Benefit: 15% off!
Code: WLS
URL: HTTP://RUBBERDUMMIES.COM
Go buy our favorite target ever and get 15% off!
Source Article from http://welikeshooting.com/resource-guide/rubber-dummies/
When pickup with rocket launcher gone bad
The well-known pick-up vehicles have become some sort of the brand of Islamic State. These vehciles are often dubbed as “Jihad Pick-up”. In fact, militants are transforming these vehicles into some kind of combat vehicles. There are thousands of videos on the internet to witness this trend.
TLP 139 Team Multicam & The Baja 1000
We shift gears in this episode to some good ole off-road badasseryness! Ernesto Rodriguez, brand manager for Multicam brings their Baja 1000 Ironman Team to the show. Jeff Benrud, Army Special Operations veteran and 3 time Baja Ironman competitor along with Jeff’s trainer and coach, none other than the The Legend himself and hall-of-famer of motocross and off-road racing, seven time AMA national championship winner and 2 time Baja 1000 winner, Ricky Johnson! Jeff, Ricky and Ernesto tells us about last years Baja 1000 race’s trials and tribulations and what they need to do this year to improve from last. Jeff and Ricky also tell us about their company “American Off Road” where they train special forces how to drive off-road. The Jackwagon Train, Facts to Fight the Myths and yes, TRIVIA are all back this week! Buckle up and enjoy the ride Leadheads…
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Source Article from http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TalkingLead/~3/-GDYafoRBJA/
WLS 130 – Self Defense Month – Principles
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Welcome to the We Like Shooting show, Episode 130 – this week is part one of a 4 part series discussing self defense shooting, our guest is Rob Pincus, let me introduce my crew!
We have
- A Do it yourself YouTuber who knows two wrongs don’t make a right, just take his parents as an example. – Savage1r
- Retired Navy, advocate for women’s shooting, blogger at heelsandhandguns.com. who really wants a great gift for Mothers Day, but her kids can’t afford to move out yet. – Lil Chantilly
- Former Marine and owner of River’s Edge Tactical. Who believes strong people don’t put others down. They lift them up and slam them on the ground for maximum damage. – Jeremy Pozderac
- A precision rifle builder that wishes he had a dollar for every girl that found him unattractive, that way they would eventually find him attractive. – Nick Lynch
- 3 gun shooter and famous media personality who wants to die peacefully in her sleep, like her grandfather.. Not screaming and yelling like the passengers in his car Kelli Sampsel.
- Next up, the self proclaimed Machine Gun Moses who keeps asking why is there so much blood in his alcohol system? – Aaron Krieger.
- My name is Shawn and I hate people who use big words just to make themselves look perspicacious
Speak with and introduce guests:
former army reserve, law enforcement, private security, instructor in firearms, personal defense and tactics. The executive Director or Personal Defense Network, Owner of I.C.E. Training Company and co-founder of Avidity Arms, please welcome Rob Pincus
Second Call Defense
http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2016/jan/31/suspected-home-intruder-shot-dead-in-nw-spokane/
Can you imagine any words scarier than “police are investigating the shooting” and knowing it is about you? You are in your house, you hear a noise, you get up to investigate and soonafter someone is dead and bleeding in your house. What’s the first thing you do? Do you have to get a lawyer or do the cops give you one? There are thousands of questions competing with the stress you have going on right now.
That is why you need Second Call Defense. You call the police, then you call SCD. They will jump into action and make sure you have an attorney, bail, guidance, direction and more.
For less than your car insurance, home owners insurance or camera insurance they will cover you not only for criminal charges, but any civil charges that may come up. They are there to help you pick up the pieces and not rot in a jail cell. these situations are not always as simple as it would seem. Why risk it?
Everyone who signs up gets a free We Like Shooting pint glass, just send your email confirmation to feedback@welikeshootingpodcast.com
Don’t wait until it’s too late. http://welikeshooting.com/scd
- Celebrities
- A counter-discussion (see episode 129 when I said no more conceal carry purses.) In defense of such products, or at least a devil’s advocate point of view, I offer this news story from this week in Louisville, KY.
After 60 minutes read ad! Remind me guys!
Go to http://manticorearms.com/Transformer-Rail-for-AR-15-PRE-ORDER-MA-14300.htm?productId=75
Coupon code WLS10 for 10% off any day, every day (not combinable with WLS30, only one coupon code at a time) for WLS listeners. Don’t share with people who don’t listen, they don’t deserve it! Or, better yet, just tell your friends they should listen!
where we talk about stuff that we have, want and need!
THIS WEEK (130) WE ARE ONLY DISCUSSING SELF DEFENSE ITEMS. FIRST LETS TALK ABOUT WHAT WE CARRY OR WOULD CARRY AND WHY
What do/would you carry?
Where do you carry?
Why do you carry?
- savage1r: Tristar T-100
- Aaron – Strikeone From Arsenal 9mm
- Shawn – M&P Shield – 9mm
- Lil – Have: XD(s) 9mm / Want: Ruger LC9s or LCP
- Nick – FEG pistols
- Guest Panelist –
- Guest: The new Avidity Arms PD10
Shooting with Chris and Kenaz
Two promos to tell you about
Spend over $175 and get free shipping with code FREESHIP
OR buy a range pack and get $5 off your first order. Use code WLS5OFFRP
- Facebook and Instagram decides to shut down all p2p gun sales on their social media site. Remember, it’s perfectly legal to sell other items, though.
