Thousands of new products will be on display at SHOT Show 2019, the huge gun industry trade show held each January in Las Vegas. Some of the most highly-anticipated products have not yet been revealed, including new rifles, chassis systems, and state-of-the-art optics and LRFs. However, the SHOT Show Product Planner offers a “sneak peek” at 296 new-for-2019 products. More will come in the weeks ahead. For the time being, however, here are TEN interesting new products. Since most are completely new items, we haven’t been able to test them yet. Accordingly the product descriptions are provided by the manufacturers.
1. MDT Adjustable Core Competition (ACC) Chassis
The MDT ACC (Adjustable Core Competition) Chassis was designed around an integrated, modular weight system that allows shooters to fine tune chassis weight and balance point. A series of weights (up to 9 lbs. of steel) can be added to either the buttstock, interior fore-end or exterior fore-end. With action, barrel, scope and accessories, shooters can configure their rifles upwards of 25-30 lbs. in the ACC. The ACC weight management system allows shooters to rapidly adjust the feel and recoil characteristics of their rifle — at the range or during a competition. Other features include: full 17” ARCA/RRS fore-end, flared mag well, extended barricade stop, widened thumb shelf, and adjustable cheek riser/length of pull.
The new GRS Bifrost stock is made of glass fiber-reinforced composite material with tactile rubber surfaces on the grip and fore-end zones. The SpeedLock 2.0 system has LOP and Cheekpiece adjustment, like the original Speedlock system, but also includes a height-adjustable and cant-adjustable recoil pad. This allows for the perfect stock to shooter fit. Picatinny Rail mounts are located on the bottom and both sides of the fore-end, and the bottom of the buttstock. This allows easy attachment of lights, lasers, monopods, and bipods. Two Picatinny rails are included with the Bifrost stock, which retails for $730.00, as inletted for a variety of popular actions.
3. TargetVision Hawk WiFi Spotting Scope Camera
The Hawk Smart Scope is the next evolution of digiscoping. This TargetVision product turns any regular spotting scope into a smart scope in just minutes. Simply slide the Hawk over the spotting scope’s eyepiece, activate the signal, and open the Targetvision App on a smartphone or tablet. The Hawk camera connects to the mobile device via WiFi. Then you can view the camera feed (from the spotter) and unlock all of the App features. Basically this lets you position your spotting scope remotely and watch it through a digital screen. You’ll find more info (plus “how-to” videos) at TargetVisioncam.com. Price: $225.00 Pre-Order Special (Reg. $299.00)
4. Scope Comparison Platform from Rack’em Rack
This innovative Scope Comparer allows consumers to compare rifle scopes side-by-side. Simply slide the plate laterally to compare rifle scopes. This system ships with three different plates — One Plate for 30mm tube scopes, one for 1″ tube scopes, and a third (with rail) for red dot-type optics. An optional plate for 34mm-tube scopes is also available. All the sliding plates easily remove with the pull of a pin. Made by Rack ‘Em Racks, the novel Scope Comparer retails for $199.00.
5. Swagger Bipod — Telescoping Field Support for Hunters
The new Swagger bipod replaces a conventional bipod as well as shooting sticks. With a huge adjustment range from 6 3/4″ to 29″, the Swagger is ideal for western hunters, spot-and-stalk situations or anywhere long shots from the ground are likely. Notably, you can switch from a rigid attachment to a flexible attachment. And you can angle the legs forward, rearward, or to either side. When needed, remove the rubber footpads to use spiked feet for more “grip”. The Swagger’s telescoping legs fit inside a polymer housing mounted to your rifle’s forearm. Assembled weight is 23.6 oz, complete with Nitride finish springs/spring housing and reinforced bungee.
6. Vaultek Bio-Metric WiFi-Enabled Gun Safe
The WiFi-enabled RS500i is Vaultek’s newest and largest safe. Holding up to 4 four full-size rifles, this high-tech safe features full WiFi connectivity, providing quick access via oversized biometric scanner, Smart Key, backlit keypad, and standard backup keys. With WiFi connectivity you have complete remote management and live push notifications. With the all-new online dashboard or your smartphone you can securely monitor critical safe data from anywhere. A variety of modular accessories allow full customization of the LED-lit safe interior for magazines, handguns, and barrel mounts for rifles. Learn more at Vaulteksafe.com.
