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March 4th, 2022

IWA Outdoor Classics (Euro SHOT Show) Opens in Germany

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2015

The IWA Outdoor Classics trade show, aka “Euro SHOT Show”, opened yesterday, March 3rd, in Nuremberg, Germany. For four days (March 3-6, 2022), exhibitors from around the world will show their products at the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre. IWA Outdoor Classics is Europe’s biggest combined trade show for the hunting, shooting, and civilian/military security industries. CLICK HERE for MORE PHOTOS.

Three long years have passed since the last IWA Outdoor Classics in 2019. In years past this been a hugely popular event, attracting over 45,500 trade visitors from 115 countries. This year 918 exhibitors from a total of 54 countries will present their latest products and services in ten exhibit halls. We are pleased to see the IWA Outdoor Classics return in 2022 after the event was cancelled due to COVID in 2020 and 2021.

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2015
Anschutz straight-pull action Biathlon rifle with interesting skeletonized grips.

European Market for Civilian Firearms is Thriving
While IWA show attendance may be lower this year, Europe’s civilian firearms industries are thriving, based on data from the European Institute of Hunting and Sporting Arms (IEACS). “Global production of civilian firearms has increased in recent years, as has European production, which recorded 3.6 million firearms produced in 2020, of which 2.7 million were pistols and 900,000 were shotguns and rifles. Compared to the previous year, this represents a 34% increase in European firearms production,” said Nicola Perrotti, IEACS president.

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2022


IWA Exhibitor List | IWA Product List | IWA Special Events

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2022

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2022

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2022

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2022

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2022

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2022

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2022

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2022

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2022

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2022

About the IWA Outdoor Classics Trade Show
What is now the IWA Outdoor Classics trade show began 49 years ago as Germany’s national product show for gunsmiths and gun retailers. That product show started modestly in 1973 with less than 100 exhibitors. Over the past five decades IWA Outdoor Classics has grown into a massive event, drawing the major players in the hunting, security, and shooting sports industries. In the firearm universe, the IWA event is second only to America’s SHOT Show in importance.


IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2022

IWA Live Talks – Long Range Shooting and Hunting
In this IWA-hosted video, Nic Kytlica, Shooting Sports Marketing Manager at Leupold, explains how modern optical and electronic technology has enhanced long-range shooting. Nic also explains key equipment used for long-range shooting and hunting. The video also covers the rise of long-range competition shooting in Europe. To view other IWA Live Talks, CLICK HERE.

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2022


Parting Shot — Cookies from Germany

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2022

Photos courtesy NürnbergMesse.
Permalink Bullets, Brass, Ammo, Hunting/Varminting, New Product, News, Optics 1 Comment »
January 19th, 2020

Sunday GunDay: Merkel RX Helix Straight-Pull Hunting Rifle

Merkel RX Helix straight-pull rifle

This Sunday we feature the German-crafted Merkel RX Helix with straight-pull bolt. We shot the Helix a few years back during Media Day at the Range. One notable difference between the German Merkel and the Austrian Strasser, another straight-pull rifle, is the bolt travel. During cycling, the Merkel bolt stays completely inside the action (see video below at 00:30). By contrast the Strasser bolt moves pretty far back, outside the action. For some folks that makes the Helix better for fast follow-up shots. All we can say is that Merkles and Strassers BOTH cycle way faster than conventional bolt-action rifles.

Merkel RX Helix Range Report

One of the most innovative rifles we have ever shot was the Merkel RX Helix, a very impressive piece of rifle engineering. Merkel claims the RX Helix is the fastest-cycling centerfire bolt action in the world. We can’t confirm that claim, but the Helix certainly cycles faster than any other centerfire bolt-gun this Editor has ever tried. (Yes, a Fortner biathlon action can be worked more rapidly, but that’s a rimfire). Both Jason and I really liked Merkel’s RX Helix. It balances well, the action is smooth, the wood is gorgeous, and the overall design thinking that went into this German-engineered take-down rifle is very impressive. The Helix’s universal-sized action lets you shoot anything from a .222 Rem to a .300 Win Mag with the same gun. And — get this — you can really swap barrels (and change bolt heads) in a couple of minutes with no tools, employing a dead-simple bolt-release lever concealed under the push-button-released removable forearm. (Watch VIDEO BELOW to see Barrel Swap procedure).

