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Corey Graff

Leupold Twilight Max Technology Enhances Scope Line

Leupold Twilight Max VX-3 scope, from SHOT Show 2016.

New Leupold Twilight Max technology in the VX-3i line of scopes enhances brightness and clarity in low-light conditions, making them ideal for hunters.

At SHOT Show 2016 there were plenty of new optics offerings for shooters to eyeball, but one refinement at Leupold may give the long-time optics leader an edge, particularly in the hunting scope market.

Leupold Twilight Max

Designed, machined and assembled in the United States, the new Leupold VX-3i is designed to enhance optical performance and keep hunters in the field longer. More than just light transmission, the new system balances light across the visible spectrum, leading to a brighter, crisper image. It also eliminates the washed-out image than can come from direct sunlight.

“Hunters know that those first and last few minutes of legal light are when the monster bucks are moving,” said Tim Lesser, vice president of product development for Leupold & Stevens, Inc. “The VX-3i makes sure hunters can make use of those last few minutes of legal light, which can be the difference between success and an unfilled tag.”

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The innovation enhances brightness, color and clarity, especially in low-light conditions. The VX-3i allows for enhanced target acquisition, identification and shot placement in diminished light. From the end of the day, to heavy overcast to deep canyons, the Twilight Max light management system will let hunters see, identify and deliver a precise shot on game animals in low-light conditions.

“Light transmission is an important factor, but it’s not the only factor that matters in optics,” Lesser said. “The VX-3i has excellent light transmission, but we’ve looked at managing light for optimized performance. You can transmit 99.99 percent of available light, but if it’s not managed and properly balanced you won’t have the performance. In fact, the new VX-3i has the highest average light transmission across the visible spectrum, but its true performance lies in the management of that light.”

The VX-3i has other refinements. It features an easier-to-turn power selector, with a more aggressive knurl, making adjustments easy, especially when wearing heavy gloves. A more pronounced power indicator lets you know what magnification the VX-3i is set at, without having to raise your head.

A new dual spring precision adjustment system provides match-grade accuracy adjustments, while maintaining its in-the-field ruggedness and durability. Once hunters have the VX-3i zeroed, they can remain confident that it’s good to go.

As of press time it was not known if Leupold would expand the new lenses to its tactical line of scopes.

RIA: Over 9,000 Firearms to Be Featured in Upcoming Gun Auction

Gun auction: Steyr Schwartzlose Model 07/12 on tripod.
Gun auction: Steyr Schwartzlose Model 07/12 on tripod.

The 2016 February Regional Firearms gun auction promises to be the largest in Rock Island Auction Company history.

Rare German MP3008 “last ditch” submachine gun.
Rare German MP3008 “last ditch” submachine gun.

From February 25-28, 2016, the Rock Island Auction Company (RIA) facility will be buzzing with activity as thousands of collector firearms find new owners. Over 23,000 firearms were auctioned by RIA in 2015 and the upcoming February Regional puts the company on pace to far surpass that number in 2016.

The auction’s top items include an assortment of Henry rifles and early Winchesters in a variety of different finishes and unique engravings, these highly collectible lever actions should have no trouble finding new homes in the auction. Leading the charge is lot 4020, a Henry rifle with incredible scroll work and deer panel scenes on each side of the receiver. After the Henry and Winchester rifles, the rush for second place is a tight one.

 

Springfield Model 1903 rifle with a rare rod bayonet.
Springfield Model 1903 rifle with a rare rod bayonet.

Beautiful Colts, stunning Smith & Wessons, and high condition Remington arms all join the race. An engraved, antique Single Action Army in lot 212 makes a bold statement, as do the rare Smith & Wesson Model 320 revolvers appearing in six separate lots. Too, U.S. military arms are well represented, as shown in lot 2771’s Springfield Model 1903 rifle with a rare rod bayonet.

Unique to this Regional Auction are a large number of Class III / Title II machine guns that are listed as “DEWAT” or “Unserviceable.” For those seeking out representative models for their collections, these are an excellent opportunity to obtain one at a very attractive price. For those willing to do the work to legally restore these terrors of the battlefield, the rewards reaped could be ever greater.

Henry rifle with incredible scroll work and deer panel scenes on each side of the receiver.
Henry rifle with incredible scroll work and deer panel scenes on each side of the receiver.