7. X Products Ambidextrous Side-Charging AR Upper
Here’s something we haven’t seen before — a side-charging AR upper that can be configured for either side — right port or left port. That’s clever. This exclusive X Products side-charging upper (SCU) boasts dual-side ejection ports with an off-side cover and interchangeable grip and off-hand slide handles, making it completely customizable to right- or left-handed shooter. The proprietary carrier introduces a new charging method that puts the force lower on the axis for smoother, more linear operation. The non-reciprocating charging handle can lock forward to prevent movement during operation. Price: $199.00
8. Breakthrough Carbon Fiber Cleaning Rods
Breakthrough® Clean Technologies’ carbon fiber cleaning rods offer a safe, effective way to clean the inside of your barrel. Featuring an ergonomic handle and two premium ball bearing sets, the rod can smoothly pass through the bore of your barrel without binding up under pressure. The lightweight yet durable carbon fiber construction is long lasting and won’t permanently bend or break under pressure. When kept free of debris, carbon fiber shafts are gentle on your barrel’s rifling. Available in the following sizes, all with standard 8-32 threads:
$29.95 5mm diameter, 12″ length .22 cal thru .50 cal handguns
$45.95 5mm diameter, 39″ length .22 cal thru .50 cal rifles
$49.95 7mm diameter, 45″ length .30 cal rifles thru 12 gauge shotguns
9. Kalispel Caseline Aluminum Gun Cases
Kalispel Caseline aluminum rifle cases are made in the USA from .080 marine-grade aluminum. They feature closed waterproof rivets, military spec hardware and stainless steel locking rod assemblies. These metal cases features Heliarc welds for strength and security, not fused joints like other lesser brands. Each case is hand-inspected for quality control. Kalispel has been making cases for many years, but there are new models for 2019. Powder coating and color options available. Prices range from $160 to $550.
10. RifleKuhl Barrel Cooling Unit from MagnetoSpeed
Tired of waiting for your rifle barrel to cool down? MagnetoSpeed’s new Riflekuhl barrel cooler, is designed to get barrel temperatures down to intended operating levels quickly. The turbocharger-inspired impeller produces great air flow in a small package. Powered by a single CR123A Lithium battery (included), ambient air is forced through the extendable nozzle down the bore of the rifle. This pushes air flow down the barrel where it’s needed to efficiently cool barrels, typically under 7 minutes. RifleKuhl doubles as a chamber flag and features an exclusive built-in air filter to prevent dust and dirt from being blown into your rifle. Price: $59.99
CREDIT EdLongRange for locating the 2019 New Product Showcase website.
Headed to SHOT Show in Las Vegas next month? Then you should download the FREE SHOT Show Mobile App. Available for all mobile devices, this App really makes it easier to plan your SHOT Show schedule, and navigate the floor of the Sands Convention Center. The 2019 SHOT Show Mobile App is now available for download on Apple, Android, and Windows smartphones and devices. Apple users will find the app in the App Store, Android users will find their version in the Google Play Store. Windows users can access via the WEB Dashboard. Learn more at SHOTmobile.com.
Handy Interactive Map
The App includes an interactive map that can direct you from your current location to your next destination. Arrange your meetings with a handy scheduling calendar. And you can search for any SHOT exhibitor by name or product category. In addition, the App lists major show events as well as important new products.
GREAT APP FEATURES
— Locate Exhibitor Booths with searchable Vendor Database/Floor Map
— Build a personalized Schedule and bookmark Exhibitors
— Visit bookmarked Exhibitors with Quick Route Feature
— Multi-Device Sync for smartphones, tablets, laptops
— Up-to-date Exhibitor, Speaker, and Event information
The Free SHOT Show App lets you do some very cool things with your smartphone. You can contact exhibitors directly through the App to request appointments or callbacks. You can take notes while visiting a vendor’s booth or attending a seminar. Of course you can schedule your agenda, and see an entire day’s events in a glance. But perhaps the best function of all is the “Quick Route”. This allows you to create the most efficient point-to-point route from one booth location to another.
The 2019 SHOT Show takes place January 22-25 at the Sands Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada. To learn more about SHOT Show, including how to register, educational resources, event listings and hotel/travel information, visit SHOTShow.org.