Merkel RX Helix rifle

Merkel RX Helix rifle

Merkel RX Helix rifleRotary 7-Lug Bolt
While the RX Helix is a straight-pull rifle, it retains the strength and safety of a rotary bolt head with seven locking lugs that seat in a barrel extension. Unlike a Blaser, the RX Helix has a fully-enclosed action housing. That’s an important safety feature. Moreover, since the RX Helix employs a closed action, the bolt body doesn’t travel outside that action. This means the shooter can maintain his cheekweld with an eye on the target as he cycles the bolt.

The RX Helix’s linear (back and forth) bolt-handle motion is transmitted to the bolt head through a 1:2 ratio “transmission” gearing system. This allows smooth and fast cycling without the rotational or tipping movement found on other straight-pull, bolt-action rifles, such as the Blaser.

Merkel RX Helix rifle

The Merkel linear-movement action cycles exceptionally fast, which allows for faster follow-up shots — a good thing if you’re hunting dangerous game. The RX Helix features a manual cocking lever on the tang and a direct trigger system. And here’s good news for southpaws — though Merkel does not make a dedicated left-hand version, lefties can very easily use their right hand to work the bolt while maintaining cheekweld. That may sound awkward, but with practice, it’s actually pretty efficient.

Fast, Easy Disassembly and Barrel Exchanges
The video below shows how the Helix can be disassembled (for cleaning or transport) in a matter of seconds WITHOUT TOOLS. The forearm slips off with the push of a button. A short lever on the left side of the action holds the barrel. Simply rotate the lever and the barrel (with bolt head) slips off. That’s it — in 30 seconds the rifle is apart, and you don’t even need an allen wrench as with a Blaser.

The RX Helix has a universal action length that covers calibers from .222 Rem to .300 Win Mag. Changing calibers (or chamberings) takes less than a minute with the appropriate barrel, bolt-head and magazine. Weaver rails are integrated into the action, and iron sights with three-dot rear and one-dot front fiber-optic inserts are standard.

Merkel RX Helix rifle

The RX Helix is available with a standard black finish as well as four levels of design — Arabesque, Wild Boar, Spirit, and Deluxe. An all-carbon-fiber version was also available either with or without a carbon-wrapped barrel. The RX Helix comes in a wide range of calibers including .222 Rem, .223 Rem, .243 Win, 6.5×55 SE, .270 Win, 7×64, .308 Win, .30-06 Sprg., 8×57 IS, 9.3×62, 7mm Rem Mag and .300 Win Mag. Barrel lengths vary according to caliber, and barrels, bolt-heads and magazines are available for caliber changes. EuroOptic sells the Merkel RX Helix, but most models are back-ordered.

Permalink - Articles, Gear Review, Gunsmithing, Hunting/Varminting 1 Comment »
March 10th, 2019

IWA 2019 — Guns and Optics Galore in Germany

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show convention SHOT rifle shotgun tactical news photo gallery

Today is Super Sunday in Nuremberg. This is the third day of the annual IWA Outdoor Classics trade show, the biggest gun/hunting/outdoor trade show outside the USA. Over 1600 companies are displaying their products. The IWA event, held each spring in Nuremberg, Germany, opened Friday in the Nürnberg Exhibition Centre. The show runs four days, March 8-11, 2019. Here is our IWA Day 3 report, with more images from the show. Photo Credit for IWA images: NuernbergMesse / Frank Boxler and Thomas Geiger, All Rights Reserved.


CLICK HERE for Over 500 More IWA Show Photos »

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show convention SHOT rifle shotgun tactical news photo gallery

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show convention SHOT rifle shotgun tactical news photo gallery

Here a visitor checks out an impressive Minerva-series Tactical Rifle from Victrix Armaments, an Italian rifle-maker affiliated with Beretta. Along with modular tactical rigs, Victrix also makes quality F-Class rifles, prone guns, and hunting rifles. SEE VICTRIX RIFLES HERE.

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show convention SHOT rifle shotgun tactical news photo gallery

Yes, there were many AR-platform rifles on display at the IWA Outdoor Classics show.

