Picking The Right 12-Gauge Ammo

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October 12, 2022

Whether for home defense or hunting, a 12-gauge shotgun is most effective when paired with the right load of 12-gauge ammo.

Shotguns are among the most versatile firearms in existence. And in this class of gun, the 12-gauge reigns supreme.

Hunting, home defense, recreation–nine times out of 10, shooters opt for the good ol' 12 bore. Further aiding its popularity, the wide variety of 12-gauge ammo available today for nearly any application.

Such a wealth of loads is a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, no matter how specialized, likely there's a load tailored for it. On the other hand, how the heck do you know which of the hundreds of options to use?

We'll hash this out a bit in this 12-gauge ammo guide, go over what's used for what and help you figure out the best shells for your purpose.

12-Gauge Ammo: Deciding Your Purpose

Like so much in the shooting world, decisions are best made by defining your particular parameters. A dove hunter requires a much different shell than a LEO breaching a door.

Additionally, not only would using the wrong load for the wrong situation be suboptimal, but it can also be dangerous for yourself and others. For example, one wouldn't want to try and stop a home invader with birdshot, and one wouldn't want to try and stop a bird with buckshot.

The former case may only result in an even angrier intruder and the latter with a puff of red mist and feathers. Shotguns are only as versatile as they are because of the wildly different styles of projectiles they can fire, so it’s important to use the appropriate type for the task at hand.

Besides selecting 12-gauge ammo based on its inherent physical traits, other factors come into play as well such as local laws and regulations. For example, California legally requires that lead-free ammunition be used when hunting due to the state’s environmental concerns. Someone hunting in California would need to select something that complies with the lead-free requirement when choosing their load.

For every conceivable realistic use that a shotgun has, there are numerous loads of 12-gauge ammo that fit the bill. The trick to getting the most out of the gun is knowing how to pick the right load for the job.

Choosing The Right 12-Gauge Ammo:

When it comes to hunting with a shotgun, the general type of load that should be used is pretty cut and dry. Birds and varmints are generally best dispatched with some kind of birdshot, and medium to large game is best dealt with using slugs or buckshot depending on various factors.

When it comes to the realm of 12-gauge home defense ammo, however, the choice between buckshot and slugs is less clear. While the two types of loads are both good for self-defense, they achieve their performance in very different ways.

Buckshot

Buckshot loadings create dynamic wound channels and energy transfer by firing multiple pellets. The pellets in a load of buckshot are fewer than those in birdshot but are significantly larger in diameter.

For example, common 2 ¾-inch shells of 00 buck are typically loaded with eight .330-inch diameter projectiles. With each ball of shot weighing about 54 grains, that makes each projectile roughly equivalent to a .32 ACP bullet in terms of weight and caliber.

Brassfetcher-12-gauge-buckshot-gel-test — Screenshot from a Brassfetcher video showing 12-gauge buckshot performance in ballistic gelatin. Note that the projectiles are still in motion in this image.

While multiple projectiles are in play when it comes to buckshot, this doesn’t mean that there will automatically be a dramatically wider spread of pellets. In fact, buckshot patterns generally remain quite tight within ranges of about 30 yards.

Certain loadings feature wad technology and plated projectiles that further aid in keeping the pattern tight during flight. Of course, the tightness of buckshot projectiles can also be influenced by a barrel’s choke. Buckshot is particularly effective for self-defense as each projectile will create its own dynamic wound channels upon impact and impart a high degree of energy transfer.

Shotgun Slugs

Slugs feature a single, solid projectile rather than multiple projectiles. This generally results in higher velocity than buckshot and a much greater effective range as well. Granted, when in the context of home defense, it is highly unlikely one would need to take any shots at extended ranges.

The benefit of the higher velocity possessed by slugs is evident in its effect on the target and its efficient fight-stopping capabilities. The velocity of slugs multiplied by their impressive mass results in a lot of energy and devastating terminal ballistics. Another potential advantage of slugs over buckshot is the fact you are only responsible for a single projectile as opposed to multiple.

Brassfetcher-12-gauge-slug-gel-test — Screenshot from a Brassfetcher video showing 12-gauge slug performance in ballistic gelatin. Note that the projectile is still in motion in this image.

That last point is worth some consideration when it comes to selecting home-defense 12-gauge ammo because you are legally and morally responsible for every projectile that you send out the barrel. Bullets can behave strangely, and 00 buck provides eight to nine times the likelihood that one of those lead balls ends up somewhere it shouldn’t.

The specific factors of one’s home environment, such as potential engagement distances, will impact whether or not slugs, buckshot or something else entirely will be the safest and smartest choice. Regardless of your selected load of 12-gauge ammo, it is prudent that you practice and familiarize yourself with how it behaves with your specific firearm.

Chokes and Patterns:

When it comes to shotguns, an important aspect of this class of firearm is the effect that chokes and bore tightness have on the patterning of projectiles. Many shotguns feature barrels with internal threads that accommodate a variety of chokes, making them tunable by the end user to match their chosen loads and needs.

Other shotguns, particularly base model defensive shotguns, feature bores that are fixed to a given choke size. For example, a Mossberg 590A1 features a fixed-cylinder bore while a Benelli Montefeltro comes with a set of Crio improved cylinder, modified, and full chokes.

12-gauge-pattern — The resultant spread sizes from various kinds of 12-gauge ammo. The patterns could be influenced by adjusting the choke as well.

There are a variety of chokes on the market that exist for both common and specialized uses. The most common chokes one will find when looking for a shotgun are cylinder, improved cylinder, modified and full chokes.

A cylinder choke will produce the widest dispersion of projectiles as the bore diameter is not tightened in any way. An improved cylinder choke tightens the bore, resulting in a tighter pattern than that of a standard cylinder bore. Full chokes feature the tightest bore diameter, conducive to ensuring that the projectiles maintain as concentrated of a pattern as possible during flight. Between improved cylinder and full chokes are modified chokes, providing a middle-ground option when it comes to pattern tightness.

Just like factoring ammunition options into one’s shotgun usage, being cognizant of a shotgun’s choke and bore diameter is an important step in optimizing your shotgun for its given task.

12-Gauge Ammo Shell Size

The most common size of shell when it comes to 12-gauge ammo is 2 ¾-inch, but other sizes exist as well. Excluding smaller mini shells which are mostly a novelty, 12-gauge ammo can also be found in 3-inch and 3 ½-inch shells. Naturally, the larger the shell size the more powerful it can potentially be.

12-gauge-ammo-2.75-vs-3-inch-shell — A standard 2.75-inch 12-gauge shell (left) versus a 3-inch 12-gauge shell (right). Photo: Wikipedia.

These days, most 12-gauge shotguns come with at least a 3-inch chamber, but double-check before trying to jam anything larger than a standard 2 ¾-inch shell into it. To fire 3 ½-inch shells, one will usually have to go out of their way to find a shotgun with a chamber that can accommodate them. If the task at hand calls for the most powerful 12-gauge ammo available, such as self-defense in grizzly country, it may be worth tracking one down.

12-Gauge Ammo Buyer’s Guide:

Home Defense:

Hornady 00 Buckshot Critical Defense

This 00 buck offering from Hornady is optimized for self-defense and ensures maximum effect on target. With ten rounds per box, that’s enough for most people to fill their gun’s magazine and have a few shells left over to pattern with or throw in a side-saddle. Hornady’s Versatite wad technology utilized in this loading aids in sending a tight and consistent pattern down range. This Critical Defense option is designed to function reliably in semi-automatic and pump-action shotguns alike, making this 12-gauge ammo viable for home defense regardless of your shotgun model.

Shotshell Length: 2 ¾ Inches

Velocity: 1,600 fps

Shot Size: 00 Buck

Shells Per Box: 10

Federal Premium Personal Defense Shotshell With FLITECONTROL Wad

This buckshot loading from Federal Premium is versatile and effective. This load functions reliably in autoloading shotguns such as the Beretta 1301 and Benelli M4, proving itself as a quality option for home defense. Short-barreled shotguns can also effectively utilize this load due to the tight patterns provided by the FLITECONTROL wad. The copper plating on the projectiles is also conducive to producing a tight spread as the pellets will be resistant to deformation and disruption during their flight.

Shotshell Length: 2 ¾ Inches

Velocity: 1,145 fps

Shot Size: 00 Buck

Shells Per Box: 5

Winchester PDX1 12 Defender

This offering from Winchester combines three plated 00 buckshot projectiles with a 1 oz rifled slug. Essentially, this load draws aspects from the two best types of 12-gauge self-defense ammo and offers them in a single package. The inclusion of the 00 Buck projectiles allows for a form of insurance of sorts when it comes to hitting your designated target. This round will provide fight-stopping capabilities that are effective at both close and extended shotgun ranges.

Shotshell Length: 2 ¾ Inches

Velocity: 1,150 fps

Shot Size: 00 Buck + 1-Ounce Slug

Shells Per Box: 10

Small Game Hunting:

Winchester Rooster XR

Winchester’s Rooster XR is a purpose-built pheasant load. The load is advertised as being capable of penetration beyond 50 yards, allowing hunters to efficiently dispatch upland game at further distances. The extended range of the Rooster XR load is complimented by the Shot-Lok technology that helps keep the pattern tight when in flight. This offering from Winchester is a great choice for those who want a reliable upland hunting load that lets them clip wings at longer distances.

Shotshell Length: 2 ¾ Inches

Velocity: 1,300 fps

Shot Size: 4

Shells Per Box: 15

Federal Black Cloud FS Steel

This Federal Premium Black Cloud variant is an excellent load for waterfowl hunting. Federal’s FLITECONTROL FLEX wad will aid in the projectiles flying in a consistent and tight pattern when paired with standard or ported waterfowl chokes. The payload of this Black Cloud loading consists of 40 percent FLITESTOPPER steel pellets and 60 percent Premium steel pellets. This mixture of pellets enhances the lethality of the load and produces a dense pattern.

Shotshell Length: 3 ½ Inches

Velocity: 1,500 fps

Shot Size: 3

Shells Per Box: 25

Remington American Clay & Field

Remington-American-Clay-and-Field-12-gauge-ammo

This 2 ¾-inch offering from Remington is a versatile ammunition choice for your shotgun. Remington’s American Clay & Field load will fit the needs of a variety of shooters. If you want to engage in recreational shooting activities and vaporize sporting clays, this load is a solid option. If you need some birdshot for field use, this Remington load is a viable option. Regardless of your intended use, you are getting 25 versatile rounds with consistent patterning and velocities.

Shotshell Length: 2 ¾ Inches

Velocity: 1,200 fps

Shot Size: #9 Shot

Shells Per Box: 25

Medium/Big Game Hunting:

Remington Magnum Buckshot

This 3-inch buckshot loading makes this loading particularly effective for dispatching predators and game alike such as coyotes and deer. Granulated polymer is packed into the case to prevent deformation of the 41 pellets during flight and ensures the pattern’s tightness as it proceeds downrange. This magnum load from Remington is an excellent choice for dispatching medium game.