Lot 547 contains a Steyr Schwartzlose Model 07/12 on its tripod, and lot 546 holds a rare German MP3008 “last ditch” submachine gun. There are 11 lots containing machine guns and many others with extra barrels, drum magazines, accessories, parts, carriages, tools, belts, and more.

This auction’s size means that more people than ever are going to be bringing home the guns they want for their collection. Not only will there be firearms, but also the always outstanding selection of bladed weapons, military artifacts, ammunition, accessories, books, Western art, parts, and more. Head over to www.rockislandauction.com today to view full color photos of the 4,000+ lots in this huge event. Direct questions to 309-797-1500 or email info@rockislandauction.com.

SHOT Show 2016: Ruger American Pistol

Daniel Shaw of Funker Tactical speaks with Mark Gurney, Ruger Director of Product Management about the new Ruger American Pistol at SHOT Show 2016.

Inspired by the military's Modular Handgun System specification, the Ruger American Pistol is built to withstand government scrutiny and take a beating.

“You have to envision this being run over by a Hum-Vee and survive it, and come back up fighting,” says Gurney in the video.

Initial offerings are in 9mm and .45 ACP. The handgun — designed with a low bore axis for greater control — comes with three interchangeable grips that allow you to customize backstrap, palm swell and trigger reach.

Speaking of trigger, early reports indicate shooters are impressed with the trigger on the pistol. Gurney explains how Ruger engineers tackled the problem anew in this striker-fired gun to improve the trigger over conventional designs.

As Gun Digest reported here, “The trigger, more specifically its pull, is another feature Ruger touts on its new pistol. With ¼-inch travel to break a shot and positive reset, the handgun should have a light, clean and fast pull. This is in part due to the pistol’s ignition system, which fully cocks the striker upon chambering a round. This means the only work the trigger pull does is to release the sear.”

Click here to learn more about the Ruger American Pistol.


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SHOT Show 2016: Glock 17 MOS and Glock 19 MOS

New for SHOT Show 2016 is the just released Glock 17 MOS and Glock 19 MOS (Modular Optic System), reviewed here by popular Youtuber Hank Strange.

Glock's MOS, which was unveiled at last year's 2015 SHOT Show, was initially offered for Gen 4 models G34, G35, and G41 — and a long-slide 10mm Glock, the G40.

This year, the global empire has released the optics-ready system for its popular G17 and G19 models, which have dominated the concealed carry market for years.

Glock 17 MOS, Glock 19 MOSAlready, companies like Galco are releasing new holster models such as the Blakguard, designed to accept handguns outfitted with reflex-style optics.

As explained in the video, the MOS versions are standard Gen 4 Glock, with the addition of the removeable plates — four are included in the box, comprising the Glock MOS Adapter Set — giving you the option of adding a red dot sight of your choice from various manufacturers.

Strange runs a Vortex Razor with 3 MOA dot. Interestingly, this optic is not listed in Glock's literature, but does fit the pistol with no issues as he shows (he did have to order shorter screws via Fastenal from Mr. Glock Nut as he notes in the comments).

Is a red dot for you, particularly on a concealed carry gun? It's a question only you can answer but, as Strange points out, it's hard to argue with the fast target acquisition afforded by a reflex optic.

Naturally, gun owners will need to assess the cost-benefit for themselves, but for $50-$75 extra cost for the MOS models, it's likely to beat custom gunsmithing costs to get the same outcome. And that's not saying anything about the extra flexibility in sight options afforded by the MOS system, should you wish to switch optics brands later.

Source: Hank Strange

Gun Digest Reloading Series Episode 11: Bonus Tips

Philip Massaro wraps up the Gun Digest Reloading Series with handloading tips to ensure safe reloading, how to keep your reloading bench organized and stay focused. Massaro advocates keeping a reloading journal and how a detailed load sheet comes in handy as you work on further load development. Speaking of accurate loads, Massaro talks about how individual guns of the same make and model can vary radically with respect to loads, depending upon barrel harmonics and other variables.


Learn The Basics Of Reloading Ammo:


Gun Digest Reloading Video Series Brought to You By:

Hodgdon Powder CompanyRedding ReloadingNosler Ammunition
 RCBS Reloading  

Gun Digest Reloading Video Series Episode 10: Cartridge Assembly

In this installment, Philip Massaro completes cartridge assembly by demonstrating how to seat the bullet. He covers how to use a micrometer seating die for reloading, as well as various ways to crimp handgun bullets. Massaro demonstrates seating bullets for the .30-06, .458 Win. Mag, .357 mag. and .45 ACP cartridges, each of which presents its own idiosyncracies. Learn how to seat bullets with cannelure using a roll-crimp to hold the bullet in place, in addition to a taper crimp on the .45 ACP.