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show convention SHOT rifle shotgun tactical news photo gallery

A recent test of the Swarovski dS (see video below) proved this state-of-the-art “smart optic” delivers on its promise — no more dialing knobs. Swarovski’s $4500+ 5-25×52 dS features a built-in laser rangefinder and internal microprocessor.

Working with a smartphone App, the Swaro’s sophisticated ballistics computer calculates your trajectory at any distance and then displays an aim point on your reticle. It even adjusts the aim point for the wind (with data entered wirelessly via mobile device).

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show convention SHOT rifle shotgun tactical news photo gallery

Here is a line-up of new Aimpoint rifle scopes. Aimpoint is much more than Red Dots these days…

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show convention SHOT rifle shotgun tactical news photo gallery

Pride of Pedersoli. This display showcased handsome Pedersoli side-hammer (Sharps) and falling-block rifles from Italy. Note also the collection of Vernier-type Tang Sights.

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show convention SHOT rifle shotgun tactical news photo gallery

Bling is the thing. This eye-catching Magnum Research Desert Eagle was at the IWA New Product Center.

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show convention SHOT rifle shotgun tactical news photo gallery

There were also many vintage pistols on display. This is an original Borchardt Model 1893 semi-auto handgun, father of the famous 9mm Luger pistol.

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show convention SHOT rifle shotgun tactical news photo gallery

The IWA Outdoor Classics started decades ago as a hunting exhibition, and it still retains that focus. Here is an impressive display of horns and hunting-related items.

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show convention SHOT rifle shotgun tactical news photo gallery

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show convention SHOT rifle shotgun tactical news photo gallery

IWA Archery Range at Nürnberg Exhibition Centre

IWA Outdoor Classics visitors could test their archery skills with both conventional bows and with crossbows at the Show’s Archery Center. This offered an interesting “hands-on” experience for many show-goers.

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show convention SHOT rifle shotgun tactical news photo gallery

Permalink - Videos, Gear Review, Handguns, Optics No Comments »
March 9th, 2019

IWA Outdoor Classics Show in Germany — Saturday Special

IWA Outdoor Classics Germany shot show trade new products Nuremberg

The IWA Outdoor Classics trade show is the biggest gun/hunting/outdoor trade show outside the USA. This year 1622 companies are displaying their products and IWA attendance should approach 50,000. The IWA event, held each spring in Nuremberg, Germany, opened yesterday in the Nürnberg Exhibition Centre. The show runs four days, March 8-11, 2019. Here is our IWA Day 2 report, with more images from the show. Photo Credit for IWA images: NuernbergMesse / Frank Boxler and Thomas Geiger, All Rights Reserved.


CLICK HERE for Over 200 More IWA Show Photos »

IWA Outdoor Classics Germany shot show trade new products Nuremberg

High-tech Steiner M7Xi IFS 4-28x56mm optic. That box on the end includes a digital display with level and windage/elevation read-outs.

IWA Outdoor Classics Germany shot show trade new products Nuremberg

Spectacular one-of-a-kind Walther Q5 pistol with full engraving and custom grips. Wow.

IWA Outdoor Classics Germany shot show trade new products Nuremberg

IWA Outdoor Classics Germany shot show trade new products Nuremberg

More Walthers — These are Olympic-grade competition Air Pistols.

IWA Outdoor Classics Germany shot show trade new products Nuremberg

What’s an outdoor show without a Land Rover and safari gear?

IWA Outdoor Classics Germany shot show trade new products Nuremberg

How do you make a beautiful gunstock? Start with a beautiful wood blank. Some stunning Turkish walnut blanks were on display at the IWA Show.

IWA Outdoor Classics Germany shot show trade new products Nuremberg

Beautiful Sauer rifle with engraved receiver and presentation grade wood.

IWA Outdoor Classics Germany shot show trade new products Nuremberg

There were plenty of handsome wheelguns on display at the Smith & Wesson booth. Accurate revolvers will never go out of style.

IWA Outdoor Classics Germany shot show trade new products Nuremberg

We liked this slide-out, mobile gun-locker for rifles and gear. Now that’s some serious storage!