Shotshell Length: 3 Inches

Velocity: 1,225 fps

Shot Size: #4 Shot

Shells Per Box: 5

Federal Premium Trophy Copper Sabot Slug

Federal-Premium-sabot-slug-12-gauge-ammo

This 300-grain slug option from Federal Premium boasts the highest advertised velocity of the options on this list. It should be noted that this load is optimized for use with rifled shotgun barrels. Federal claims that this load is capable of achieving sub-4-inch groups at 200 yards when fired through a rifled barrel. The touted velocity of 2,000 fps paired with the sabot properties of the projectile is conducive to an accurate and hard-hitting load. This load shines for those who plan on utilizing a rifled shotgun for hunting a variety of medium to larger-sized game at potentially extended distances.

Shotshell Length: 3 Inches

Velocity: 2,000 fps

Shot Size: 2/3-Ounce Slug

Shells Per Box: 5

Hornady American Whitetail

This load from Hornady features a 1-ounce rifled slug that is optimized for non-rifled barrels. These Hornady slugs are packed with a serrated, hollow-point 325-grain InterLock projectile that promotes consistent expansion and effect on target. The projectile of this load also benefits from a high velocity due to the inclusion of a compression-style wad. Hornady claims that this 1,600 fps slug has an effective lethal range of 200 yards or more, making it a viable option for longer-range shotgun hunting. Like the round’s branding suggests, this load would be an effective choice for whitetail hunting.

Shotshell Length: 2 ¾ Inches

Velocity: 1,600 fps

Shot Size: 1-Ounce Slug

Shells Per Box: 5

Draw A Bead On Shotguns:

10 Affordable Double-Barrel Shotgun Options
11 Affordable Pump-Action Shotgun Options
Lever-Action Shotgun: Past, Present And Future
Best Over/Under Shotguns: Affordable Doubles (2024)
6 Best Bullpup Shotgun Options For Compact Defense

First Look: Steiner T6Xi Riflescope Series

By

Adam Borisenko

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October 11, 2022

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Steiner has just announced the T6Xi riflescope series, featuring four models of illuminated FFP optics.

Steiner recently unveiled the T6Xi riflescope series. It includes four new models of 6X magnification scopes with illuminated first focal plane (FFP) reticles, and each is tailored toward different shooting applications.

Steiner-T6Xi-feature — The Steiner T6Xi 5-30×56.

The T6Xi series includes the T6Xi 5-30×56 for long-range precision shooting, the T6Xi 1-6×24 for close-range engagements and the T6Xi 3-18×56 and the T6Xi 2.5-15×50 to bridge the gap between the two extremes. Regardless of the model chosen, each will feature 6X total magnification adjustment and an illuminated FFP reticle with eleven brightness settings (seven for day, four for night).

T6Xi-1-6×24-1 — The Steiner T6Xi 1-6×24.

Speaking of reticles, there are three different styles across the T6Xi line to choose from. The three longer-range scope models can be bought with either the Steiner Multipurpose Sniper Reticle or the Special Competition Reticle, but the T6Xi 1-6×24 is available only with an entirely new reticle instead. Called the KC-1, it was developed in collaboration with Kinetic Consulting and was designed to provide quick acquisition at close-range while still being capable of precision shooting at 6X magnification.

Steiner-KC1-reticle — The new KC-1 reticle at 1X (left) and 6X (right).

Other features of the T6Xi series include Steiner’s Low-profile Never-Lost turret system, a locking diopter ring and a magnification throw lever. All models have also been tested and certified as fog proof and waterproof down to 33 feet.

MSRPs on the new T6Xi series range from $1,954.99 at the lowest to $2,874.99 at the highest, and Steiner claims that they will be available soon.

For more on Steiner Optics, please visit steiner-optics.com.

More Long-Range Glass:

The Venom 5-25×56 Riflescope From Vortex
Two Upgraded Elite Tactical Riflescopes From Bushnell
The SVIII Premium Riflescope From Sightron
Review: Leatherwood ART Riflescope
The Vortex Razor HD LHT

Sig Sauer Launches MCX-SPEAR-LT Series

By

Adam Borisenko

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October 10, 2022

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Sig Sauer has recently released the MCX-SPEAR-LT series, featuring eight models of rifle and pistol in three different calibers.

Sig Sauer is continuing to develop its MCX line of AR-derived firearms, now releasing the third generation dubbed the MCX-SPEAR-LT series. This newest iteration features eight models in three distinct calibers, being sold in rifle, pistol and factory SBR configurations dependent on barrel length.

SIG-MCX-SPEAR-LT-762×39-1 — MCX-SPEAR-LT 7.62×39 16-inch rifle model.

The biggest addition to the MCX-SPEAR-LT line is the inclusion of 7.62×39 models, bringing the total number of caliber options up to three alongside 5.56 NATO and .300 BLK. The .300 BLK version is available with a 9-inch barrel only, but can be bought as either a pistol or factory SBR (the latter requires a Form 4 to transfer). The 11.5-inch barrel models are available in either 5.56 NATO or 7.62×39 and can be had as either pistols or factory SBRs, and the same two calibers are also available as rifles with 16-inch barrels.

MCX-SPEAR-LT-556 — MCX-SPEAR-LT 5.56 NATO 11.5-inch factory SBR model.

Besides the different chamberings, barrel lengths and legal statuses, all MCX-SPEAR-LT models are fundamentally the same. They feature aluminum frames, ambidextrous controls, flat Sig match triggers and Sig quick-detach suppressor-ready flash hiders. Also, thanks to the gas piston operating system, there’s no need for a buffer tube. This allows the rifle and factory SBR models to ship with folding stocks, and the pistol models are capable of accepting folding braces or stocks as well. All models also feature an Anodized Coyote finish.

SPEAR-LT-300BLK — MCX-SPEAR-LT .300 BLK 9-inch pistol model.

Tom Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President of Commercial Sales at Sig Sauer, said this about the MCX-SPEAR-LT series:

The first generation of the MCX platform was designed to be an AR-15 style platform with added modularity. The second generation of the MCX, the MCX Virtus, was purpose-built for rugged durability and brought unprecedented modularity. Now comes the MCX-SPEAR-LT, which incorporates the best of both generations and is the culmination of the latest research, development, and innovation in the MCX platform…

Sig Sauer has not listed individual MSRPs for the different models, but they are starting to become available at dealers now.

For more information, please visit www.sigsauer.com.

More AR Options To Consider:

Eight Economical AR Pistol Options
The Best Budget AR-15 Rifle Options
The Top AR-15 Upgrades And Accessories
The M400 Tread Predator From Sig Sauer
Smith & Wesson's Next Gen AR: The M&P15T II

Building A Budget Reloading Bench

By

Philip Massaro

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October 7, 2022

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How to set up a reloading bench on the cheap.

So, you’ve decided that enough is enough with the ammunition crunch, and you’re ready to take the plunge into reloading your own ammunition. Yes, it’s absolutely true that reloading components are as rare as ammunition itself right now, but this too shall pass.

Reloading gear is like any other gear-intensive hobby; you can go right down the rabbit hole and get into a five-figure sum quicker than you’d imagine, or you can go minimalistic and set yourself up on the cheap. I’ve done both ways, and while I can say that the best tools will certainly make life easier, you can make fantastic ammo with inexpensive gear if you’re diligent about technique and pay attention to detail.

reloading-bench-trimming — The Lee primer pocket cleaner is an effective tool, which scrapes burnt residue out of both large and small primer pockets. *Photo: Massaro Media Group.*

Shortening The Purse Strings

Let’s assume your budget is tight—whose isn’t?—and you want to set up your reloading bench in the most cost-effective manner possible.

Now, as we go through the list of necessary gear, I didn’t necessarily recommended the least costly item in the category, but instead leaned toward the best value to maximize the reloading dollar. If you already reload, then I’m preaching to the choir; you understand the processes and the tools involved. If you’re new to the game, I cover the steps so you can best understand the tools needed.

The act of reloading centerfire metallic cartridges involves reworking a spent cartridge case, bringing it back into proper specifications, then installing a new primer and powder charge and finally seating a new bullet to complete the process.

Sounds easy, right?

It isn’t a difficult procedure … so long as you pay strict attention and give the act the respect it deserves.

Get a Single-Stage Press

Reloadable cases are made of brass or nickel-plated brass and are malleable, yet strong enough to resist deformation in day-to-day handling—this is the primary reason brass was chosen as a case material. When the case is fired, it’ll expand to the (slightly larger) dimensions of the chamber. To reuse it, it needs to be returned to SAAMI specs.

Reloading-bench-feature — High-quality ammunition can be made with simple tools and a strong attention to detail. *Photo: Massaro Media Group.*

A reloading press will generate the needed pressures to shrink that brass case back down to spec, and specially made reloading dies are used for each cartridge you wish to reload. A single-stage press is what you’re after. It’ll handle all the needed chores—though it only holds a single die at a time and performs one function at a time.

For this, I like either the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme (about $214 street price) or the Redding Big Boss (about $195 street price). Both are wonderfully strong and rigid. Both could re-prime your cases, and both will last a lifetime. There are some cheaper models, but I don’t feel they provide the same level of performance as either of these two choices.

Look to Lee Dies

Reloading dies are pretty much universal, so long as they have the standard 7/8-14 die body. The brand of die need not match the brand of press, and for our project, I’d recommend Lee dies. They’re reliable, affordable and, for the beginning reloader, will certainly get the job done.

lees-dies-budget-reloading-bench — Lee reloading dies are affordable, and the plastic powder scoop and shell holder are included in each set.

The Lee die set includes the proper shell holder for the cartridge—almost all others require the shell holder be purchased separately. And while other dies might have fancier features, I’ve used Lee dies to make some great ammunition. Depending on the conformation of your case, you may need a two-die set (usually reserved for bottleneck cartridges) or a three-die set (for straight-walled cartridges). Pistol cartridges die sets start at about $39, and prices go up from there.

I also like the Lee dies for the fact that they provide a plastic scoop of appropriate size for the case to be reloaded. Some powders require a bit more than a scoop, and some less, but it’s a handy means of weighing out powder charges in conjunction with a balance beam scale.

A Balance-Beam Scale And A Dial Calipers

You’ll need to measure things in a couple of ways—the weight of powder charges, bullets and sometimes even cases, and the length of things … such as cases and assembled cartridges.

For measuring weight, a balance beam scale is what you’re after, as I feel it’s the most reliable. It needs no power to operate and, with proper care, will last a lifetime. The cheaper models, while they have an attractive price point, tend to drift from true readings easier than the higher-quality models. The Redding Model No. 2 balance beam scale (about $103) is built rock-solid, wonderfully accurate and odds are you’ll leave it to your children to use.

reloading-bench-scale — Powder, and sometimes bullets and cases, must be weighed, and the Redding Model No. 2 is a good value. *Photo: Massaro Media Group.*

Once those powder charges are properly weighed out, a powder funnel like the RCBS (about $6) will keep powder in the case and not all over your reloading bench. To measure the length of cases and cartridges, a set of dial calipers is needed. The Frankford Arsenal dial calipers (about $40) will get the job done without emptying the wallet.

Menial Cleaning, Trimming and Lubing

Dirty cases need to be cleaned and polished to maintain smooth feeding. The Lyman Turbo 1200 Pro Sifter case tumbler (about $65) and some crushed walnut shells or corn cob abrasive media (about $12 to $18) will handle that.