Shooting Industry Magazine just released its December 2018 issue, which you can read for free online. This December issue includes a SHOT Show Preview, but more importantly, there is also a 24-page New Product Showcase. Here you can see a variety of new products, including those from some of our favorite manufacturers: McMillan (MC3), Leupold, Warne, Vault Pro, Champion and more…
Registration has opened for SHOT Show 2019, which runs January 22-25, 2019 at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. While not open to the general public, the huge, annual firearms industry trade show attracts over 60,000 industry professionals, buyers, and media members from all 50 states and more than 100 countries.
Registration for the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s 2016 SHOT Show is now open for Exhibitors, Attendees, and members of the Media. Register now at SHOTShow.org/register. While registering, attendees can also enroll in seminars. CLICK HERE for Attendee Registration.
IMPORTANT: Book your hotel very early! Like last year, there will be a number of major events in Las Vegas the same week as SHOT Show 2019. This means that hotel space will be heavily booked in advance. Make reservations NOW. Forewarned is forearmed!
The Shooting, Hunting, Outdoor Trade Show (SHOT Show) is the world’s largest trade show for all professionals involved with the shooting sports, hunting, and law enforcement industries. It is the world’s premier exposition of firearms, stocks, barrels, gun optics, ammunition, outdoor apparel, and all related products and services. The SHOT Show is a very big deal in Vegas — at the 40th Anniversary SHOT Show in 2018, more than 60,000 industry professionals packed the Sands Expo aisles. This year could be even bigger.
What’s SHOT Show like? Here’s last year’s official SHOT Show Teaser Video :
If you are in the market for a new handgun of any type, you should check out a recent product summary from Shooting Illustrated magazine. The SI staffers have compiled an illustrated list of 63 new handguns released in 2018. There are big guns and small, semi-autos and revolvers. Each entry includes a photo with graphics showing the handgun’s notable features. The list includes some “pistols” that really look like rifles because they have a short stock for use as a “fore-arm brace” (wink-wink).
There is a good selection of carry pistols, small revolvers, and long-barreled target pistols. For each “handgun”, there is a descriptive paragraph plus a table listing: Caliber, Magazine Capacity, Barrel Length, OAL, Weight, and MSRP.
Here is one of our favorite new handguns, a 9mm Heckler & Koch VP9 with built-in Crimson Trace laser. We’ve owned multiple H&Ks and they have all been very accurate.
Shooting Illustrated’s Complete List of New-for-2018 Handguns:
Alchemy Custom Weaponry Brimstone
American Tactical FXH Hybrid
Arex Rex Alpha
Arex Rex Zero 1 Tactical Compact
Bersa TPR9C
Cabot Guns Gentleman’s Carry
Cabot Guns Icon Government Model
Canik TP9SA Mod 2
Century Int’l Arms C39v2 Pistol, Shockwave Brace
Century Int’l Arms Draco NAK9
Charles Daly 1911 Superior Grade
Charter Arms Bulldog pistol
Charter Arms Chic Lady Magenta
Charter Arms Undercover
Chiappa Firearms Rhino 30DS OD Green
CMMG Inc. Banshee
Colt Custom Competition Pistol
Colt Night Cobra
Coonan MOT 10 Compensated
CZ-USA P-10C Urban Grey Suppressor-Ready
CZ-USA Scorpion EVO 3 S1 Pistol, Folding Brace
Daniel Defense DDM4V7 P
European American Armory Witness P Match Pro
FN America FN 15 Pistol
Glock G19X
Glock Gen5 G26
Grand Power Q1S
Grand Power Stribog
Heckler & Koch VP9 with Crimson Trace Laserguard
Heckler & Koch VP9SK in NATO Green
Honor Defense Captain America Honor Guard
Kahr ST9
Kimber K6s CDP
Kimber KHX Pro (OR)
Kimber Micro 9 Desert Night (DN)
Les Baer Thunder Ranch 25th Ann. Ltd. Ed.