IWA Outdoor Classics Germany shot show trade new products Nuremberg

Leading American shooting supplies vendor Brownells has a HUGE presence at IWA.

IWA New Products Center

Along with the main displays for 1600+ exhibitors, the IWA Show features a dedicated New Products Center. Here you’ll find a wide spectrum of new items — airguns, electronics, optics, hunting clothing, knives, cleaning products and more…

IWA Outdoor Classics Germany shot show trade new products Nuremberg

IWA Outdoor Classics Video — New Products Center

IWA Outdoor Classics Germany shot show trade new products Nuremberg

FK BRNO 7.5 Pistol (Cutaway) with folding stock that fits to bottom of grip, around mag well. Clever!

Parting SHOT — IWA Outdoor Classics Virtual Reality?

IWA Outdoor Classics Germany shot show trade new products Nuremberg

We have no idea what this woman is doing with that gadget, but it has something to do with Swarovski Optik. Maybe some kind of virtual reality? What’s your guess?

Permalink - Videos, Handguns, New Product, News, Tactical 1 Comment »
March 11th, 2018

IWA Outdoor Classics — Highlights from “Euro SHOT Show”

IWA outdoor classics gun hunting trade show
Here is a “birds-eye view” from IWA. Yes that’s a mini-blimp at lower left.

After SHOT Show in the USA, the IWA Outdoor Classics is the biggest gun/hunting/outdoor trade show in the world. The IWA event, held each spring in Nuremberg, Germany, concludes Monday, March 12 after a 4-day run in the Nürnberg Exhibition Centre. This is a big event — 1562 exhibitors from around the globe are showcasing their products. IWA attendance, which has grown steadily, is expected to top 50,000 visitors this year.

IWA outdoor classics gun hunting trade show

Many beautiful custom hunting rifles are on display. Note the stunning wood and the elaborate metal-work on bolt and action. Don’t ask about the price…


CLICK HERE for 300+ More IWA Show Photos

IWA outdoor classics gun hunting trade show

Here are a pair of Olympic-grade Steyr air pistols. Designed for one-handed shooting, these feature very ergonomic wood grips.

IWA outdoor classics gun hunting trade show

Toggle action biathlon rifles like this Anschutz captured medals at the recent Winter Olympics in South Korea. Not the handy magazine storage on the fore-arm.

IWA outdoor classics gun hunting trade show

Along with displays of guns, optics, and hunting gear, the IWA show features workshop areas where skilled artisans practice their trades — you can see engraving, wood-carving, and other skills in action.

IWA outdoor classics gun hunting trade show

Along with match rifles and hunting rigs, there were some serious sniper rifles on display. Here a German lady gets behind a Steyr SSG M1, offered in 7.61×51 NATO and .338 Lapua Magnum.

IWA outdoor classics gun hunting trade show

Bling was the thing at some pistol booths. These colorful Strike One handguns are made by Arsenal Arms in Italy (more sedate colors are also offered). A Russian-Italian design collaboration, the Strike One uses a Bergmann barrel system which does not tilt (unlike the widely-used Browning system). This allows for an extremely low bore axis.

IWA outdoor classics gun hunting trade show

Multiple vendors had some beautifully-figured stock blanks on display. The most desirable Turkish Walnut blanks can cost thousands of dollars.

IWA outdoor classics gun hunting trade show

Here are some handsome Winchester Model 1866 (Yellowboy) rifles with highly-decorated receivers. This classic American design is now crafted in Italy by Uberti.

IWA outdoor classics gun hunting trade show

Major German rifle-makers Blaser, Mauser, and Sauer all had large, prominent displays at the IWA Show in the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre.

Permalink Gunsmithing, Handguns, New Product, News 1 Comment »
February 2nd, 2018

No More M4 — USMC Adopts H&K M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle

USMC Marine Corps M27 IAR heckler koch
Photo by USMC, public domain.

The U.S. Marine Corps will be adopting a new rifle to replace the M4 select-fire carbine. Designated the M27 IAR (Infantry Automatic Rifle), the new rifle is based on Heckler & Koch’s HK416, which looks like an AR, but runs with an internal gas piston system. The HK416 has been used by the German Army and some USA Special Operations units. This change-over has been in the works for some time, but the “protest period” has concluded, so now it is official.