The brass cases will need to be trimmed sooner or later, and for that chore, the Lee Case Length Gauge (about $7 to $12) and Cutter and Lock Stud (about $7) will keep your brass nice and uniform, even if it runs on elbow grease. A locking stud holds the case by the base, while a flash hole-piloted length gauge is attached to a cutting tool. A few twists of the wrist (or the unit is adaptable to a cordless drill), and the case mouth is cut down to the SAAMI-specified length.

Once trimmed, you’ll want to clean the sharp edges off the case mouth. For that, I like the Lee chamfer/de-burring tool (about $5); it’s as simple as it gets and gets the job done. The primer pockets can be scraped clean with the Lee Primer Pocket cleaner (about $4); this dual-sided tool will handle both large and small primer pockets.

Cases will need to be lubricated before the resizing process, unless we’re talking carbide pistol dies, lest you stick the case in the resizing die. Remember, a reloading press generates all sorts of pressure. There are many types of case lubricant. I prefer the simple, small tin of Imperial Sizing Die Wax (about $10); it works perfectly and a little bit goes a long way. Simply rub a small amount between your forefinger and thumb, rub it on the case—concentrating on the base—and you’re good to go.

sizing-die-wax — Imperial’s Sizing Wax is applied with your thumb and forefinger, and a little goes an awful long way when it comes to lubricating cases. *Photo: Massaro Media Group.*

Erasing Mistakes

Everyone makes mistakes—including reloaders—and there are tools to erase those mistakes. Cartridges can be disassembled via an inertia hammer that pulls the bullet out of the case.

The Frankford Arsenal impact bullet puller (about $17) uses three different collet sizes to pull bullets from cartridges ranging from the .22 Hornet to the .45-70 Government, whether rimmed, rimless or belted.

Should you stick a case in your resizing die—and it’ll inevitably happen (even to the best of us)—a kit like the Hornady Stuck Case Remover (about $20) will sort you out. The concept is pretty simple: A case is stuck in the resizing die with the rim ripped off, so you use the provided drill bit to punch a hole through the primer pocket. Next, tap that hole with the provided tap. Then, the Allen-head bolt is pushed through the small steel cup and screwed into the threaded hole. It takes a bit of effort, but you’ll work the stuck case out of the resizing die. Just be sure to clean the inside of the die really well, as small brass bits will get in there from the drilling and tapping process.

Scrap-Built Organization

There are all sorts of case blocks available for purchase, ranging from simple molded plastic affairs to precisely cut anodized aluminum models. However, if you’re pinching pennies, you can easily make your own. Simply measure the case head diameter of your chosen cartridge and pick a drill bit slightly larger. A scrap piece of 2×4 can serve as a case block once you drill a series of properly sized holes in it.

Get Good Data

Good, reliable reloading data is imperative for any reloader, and each reloader will invariably end up with a small library of good data. If your budget is tight, there are a number of excellent sources of online data of which the reloader can take full advantage.

Hodgdon Powder (which includes Winchester and IMR powders), Alliant Powder and Nosler bullets all publish their reloading manuals and/or data online, so you can print whatever data you need or simply consult your laptop or smartphone for load data. If the reloading bug bites you (and I’ll wager it will), you’ll end up with several reloading manuals.

And, lastly, I’ll recommend you keep a notebook of your reloading endeavors, and this can take the form of a simple spiral-bound notebook, just like you had in high school. I refer to my own quite often.

Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in the 2021 Buyer's Guide special issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.

Get More Reloading Info:

Tips For Reloading the .30-06 Springfield
Loving Your Luger: Reloading the 9mm Luger
Handloading: Tips For Reloading The 7mm Rem Mag
How To: Tips For Reloading the .223 Remington
Reloading Bench: The Inside On Reloading For The .30-30 Winchester

New Guns And Gear October 2022

By

Gun Digest Editors

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October 7, 2022

0

Looking for a new iron or piece of kit to enhance the one you already own? Check out these 7 new bits of guns and gear to grow your firearms wish list.

The New Guns And Gear:

Rise Iconic Two-Stage AR Trigger
Benjamin Armada Semi-Auto PCP Air Rifle
Sig Sauer M400-DH3
Trijicon Dual Defense Kit
Walther WMP
FN 15 DMR3 Rifle
Birchwood Casey Glock Multi-Tool

Rise Iconic Two-Stage AR Trigger

Rethinking the two-stage trigger, the Rise Iconic shoots to give marksmen a more reactive, consistent and accurate pull. Where Rise’s switch differs from the traditional design is each stage is mechanically separate, thus all but eliminating creep in the system. It achieves this by a simple blade mechanism on the first stage that, when depressed, gives shooters a solid wall before the second stage. From there, the trigger operates like a single-stage with a crisp, 2-pound break and lightning-fast tactile reset. Internal components are made from S7 steel in a 6061 aluminum housing; this drop-in bang switch is built for the long haul.
MSRP: $300

Benjamin Armada Semi-Auto PCP Air Rifle

Air power on the quick, Benjamin’s new semi-auto PCP is an ideal option for fast shots on small game. In addition to a 10-round rotary magazine, the Armada brings muscle to the setup with the .22-caliber-kicking pellets in excess of 950 fps. Moreover, it comes with a slew of assets. One to win favor among most shooters is its adjustable length-of-pull and comb that fits the rifle to anyone behind its trigger. The pistol grip is a nice touch, too. Integrated sound suppression keeps shots stealthy, and a 40-shot reservoir allows plenty of action between charges.
MSRP: $782

Sig Sauer M400-DH3

Drawing upon Daniel Horner’s years of competition experience and success, Sig Sauer aims to give match shooters an edge. Its new M400-DH3 is configured to match what Horner has been competing with for the past two years, a period where he’s racked up multiple titles. At its heart, the .223 Wylde chambered rifle boasts a 16-inch stainless steel, fluted barrel that’s at once nimble, yet hefty enough to resist heat buildup. The rifle is outfitted with a fully adjustable DH3 competition buttstock, two-stage adjustable Timney trigger and three-chamber compensator. It features an ambidextrous bolt release, as well as a low-profile M-Lok handguard, aiding its overall light profile—it tips the scales at only 7 pounds. Best of all, Sig prices its race gun within reach of nearly any competitor.
MSRP: $1,700

Trijicon Dual Defense Kit

Fit a reflex to a pistol and it’s likely you’ll have to upgrade the iron backups piecemeal. Trijicon does away with this ordeal with the introduction of its extremely practical Dual Defense Kit. Quite simply, the kit combines the legendary RMR Type 2 Adjustable LED optic with the company’s Bright & Tough Night Sight. Once installed, the units work in conjunction to enhance shooting speed and precision for self-defense, law-enforcement, military, competition or target-pistol shooters. At present, the system is available for most Glock and Sig Sauer optics-ready models, but it’s likely Trijicon will set its sights on more pistols in the future.
MSRP: Starting at $845

Walther WMP

The .22 Magnum pistol is a rare beast, but Walther recently gave shooters a reason to look in the rimfire’s direction. The German gunmaker’s WMP is a full-sized option chambered in the snappy Winchester Magnum Rimfire, which is perfect for plinking or personal defense in a pinch. What makes the polymer-framed pistol such a hotshot is its 4.5-inch barrel, offering up plenty of bore to milk the most out of the round and add recoil-eating heft. Its capacity isn’t anything to turn your nose up at either, with a 15-round magazine (10-rounders available for ban states). Also, the pistol features an optics-ready slide and comes with two adapter plates and is completely ambidextrous.
MSRP: $550

FN 15 DMR3 Rifle

Long appreciated by those looking to reach out on the AR platform, FN USA’s DMR has been further enhanced to accomplish its job. FN has particularly homed in on accuracy improvement features and recoil reduction in the newly released third-generation DMR3. This is seen in the rifle’s 18-inch cold-hammer-forged, chrome-lined, hybrid profile barrel made from the company’s famous “machine gun” steel. To this, FN adds a SureFire ProComp muzzle brake, reducing both recoil and muzzle rise and tops it off with a rifle-length gas system. Geissele supplies the switch—its two-stage precision G2S trigger—Radian the charging handle and safety selector, and FN the six-position buttstock. The DMR3 should prove more than enough to get on target.
MSRP: $2,152

Birchwood Casey Glock Multi-Tool

Searching for a bit of a tactical bent on your next hunting rifle? Savage has you covered, marrying its classic 110 action to Magpul’s polymer Hunter Stock. Quite a pair. The stock offers an excellent shooting platform with V-block bedding for rock-solid matting with the action. Furthermore, its wide, flat forend provides a perfect rest and offers plenty of M-Lok real estate, while its buttstock is fully adjustable to fit the shooter. On Savage’s end, an oversized bolt handle makes operating the action quick and intuitive, while an 18-inch heavy barrel and renowned AccuTrigger improve the rifle’s overall performance. Available in .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor, the 110 Magpul Hunter delivers a new twist to a proven rifle.
MSRP: $30

Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in the October 2022 issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.

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First Look: Custom Shop Ruger Precision Rifle In 6.5 Creedmoor

By

Adam Borisenko

-

October 7, 2022

0

Ruger has just announced a new Custom Shop variant of the Ruger Precision Rifle chambered for 6.5 Creedmoor.

The Ruger Custom Shop line has expanded yet again, this time with the release of a Ruger Precision Rifle chambered for 6.5 Creedmoor. Developed with input from Team Ruger Captain and renowned competitive shooter Doug Koenig, the new custom Ruger Precision Rifle features some interesting changes intended to improve its performance, handling and function.

The first area of major improvement is the barrel, which is cold hammer-forged from chrome-moly stainless steel, free-floated and is a heavier contour than that of the standard model. Its muzzle is also threaded 5/8×24 and topped off with an effective APA muzzle brake. The M-LOK handguard housing the barrel is free-floated as well, and like the standard model, the custom version can accept any AR-style stock or pistol grip.

Ruger-Custom-Shop-Ruger-Precision-Rifle-left

The trigger has also been improved on the Ruger Custom Shop model, now sporting an adjustable TriggerTech trigger with Frictionless Release Technology. The trigger is flat and features a red finish to match the controls and new barrier stop, giving the rifle a distinct Ruger Custom Shop look.

Ruger-Custom-Shop-Ruger-Precision-Rifle-angle

Speaking of the barrier stop, this is another new addition to the custom model. While the standard Ruger Precision Rifle has a contoured front magazine well to help better engage barriers, the custom version now has a protruding, textured barrier stop to accomplish the same thing. However, Ruger claims that the stop will provide better stability and repeatability. The only internal change to the custom RPR is a reprofiled firing pin which the company claims will function better with a wider variety of primers and also allow for easier manipulation of the bolt.

The Custom Shop Ruger Precision Rifle in 6.5 Creedmoor is available now and has an MSRP of $2,499.

For more information, please visit ruger.com.

More On Precision Shooting

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8 Favorite Truck Gun Options For Protection On The Go

By

Jay Pinsky

-

October 6, 2022

4

Whether a survival gun, something to control varmints or a self-defense option, the truck gun is a vital tool for those on the go.