Magnum Research Mark XIX L5
MG Arms Wraithe 1911
Nigthawk Custom Custom Agent 2
Nighthawk Custom Chairman
Nighthawk Custom Lady Hawk 2.0
PTR Industries 9CT
Remington R1 1911 Ultralight Executive Pistol
Remington RP45
Roberts Defense Rogue 1911
Rock River Arms 1911 Poly 4.25″
Ruger EC9s
Ruger GP100
Ruger Security-9
SAR USA SAR 9
SIG Sauer P226 Legion SAO RX
SIG Sauer P365
Smith & Wesson M&P380 Shield EZ
Smith & Wesson M&P9 Threaded Barrel
Springfield Armory 911
Springfield Armory Saint Pistol
Springfield Armory XD-E 45
Springfield Armory XD-S Mod.2
Taurus 692
Taurus 856
Taurus 1911 Commander
Walther PPQ SC
Walther PPS M2
Shooting Illustrated notes: “Handguns are some of the hottest-selling firearms in today’s market, with concealed-carry guns leading the way as more citizens arm themselves against potential threats. However, micro-sized pistols aren’t the only new releases out for this year. Manufacturers have added dozens of new guns of many styles and designs, all built for different purposes. Is your next buy on our comprehensive list?” See all the new handguns released in 2018 in THIS FEATURE ARTICLE.
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.
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…
Here are a pair of Olympic-grade Steyr air pistols. Designed for one-handed shooting, these feature very ergonomic wood grips.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Multiple vendors had some beautifully-figured stock blanks on display. The most desirable Turkish Walnut blanks can cost thousands of dollars.
Here are some handsome Winchester Model 1866 (Yellowboy) rifles with highly-decorated receivers. This classic American design is now crafted in Italy by Uberti.
Major German rifle-makers Blaser, Mauser, and Sauer all had large, prominent displays at the IWA Show in the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre.
Our friends Ed and Steve, aka the 6.5 Guys seemed to be everywhere at SHOT Show. With tripods and cameras slung over their shoulders, Ed and Steve worked marathon hours, recording no less than 43 SHOT Show videos. They found all sorts of new and interesting products. They visited notable optics makers including March, Nightforce, Nikon, and Vortex. They interviewed major players in the PRS/Tactical Game including George Gardner of G.A. Precision, Tom Manners of Manners Composite Stocks, and Frank Galli, founder of Sniper’s Hide. And the 6.5 Guys also covered mainstream, large-volume rifle makers. That will be our focus here today, as we present the 6.5 Guys’ coverage of three key, long-arms builders or importers — Bergara, Legacy International, and Savage Arms.
Savage Arms — New Options for Precision Shooters
We own a couple Savage rifles, so we know Savage centerfire rifles can deliver surprisingly good accuracy for the price. It is not unusual for Savage rifles in some chamberings to shoot 0.7 MOA right out of the box. And the barrel nut system allows you to easily swap in an aftermarket custom barrel to get even more accuracy. Here the 6.5 Guys look at Savage’s new-for-2018 offerings, including the Stealth Evolution and the long-action Model 110 BA with GRS stock. A new chambering has been added — the 6.5 PRC.
Bergara — Becoming a Player in the American Market
We have been impressed with Bergara’s development as a brand in the last few years. Bergara, a Spanish company, is serious about becoming a player in the American market. The company has listened to American shooters, building hunting and tactical rifles with key features valued by American customers. Bergara rifles offer a nice combination of comfortable ergonomics with some advanced engineering, such as the B14’s internal metal chassis. In this video, the 6.5 Guys look at the latest rifle offerings from Bergara.
Legacy Sports International — Howa and Lithgow Arms
Legacy Sports Int’l is the importer/distributor for a number of rifle manufacturers, including Howa, Lithgow Arms, and Citadel. In this video, Ed looks at the Howa KRG Bravo chambered in 6mm Creedmoor. This features the smooth-running Howa 1500 action with 2-Stage HACT Trigger, set in a Kinetic Research Group modular chassis. Priced at $1279.00 MSRP with sub-MOA guarantee, it is definitely a serious contender in the PRS Factory Class. Anyone looking at a Ruger Precision Rifle should also consider this Howa.
Miles of Aisles and thousands of new products. SHOT Show, held each January in Las Vegas, is a near-overwhelming circus. There is so much to see, with new products from countless manufacturers, large and small. Here is the last official Highlights video from SHOT Show 2018. This 19-minute video provides a comprehensive summary of all there was to see and do at SHOT Show.