The adoption of the M27 was announced at SHOT Show 2018. GunsAmerica reports: “H&K has officially received the contract for the USMC to replace the M4 carbines. The H&K model selected is the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle, a derivative of the famous H&K 416″. The U.S. Marine Corps initially planned to purchase 6,500 M27s to replace a portion of the M249 light machine guns employed by automatic riflemen within Infantry and Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalions. In December 2017, the Marine Corps revealed a decision to equip every Marine in an infantry squad with the M27, so this is a major change. (Source: Wikipedia.com.)

According to Wikipedia: “The M27 is a lightweight, magazine-fed 5.56mm, select-fire weapon based on the Heckler & Koch HK416. It features a gas-operated, short-stroke piston action with a rotating bolt and a free-floating barrel. The handguard has four MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rails for use with accessories and optics. The simpler gas-piston rifle system reduces the amount of time it takes to resolve malfunctions on the IAR compared with the M249 light machine gun.”

USMC Marine Corps M27 IAR heckler koch
CLICK HERE for full-screen M27 Photo by Heckler & Koch.

As deployed, early versions of the IAR have done well in combat: “The IAR was initially fielded in December 2010. 1st Battalion 3rd Marines were deployed to Afghanistan in April 2011 with 84 IARs. Former SAW gunners initially did not like the M27, but appreciated it as time went on. It weighed 9 lb. loaded, compared to 22 lb. for an M249 — a significant difference when on 5-hour long missions. It also blended in with standard M16-style service rifles, making it difficult for enemy forces to identify the machine gunner. Marines issued with the M27 [report] it is friendlier to troops [than the M249] due to its cleaner, lightweight system having fewer moving parts and jams. IAR gunners consider the rifle-grade accuracy to be a huge improvement over the SAW, despite the loss of sustained firing.” (Source: Wikipedia.com.)

Heckler & Koch Expands American Production Center in Georgia
Heckler & Koch operates a production center in the state of Georgia, not far from Fort Benning. A $28.5 million expansion, started in 2017, is adding a new 50,000-square-foot factory in the Corporate Ridge Business Park. “HK’s new U.S. factory will make use of advanced manufacturing technologies and will be staffed by German and American engineers and technicians,” said Francisco Hidalgo, CEO of HK USA. GunsAmerica notes: “H&K USA will be designing and building guns directly for the U.S. market in the USA now. Now, we can look forward to weapons built specific to the U.S. market. [We] can’t wait to see the first one stamped ‘Made in Georgia’.” It is unknown when H&K will start delivering American-made M27s to the USMC.

Permalink New Product, News 15 Comments »
March 3rd, 2017

IWA (Euro SHOT Show) Kicks Off Today in Germany

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2015

The IWA Outdoor Classics trade show, aka “Euro SHOT Show”, opened today, March 3rd, in Nuremberg, Germany. For the next four days (March 3-6), 1455 exhibitors will show their products at the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre. This is a hugely popular event — last year’s IWA Outdoor Classics trade show attracted 45,530 trade visitors from 115 countries, and attendance should be even higher this year. IWA is Europe’s biggest combined trade show for the hunting, shooting, and civilian/military security industries. And this year, IWA Outdoor Classics was coordinated with EnforceTac, a two-day Law Enforcment/Security trade show held in Nuremberg March 1-2, 2017.

Click Image below for FREE IWA Trade Show App:
IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2017


IWA Exhibitor List | IWA Product List | IWA Special Events

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2017

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2017

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2017

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2017

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2017

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2017

IWA even features an indoor Archery Range. For many years, the Archery Range has been a popular gathering place where exhibitors and visitors can practice their skills and learn about the latest archery products up close and personal.

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2015

About the IWA Outdoor Classics Trade Show
What is now the IWA Outdoor Classics trade show began 44 years ago as Germany’s national product show for gunsmiths and gun retailers. That product show started modestly in 1973 with less than 100 exhibitors. Over the past four decades IWA Outdoor Classics has grown into a massive event, drawing the major players in the hunting, security, and shooting sports industries. In the firearm universe, the IWA event is second only to America’s SHOT Show in importance.

