15 — $15 Off $150+
Expiration date: Unknown

Coupon Code: SMSAVE — $10 off $100+
Expiration date: Unknown

Coupon Code: HOME10 — $10 OFF $100
Expiration date: Unknown

Free Shipping with EDGE Program
NOTE: None of the above codes include FREE or Discounted Shipping. But if you join the Brownells EDGE Program for $49.95 (12 months) you’ll get FREE 2-DAY SHIPPING on most orrders. There is also discounted overnight shipping for many items.

With a $49.95 EDGE Membership, orders ship directly free of charge — every order, no matter how many. Most orders qualify for FREE 2-DAY SHIPPING. Your membership will pay for itself after only a few orders! Also Brownells typically charges a $10 processing fee on orders containing FFL items. However, with an Edge membership, the $10 FFL processing fee is waived every time.

Brownells discount code savings bargain

Permalink Hot Deals, News No Comments »
February 25th, 2023

Saturday Movies: Best Brownells Videos — Tools, Tips, and More

Brownells video archive youtube channel scope mounting air travel AR15 reloading .22 LR cleaning

Brownells is a well-known retailer of guns, gun parts, tools, accessories, ammo, and pretty much everything gun-related. What you may not know is that Brownells has a very active video production department that releases new “how-to” and product information videos every week. These videos offer helpful advice on gun cleaning/maintenance, reloading, as well as selecting/assembling components for various kinds of rifles. And every week Brownells serves up a new products video. There now over 1000 videos on the Brownells YouTube Channel, which is truly a remarkable resource.

Here are six of our favorite videos from Brownells. There’s a helpful guide to scope installation, AR owners will find some good advice on spare parts, new reloaders can learn how to use the OAL tool, and all gun owners should watch the video on ammunition storage.

Scope-Mounting — Common Mistakes to Avoid

Always be careful when mounting a rifle scope. This isn’t a super-complex or highly technical task, but there are ways you can mess it up. This video explains common pitfalls to avoid when mounting a scope.

1. Make sure the rings don’t touch ANY part of the turret housing, objective bell, or eyepiece.

2. Be certain the scope rings are tightly clamped to the scope base. Grasp the scope with one hand and the rifle with the other, then ensure there is no play.

3. Make sure there’s clearance between the objective bell and the rifle. No part of the scope should touch the rifle itself.

4. NEVER over-tighten the scope rings. You can actually crush the scope tube and damage the optic beyond repair. Stick to the torque specs!

How to Use Hornady OAL Tool and Hornady Bullet Comparator

Gun Tech Steve Ostrem explains how to properly use Hornady’s Overall Length Gauge to determine length-to-land precisely. The OAL Gauge uses a “Modified Case” that threads onto the tool and holds a bullet. Push on the back of the gauge until you feel the bullet just touch the rifling. (We do this gently at first, tapping the rod a couple time to ensure the bullet is aligned correctly). Once you’ve got the length, then use the tool with a comparator on your calipers to get the length-to-lands. NOTE: We recommend taking the measurement 3-4 times in a row to get a reliable number. With a little practice your should be able to get repeatable measurements within .0015″.

Air Travel with Firearms — Key Regulations You Must Follow

You can travel on commercial airlines with firearms. But you must follow the TSA regulations, and your particular airline’s rules. First, make sure your guns are UNLOADED before your leave home. Guns need to be carried in proper hard-sided cases that cannot be pried open. Be prepared to unlock the case if the TSA wants to inspect what’s inside. TSA agents can cut the locks if they need to open the case but can’t locate you. If you use special TSA-approved locks, TSA agents have master keys that let them open the case without destroying your locks. You CAN transport up to 11 pounds of ammunition — with restrictions explained in the video.

How to Store Ammunition Safely and Securely

This has been one of the most popular Brownells videos — with over 1.7 million views. Here’s the deal — ammunition WILL keep for a long time if you store it properly. DO store ammunition in a cool, dry place that doesn’t have wide temperature swings. Temperature cycling will also degrade primers and powder. Put it in airtight ammo cans to keep out the moisture. Tupperware containers will work too. Brownells also recommends putting moisture-absorbing silica packs in your ammo containers. DON’T just keep ammo in factory cardboard factory boxes stacked in the basement, attic, or garage (especially on the floor). Factory ammo boxes can absorb moisture which can degrade primers and corrode the brass cases. Yes, sealed military ammo will usually handle this kind of storage for quite a while, but it’s still not wise.