What Are Top Truck Gun Options:

Brownells BRN-180
Mossberg Maverick 88 Top-Folding Stock
Model 1895 Trapper
CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 Carbine
Savage Scout Rifle
CZ 75/85
Kimber Micro 9 Covert
Wilson Combat ARP Tactical Pistol

I spend a lot of time in my truck. It goes where I go, and the reason I drive it is because it can do nearly anything I need it to do. One of the most important things I can and should do is make sure I’m properly armed and equipped in my truck for a variety of situations — including self-defense, the defense of others, survival and sporting opportunities.

The idea of a truck gun is as personal as selecting a concealed-carry gun. Different kinds of people want their truck guns to be able to do a variety of things. Some need their truck guns to pull coyote duty on their ranch out to 500 yards. Some need their guns to protect themselves and their families in close quarters, and some others need their truck gun to do just about everything because honestly, we never know what the hell is in store for us these days.

Here in rural Virginia, truck guns aren’t novelties: They’re practically listed as standard accessories when you buy your 4X4 from the dealership. I live near the Shenandoah Mountains, and our woods are full of deer, bears, coyotes and other critters. Less than an hour from my house, heavy and stressful Northern Virginia traffic can put my truck and me in urban situations where the need for a firearm isn’t sporting at all, but quite possibly a life-or-death situation.

Brownells BRN-180

With a roomy enough vehicle, there’s no reason why a standard AR-15 can’t make for a good truck gun. And as America’s favorite rifle, with most owners being intimately familiar with the platform and sitting on a healthy amount of ammunition and magazines, it makes a lot of sense to choose one for this role. Unfortunately, there’s no getting around the fact that it would be an even better truck gun if their stocks could be folded. There are aftermarket folding stock assemblies for AR-15s too, and those are also worth considering, but why not get something that can fold from the factory?

Eugene Stoner’s next rifle design, the AR-18, solved this issue by eliminating the need for a buffer tube. While never wildly successful itself, the AR-18 has gone on to influence as absurd number of rifle designs that came after it. Brownells’ BRN-180 fits that bill, and its compatibility with standard AR-15 lowers and magazines makes it an even more attractive option than an original from Armalite. Unfortunately, Brownells doesn’t sell a complete version of this rifle, but the BRN-180 upper can be used to very easily assemble one with a folding stock either through the use of the BRN-180 lower or any standard AR lower with its buffer-tube hole filled with a Picatinny rail adaptor. There are many Picatinny-based stock options on the market to then choose from.

However you choose to complete the build, this is an excellent way to have all the benefits of a modern AR-15 in a much more stowable package. They also offer a 10.5-inch barreled pistol version of the upper that could be mated with a folding pistol brace for an even more compact setup.

BRN-180 Gen 2 16-Inch .223 Wydle Complete Upper MSRP: $969 // brownells.com

Mossberg Maverick 88 Top-Folding Stock

There aren’t many situations a pump-action 12-gauge shotgun can’t handle, making them another great truck gun choice. And like with rifles, a full-size shotgun can fit in a roomy enough truck as well, but that doesn’t mean that more compactness doesn’t sweeten the deal. Without venturing into the NFA and registered SBSs, most peoples’ minds go to firearms like the Mossberg Shockwave when they think of small 12-gauge pumps. While very handy, it also takes a lot of practice and skill to effectively use these stockless shotguns accurately. If you want to hit what you’re aiming at, a stock is always better, even a crappy one.

Here's where the Maverick 88 Top-Folding Stock model saves the day. When folded, it’s only about four inches longer than the Shockwave, but a lot more usable. It may not be as comfortable as a standard fixed stock, but since the primary job of a truck gun is to sit around and wait for trouble the tradeoff is worth it. If a 12-gauge pump is what you want as your copilot, this gives you all the utility of a standard model at three-quarters the length (when folded).

MSRP: $283 // mossberg.com

Marlin Model 1895 Trapper

The Marlin 1895 Trapper chambered in 45-70 Government is all the stopping power you’ll ever need in this world or the next. Small, powerful and mechanically reliable, a lever-action rifle has been the default truck gun for thousands of Americans long before we started writing stories about truck guns.

Another solid truck-gun choice is a lever-action from Marlin. Here, I’d push aside the gut reaction .30-30 Winchester and go big by choosing a Model 1895 Trapper in .45-70 Government. The gun has a 16.5-inch barrel, Skinner sights and a big-loop Western-style lever … that is not just for looks. The big loop makes it easy to work in a hurry with gloves on. A .45-70 Govt. is going to stop whatever is threatening you, whether it’s a grizzly bear or a T-Rex. Ammo isn’t that hard to find, the gun is small, doesn’t kick all that much and it certainly has more than enough bite. Better yet, a lever-action rifle is arguably the most reliably fast gun one could want or need in a defensive situation. Maybe a .45-70 isn’t your thing. Regardless, I think the lever-action rifle isn’t confined to shooters who favor old Westerns and cowboy hats. It’s an action that works, it comes in small and lightweight sizes, and it's available in cartridges that can go as big or as small as you want.

MSRP: $1,349 // marlinfirearms.com

CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 Carbine

The CZ-USA Scorpion EVO 3 S1 Carbine is a 9mm Luger-fed semi-automatic rifle that pairs well with your 9mm Luger handgun.

Yet another great choice in the truck-gun world is from the good folks at CZ-USA. The Scorpion EVO 3 S1 Carbine is a 9mm Luger-fed semiautomatic rifle that gives its users 20 rounds of ammunition per magazine. The stock folds, changing the gun’s profile from an overall length of 34.75 inches to a mere 24.5 inches. Is a 9mm Luger the best cartridge for a truck gun? That’s a debate all by itself, but if your handgun shoots 9mm Luger and your truck gun does too, well … that makes a lot of sense in my book. You can get smaller pistol versions of the Scorpion, but I like the solid size and shape of a rifle in my hands if I have space, and my truck has all the space I need for a Scorpion EVO 3 S1 Carbine.

MSRP: $1,429 // cz-usa.com

Savage 110 Scout Rifle

The Savage Arms Model 110 Scout Rifle was purpose-built to serve as a can-do gun capable of sustained short- or long-range firepower in a small, light and accurate platform.

OK. Lever actions. Pumps. Semi-automatics. Can a bolt-action rifle be a truck gun? Yes, the battlefield-proven bolt-action rifle can and should be a great choice for a truck gun. If I had to choose one bolt-action rifle for a go-anywhere, do-anything job like that of a trusted truck gun, the Savage Scout Rifle in .308 Winchester would be my pick. Colonel Jeff Cooper long ago designed the scout rifle to be a jack-of-all-trades, master-of-none kind of rifle, and putting a scout rifle in your truck just seems to make far too much sense. There are quite a few high-quality scout rifles out there these days, but for my hard-earned dollar, I find it hard to beat the Savage Arms 110 Scout. Plus, the rifle is fed via a detachable box magazine, which means you can have multiple loaded mags at the ready stored in your truck. You can pick your flavor, too, if the .308 Winchester doesn’t do it for you, it comes in .450 Bushmaster and .223 Remington as well. A good selecting, covering about everything you'd expect a truck rifle to handle.

MSRP: $919 // savagearms.com

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CZ 75/85

Every truck needs a handgun, and now more than ever Americans have plenty of handgun choices to fit our needs. You have three basic choices: striker-fired pistols, 1911-style pistols and revolvers. Your everyday-carry gun instantly becomes your truck gun when you’re in your truck, but having a truck-dedicated pistol isn’t a bad idea. Me? I’m a sucker for the CZ 75/85 series and use my CZ 85B as my EDC/truck gun. The military-issue 9mm Luger combat handgun was built to handle war. I shoot it well and it isn’t an expensive handgun to own. CZ doesn’t make the 85B anymore, but if you can get your hands on one, you’re going to have a hard time putting it down.

CZ 75 B MSRP: $745 // cz-usa.com

Kimber Micro 9 Covert

I’ve also grown fond of a Kimber Micro 9 as a new EDC/truck gun. The pistol fits my hand well, shoots well and is super easy to store in small places. Plus, the Micro 9 (LG) models comes standard with Crimson Trace laser grips, which are an exceptional asset to have on a dedicated truck gun — or in any situation.

MSRP: Starts at $735 // kimberamerica.com

Wilson Combat ARP Tactical Pistol

Another fine choice is the Wilson Combat ARP Tactical Pistol. Need punch? This thing throws lead like Mike Tyson threw punches — fast and furious. It hits as hard as you want because you can get it in a variety of cartridges, including 5.56 NATO/.223 Rem., .300 Blackout, 6.8 SPC and 7.62×40 WT. It holds plenty of ammunition in its detachable magazines, and its small at only 27 inches overall. It weighs 6.3 pounds and comes with a pistol forearm support, so it’s got the mass and grip to hold you steady when you engage it. You can mount any optic you want, but it comes with iron sights as well.

MSRP: $2,425 // wilsoncombat.com

Truck Gun Lock-Up Options

Aside from the actual firearms, truck guns ought to have truck gun tools to keep the guns safe yet accessible and ready for your needs. Quite a few manufacturers make a variety of truck accessories for gun owners, but I’m a big fan of what the folks at Hornady and Tuffy Security offer regarding lockable storage solutions for my truck.

Hornady

Did you say Hornady? As in the ammunition company? Yes. They make terrific lockable storage solutions for a variety of situations. One key point about lock boxes is that they can easily transfer from your vehicle to your hotel room, home, campsite … you name it. Lock boxes come in a variety of sizes and shapes, locking methods and storability — choose from those featuring RFID or biometric technology, or one that operates with a good ol’ key from the key ring you’ve already got hanging from your ignition.

Hornady.com/security

Tuffy Security

I know Tuffy Security specifically makes a lockable storage cover for a compartment behind the back seat of my Toyota Tacoma, which is an ideal place for a truck gun, some ammo and other bug-out gear. They also make a clever under-hood security lockbox, and a lockable center console box that fits perfectly for my truck — and likely yours as well.

TuffyProducts.com

If you have a truck — heck, the same goes for a car — you ought to make sure it’s equipped to handle whatever situations it and you may find yourself in these days. Having a capable weapons platform — or two — that’s easily accessible, safe from sticky fingers and unintended consequences is paramount to operating safely in our day-to-day lives. Regardless, remember that your truck can be a significant self-defense and survival tool if you take the time and money required to outfit it properly.

Be safe out there.

Editor's Note: Adam Borisenko contributed to this article.

The Truth About Riflescope Light Transmission

By

Philip Massaro

-

October 5, 2022

2

All about riflescopes, objective lenses, light transmission and your eyes.

We crept into the hyena blind in complete darkness, listening for the telltale cackle of the scavengers. The wind was swirling that morning in the Makuti Safari Area of Zimbabwe, and Professional Hunter Lindon Stanton gave a shake of his head in disapproval. “Can you see the bait, if by some miracle they do come in?”

I slowly brought the Winchester 70 to shoulder and eased the muzzle through the small hole the trackers had so craftily made in the grass wall. With the scope set at 6x magnification, I could clearly make out the remnants of buffalo rib cage, which had been thoroughly hammered by the mpisi, in spite of the predawn light. I was happily admiring the VX-5HD 2-10x42mm—with the FireDot reticle—mounted on top of my .300 H&H, when the guttural roar of the lionesses brought home the fact that our hyena hunt was over, at least for that morning.