Weatherby Moves to Wyoming — Interview with Adam Weatherby
One of the biggest industry new items was Weatherby’s exodus from California. We reported this move in detail, explaining the TOP FIVE REASONS gun companies leave California. In this video, Weatherby President Adam Weatherby explains his company’s goals in relocating to Sheridan, Wyoming. Unlike California, Wyoming is a Second Amendment-friendly state. Plus Wyoming also has no state tax on corporate earnings (California is 8.84%):
Featured New Products — Video Previews
The Firearm Blog (TFB) had a large presence at SHOT Show, with multiple video teams covering Range Day and then the main event at the Sands Expo Center. Here are some TFB product highlight videos, showcasing interesting new products released at SHOT Show 2018 and/or Industry Day at the Range:
Lithgow LA105 Tactical Rifle from Australia
Australia’s Lithgow Arms has a new rifle for the PRS game. Called the LA-105 Woomera (named for an Aboriginal spear-throwing device), this is basically a Lithgow Arms LA102 barreled action in a Kinetic Research Group (KRG) chassis similar to the Whiskey-3 and X-Ray chassis systems. Initially, the LA105 Woomera will be released in two calibers, 6.5mm Creedmoor (1:8″ twist) and .308 Win (1:10″ twist). The barrel twist rates should stabilize High-BC match bullets. Thanks to the KRG chassis, the LA105 Woomera takes the popular AICS magazines, rather than the Tikka T3 magazines of its predecessor.
Click to View Full-Page Specifications (easier to read):
Sako Carbon Fiber Stocks and New TRG 42 and 22
Sako has new, ultra-light carbon fiber stocks for the Sako 85 hunting rifle series. There are two carbon offerings, the CarbonLight and Carbon Wolf. The latter has cool push-button adjustments for comb height and length of pull. The Sako 85 Carbon Wolf features a nice ergonomic grip that’s very comfortable in the hand. We thought this was one of the nicest new stocks at the Show. At Industry Day at the Range, Sako also showcased new “AI” versions of the TRG 42 and 22 models. Both versions feature improved folding buttstocks, with adjustable cheekpiece and LOP. TRG tested the .338 Lapua TRG 42 on Industry Day at the Range.
Brownells Retro AR15 and AR10 Rifles
After testing Brownells’ Retro AR-15s at Industry Day at the Range, TFB’s Corey Wardrop checks out the new AR-10A and AR-10B at Brownell’s SHOT Show booth. Brownell’s 7.62x51mm AR10 is faithful to the original, with important upgrades. The BRN10B (“late style”) is also shown. For the keen-eyed, Gene Stoner makes an appearance in the background. CLICK HERE to view Brownell’s entire Retro AR line-up, both AR15 and AR10.
Weatherby Inc., a major name in the rifle business, is abandoning California, leaving the Golden State for friendlier climes in Wyoming. Based in Paso Robles, CA for many decades, Weatherby announced last week that it will relocate its production facilities and headquarters to Sheridan, Wyoming. The respected rifle manufacturer, founded in 1945, was welcomed by Wyoming state officials. In fact Wyoming Governor Matt Mead was present for Weatherby’s announcement, made at Shot Show 2018. By contrast, California’s state leaders, given their anti-gun bias, are no doubt happy to see Weatherby leave. The Democratic Party now controls both houses of California’s State Legislature, as well as the Governor’s office. Weatherby’s departure is just the latest exodus of a major firearms industry company from California. In the past year, Berger Bullets, now part of Capstone Precision Group, relocated from Southern California to Arizona.
“We wanted a place where we could retain a great workforce, and where our employees could live an outdoor lifestyle”, said Adam Weatherby, Chief Executive Officer. “We wanted to move to a state where we can grow into our brand. Wyoming means new opportunities. We are not interested in [just] maintaining — we are growing.”
Weatherby Leaves Hostile Political Environment
Is Weatherby’s Wyoming move all about dollars and cents? Not entirely. California has become increasingly hostile to firearms manufacturers. TheFireamRack.com’s Dan Zimmerman observes: “[Weatherby] wanted to do business in a state that isn’t at war with the very products they make. A state that respects the Second Amendment and won’t try to claw back every single cent it can wring out of businesses located there. So Weatherby made the entirely rational choice to take their company to a place that values what they do.”