Must-Have Spare Parts for AR-Platform Rifles

In this video, two knowledgeable gun techs answer the question: “What spare parts should I keep on hand for my AR-15?” On the list are: Gas Rings, Buffer Spring, Extractor Spring and Pin. NOTE: You may want to try the one-piece spiral gas ring rather than the standard rings which require alignment. The cotter pin and cam pin can also easily get lost when the Bolt Carrier Group is disassembled for cleaning. On the lower receiver you’ll want spare springs and detents for the pivot/takedown pins. If you’re using lighter-power springs, keep standard-power spares on hand. If your rifle stops working, swap in the factory-spec springs to find out if the problem is the gun or your ammo. Also, if you have upgraded your trigger, always keep the original trigger as a backup.

Cleaning Advice for .22 LR Rimfire Rifles

Gun Techs Steve Ostrem and Caleb Savant debunk some myths about cleaning .22 LR barrels. One myth is that cleaning will harm the accuracy of a .22 LR barrel. Caleb thinks this myth is the result of people cleaning a barrel from the muzzle and damaging the muzzle crown, which CAN diminish accuracy. If it’s done right, cleaning won’t damage the bore. However, you certainly do NOT have to clean your 22 LR’s bore every time you go to the range. But DO clean the action every time you shoot the rifle, especially on a semi-auto. What about shooting a lot of lead bullets? Won’t that lead up the bore? The guys give us the straight skinny on lead fouling, too. When you see your .22 LR rifle’s groups opening up, you may want to consider cleaning.
This article is Copyright 2023 AccurateShooter.com. Reproduction on any other website gives rise to monetary damages.

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February 22nd, 2023

Go to the Range Today and Support Second Amendment Rights

brownells second amendment 2A day free Range 38 ammo gun rentals

FREE Firearm Rentals and Limited FREE Ammo
Today, Wednesday, February 22nd, 2023 is a great time to visit a shooting range. Today is the second Annual Second Amendment Day (“2A Day”), a time to celebrate America’s Second Amendment freedoms and have fun hitting targets at the range. In observance of 2A Day, Brownells and Smith & Wesson will sponsor free firearm rentals and limited free ammo at 48 Range USA locations and other participating ranges. To learn more about 2A Day range events, giveaways, and more visit www.brownells.com/2ADAY.

Participating gun ranges include all Range USA locations, plus individual gun ranges located in Iowa, Florida, Missouri, Nebraska, and Virginia,

Additional opportunities to celebrate and show support include joining organizations that promote Second Amendment rights on national and state levels or by sharing a photo or video post on social media using the hashtag “#2ADay” to help spread awareness.

Second Amendment Day Official Target (Download for FREE)

free target national second 2d 2nd amendment day brownells
CLICK image to Download FREE Target as PDF.

“February 22nd is a day we, as a nation, can recognize, celebrate and do our part to secure one of the most important rights guaranteed by our Constitution – the right to keep and bear arms,” said Pete Brownell, Chairman of the Board at Brownells. “I hope Americans from all walks of life visit the range on this one day – 2/22 … and safely exercise their Second Amendment right, which is the underpinning of safety and security in America.”

Permalink Handguns, News, Shooting Skills No Comments »
February 17th, 2023

Celebrate the Second Amendment on February 22nd

national second 2d 2nd amendment day brownells

February 22, 2023 is National 2nd Amendment Day. Next week, on Wednesday the 22nd, head to the range to celebrate 2A Day! RSVP at a participating ranges for free range time. And ask a participating range about free firearm rental or limited free ammo. Or head to the range of your choice to celebrate this important American freedom — the right to keep and bear arms.

“February 22nd is a day we, as a nation, can recognize, celebrate and do our part to secure one of the most important rights guaranteed by our Constitution – the right to keep and bear arms,” said Pete Brownell, Chairman of the Board at Brownells. “I hope Americans from all walks of life visit the range on this one day – 2/22 … and safely exercise their Second Amendment right, which is the underpinning of safety and security in America.”

The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) encourages American gun owners to celebrate the second annual “National 2nd Amendment Day” established by Brownells. Participating gun ranges include all Range USA locations, plus individual gun ranges located in Iowa, Florida, Missouri, Nebraska, and Virginia,

national second 2d 2nd amendment day brownells

Too far away from a participating range? Use this NSSF Where-to-Shoot link to find a range near you and go celebrate your rights and freedoms!

Second Amendment Day Official Target (Download for FREE)

free target national second 2d 2nd amendment day brownells
CLICK image to Download FREE Target as PDF.

Go to the Range to Celebrate Our Second Amendment Rights
SAF founder and Executive V.P. Alan M. Gottlieb observed: “For tens of millions of Americans, visiting a gun range is an important part of their lifestyle. It is an opportunity to gather with friends, improve their skills and reinforce all of the gun safety lessons they’ve learned and practiced over the years. Shooting ranges provide a friendly environment, opportunities to meet new people and the chance to spend quality recreational time doing something they enjoy.”