Light-Transmission-Leupold-VX-5HD-2-10x42mm — Leupold’s VX-5HD 2-10x42mm has everything the author is after: bright, crisp image, the ability to be mounted low and a wide field of view at the lowest setting. *Photo credit: Massaro Media Group.*

There are all sorts of scope configurations on the market these days, from the straight-tube dangerous game scopes, looking like the front end has been sawn off—to the huge objective lenses that seem like they might be able to detect life on other planets.

Is bigger always better? Will the largest objective lenses give the shooter an advantage at first and last light? Let’s look at the practical application of our modern optics, and the relationship between objective lenses and the usable amount of light perceptible by the human eye.

How Much Light Gets Through

It’s the exit pupil of a riflescope or binocular that determines the apparent brightness of an image. This figure is easily computed by dividing the objective lens diameter by the magnification. For example, that 2-10×42 Leupold I had in Zimbabwe would have an exit pupil of 4.2mm at maximum magnification (42mm divided by 10mm equaling 4.2mm).

Our pupils can expand and contract—depending on the surrounding light conditions—to measure between 2mm and 7mm. So, the amount of usable light will vary, depending on the conformation of your riflescope. As natural light decreases, the pupil will open wider to let more light in, and a higher exit pupil value will deliver more light to your eye.

Leupold-VX-6-2-12x42mm — The author has used this Leupold VX-6 2-12x42mm on his Winchester 70 Classic Stainless for a good number of hunting situations; it’s bright, crisp and offers a magnification range suitable for all sorts of hunting. *Photo credit: Massaro Media Group.*

Lowering your magnification can increase the perceived light delivered to your eye, as the equation can quickly show. Divide your objective lens diameter by a lower number, and the exit pupil value increases. If your pupil expands due to lower natural light, your scope appears brighter.

This is one reason for choosing a scope with a lower bottom-end magnification; it may make a difference in those first and last light situations where seconds count. It’s also a reason for choosing a scope with a larger objective lens, as in theory there’ll be more light transmitted to your eye.

But bigger objective lenses pose some logistical issues when they’re mounted on a rifle. To clear the barrel, those scopes with larger objective lenses need to be mounted higher than scopes with smaller bells—and that can be a real pain. A rifle with a comb that’s too low for proper sight alignment will result in the shooter getting slapped hard during recoil. Instead of obtaining proper cheek weld—where the comb sits just underneath the shooter’s cheekbone—the comb will sit against the jaw or teeth. This results in some seriously uncomfortable recoil.

Rigby-Highland-Stalker-Hunting-Rifle-1 — This Rigby Highland Stalker would benefit from a lace-on cheekpiece to raise the comb up to the line of sight of the Leupold VX-6 2-12x42mm scope; that scope has coated lenses, which offer all sorts of contrast and light transmission in just about any hunting situation. Photo credit: Massaro Media Group.

I always strive to mount my scopes as low to the bore as is physically possible, to have the rifle’s comb sit in the proper location on my face. Generally speaking, on my hunting rifles, a 42mm objective lens is about as big as like to go. The bigger 50mm and the huge 56mm bells tend to be mounted uncomfortably high, especially for a hunting gun with a conventional comb.

If you insist on a scope with an objective lens of that magnitude, there are comb risers you can purchase, which either tie onto the stock or are attached via Velcro straps to raise the comb for proper sight alignment. Some of the polymer-stocked rifles offer adjustable combs in one fashion or another, like the Savage AccuStock, which offers risers of differing heights that can be installed by the user—or the Browning X-Bolt Western Hunter Long Range, which has a sort of adjustable “over-comb” that allows the user to properly align the scope to the eye.

Ideally, I prefer to mount my scope in a manner such that, with my eyes closed, I bring the rifle to shoulder instinctively and when I open my eyes, the scope is properly aligned, with as little need for adjustment as possible. Leupold tried a rather unconventional method of mounting a scope with a large diameter objective lens low to the bore when they released their VX-3L series, with a 56mm objective lens that looked like it had a bite taken out of the bottom, to compensate for the barrel. It didn’t catch on.

In addition to the cheek weld issue, a scope mounted too high above the bore can exaggerate the effects of scope cant, driving bullets to the left or to the right at longer ranges, depending on the amount of cant. With the true long-range target scopes, which can easily have a 56mm bell, getting them low is an extremely difficult prospect, and you’ll just have to do the best you can.

Leupold-Mark-5HD-5-25x56mm — The larger target scopes—like this Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm—are best served by a high comb to allow the shooter to easily obtain a clear sight picture without craning their neck. *Photo credit: Massaro Media Group.*

Not All Lenses Are Created Equal

Light transmission is more than just a function of exit pupil. The quality of your riflescope’s lenses and overall construction play a significant role in how bright, clear and crisp your target will appear. If you’ve ever owned or had the opportunity to shoot through a Swarovski riflescope, you’ll understand exactly what good glass is. They certainly aren’t cheap, but they’re amazingly crisp.

I’ve always been a fan of the Swarovski Z5 3.5-18x44mm scope. The tube length is long enough to put the objective lens further out along the barrel so it can be mounted nice and low, but it’s undoubtedly the Austrian glass that’s the selling point of Swarovski riflescopes and binoculars.

Light-Transmission-Feature — The Swarovski Z5 3.5-18x44mm scope. *Photo credit: Massaro Media Group.*

Any scope with high-quality lenses—replete with the proper coatings, which can make all the difference in the world—will be a game changer, especially if you’re used to the lesser-quality lenses. For years, when my hunting budget was so tight that it squeaked, I was convinced that higher magnification was always better. One look through a high-quality European riflescope changed my opinion completely, to the point where I much prefer a lower magnification riflescope of higher quality to any higher magnification scope of lesser quality. And, thankfully, a good number of the riflescope manufacturers have really improved their products.

I am an unabashed fan of Leupold’s products and have been for decades, and their HD series—including the VX-3HD, VX-5HD and VX-6HD—are real winners. The lens coating is stellar, and these scopes are wonderfully bright. I took a VX-5HD 1-5x24mm on top of my Bansner & Co. .404 Jeffery to coastal Alaska for brown and black bears in the spring (when it only gets dark for a couple hours) and had no problem seeing through that scope when there was any light at all.

Leupold-VX-5HD-1-5x24mm — Massaro’s Bansner & Co. Custom .404 Jeffery is topped with a Leupold VX-5HD 1-5x24mm and was a perfect choice for bear hunting in coastal Alaska, where shots range from 200 yards to “in-your-lap.” The glass transmits enough light for the half-dark of Alaska in the springtime. *Photo credit: Massaro Media Group.*

In fact, the two guides on that hunt were amazed at that scope; cranked down to 1x it is a perfect tool for bears in the thick stuff, yet at 5x magnification, the 200- to 250-yard shots were totally possible. I feel that the VX-5HD and VX-6HD series are the best hunting scopes Leupold has made to date. Zeiss has revamped their Conquest line of scopes, with what I assume to be a new lens coating, because they have a much brighter appearance than the previous iteration of those scopes.

Zeiss-Conquest-V4-4-16x44mm — This Zeiss Conquest V4 4-16x44mm has great glass but is mounted a bit too high for the author’s liking. Changing the comb on the Savage AccuStock will make a big difference in regard to sight picture. *Photo credit: Massaro Media Group.*

No lens will ever possess the ability to give 100 percent light transmission, but they’re getting closer every year. Under midday sun, just about any scope will work. But it’s when the light begins to fade, when the shadows start to remove the contrast and the images get fuzzy that a scope with a set of good lenses—which have been coated to highlight images in that fading light—will show its value.

Objective lens diameter has no bearing on your riflescope’s field of view, but tube diameter certainly does. A scope with a 30mm main tube will have a wider field of view than one sporting a 1-inch tube—though that advantage will come at the cost of additional weight. The big 34mm and 35mm tubes are employed more to give additional elevation adjustment than for the field of view, but the increase is certainly there.

Choosing a Scope for Your Needs

I’ve had a shift in opinion regarding scopes in the past decade. Whereas I used to consider a scope as an accessory to the rifle, in many instances I spend more on a scope than I do on the rifle. After all, if you can’t see that target you can’t hit it, and the quality of affordable rifles has increased greatly.

Leupold-VX-3HD-4-14x40mm — This Leupold VX-3HD 4-14x40mm riflescope sits low to the bore on this Nosler Model 21 rifle, and it offers a sensibly sized objective lens as well as a crisp, bright image. *Photo credit: Massaro Media Group.*

I’ve also opted for the best quality scope I can afford, even if the magnification level is on the lower side of the spectrum. Were the whitetail of a lifetime on the other end of the equation in low-light conditions, I’d be happier with a premium scope with a top end of 8x to 10x than one of lesser quality of 14x magnification.

Even when shooting long range, I tend to reduce magnification for image clarity, especially when dealing with mirage. So, when I’m looking at a scope for a particular purpose, I take the low-end magnification under consideration as much as I do the top end; under the worst light conditions, it’ll keep the image nice and bright.

Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in the November 2021 issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.

Scope Out More Optics Info:

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Apex Releases MRAT Comp For The FNX-45

By

Adam Borisenko

-

October 4, 2022

0

Apex Tactical Specialties has just released the MRAT Comp, a new compensator for the FNX-45 that drastically reduces muzzle rise and recoil.

Apex Tactical Specialties knows its way around pistol upgrades, offering triggers, barrels and plenty of other components for a variety of popular handguns. For those who own an FN FNX-45, the newest upgrade offered by Apex is sure to catch your eye. It’s the MRAT Comp, a compensator that Apex claims can reduce the muzzle rise of the FNX-45 by 40 to 60 percent.

The “MRAT” in MRAT Comp stands for Muzzle Rise Amplitude Tamer, and that it does. It not only reduces the felt recoil but substantially reduces the muzzle rise as well. When tested with a wide range of ammunition, both very light and +P rounds, Apex found that the MRAT results in 40 to 60 percent less climb.

The MRAT's compensating capabilities also result in such a significantly lower slide velocity, that each kit also includes a replacement captive-spring guide rod assembly to enable proper, reliable cycling. The kit includes two brass-tipped set screws and some threadlocker as well, providing you with everything needed to install it. Apex claims that the compensator is quick and simple to mount and have also posted video with instructions on the product page.

The MRAT Comp is available with either a black or an FDE finish to match the options of the FNX-45, with black having an MSRP of $175 and FDE having an MSRP of $200. Black is available now and the FDE model will begin shipping in 6 to 8 weeks after the time of publication.

For more information, please visit apextactical.com.

More Pistol Upgrades From Apex:

Apex Competition Trigger Kit For The Ruger Mark IV
Apex CZ P-10 Trigger Kit
Apex FN 509 Longslide

First Look: EAA Girsan MC P35 OPS Optic

By

Adam Borisenko

-

October 3, 2022

0

EAA has just announced the first optics-ready Hi Power clone, the Girsan MC P35 OPS Optic.