The Wyoming Business Council heralded Weatherby’s relocation: “The move is expected to create 70 to 90 jobs and more than $5 million annually in payroll in the next five years.” Recognizing the benefits to Wyoming, Governor Matt Mead and the Business Council began recruiting Weatherby a year ago. Governor Mead declared: “Wyoming is a great place to do business and is excited to welcome Weatherby to Sheridan. For over 70 years, Weatherby has been an innovator in firearms design and manufacturing. The company will add to our manufacturing base and fit well with our diversification objectives.”
Weatherby will locate its new production facility in Sheridan, Wyoming. Sheridan is a beautiful location in Northern Wyoming, a verdant plain with mountains to the West. Sheridan has just under 18,000 residents. But there will be another 100 or so soon. Local County10 News reports: “Sources shared with County 10 that Weatherby, located in California since the mid 1940s, has been considering locating in a state with a more favorable pro-firearms industry culture and citing a frustration with California’s tax structure.”
Top Five Reasons Firearms Businesses Leave California
1. High California Taxes. California’s Corporate Tax Rate is 8.84% — among the highest in the nation. Wyoming, by contrast, has ZERO state corporate taxes. California Sales Tax starts at 8% while Wyoming Sales Tax ranges from 4-6%. California was ranked 48th overall (third worst) in Tax Climate by the Tax Foundation. Wyoming was rated Number One Overall (best). This ranking considers corporate tax, personal income tax, sales tax, and property tax.
2. High Cost of Living in California (all factors). It is expensive to live in California. One Cost-of-Living index rated Paso Robles, CA 144.5 compared to 101.8 for Sheridan, Wyoming (higher is worse). Another Cost of Living Calculator states that, including housing, Paso Robles, CA is 41.9% more expensive than Sheridan, WY. Ironically, howevever, median income in the two cities is not that different: $28,358.00 for Paso Robles (CA) vs. $26,491.00 for Sheridan (WY). Money definitely goes farther in Wyoming. In terms of buying power, one study suggests a $35,535/year salary in Sheridan, WY equates to a $50,000/year salary in Paso Robles, CA.
3. Bad Roads and Infrastructure in California. Among all states, California has the fourth worst roads in the country with 50% of roads in “poor condition”. In fact, the Los Angeles Regional area road system has been deemed the worst in the nation according to a Federal Highway Administration Report. By contrast, Wyoming’s highway system was ranked number one, best in the USA, in the 21st Annual Reason.org Highway Report. And this was despite the fact that state gas taxes per gallon are much less in Wyoming than in California*. California’s roads and infrastructure are only going to get worse as the population grows.
4. Anti-Business California State Government. California is now a one-party state, with the Democratic Party controlling the State Senate, State Assembly, AND the Governor’s office. This has created an anti-business governmental culture, with a left-leaning bias. California also has many more business regulations, and more restrictive gun and ammo laws. The situation is unlikely to change because there is undeniable evidence of massive voter fraud in California which favors Democratic candidates. For example, in Los Angeles County “the total number of registered voters now stands at a number that is a whopping 144% of the total number of resident citizens of voting age”, according to Judicial Watch. 10 other California counties have significantly more registered voters than voting-age citizens. (SOURCE: Judicial Watch Report.)
5. Out-of-Control California Housing Costs. Coastal counties in California have some of the highest average home prices in the country. The median home price in Paso Robles, CA is $486,100. By contrast, the median home price in Sheridan, WY is $217,100 — well under HALF the California price! And rental housing is cheaper in Wyoming too. Median Rent in Paso Robles, CA is $2150.00 per month, while Median Rent in Sheridan, WY is $1250.00 per month.
* All five of the top-ranked states for highway system performance (Wyoming, Nebraska, South Dakota, South Carolina and Kansas) have state gasoline taxes at or below the national average. Source: Los Angeles Times.
The most eye-catching display at SHOT Show 2018 was a 3D Hologram animation of the new SAR 9 pistol. Showing the pistol assembling itself in mid-air, the hologram was mesmerizing.
So many products — so little time. We saw some very interesting new products including new Berger Ammunition on our second day at SHOT Show. There were many interesting tools on displays as well as cool new rifles for hunters, varminters, long-range shooters, and tactical marksmen. We also met some old friends on Day Two, including the legend himself — Jerry Miculek.