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January 13th, 2023

Ultrasonic Case Cleaning — Determining the Optimal Dwell Time

cartridge brass case ultrasonic liquid cleaning dwell time brownells

If you read our lengthy article on Ultrasonic Case Cleaning by Jason Baney, you’ve seen the remarkable results that can be achieved with this method, as shown by the photo above. Ultrasonic cleaning has many advantages over traditional tumbling methods of case cleaning. There is no dust or media residue to remove from the brass, and when done right, the cases come out clean and shiny, inside and out, even the primer pockets.

In its Benchtalk Archives, Brownell’s has an excellent article discussing Ultrasonic Case Cleaning. Brownell’s staff compares results, with measured dwell times from 5 to 75 minutes, using both Mpro-7 and HCS 200 cleaning solutions. Tests are performed with once-fired and 5X-fired Tactical 20 (Tac20) cases, as well as once-fired .260 Rem Cases. The article also compares the results from ultrasonic cleaning vs. tumbling in walnut media. Below are Brownell’s results for Tac20 cases with the HCS 200 (non-acidic solution). Go to Brownell’s article for MPro7 results and Rem 260 results.

HCS 200 Cleaning Solution Test

Procedure — Solution was de-gassed for 15 minutes, then 63 Tac20 cases were placed in a single layer, in stainless steel mesh basket. The temperature of the starting solution was 102° F. When the cases were removed the temperature was 110° F.

Once-Fired Tactical Twenty Cases (HCS 200) — Observations
5 minutes: The exterior of the cases are not significantly brighter/cleaner. The primer pockets and case interiors are still dirty.
10 minutes: Exterior of the cases are brighter. 70% of the cases show some degree of cleaning of the primer pockets. Little difference seen inside the case, but case mouths are cleaner.
15 minutes: Case brightness is about the same. Still only 70% of the primer pockets are clean, but a larger portion of each is cleaner. A Q-tip swabbed inside the cases shows that carbon/powder residues are loosening up.
20 minutes: Case exteriors are brightening up. 80-85% of the primer pockets are about 90% clean. The insides of the cases and case mouths are cleaner.
25 minutes: Cases are brighter/cleaner than even new brass. 80-85% of the cases have almost completely clean primer pockets. The inside of the cases are 80-90% clean.
30 minutes: The insides of the cases and case mouths appear to be completely clean. 87% of the primer pockets are virtually 100% clean. 13% of the cases had stubborn primer pocket residue that could not be completely removed.
60 minutes: Eight cases (13%) were placed in the tank for another 30 minutes to try to remove the remaining residue in their primer pockets. Six out of the eight cases were completely clean.

Five-Times Fired Tac20 Cases — Observations
30 minutes: Based on the above observations, I didn’t begin to observe these 5-time fired cases until after 30 minutes: The exterior cases are bright/clean. Brighter than new cases. The primer pockets on 75% of the cases are 75% clean. The remaining cases had primer pockets that were only 25% clean. The inside of the cases appear to be clean.
65 minutes: 25% of the primer pockets were 95% clean, 25% of the primer pockets were 90% clean, 25% of the primer pockets were 85% clean; and 25% were 80% clean.
75 minutes: 75% of the primer pockets were 90% clean.

How Does Ultrasonic Cleaning Work?
The Brownell’s Benchtalk article explains: “Ultrasonic cleaning uses high-frequency sound waves (generally between 20-80 kHz) to remove a variety of contaminants from objects immersed in a liquid. The result of these high-frequency sound waves is a process called cavitation. These high frequency bursts of ultrasonic energy produce a three-dimensional wave of alternating positive and negative pressure areas as the sound wave passes through the solution. During negative pressure, microscopic cavitation bubbles form and will continue to grown until they reach resonant size. As the positive sound wave passes, the pressure rises rapidly and implodes these tiny bubbles. Before these minuscule bubbles implode they store a tremendous amount of energy. These bubbles can be as hot as 10,000 degrees and have as much as 50,000 lbs per square inch of pressure. This sounds alarming, but you have to remember that these bubbles are microscopic in nature and pose no harm to anything, unless you are a carbon /powder residue deposit on a cartridge case!

When this cavitation bubble implodes near your brass case, it transforms the bubble into a jet about 1/10th of its size. This jet of energy can travel as fast as 400 km/hour. At 43 kHz, as is the frequency for our L & R HCS 200 ultrasonic cleaner, this is happening 43,000 times per second. This micro-burst of extreme energy is responsible for removing contaminants from the surface of your cartridge brass. Ultrasonic cleaning can reach into crevices and inaccessible areas and remove surface debris that can’t be cleaned by any other process.”

Photos and quotes © Brownells®, Inc. All Rights Reserved, Used with Permission.