Girsan of Turkey has been cranking out variants of its MC P35 Hi Power clone like there’s no tomorrow. So far this year, the company has already released the carry-sized MC P35 PI as well as the modernized MC P35 OPS and Match models. Yet another variation has just been announced with the MC P35 OPS Optic, and it’s the first time that a Hi Power has been offered from a factory in an optics-ready configuration.

The MC P35 OPS Optic model is identical in every way to the MC P35 OPS besides the optics-ready slide which omits a rear iron sight, so we’ll only briefly go over the shared features before diving into what’s new. Whether optics-ready or not, the MC P35 OPS comes with G10 grips, a fiber optic front sight, a beveled magwell and an extended beavertail. They also feature upgraded straight triggers, a 15-round capacity, an accessory rail and no magazine disconnect safety.

The slide of the MC P35 OPS Optic is milled to directly accept RMS/RMSc-pattern red dots without the use of an adaptor plate. EAA also claims that some Holosun optics will fit it as well, though these will possibly require an adaptor plate. Each pistol will also ship with an EAA Far-Dot 4-MOA red dot sight.

Chase Duffey, National Sales and Import Manager at EAA, said this about the new optics-ready pistol:

When we were looking at how to make the MC P35 OPS more useful and offer the customer something that they really wanted directly from the factory, a light and bright red dot that uses a mounting pattern that’s almost universally accepted without any sort of adapter plate was the overwhelming choice…Now, if the customer wants to keep it as is from the factory or if they want to accessorize it with lots of commercially available products at their local shop, they have every option right out of the box.

The optics-ready MC P35 OPS has an MSRP of $850 and will be shipping to dealers soon.

For more information, please visit eaacorp.com.

More On Hi Powers:

Eulogy To The Browning Hi Power
Upgrading A Surplus BHP
Belgium, Nazis And The FN High Power
Hi Power Or High Power: What's In A Name?
Carrying A Browning Hi Power

Nothing Beats Shot Placement

By

Richard A. Mann

-

September 30, 2022

1

Shot placement, or where you put your bullets, will always be more important than the caliber or gun when it comes to self-defense.

Ol’ Joe was sitting at the bar, drinking. The year was 1930, and drinking was illegal. But this bar was in a speakeasy, and no one in there gave a damn about being legal. But one guy did give a damn about his wife, and it had come to his attention that Ol’ Joe had been giving some affection to her. An altercation ensued, and the jealous husband ended up pulling out a .25 Automatic and emptying it into Ol’ Joe’s gut.

Grandpa said that Ol’ Joe was a big ol’ boy, and after the shooting was over, he turned and walked out the door. Grandpa knew this because he was there when it happened. Though he never admitted it, I figure Grandpa had recently delivered the libations Ol’ Joe and everyone else had been drinking. Shortly, Ol’ Joe walked back inside with a shovel and a blood stain the size of a dinner plate oozing through his overalls. And then, with five .25 Auto slugs in his tummy, he took that shovel and beat the jealous man to death.

Lesson learned: If you don’t want to get beaten to death with a ditch digger, don’t shoot your adversary in the belly button.

Shot-placement-feature — If you want to substantially increase the chances of your handgun stopping a bad guy, learn proper shot placement.

Hardball Won’t Work

Most supposed experts will tell you that hardball—full metal jacket—handgun ammunition isn’t suitable for self-defense.

Well, one night while working the midnight shift, I got a call of “shots fired” at a local nightclub. As I crept my cruiser into the edge of the parking lot, I heard the unmistakable sound of handgun fire. The sirens wailing from my backup that was on the way quickly dispersed the crowd. Remaining on the parking lot before me was a dead man.

Long story short, the investigation revealed he’d taken a single 115-grain 9mm FMJ round to the chest at about 10 feet. The bullet had pierced his sternum and heart, exited his back and was found in the fender of a Toyota Camry that was parked just behind where he stood. The coroner said that had EMS been standing beside him when he was shot—waiting to render aid—he would’ve died anyway.

Shot-placement-9mm-hydra-shok — Federal’s new Hydra-Shock Deep load for the 9mm Luger expands wide and penetrates well. But if it misses the mark, it just makes a loud noise, which is generally ineffective at stopping bad guys.

Does Good Shot Placement Make .380 Viable?

The .380 Auto is often considered the absolute minimum for personal protection. That seems like it suggests if you must shoot a bad guy with a .380, the outcome is questionable.

Well, on another midnight shift, we responded to a suspicious person call, which turned out to be a crippled man standing over a dead guy in the middle of the street.

It seems a proprietor of a local bar—are you seeing a trend here?—was headed home when the car following him began flashing its lights. The bar owner pulled over to see what was what. That’s when the driver of the trailing car got out, walked up to the nightclub owner’s car, opened the door, pulled the proprietor out, and began to beat the living daylights out of him.

Modern defensive ammunition for the 380 ACP is very good. No, it won’t compare to the 9mm Luger or larger-caliber cartridges, but if the shots are placed properly, the desired result will be achieved.

The bar owner was physically disabled. (My teenage daughter could’ve whopped up on him). But he was smart, he kept a pistol—a compact .380—in his pocket. He shot his attacker once in the chest, and the man dropped in the street and that was the end of that.

What’s the Point?

The point here should be clear by now: It’s not the gun, the cartridge or the ammunition that’s most important. It’s shot placement. Those five rounds Ol’ Joe took to the gut undoubtedly hurt like hell. Maybe a lesser man would’ve crumpled from the pain. Had the jealous husband shoved that .25 into Ol’ Joe’s chest as opposed to his stomach; he’d have probably been around long enough to go to prison.

As for the 9mm hardball that dropped the drug dealer in the parking lot, it was well placed. It’s hard to recover from a .35-caliber hole through your heart. And look at it this way: Had the bullet been one of the expanding varieties, the hole would have at most been twice as large in diameter. The same thing is true of the final encounter with the bar owner and his .380: It fires the same diameter bullet as a 9mm at a much-reduced velocity. In both instances, both loads worked to perfection, because they hit the right spot.

Shot-placement-expansion-chart — You could look at this chart and endlessly argue which defensive handgun load is best. Time would be much better spent on the range practicing shot placement.

So, the next time you’re sitting around wondering if your handgun is powerful enough to protect you—or, if you’re wondering if the ammunition you have is wicked enough to stop a bad guy—my advice would be to stop worrying about either. Take 50 or 100 rounds and head out to the range for some practice putting the bullets where they’re supposed to go. If that’s something you find hard to do on demand, with speed and rapidity, I’d suggest you seek out some defensive handgun training and learn how to shoot.

I’ll never forget a scene from the Western movie, Appaloosa. The two lead characters, played by Ed Harris and Viggo Mortensen, are lying in the street along with some other fellows and they’re all shot to hell. Mortensen’s character says, “That happened quick,” and Harris’ character responds, “Everybody could shoot.”

If you’re serious about carrying a handgun every day for personal protection, learn how to shoot!

Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in the EDC 2021 special issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.

More On Self-Defense Training:

6 Defensive Handgun Drills to Master
The Shot Timer And Defensive Handgun Training
Dry Fire Training To Improve Defensive Handgun Skills
Aiming A Defensive Handgun, Is There One Right Way?
7 Steps To Control Fear And Make Sound Decisions Under Stress

First Look: PSA “Spiker” Rifle Type 56 Clone

By

Adam Borisenko

-

September 30, 2022

0

Palmetto State Armory has finally launched the AK-47 “Spiker” Rifle, a clone of the iconic Chinese Type 56 Kalashnikov variant.

Palmetto State Armory catches a lot of flak online for teasing products well before they ever enter production. Hell, it’s been almost three years since the company first showed off its 5.45 “Krinkov” AK pistol and a release date is still not known. Regardless, PSA usually does eventually get around to making them, and the newest belated addition to their digital shelves is called the AK-47 “Spiker” Rifle.

Designed to aesthetically mimic the iconic Chinese Type 56 AK variant, the AK-47 “Spiker” Rifle certainly looks the part. Despite what some may tell you, commercial export Chinese AKs destined for the U.S. were some of the finest Kalashnikov samples to enter the country. Unlike the subpar AKs that the CCP supplied to Africa and the Middle East, the factories working under the Norinco and Polytech conglomerates understood that the American market demanded quality. While it’s a dubious proposition to suggest that PSA’s new “Spiker” Rifles will be equally well made, it appears that they’ve done an excellent job of imitating the appearance of a stamped-receiver Type 56. The major details that contribute to this include the blonde imitation “Chu wood” furniture patterned after the Chinese style, the hooded front sight, the smooth dust cover and of course the iconic folding “spiker” bayonet from which the rifle gets its name. The metal components have also been treated with a shade of Cerakote that mimics the bluing style of original Chinese guns.

While there’s no doubt the gun looks the part, it seems that PSA has made an effort to make the AK-47 “Spiker” Rifle a quality firearm as well. The company opted to use its cold hammer-forged, chrome-moly vanadium barrels for these builds, a step up from the nitrided options included with many of PSA’s more budget models. The “Spiker” Rifle’s stamped receiver is also the proper 1.5mm Chinese-spec as opposed to the standard Soviet-pattern 1mm thickness. This not only aids the durability but the authenticity as well. The front trunnion, bolt and carrier are all hammer-forged too.

A few other authentic details that bear mentioning are the ventilated gas tube, the placement of the forward sling swivel, the pattern of the front trunnion and the inclusion of a muzzle nut rather than a slant brake. It also lacks a side scope rail, something that PSA had previously incorrectly included on its soviet AKM parts kit builds.

Considering that Chinese-made AKs haven't been available new in the U.S. since 1994, the AK-47 “Spiker” Rifle is an exciting addition to PSA’s lineup, and the attention to detail frankly surpassed what I would have expected. If it’s successful, it will hopefully prompt PSA to clone the Type 56-1 (underfolder) and Type 56-2 (side folder) as well.

The AK-47 “Spiker” Rifle has an MSRP of $1,099 and is now in production.

For more information on PSA, please visit palmettostatearmory.com

More AK Stuff:

The Best AKs In The U.S.
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The Cugir WASR-10 Rifle
The Zastava ZPAP M70 Rifle
The Cugir Mini Draco AK Pistol

Firearms Training For The Family

By

Richard A. Mann

-

September 29, 2022

0

Private or open-enrollment firearms training courses make the perfect family bonding experience.

When I was about 10 years old, my grandfather and I were at our hunting camp. I’d found a huge hornet’s nest on the back eve and was throwing rocks at it. Grandpa saw what I was doing and told me to stop. And I did—at least until he went back inside.

A few minutes later, he warned me again, a bit more forcefully. And again, I ignored him.

Finally, I got a direct hit, and here came the hornets. I ran to the front of the camp only to realize the screen door was locked. A couple hornets hit me right in the ass, while grandpa stood on the other side of the door, laughing. I’ve not thrown a rock at a hornet’s nest since.

Learning—no matter how it’s measured—isn’t free. Lessons worth learning cost you dollars, time or pain. Basic undergraduate college tuition generally runs you between $400 (in state) and $1,200 (out of state) per credit hour. Harvard is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States and is among the most prestigious in the world. There, cost per credit hour runs about $1,500. With a credit hour generally considered equivalent to 37.5 clock hours, at Harvard you’d pay about $40 per clock hour of instruction.