To give you a feel for SHOT Show, here’s a nice teaser video filmed last year. This shows both Media Day and the events inside the Sands Convention Center. Though this is a year old, we definitely recommend it. Plus is has a LOT of pretty ladies. You won’t be disappointed — honest.
This Video is from 2017, But You Should Definitely Watch It — Lots of Pretty Ladies!
NEW — Berger Branded Ammunition in Lapua Brass
Berger Bullets + Lapua Brass in factory-loaded ammo. You asked for it. Now it’s here. The new line of Berger Ammunition was unveiled at SHOT Show this week at the Capstone Precision Group booth. Berger, Lapua, Vihtavuori, and SK Ammo are now all owned by Nammo Lapua, so we can have these great American-made bullets packaged with superior, European-made Lapua brass*. This is an exciting development. There will be three (3) lines of Berger Ammunition: Match Grade Target, Match Grade Hunting, and Match Grade Tactical. We’ll have a full report with field tests this spring.
NEW and IMPROVED — Lyman Higher Rez Borecam
Better. Sharper. Higher Resolution. The new, upgraded Lyman Borecam® Digital Borescope is a serious candidate for best gunroom tool of the year. We really liked the original Borecam and recommended it highly. But now the new version is a LOT better. Now offering 300k resolution, you can really see finer details inside your bore. Trust us — the difference is VERY Noticeable. We could see very fine detail as never before. We like the fact that the lens wand is marked like a ruler so you can see your insertion depth and the handle has an indexing mark so you can keep track of your rotation. Great product. NOTE: The 300K means the camera delivers 300,000 pixels, i.e. 0.3 megapixel. For a square this is about 550×550. For a standard aspect ratio, this is similar to 640×480 resolution.
NEW — Walther KK500 .22 LR 3P Competition Rifle
Walther unveiled a handsome new smallbore (.22 LR) competition rifle, the KK500. This is more compact, with a shorter length of pull, so it’s a great choice for smaller-framed competitors — women and junior. The new Walther KK500 position rifle features bold red/gray laminated grip and fore-end block, plus an eye-catching red bolt handle. Very nice rimfire rifle for serious 3P smallbore shooters.
NEW — RCBS 6-Station Brass Boss
We tried out the new Brass Boss from RCBS. This new machine features SIX (6) powered tool heads, plus brushes. Four of the tool heads run at variable speeds up to 350 rpm. Two other high-speed tool heads run up to 550 RPM. There is a convenient speed control knob on the side of the unit. This is a great feature — you can run at high RPM for hard jobs like removing military primer crimps, and then slow way down to do more precise tasks such as inside chamfering. We like the Brass Boss. It is a definite upgrade over the previous RCBS Trim-Mate. The new Brass Boss includes tools for all six stations: inside VLD chamfering tool, outside deburring tool, primer pocket cleaners (small/large), military crimp removers (small/large), primer pocket uniformers (small/large), case neck brushes (four diameters), and a tub of dry case neck lubricant. MSRP for the Brass Boss is $189.95. We expect “street price” to be around $155.00.
COOL — World’s Biggest Cutaway Cartridge?
At the Vista Outdoor booth, we saw a 4-foot tall replica rifle cartridge. This was a real eye-catcher. Many folks looking at the giant-sized mock cartridge had never seen a 3-D cutaway like this showing the construction of the primer along with the core and jacket of the bullet. Note to Vista Outdoor — Please send one of these jumbo cutaways for our AccurateShooter.com “Man-Cave”.
WILD — $18,000 Janz Plasma Finish Revolver
Holy Mother of Mercy. This stunning Janz pistol costs $18,000. You can buy an entry-level Honda Civic for that! But does that Honda have a rainbow-colored Plasma finish like the Janz? And can the Civic swap barrel and cylinder assemblies to shoot multiple calibers? These top-of-the line Janz wheelguns are crafted in Germany in very small numbers. Just remember, beauty doesn’t come cheap.