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Gun Digest Reloading Video Series Episode 9: Primers and Case Charging

Philip Massaro tackles primer installation, the first process of assembly in reloading as well as case charging. Learn the differences between large and small primers, and how to use a primer cup accessory on a single stage press. Plus how to dispense the correct powder charge.

In the segment, Massaro shows how to prime a .30-06 rifle and a .45 ACP pistol case. He explains special precautions with .45 ACP brass, which can have either small or large primer pockets, a variance that needs to be watched closely when sorting brass and choosing primers. Basic cartridge case charging is covered, too, with a RCBS digital powder demonstrated. The process of using a static-busting powder funnel is an important tool that will enable you to keep all your powder in the case in a safe manner.


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Gun Digest Reloading Video Series Brought to You By:

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FNH AR-15: 3 New Models in Military Collector Series

FN 15™ Military Collector M16.
FN 15™ Military Collector M16.

FNH USA has debuted its new FN Military Collector Series, a product line featuring commercial variants of the most iconic and historic FNH AR-15 military designs.

FNH has unveiled something to make military gun collectors very happy—its Military Collector Series, which hits the streets in three semi-auto civilian versions of popular military guns.

The initial products to roll out will be the FN 15™ Military Collector M4 and M16 as well as the semi-automatic FN M249S™, a replica of the fully automatic M249 SAW or Squad Automatic Weapon in service with the U.S. Military since the 1980s, Gun Digest has learned. Full product specifications are available below.

“This new line of products allows us to showcase FN’s battle-proven legacy of producing firearms for militaries world-wide and passing this technology on to our commercial customers,” said Mark Cherpes, President and CEO for FN America. “We’re excited to bring these semi-automatic versions of the world’s most iconic products to America’s gun owners.”

The first three variants of the FN Military Collector Series will be shipping to distributors this winter and available to consumers in early 2016. Future product offerings under the series will be introduced at a later date.

FN 15™ Military Collector M4

FN 15™ Military Collector M4
SKU / Product Number    36318
Caliber    5.56mm NATO
Barrel     16” Button-broached, chrome-lined, alloy-steel w/ pinned and welded compensator
Twist Rate    1:7″ RH
Muzzle device    A2-style compensator
Sights    A2-style front (F height), Back up iron sight
Stock    Collapsible butt-stock 6 positions
Forearm    Knights Armament M4 RAS Adapter rail w/ rail adapter covers
Weight     6.64 lbs
Length    30.75″ – 34″
Length of Pull    11″ – 14.25″
Magazine (one each)    Aluminum 30-round magazine
Trigger Pull    4.75-7.75 lbs
MSRP    $1,749

FN 15™ Military Collector M16.

FN 15™ Military Collector M16
SKU / Product Number    36320
Caliber    5.56mm NATO
Barrel     20” Button-broached, chrome-lined, alloy-steel
Twist Rate    1:7″ RH
Muzzle device    A2-style compensator
Sights    A2-style front (F height), Back-up iron sight
Stock    Fixed stock
Forearm    Knights Armament M5 RAS Adapter rail w/ rail adapter covers
Weight     8.29 lbs
Length    39.7″
Magazine (one each)    Aluminum 30-round magazine
Trigger Pull    4.75-7.75 lbs
MSRP    $1,749

FN M249S™

FN M249S™
SKU / Product Number    56460
Caliber    5.56x45MM NATO
Barrel     20.5″ Cold hammer-forged, chrome-lined, alloy-steel
Twist Rate    1:7″ RH
Color    Matte black non-reflective finish on all surfaces
Operation    Semi-automatic, closed bolt
Sights    Primary sights graduated to 1000 m., MIL-STD 1913 rail system
Stock    Fixed, ergonomically-shaped polymer butt stock with pistol grip
Weight (with empty magazine)    17 lbs. (empty)
Length    40.75”
Height     9.5”
Magazine (one each)    Belt-fed or standard AR magazine
Trigger Pull    4.0-6.5 lbs.
MSRP    $7,999

To learn more about FN America, LLC and FNH USA-branded products please visit www.fnhusa.com


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Modern Shooter Fall 2015Modern Shooter Fall 2015 Digital Edition
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Aguila Ammunition Introduces Shotshell Product Line to U.S. Market

Aguila Ammunition

The powerhouse ammo maker from Latin America, Aguila Ammunition, will now be bringing its extensive shotshell product line to the U.S. market, Gun Digest has learned.