2016 IWA Show Highlights:

Photos courtesy NürnbergMesse.
Permalink Hunting/Varminting, New Product, News 2 Comments »
March 6th, 2016

IWA Outdoor Classics Show in Nuremberg, Germany

IWA Outdoor Classics Show Germany

Our friend Vince Bottomley and the Target Shooter Magazine team from the UK is in Germany this week for the IWA Outdoor Classics trade show, aka “Euro SHOT Show”. The big IWA outdoor Expo opened Friday in Nuremberg, Germany. Oh his first day at IWA, Vince already found some interesting products.

CLICK HERE for Target Shooter Magazine Report from IWA Show in Nuremberg, Germany.

Here are a pair of German-engineered Turban reloading presses. Vince writes: “The [press] offered by Turban (Turban-cnc.de) is the ultimate. With this press you just wouldn’t want to stop reloading!” Turban makes presses for all sizes of cartridges. Look at the size of the die on the press on the right. Much like a Forster Co-Ax, the Turban’s priming system sends spent primers down a pipe to a cup.

IWA Outdoor Classics Show Germany

Vince also discovered a very high-tech, ultra-light-weight F-TR bipod that is mostly carbon fiber. This looks like it belongs on a Formula 1 car. Vince says the Talon Mark 7 bipod is “super light and strong”. We like the arm design, but the feet need to be changed out. Those curved feet are like the Gen One SEB Joy-Pod feet. We’ve learned that flat, wide, ski-type feet work better — recoil is smoother with less hop. The longer, wider feet distribute rifle weight over a larger surface so you get less point-loading and less tendency to bounce with the energy pulse from each shot.

IWA Outdoor Classics Show Germany

Here are other photos from the IWA Show, courtesy NürnbergMesse:

IWA Outdoor Classics Show Germany

IWA Outdoor Classics Show Germany

IWA Outdoor Classics Show Germany

IWA Outdoor Classics Show Germany

4944 Products in 2016 IWA Product Showcase
If you want to see all the guns and gear featured at the 2016 IWA show, visit the IWA Products Page on the web. There you’ll find descriptions of 4944 featured products, everything from ballistics software to safari rifles. Click on the “New Products” link to see 569 featured new items. You can browse all new products, or Choose Product by Category. For the main product categories (Such as Guns, Ammo, and Optics), you can further search by subcategory (e.g. Guns > Rifles, or Optics > Rangefinders).

CLICK HERE for 2016 IWA Full Product List | CLICK HERE for IWA Product Categories

IWA Outdoor Classics Show Germany

Permalink New Product, News No Comments »
April 1st, 2015

Gun Tech: Top Barrel-Makers Adopt Degaussing Technology

Advancements in barrel technology in recent decades have been impressive. Today’s premium barrels deliver accuracy that could only have been dreamed-of decades ago. And now a new development promises to help barrel-makers craft the most uniform, consistent, and stable barrels ever.

What’s the new technology? You may be surprised. It’s not a surface treatment, or a cryogenic bath. The latest development in barrel manufacturing is Degaussing — the process of de-magnetizing metal objects. Degaussing is now used in many industries to uniform metallic products and to prevent unwanted interactions with magnetic fields. LEARN MORE.

Degaussing is the process of decreasing or eliminating a remnant magnetic field. It is named after the gauss, a unit of magnetism, which in turn was named after Carl Friedrich Gauss.

At the recent IWA show in Germany, Vallon GmbH, a German manufacturer of degaussing machines, told us that two major Wisconsin barrel-makers have purchased Vallon industrial degaussing units. The units sold to the American barrel-makers are similar to Vallon’s EMS unit show below. This can degauss (i.e. de-magnetize) 50 barrel blanks in one pass.

Barrel degaussing Vallon Kreiger Bartline Wisconsin IWA Show Navy James Crofts

The Vallon degausser works by passing the barrel steel through a coil. Vallon explains: “The density of magnetic field lines is at its maximum in the coil centre, and is strongly decreasing towards the outside. If a ferromagnetic work piece (steel) is introduced into the coil, the field lines are concentrating and flooding the work piece. The conductivity of steel is up to 800 times higher than that of air. Degaussing is done during a continuous movement of the work piece, leading out of the coil. Decreasing field strength is achieved by a slow extraction from the coil.”