Gunsite Academy is the largest, oldest, most prestigious and longest continually operational civilian firearms training academy in the world. Tuition for the Gunsite Academy 250 Pistol Course is $1,795. The cost for a clock hour of training at Gunsite Academy, which is commonly referred to as the “Harvard of Handguns,” is very similar to what you’d pay at Harvard University.

Training-Gunsite — Gunsite is as much of an experience as it is a firearms training destination. It’s a place the entire family can attend and enjoy, and the training they receive will benefit them for life.

Life Insurance

This may seem a bit extreme, until you consider what you’re learning. At Harvard, you’ll be given education related to your career. At Gunsite Academy, you’ll be supplied with training to help you stay alive. Having a prosperous career is one thing; being alive to enjoy it is, well, a hell of a lot more important. At Harvard, you may be educated by others who have had successful careers. At Gunsite, you’ll be trained by those who have relied on a gun to stay alive. Well-regarded career or self-defense training is either learned the hard way or you’ll have to pay for it.

However, when it comes to firearms training, some folks have careers that make accommodating open enrollment courses difficult to attend. You might want to attend the Gunsite Academy 250 Pistol Course, but the available dates might not fit your schedule. For folks in this situation, Gunsite Academy offers private tutorial classes. These classes are specifically tailored to you, and the cost for one-on-one training is $1,250 per day, regardless of how long that day may be. During private tutorial training at Gunsite Academy, instructors will stay with you as long as you’re progressing each day.

family-training-feature — The author’s daughters and wife working on the range during a private tutorial class at Gunsite Academy with the new Mossberg MC2sc pistols.

Some offset the cost of these tutorial courses with additional students. This could be a husband and wife; for two students, the cost drops to $850 per day, per student. It could also be for a family; with four students, the cost is $550 per day, per student. If you’re doing a four-person tutorial class at Gunsite Academy, the instructional cost per hour, for 10-hour days, works out to $55 per hour.

The Private Party

Over the past two years, Gunsite Academy has seen a sharp increase in the number of students wanting private individual or small group tutorial training. It’s becoming more popular because of scheduling issues as previously mentioned, but many are choosing the private courses because they can advance—learn—as much in three days as students in a regular course might advance—learn—in five days. This is because the training progresses with you as opposed to the average mean of a large open enrollment class.

Another reason some opt for individual training is because they’re new to firearms and might be a bit apprehensive about being around guns and unfamiliar folks. It could also be because they don’t want others to know they’ve become gun owners and accepted the responsibility of their own safety. Such is the case with many celebrities and political figures.

Over the past 20 years, I’ve taken several private courses at Gunsite Academy. No, I’m not a celebrity, and, no, I didn’t want to hide my affinity for firearms. I did it because I needed training targeting a specific skill. In every case, it was a skill included in a cataloged course that Gunsite Academy offered, I just didn’t have the time or need to attend the full training that book-ended the specific element I needed help with. I did it prior to my first African buffalo hunt, to become better acquainted with the Scout Rifle concept and to learn to use a defensive handgun with a laser and later with a reflex sight.

Family-Firearms-Training-aiming — Students with basic firearms skills can learn a lot from a one- or two-day private tutorial class at Gunsite Academy—plenty to keep them busy practicing for most of their lives.

I’ve also used the private tutorial service offered by Gunsite Academy to help train my children and spouse. Though I’d never consider myself the equivalent of a Gunsite Academy firearms instructor, I’ve spent much of my professional career training soldiers, cops and civilians in the safe an effective employment of firearms. I introduced my wife to shooting as well as all four of our children. There is, however, a difference in an introduction to firearms and proper comprehensive training. The complex personal relationships between husbands and wives, as well as parents and children, aren’t conducive to quality firearms instruction. That’s best left to a professional outside source.

My son is a good example. I taught him firearms safety and how to hit targets at an early age. He then wanted to turn all our range sessions into a competition. When he was 14, I sent him to Gunsite Academy for a three-day tutorial on basic skills with the handgun and rifle. Two years later, he returned, took the Gunsite 250 Pistol Course and won the end-of-class shoot-off—and every other student in the class was an adult.

I’m in the process of following the same training plan with my 14- and 17-year-old daughters. Both understand firearms safety and basic marksmanship, but last summer I enrolled them in a one-day tutorial course at Gunsite Academy tailored not only to their skill level, but specifically to the handgun they’d be using. The plan is that when both graduate high school—if not sooner—for them to return in the best form possible to get the most out of Gunsite’s 5-day 250 Pistol Course.

Family-Firearms-Training-target — The author’s oldest daughter working at home with Mossberg’s MC2sc and the skills she learned during her private tutorial training at Gunsite Academy.

On the recent tutorial with my daughters, I worked with Gunsite Academy Training Director Dave Hartman to establish the content of instruction regarding a brand-new semi-automatic compact pistol outfitted with an also new compact reflex sight. Also, having a working knowledge of the cadre at Gunsite Academy, we discussed instructors and selected one we felt would best dovetail with my girls.

My daughters and wife—who went along for emotional support—spent the day with Gunsite Instructor Lew Gosnell. All three finished with an elevated sense in what they can accomplish with a compact handgun, and with confidence that should they have to use it to defend themselves, they could. By no stretch are they gunfighters, but their confidence has been buoyed, and they’re well poised to safely practice on their own to further develop the skills they learned.

Should You Go Solo?

Should you take a private tutorial firearms training class from the Harvard of Handguns or attend a regular course? That’s a good question. In a three-day private one-on-one tutorial, most can advance about the same as they would in a five-day mixed class. This is because the instructor has their evaluating eyes on you every second of every minute of every hour that you’re on the range.

One on one, tuition will be $3,750 for those three days. That’s steep compared to the cost of a standard five-day class. Of course, by adding a few friends or family members, you can substantially reduce costs. You’ll also save some money on lodging and food by not being in Arizona for five days. And, you’ll get the best firearms instruction money can buy.

family-CCW-training-mossberg — The new Mossberg MC2sc pistol comes out of the box optics-ready. The guns this author’s family used were outfitted with a Crimson Trace CTS-1550 reflex sight.

On the other hand, you’ll miss out on sharing what has come to be known as the “Gunsite Experience” with a collection of like-minded people who are learning and developing with you. You’ll miss the friendship the experience will create, you’ll miss the education that can be obtained from your peers, and you’ll miss seeing each one of them have what’s known as the “epiphany,” which generally occurs on day three or four of the 250 Pistol Course.

Regardless which way you decide to go—alone, with a small family group or in an open enrollment class—you’ll leave Gunsite Academy much like a graduate leaves Harvard: well trained, with confidence and with a mindset that’ll change you and possibly save your life. It’s a more enjoyable way to learn than getting hit in the ass by several pissed off bald-faced hornets!

Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in the EDC 2021 special issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.

More Firearms Training:

6 Defensive Handgun Drills to Master
The Shot Timer And Defensive Handgun Training
Dry Fire Training To Improve Defensive Handgun Skills
Aiming A Defensive Handgun, Is There One Right Way?
7 Steps To Control Fear And Make Sound Decisions Under Stress

Ruger-Made Marlin 1895 Guide Gun Now Available

By

Adam Borisenko

-

September 29, 2022

3

The Marlin 1895 Guide Gun lever-action rifle in .45-70 Gov’t is available once again, only now made by Ruger.

Previously known as the 1895 Guide Big Loop or GBL, this lever-action rifle is being reintroduced as the 1895 Guide Gun following Marlin’s acquisition by Ruger. Since Marlin was acquired, Ruger has been slowly bringing back the company’s most popular lever-action rifle models, including the 1895 SBL in late 2021. The new Ruger-made Marlins are virtually identical to older Marlin-made rifles, only now they’re manufactured using Ruger’s more advanced methodology.

The 1895 Guide Gun is chambered for .45-70 Gov’t (6+1 capacity), has a 19-inch cold hammer-forged barrel with a 1:20” twist and the muzzle is threaded 11/16”x24 for mounting a suppressor or other muzzle device. It ships with a thread protector as well.

Aesthetically, the rifle features a checkered brown laminate stock and a satin-blued finish on most of the metal components. However, the bolt is nickel-plated instead for smoother cycling. It also features adjustable semi-buckhorn sights, a soft rubber recoil pad, and as the previous “Guide Big Loop” name implies, an oversized lever loop.

CEO and President of Ruger Chris Killoy said this about the new 1895 Guide Gun:

The Guide Gun is our next step in the expansion of the Marlin line…Marlin fans should be encouraged by the growth in product offerings and know that we are going to continuously expand into other models.

The 1895 Guide Gun has an MSRP of $1,149 and is available now.

For more information, please visit ruger.com and marlinfirearms.com

Up Your Lever-Gun IQ:

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Evolution Of The Legendary Lever-Action
Cowboy 101: How To Run A Lever-Action Rifle
The Rossi Rio Bravo .22 Lever-Gun
The Past, Present And Future Of Lever-Action Shotguns

.22-250 Ammo: 7 Top Loads For Any Purpose

By

Sam Hoober

-

September 28, 2022

0

.22-250 ammo is extremely versatile with the right load and rifle, capable of excelling at long-range tasks from varmint control to sport shooting.

The “best” .22-250 ammo depends a little bit on your rifle and a whole lot on what you want to do with it. Just like with any other cartridge, you want to pick a load that suits your purpose.

Here we’ll take a deeper look at .22-250 ammo, how to select the right kind for you and 7 great factory loads for different purposes.

How To Choose .22-250 Ammo

As always, first determine what you plan on using your rifle for. Depending on what that is, certain barrel twist rates will be better than others since different tasks favor different bullet weights. For a .22-250 rifle, its role will generally either be for varminting, hunting or long-range sport shooting.

For varmint hunting and predator control (i.e., coyotes, foxes or possibly raccoons) the light-for-caliber loads of 35, 38, 40 or 45 grains are the conventional choices with almost any bullet type being appropriate.

Game hunters tend to prefer medium-weight bullets, such as 50-, 55-, 60- or 62-grain soft points or polymer-tipped hollow points.

Sierra’s #1400—the first MatchKing. A 53-grain, flat-base hollow-point, it’s the author’s bullet-of-choice for the .22-250 Remington. — Sierra’s #1400—the first MatchKing. A 53-grain, flat-base hollow-point, it makes a good choice for the .22-250 Remington.

For longer-range shooting, longer and heavier bullets are the better choice given the higher ballistic coefficient.

Generally speaking, fast to medium twist rates favor heavier grain weights while slow twist rates favor light to medium projectiles. Most factory .22-250 rifles have a 1:14-inch twist rate or a 1:12, but there are plenty with a 1:10 or 1:8 twist as well.

In other words, a varmint rifle with a slow twist rate will have the best results with light-for-caliber loads, a long-range rifle with a faster twist rate will get better results with heavy-for-caliber loads, and a hunting rifle with a twist rate in the middle will get best results with medium-weight projectiles.

If you’re still shopping for a .22-250 rifle to accomplish a predetermined goal, this information on twist rates will help you pick a model that’s best suited for the task. If you already have a .22-250 rifle, the barrel’s twist rate will determine what bullet weights it can effectively stabilize and therefore what the rifle could be ultimately used for as well.