The 54-year old company has re-branded its shotshell offering for hunters, sport shooters, home defense and law enforcement.

Aguila will offer a competition line for skeet, trap and sporting clays as well as an exclusive pigeon load. The line includes both 7.5, 8 and 9 shot in standard and high velocities. The company's traditional shotshell lineup includes 12-gauge, 16-gauge, 20-gauge and .410 in standard, high velocity and buckshot loads.

The manufacturer will also make available the unique Minishell, which provides good velocities in a 1 ¾” shell that allows for higher magazine capacities. The Minishell is perfect for over/under shotguns and is an excellent low recoil choice. It's available in 7 ½ shot, slug and buckshot.

“Aguila’s shotshell line has something for everyone, whether the application is hunting, competition, clays or home defense,” says Rod Taylor, Director of Manufacturing for Aguila Ammunition. “Hunters and competitive shooters across Latin America have relied on the affordable performance of Aguila for over five decades. We’re excited to show the U.S. market the Aguila advantage.”


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Gun Digest Reloading Video Series Episode 8: Troubleshooting

Learn how to troubleshoot the reloading process, getting stuck cases out of dies and tips for spotting case head separation and other signs your brass is getting long in the tooth, with Gun Digest's resident handloading expert Philip Massaro. Also covered are collet bullet pullers and inertia hammers for getting bullets out of cases during those times when you seat too deeply or forget to charge the case with powder.


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GAP Grind 2015: GA Precision Long-Range Shooting Event

The GAP Grind 2015, a long-range tactical shooting event, took shooters' skill and equipment to a whole new level.

This year's GAP Grind match took place 16-18 October at the K&M Shooting Complex in Finger, Tennessee.

GA Precision, GAP Grind 2015 at K&M Shooting Complex.The match drew shooters from across the nation with law enforcement, military and civilian backgrounds. Held in association with the Precision Rifle Series (PRS) and GA Precision, the fast-paced shooting format featured a Pro/Am arrangement pairing professional and amateur competitors.

GAP Grind: Fast Action, Long-Range

The GAP Grind presents a notoriously challenging opportunity to engage targets—paper, steel, moving and reactive—at distances of up to 1,200 yards, with minimal down-time between stages.

The 2015 course was comprised of 20+ stages, in which competitors each fired 200+ shots at long-distance targets, which varied in size and difficulty based on distance and time allotted. Most stages included “stressors” such as time limits or required movements.

Cory West, of Texas, took top honors at the event with a score of 165.00.

Just watch the GAP Grind 2015 video above and try to imagine the level of performance needed to bring long-distance computations together with equipment and an ever-changing target environment to make hits at these ranges.

Some truly top-notch long-range rifles, optics and gear are on display here, but it goes to show how intimate knowledge of equipment and long hours of practice under field conditions pay off when the chips are down.


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Gun Digest Reloading Video Series Episode 7: Specialty Cases

Need more brass for reloading? Don't overlook specialty cases and surplus brass! In this episode, Philip Massaro explains the differences in sporting brass vs. military surplus brass; plus an explanation of neck sizing for improved accuracy in bolt-action rifles.


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Gun Digest Reloading Video Series – Episode 6: Bullets

Get an overview of bullets for reloading, including a look at Nosler's line of projectiles, which entail the full gamut of design and construction type.


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Gun Digest Reloading Video Series – Episode 5: Powders

Philip Massaro breaks down the three main types of smokeless powder for reloading, with a discussion on the practical uses of each. In addition, he unveils some new powder technologies that are less sensitive to temperature and burn cleaner in your firearm.


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Gun Digest Reloading Video Series – Episode 4: Primers

What is the difference between a large rifle primer and a magnum large rifle primer? Can you use magnum primers in standard cartridges and vice versa? These are among the topics discussed in Episode 4 of Gun Digest's Reloading Series with Philip Massaro.


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Gun Digest Reloading Video Series – Episode 3: Case Resizing

In Episode 3 of the Gun Digest Reloading Video Series, Philip Massaro demonstrates case resizing.


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