Barrel degaussing Vallon Kreiger Bartline Wisconsin IWA Show Navy James Crofts

How Degaussing Improves Barrel Steel and Rifle Performance
So what does magnetism have to do with barrel performance? How can degaussing help make a barrel better? Vallon’s scientists tell us that degaussing has three major benefits. First, it aligns ferrous elements within the barrels, strengthening the steel at the molecular level from the inside out. Second, by reducing static surface charges, degaussing reduces chatter during drilling, which creates a straighter bore with a better surface finish. Lastly, there is evidence that degaussed barrels produce slightly more velocity. When a copper-clad bullet spins through a non-degaussed (magnetically-charged) barrel, this creates waste electrical energy. The energy expended reduces velocity very slightly. You can see this effect yourself if you spin a copper rod in the middle of a donut-shaped magnet. This creates an electrical charge.

Here a barrel is checked after degaussing with a Vallon EMS. The meter records a zero magnetic value, showing complete degaussing success.
Barrel degaussing Vallon Kreiger Bartline Wisconsin IWA Show Navy James Crofts

Degaussing Will Add $50.00 to Barrel Cost
We know what you’re thinking: “All right, degaussing seems beneficial, but how much will this add to the cost of my new barrel?” Based on off-the-record conversations with two barrel-makers, we estimate that degaussing will add less than $50.00 to the cost of a new barrel blank. That’s a small price to pay for greater accuracy and barrel life.

Barrel degaussing Vallon Kreiger Bartline Wisconsin IWA Show Navy James CroftsAsk a Sailor — F-Class Champion and
U.S. Navy Veteran Explains Degaussing

We asked reigning F-TR Champion James Crofts about barrel degaussing. A U.S. Navy veteran, he immediately understood the potential benefits of this process. “I served in nuclear submarines. Since before World War II, the U.S. Navy degaussed its subs and smaller warships. This had many benefits. Principally, it helped reduce the risk of triggering magnetic mines. But that wasn’t the only benefit — the degaussing process gave the steel greater resilience and longevity. And that’s why the Navy degaussed non-combat vessels as well. Will a degaussed barrel shoot better? Honestly I can’t say. But based on my Navy experience, I bet degaussed steel will be more uniform and will last longer. I’m glad somebody is trying this out on rifle barrels. Put me on the waiting list!”

Barrel degaussing Vallon Kreiger Bartline Wisconsin IWA Show Navy James Crofts

The above photo show a U.S. nuclear submarine during a degaussing (also called “deperming”) session. This reduces the vessel’s electromagnetic signature, making it more stealthy. Deperming also adds to the vessel’s longevity. With steel-hulled ships, static electricity builds up as the hull slices through the water. A powerful, constant static charge will cause the steel to deteriorate. Degaussing (deperming) helps prevent this, extending the life of the hull.

Permalink Gunsmithing, News 11 Comments »
March 7th, 2015

The Keys to the IWA Showcase — Searchable Product Archives

Germany is the center of the gun world this week. Now through March 9, 2015 Nuremberg (Nürnberg) hosts the IWA Outdoor Classics trade show, Europe’s largest gun-related exposition. Nearly 1400 exhibitors will be displaying new guns, shooting accessories, and hunting gear. We know many of our readers would love to experience the IWA trade show first-hand, but traveling to Europe is impractical. Well for you guys, here are the keys to the castle. Just follow the tips below and you can preview thousands of products currently on display in Germany.

4707 Products in 2015 IWA Product Showcase
If you want to see all the guns and gear featured at the 2015 IWA show, visit the IWA Products Page on the web. There you’ll find descriptions of 4707 featured products, everything from ballistics software to safari rifles. Click on the “New Products” link to see 554 featured new items. You can browse all new products, or Choose Product by Category. For the main product categories (Such as Guns, Ammo, and Optics), you can further search by subcategory (e.g. Guns > Rifles, or Optics > Rangefinders).