NEW — Leica HD-B 3000 Geovid Rangefinder Binoculars
When we looked through the new HD-B 3000 Leica Geovids we were stunned. Superb clarity and sharpness. And the laser ranging was instantaneous — amazingly fast. The new Geovid HD-B 3000 delivers linear distance determination up to 3,000 yards (2,750 meters). This combo binocular/LRF has an ABC® ballistic brain inside which can output holdover, click adjustment, and equivalent horizontal range (EHR). Barometric pressure, temperature and angle are also included in the measurements. Impressive.
FUN — Selfie Time with Jerry Miculek — The Man, the Legend
Where else but SHOT Show in Las Vegas can you get a selfie with the world’s greatest revolver shooter, the legendary Jerry Miculek. Jerry was signing autographs at the Hornady booth. Of course Jerry’s not just a wheelgun ace. He has been a top 3-Gun competitor and, at last year’s 2017 Industry Day at the Range, Jerry set a world rifle speed record shooting a S&W M&P15.
NEW — Lyman Brass Smith C-Frame Press
Lyman has three new cast-iron presses on display: an O-Frame Single Stage, and 8-station Turret, and this compact Brass Smith C-Frame Ideal open front press. We liked them all but we think this new C-Frame press is an exceptional value. With beefy cast-iron construction, it is much stiffer than other presses in this category. The compound linkage is smooth. The base is big enough to provide good stability. For someone looking for a second press, or a smaller press to take to the range, the new Lyman may be the right solution. Thumbs up.
WEIRD — Virtual Reality Self-Defense Simulator
At the NRA Booth, CarryGuard, the NRA’s insurance program, had a half-dozen high-tech Virtual Reality simulators. Visitors could put on a pair of VR goggles, and then experience a variety of threat scenarios. This helps gun owners recognize true threats and respond in a proper manner. We like the cool Virtual Reality technology, but it still seemed weird to see grown men wearing goofy VR headgear and waving their arms around like circus clowns.
BAD ASS — Victrix Heavy Metal Tactical Rifles
Victrix is an Italian rifle-maker that shows that has proven that the USA doesn’t have a monopoly on seriously “Bad Ass” weaponry. We saw a trio of Victrix Minerva Tactical rifles that look tough enough to survive the Zombie Apocalypse with ease. The Minerva’s beefy carry handle under the fore-end is an interesting feature — something similar might come in handy for big ELR rigs.
SMART — Burris Spotting Scope with Accessory Red Dot
Can you see an extra feature fitted to this Burris Signature HD Spotting Scope. Yep, that’s a Burris Red Dot Sight on the left side near the eyepiece. Smart idea — this helps you align the spotter quickly, particularly in low-light situations. After seeing this rig, we’re wondering how we might attach a red dot to our older spotting scopes. Hats off to Burris for this clever optics upgrade.
NEW and TEMPTING — Tikka T1x Rifle in .17 HMR
When we first revealed the impressive new Tikka T1x rimfire rifle in .22 LR, some readers said: “Well the .22 LR version is nice but will it be available in .17 HMR? That’s what I really want”. Well ladies and gentlemen, Tikka WILL sell a 17 HMR version of the T1x (see above). We saw this on display at SHOT Show and smiled. This gun has a very nice trigger, smooth running bolt, and the magazine is easy to seat (unlike some other recent rimfire rigs). Fitted with a nice 3-18X scope and bipod, this could be a great carry-around varmint rifle. We hope to test one this spring.
* NOTE: With some cartridge types for which Lapua brass is not currently made, other brands of brass may be used. However, most Berger Ammunition will feature Lapua brass.
Thousands of new products will be on display at SHOT Show 2019, the huge gun industry trade show held each January in Las Vegas. Some of the most highly-anticipated products have not yet been revealed, including new rifles, chassis systems, and state-of-the-art optics and LRFs. However, the SHOT Show Product Planner offers a “sneak peek” at 296 new-for-2019 products. More will come in the weeks ahead. For the time being, however, here are TEN interesting new products. Since most are completely new items, we haven’t been able to test them yet. Accordingly the product descriptions are provided by the manufacturers.
1. High California Taxes. California’s Corporate Tax Rate is 8.84% — among the highest in the nation. Wyoming, by contrast, has ZERO state corporate taxes. California Sales Tax starts at 8% while Wyoming Sales Tax ranges from 4-6%. California was ranked 48th overall (third worst) in Tax Climate by the 