Winchester-Featherweight-.22-250 — A .22-250 Winchester Model 70 Featherweight, featuring a barrel with a 1:14 twist.

With that all in mind, let’s look at some top factory loads of .22-250 ammo.

What's The Best .22-250 Ammo To Buy?

Low Cost, All Purpose:

PPU .22-250 55-Grain SP

PPU's 55-grain SP (soft point) is a good pick for an economical do-it-all load. 55-grain bullets will stabilize well in 1:12 and 1:10 twist barrels, and with a soft point bullet, can be good for anything from varmints to predators and even medium game in legal jurisdictions at appropriate distances.

Bullet Type: Jacketed Soft Point

Bullet Weight: 55 grains

Muzzle Velocity: 3,674 fps

Muzzle Energy: 1,644 foot-pounds

G1 BC: Not advertised

MSRP: ~$25 per box of 20

High-Volume Varmint Load:

Remington UMC 45-Grain JHP

Remington's 45-grain JHP (jacketed hollow point) load in their UMC line is a good choice for the varmint shooter that wants to shoot a lot but spend less. It's a light-for-caliber, high-velocity load that can (and has!) put down a lot of prairie dogs and more than a few coyotes. It's best for rifles with a 1:12 or 1:14 twist rate.

Bullet Type: Jacketed Hollow Point

Bullet Weight: 45 grains

Muzzle Velocity: 4,000 fps

Muzzle Energy: 1,599 foot-pounds

G1 BC: .173

MSRP: ~$35 per box of 20

Explore the Best of the .22 Caliber

What is the Best .22 Competition Target Pistol
Will a .22 Stop an Attacker? Considerations Concerning Self-Defense
Best Ruger .22 Pistols – Affordable Precision for Every Shooter

Best Game Load:

Federal Premium Nosler 60-grain JSP

Federal Premium has been offering Nosler Partition loads for decades. For .22-250 hunting ammunition, they offer the .22-250 with the 60-grain Partition bullet. It's arguably the best choice for medium game in legal jurisdictions–assuming good marksmanship and responsible ranges–given it's built to hold together. It's best in fast twist barrels, with a 1:8 twist being perfect.

Bullet Type: Bonded Jacketed Soft Point

Bullet Weight: 60 grains

Muzzle Velocity: 3,500 fps

Muzzle Energy: 1,632 foot-pounds

G1 BC: .227

MSRP: ~ $53 per box of 20

Lead-Free But Still Deadly:

Barnes VOR-TX .22-250 50-grain TSX

The Barnes VOR-TX .22-250 load, with a 50-grain TSX monolithic hollow point, is a great game load for rifles that have a slower twist rate. If you want to hunt whitetail, hogs or javelinas but your rifle has a 1:12 or 1:14 twist, this load will stabilize better than heavier soft points. It will also certainly do for varmints or predators.

It would also be an excellent choice for an AR chambered in .22-250.

Bullet Type: Solid Copper Hollow Point

Bullet Weight: 50 grains

Muzzle Velocity: 3,830 fps

Muzzle Energy: 1,628 foot-pounds

G1 BC: .197

MSRP: $45 per box of 20

Long-Range Match Ammo:

Copper Creek Cartridge Co. 77-Grain OTM

Projectiles this heavy aren’t always easy to find loaded in .22-250 ammo, but you can get it from Copper Creek Cartridge Co. They can put a 77-grain Berger Open Tip Match bullet in Hornady, Lapua or Norma brass for you. It's only for rifles with a fast twist—they specify a 1:8 twist at a minimum—so bear that in mind. An excellent choice for long-range applications, if you have the right rifle.

Bullet Type: Open-tip

Bullet Weight: 77 grains

Muzzle Velocity: 3,200 fps

Muzzle Energy: 1,750 foot-pounds

G1 BC: .374

MSRP: ~$45 per box of 20

Best Varmint Load:

Sierra Prairie Enemy 50-Grain Blitzking

Sierra’s Prairie Enemy 50-grain .22-250 load features their Blitz King tipped hollow point. It's designed for varmint rifles and to feed reliably in semi-autos as well. It works best in rifles with a medium to fast twist rate with 1:12 being ideal.

Bullet Type: Tipped Hollow Point

Bullet Weight: 50 grains

Muzzle Velocity: 3,800 fps

Muzzle Energy: 1,602 foot-pounds

G1 BC: .259

MSRP: ~$40 per box of 20

Best High-Velocity Varmint Load:

Underwood Ammunition 38-Grain Lehigh Controlled Chaos

If you wanted to smack a prairie dog with the highest velocity bullet you could, the Underwood Controlled Chaos load is the ticket. It features the 38-grain Lehigh Controlled Chaos bullet, making it best suited for rifles with a slow twist rate. If yours has a 1:14 twist, it's perfect.

Bullet Type: Fragmenting Hollow Point

Bullet Weight: 38 grains

Muzzle Velocity: 4,200 fps

Muzzle Energy: 1,488 foot-pounds

G1 BC: .196

MSRP: ~$44 per box of 20

Raise Your Ammo IQ:

Beyond The 6.5 Creedmoor: The Other 6.5 Cartridges
The Lonesome Story Of The Long-Lost 8mm
Why The .300 H&H Magnum Still Endures
.350 Legend Vs .450 Bushmaster: Does One Win Out For Hunting?

First Look: Primary Arms SLx 1-10x28mm SFP Rifle Scope

By

Adam Borisenko

-

September 27, 2022

0

Primary Arms Optics has just announced the SLx 1-10x28mm SFP rifle scope, a new LPVO with a choice between two reticle options.

LPVO scopes remain a popular alternative to red dot/magnifier combo setups, offering their users relatively quick target acquisition at close ranges with the lowest magnification setting while also providing superior long-range capabilities at higher levels of zoom. The newest LPVO to come to market is Primary Arms Optics’ SLx 1-10x28mm SFP scope, offered with one of two reticle options.

Primary-Arms-SLx-1-10x28mm-SFP-feature-1

The precision and durability of the new scopes were live-fire tested using a SCAR in 7.62x51mm NATO, proving they can withstand a healthy amount of recoil. The SLx 1-10x28mm SFP also features a 28mm objective lens, a 34mm tube and a generous eye box for effective rapid acquisition at lower magnification settings. Regardless of the model selected, both reticles are illuminated with 11 brightness settings including two for use with night vision.

Speaking of reticles, the SLx 1-10x28mm SFP can be bought with either an ACSS Raptor 5.56 M10S or the ACSS Griffin MIL M10S. The former features BDC, ranging and wind lead marks that are calibrated for both 5.56x45mm and .308 Winchester. The latter reticle option instead features a full MIL-grid, making it compatible with a wider range of cartridges and firearms.

Stephen Morgan, Product Marketing Director at Primary Arms Optics, said this about the new scope:

As LPVO technology gets better and better, the optics become more and more versatile…We have developed our new SLx 1-10 with the do-all, universal rifle in mind. Fast and wide at 1x and ultimate precision at 10x, it is the perfect fit for your next do all rifle build at an affordable price.

Both new models of the SLx 1-10x28mm SFP scope have an MSRP of $449.99 and are available now.

For more information, please visit primaryarms.com.

More Long-Range Glass:

The Venom 5-25×56 Riflescope From Vortex
Two Upgraded Elite Tactical Riflescopes From Bushnell
The SVIII Premium Riflescope From Sightron
Review: Leatherwood ART Riflescope
The Vortex Razor HD LHT

GUN DIGESTWE KNOW GUNS SO YOU KNOW GUNS

Whether for home defense or hunting, a 12-gauge shotgun is most effective when paired with the right load of 12-gauge ammo.

12-Gauge Ammo: Deciding Your Purpose

Choosing The Right 12-Gauge Ammo:

Buckshot

Shotgun Slugs

Chokes and Patterns:

12-Gauge Ammo Shell Size

12-Gauge Ammo Buyer’s Guide:

Home Defense:

Small Game Hunting:

Medium/Big Game Hunting:

Steiner has just announced the T6Xi riflescope series, featuring four models of illuminated FFP optics.

Sig Sauer has recently released the MCX-SPEAR-LT series, featuring eight models of rifle and pistol in three different calibers.

How to set up a reloading bench on the cheap.

Shortening The Purse Strings

Get a Single-Stage Press

Look to Lee Dies

A Balance-Beam Scale And A Dial Calipers

Menial Cleaning, Trimming and Lubing

Erasing Mistakes

Scrap-Built Organization

Get Good Data

Looking for a new iron or piece of kit to enhance the one you already own? Check out these 7 new bits of guns and gear to grow your firearms wish list.

The New Guns And Gear:

Rise Iconic Two-Stage AR Trigger

Benjamin Armada Semi-Auto PCP Air Rifle

Sig Sauer M400-DH3

Trijicon Dual Defense Kit

Walther WMP

FN 15 DMR3 Rifle

Birchwood Casey Glock Multi-Tool

Get More Guns And Gear:

Ruger has just announced a new Custom Shop variant of the Ruger Precision Rifle chambered for 6.5 Creedmoor.

Whether a survival gun, something to control varmints or a self-defense option, the truck gun is a vital tool for those on the go.

What Are Top Truck Gun Options:

Brownells BRN-180

Mossberg Maverick 88 Top-Folding Stock

Marlin Model 1895 Trapper

CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 Carbine

Savage 110 Scout Rifle

Be Prepared!:

CZ 75/85

Kimber Micro 9 Covert

Wilson Combat ARP Tactical Pistol

Truck Gun Lock-Up Options

Hornady

Tuffy Security

All about riflescopes, objective lenses, light transmission and your eyes.

How Much Light Gets Through

Not All Lenses Are Created Equal

Choosing a Scope for Your Needs

Apex Tactical Specialties has just released the MRAT Comp, a new compensator for the FNX-45 that drastically reduces muzzle rise and recoil.

EAA has just announced the first optics-ready Hi Power clone, the Girsan MC P35 OPS Optic.

Shot placement, or where you put your bullets, will always be more important than the caliber or gun when it comes to self-defense.

Hardball Won’t Work

Does Good Shot Placement Make .380 Viable?

What’s the Point?

Palmetto State Armory has finally launched the AK-47 “Spiker” Rifle, a clone of the iconic Chinese Type 56 Kalashnikov variant.

Private or open-enrollment firearms training courses make the perfect family bonding experience.

Life Insurance

The Private Party

Should You Go Solo?

The Marlin 1895 Guide Gun lever-action rifle in .45-70 Gov’t is available once again, only now made by Ruger.

.22-250 ammo is extremely versatile with the right load and rifle, capable of excelling at long-range tasks from varmint control to sport shooting.

How To Choose .22-250 Ammo

What's The Best .22-250 Ammo To Buy?

Low Cost, All Purpose:

High-Volume Varmint Load:

Explore the Best of the .22 Caliber

Best Game Load:

Lead-Free But Still Deadly:

Long-Range Match Ammo:

Best Varmint Load:

Best High-Velocity Varmint Load:

Primary Arms Optics has just announced the SLx 1-10x28mm SFP rifle scope, a new LPVO with a choice between two reticle options.

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