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December 2nd, 2022

Last Day to Save with CyberWeek Discounts

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Three major shooting sports vendors have offered significant discounts this week as part of extended CyberWeek promotions. These deals are still in effect. But you better act fast to grab the savings. All these deals expire this evening, December 2, 2022 at 11:59 PM EST or CST.


Brownells CYBERWEEK and Other Discount Codes


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Brownells is offering 12% Off purchases of $199.00 or more through tonight, with code CYBER12. Along with this CYBERWEEK Discount, there are additional discount codes that should be good for a couple more weeks: 20OFF200 ($20 Off $200+ order); TA10 (10% Off over $150); and HOME10 ($10 Off 100+ order).

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Natchez Shooting Supplies is offering significant discounts through 11:59 pm EST on 12/2/22. You need to use a discount code during checkout: D221130C ($35 Off $300 order); D221130B ($25 Off $200+ order); and D221130Z ($15 Off $100+)order).

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Guns.com is advertising “Cyber Monday All Week Long”. So there should be deals continuing at least through 12/2/22 at 11:59 PM, and perhaps all weekend. There are many firearms deeply discounted this week. For example the SDS .45 ACP Tanker 1911 is $100 Off (now just $329.99). In addition, you get FREE Shipping on $125+ Ammo orders and FREE Shipping on $49+ Accessories orders.

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November 25th, 2022

More Super Sales for Black Friday 2022 and Following Days

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Yesterday we featured a dozen great Black Friday SALES from leading vendors. With those deals you can save hundreds of dollars on firearms, gun safes, optics, reloading hardware and more. Here are seven more Black Friday specials, some of which have discounts that run for a full week or more.

Sportsman’s Warehouse Black Friday Weeklong Sale

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Sportsman’s Warehouse is running an extended Black Friday Sale through 12/1/2022. You’ll find some of the very best prices on rifles, pistols, optics, hunting gear, ammo, knives and more. The sale prices are good through December 1, 2022, six days away. Also check out the special Friday-Only Doorbusters Deals. CLICK HERE for Friday Flyer layout with 100+ items on one page.

Midsouth — Black Friday Deals Good through Sunday Evening

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Midsouth Shooters Supply has showcased 20 items that are deeply discounted for Black Friday, with sale prices good through Sunday 11/27/2022 at 11:59 pm. Here are the eight of the best deals we found. CLICK HERE to see ALL Midsouth’s Black Friday Bargains.

KYGUNCO Black Friday Sale — Great prices on Guns and Ammo

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KYGUNCO is known for its very competitive pricing. And now, with Black Friday Special Discounts, the deals are even better. You’ll find wide selection of rifles and pistols on sale.In addition, KYGUNCO has discounted rimfire and centerfire ammo. NOTE: The deals show above are a tiny fraction of the scores of items on sale, including many more rifles, shotguns, and pistols. PS: If you’re in Kentucky, grab that store-pickup-only Pelican 1750 56″ Protector Long Case — it’s a killer deal at $119.99!

Creedmoor Sports — Special Deals and FREE Shipping $99+

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The above video covers the Creedmoor Sports Black Friday Sale. Many items are on sale including the superb Creedmoor Sports-crafted shooting coats, rifle cases, and shooting mats. In addition Starline brass, Berger bullets, Hornady bullets, and Radians hearing protection are discounted and the new TRX-925 Scale is $50 Off. NOTE: Orders over $99 ship for FREE with Code TURKEY. The FREE shipping and most discounts are valid through noon CST on Tuesday, 11/29/2022.

Brownells Black Rifle Deals — Save $45 or 15% Today

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If you’ve got an AR-platform rifle project in the works, check out the Brownells Black Rifle Friday deals page. On November 25, 2022 you can save big bucks on AR uppers and lowers, along with optics, magazines and more. Plus if you use Brownells Coupon Code BF45OFF during checkout, you’ll get $45.00 off on most purchases of $225.00 or more (some exclusions apply). Act soon though — this discount code expires at 11:59 PM ET on 11/25/2022.

K&M Shooting Products — Buy One, Get 2nd 50% Off Promo

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K&M Products is running a Black Friday BOGO Special good through Sunday 11/27/2022. If you buy one of the designated SALE Items you can get a second item for 50% Off. This promotion is good November 24-29, 2022. To get the savings, use the Coupon Codes listed on the K&M Sale Page. NOTE: There is a different code for each sale item. Each code can be used once per order. Valid November 23-27, 2022 from 0:01 to 23:59 Eastern Time. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Natchez Shooters Supplies — FREE Shipping for $99.99+ Orders

Natchez Shooters Supplies Free Shipping

As a special Black Friday Promotion, Natchez Shooters Supplies is offering FREE Shipping on all orders of $100 or more. Use Code FS221124 to get FREE shipping. This promo runs through Monday 11/28/2022 at midnight. Natchez also has substantial stocks of loaded ammunition at better-than-average prices.

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