CLICK HERE for 2015 IWA Full Product List | CLICK HERE for IWA Product Categories

IWA New products germany 2015

Among the hundreds of new products at IWA, here are some that caught our eye:

Custom Rifle from Schiller Büchsenmacher of Bayern, Germany. Stunning piece of work…

IWA New products germany 2015

Newcon Optik 12,000-meter LRB 12K Night GPS-Enabled Smart Rangefinder:

IWA New products germany 2015

The LRB 12K and LRB 12KNIGHT from Newcon Optik are built to outperform any handheld laser rangefinder binocular available today. Features include: A 12,000m (NATO target) measuring range, built-in digital magnetic compass, built-in GPS receiver, and in the LRB 12KNIGHT a Gen 3 night-vision channel. Through USB and RS-232 interfaces, the LRB 12K and LRB 12KNIGHT can be operated remotely, and transmit data to external GPS systems and ballistic computers. Both units can communicate with Android™-based smartphones and tablets.

Alexander Arms Ulfberht .338 Lapua Rifle:

IWA New products germany 2015

Here is the Ulfberht semi-automatic, .338 Lapua Magnum rifle from Alexander Arms. The rifle features a custom-designed gas piston operating system, steel receiver, 27.5-inch chrome moly barrel with 1:9.3″ twist, three-prong flash hider, folding Magpul PRS stock, and Geissele SSA® two-stage, match-type trigger. The rifle is 41.25 inches long with the stock folded and 50 inches long with the stock extended. Total rifle weight is 19.8 pounds.

Bluetooth-Enabled Ear Muffs with Retractable Microphone.

IWA New products germany 2015

The Swedish-designed Hunter SMART Active Hearing protection system lets a hunter communicate with his guide or hunting companion. This works with reachargeable AA batteries and it can also play music. These electronic muffs boast bluetooth connectivity, with a retractable mic, and mini-USB port.

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March 6th, 2015

IWA (Euro SHOT Show) Opens Today in Nuremberg, Germany

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2015

The IWA Outdoor Classics trade show, aka “Euro SHOT Show”, opened today, March 6th, in Nuremberg, Germany. For the next four days (March 6-9), 1383 exhibitors will show their products at the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre. This is a hugely popular event — last year’s IWA Outdoor Classics trade show attracted 39,244 visitors from 117 countries, and attendance should be even higher this year. IWA is Europe’s biggest combined trade show for the hunting, shooting, and civilian/military security industries. And this year, IWA Outdoor Classics was coordinated with EnforceTac, a two-day Law Enforcment/Security trade show held in Nuremberg March 4-5, 2015.

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2015

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2015

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2015

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2015

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2015

IWA even features an indoor Archery Range. For many years, the Archery Range (located in Hall 5) has been a popular gathering place where exhibitors and visitors can practice their skills and learn about the latest archery products up close and personal.

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2015

About the IWA Outdoor Classics Trade Show
What is now the IWA Outdoor Classics trade show began 42 years ago as Germany’s national product show for gunsmiths and gun retailers. That product show started modestly in 1973 with less than 100 exhibitors. Over the past four decades IWA Outdoor Classics has grown into a massive event, drawing the major players in the hunting, security, and shooting sports industries. In the firearm universe, the IWA event is second only to America’s SHOT Show in importance. This video (produced in 2013) shows IWA highlights from the past four decades:

IWA Outdoor Classics trade show Nuremberg Germany 2015

Photos by IWA NürnbergMesse

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January 22nd, 2015

Korth Roller-Locking Semi-Auto .45 ACP Pistol

Korth Germany .45 ACP pistol Video 3D animation

At the 2015 Media Day at the Range, I got to try our some sweet firearms. One was a handgun I’ve lusted after for a couple years, every since watching the killer video German arms-maker Korth created for its Pistole PRS. This video has some great exploded parts views and 3D animations, showing how the roller locking system works when a .45 ACP round is fired.

3D-Cutaway Shots from PRS Pistol Video
Korth Germany .45 ACP pistol Video 3D animation

Korth Germany .45 ACP pistol Video 3D animation

Korth Germany .45 ACP pistol Video 3D animation

Korth .45 acp pistol SHOT Show Media Day Boulder City

Video from 2014 Media Day

This Video was put together by another journalist last year, but we shot the same gun this year.

Learn More about the Korth PRS Pistol:
Korth Web Site
The Firearm Blog Korth PRS Range Report
Guns.com Korth PRS Report

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