- Guest:
- After a firestorm of criticism at the attorney general of Virginia, McAuliffe reversed the decision, restoring most of the CCW reciprocity states as long as the pro-gun side conceded that people with domestic violence restraining orders would be barred from carrying a gun. This isn’t a problem, because it’s already FEDERAL LAW that anyone who has a protection order against them can’t own a gun in the first place. The Deets.
- The case against century arms, among others, proves clinton’s claims that manufacturers and shops cannot be sued is false.
DEZ promo and SDI promo
Wrap up
How can you help the show? We have two great ways! First we have our patreon program. If you think the show has value and have a couple of bucks to spare join over 200 other listeners in an exclusive group! By joining our patreon program you get rewards based on the level you support us at. From stickers to patches to great gear and swag! Please become a patreon. Just visit http://welikeshooting.com/pledge to learn more.
Next, we introduced a groundbreaking new rewards program. If you can’t afford a couple of bucks a month, you can help us by becoming a rooftopper. You sign up, get a unique link to share with your friends, share the link and every time someone clicks on it, you earn points. The more points you earn the more rewards and badges you earn. Go to http://wlsshow.com/register to get started.
congrats to Chrisgill
You can do one or both, either way your contributions are greatly appreciated!
Thank Guest!
- Find us on all the social media and our website.
Just a reminder to join a gun related advocacy group and we always give out the Suicide prevention line, that number is 1 (800) 273-8255
HI DAN!
We’re here live every week on Wednesday nights and on demand every Thursday. Go to welikeshooting.com/show to subscribe!
Thanks for listening, and shoot straight.
You can download or subscribe to our weekly show every Thursday at http://welikeshooting.com/show
If you’d like to watch live, our show broadcasts live every Wednesday night at 7:30PM (MT), watch it and chat with us at http://gunchannels.com/WeLikeShooting
Please support our advertisers, DEZ Tactical Arms, Manticore Arms, Second Call Defense and the Sonoran Desert Institute.
Also check out our syndication partners ModernArms.net, GunsSaveLives.net, AR-15 Gun Owners of America and Guns America.
New Russian monster for all-terrains – SHERP ATV
The Russian industry is competing with the rest of the world more than ever. A new Russian military vehicle for all-terrain with the amphibious feature is ready for civilian market.
This monster is constructed at St. Petersburg by the genius constructor Aleksey Garagashyan. The SHERP ATV has been built for military conditions, it has self-inflating tires, can clear obstacles 2.5 feet high, and as the most exciting feature, it can plow through ice and float on water.
It’s not designed for any serious speeding (28 mph on land and 3.7 mph in water) but it will take you from the point A to point B for sure, no matter if you will use roads or just go straight from A to B. And of course, it’s abilities will eliminate waiting in traffic if needed.
Technical specifications
Engine: 1.5-liter diesel
Max. speed: 45 km/h (28 mph) on land, 6 km/h (3,7 mph) in water
Weight: 1300 kg (2860 pounds) with carrying capacity of 1000 kg (2200 pounds)
Fuel tank: 60 liters (optional two cans inside the vehicle and inside the wheels, giving an extra 200 liters)
Consumption: 3 liters/hour
Price: $65,000
Source Article from http://www.special-ops.org/16485/new-russian-monster-for-all-terrains-sherp-atv.html
WLS 132 – Self Defense Month – Combatives
Welcome to the We Like Shooting show, Episode 132 – this week is part 3 of a 4 part series discussing self defense this week hand to hand defense, our guest is Matt Powell. Matt is the creator of Pramek, an international organization studying science and combatives. Released two dozen instructional videos, over 100 on Youtube, written 6 books on the science of martial art learning and training, general lover of pit bulls and guns.
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The New PD10 From Avidity Firearms Might Surprise You
Every once in a while, you come across a firearm of some sort — be it a rifle, shotgun or handgun — that really grabs your attention; the one that keeps your mind reeling all day; the one already taking up space in your collection but hasn’t even been released yet.
This time, it’s the PD10, a handgun designed by one of the foremost industry experts on personal defense, Rob Pincus and his colleagues at Avidity Firearms. Pincus was on-hand with a prototype Avidity Firearms PD10 and its performance did not disappoint. Like a good song, shooting the PD10 is one of those experiences that plays on in your mind over and over again.
True to the ancient Indo-European triquetra fittingly placed on the backstrap to symbolize the unity of integrity, consistency and efficiency, the PD10 far exceeded expectations for fit form and function. Its exceptional trigger offered the smoothest, most consistent pull of the day while the striker-fire action also performed flawlessly.
The ancient Indo-European “triquetra” is stamped on the PD10’s backstrap to symbolize the unity of integrity, consistency and efficiency.
Although the PD10 is essentially a full-sized handgun, its slim frame and grip make for incredibly comfortable shooting, even for those with smaller hands. In a personal defense world where safeties can help or hinder, the PD10 features non-inhibiting inertial and trigger block safeties, a loaded chamber indicator and aggressive rear serrations for positive slide operation. I.C.E. Claw Emergency Manipulation Sights and Baseplates promote rapid sight alignment and target acquisition to improve upon your critical balance of speed and precision, while a simple takedown and a minimal amount of field-stripped parts promotes efficient cleaning and maintenance.
At 20 ounces empty weight, with a 4.1-inch barrel and 10+1 9mm capacity the Avidity Firearms PD10 stands ready to challenge any existing range carry and personal defense handgun on the market today for top honors. Looking back at fit, form and function, as well as the triquetra placed at the nearest point of contact between the PD10 and the operator, no other handgun that we tried during SHOT Show range day satisfied those critical attributes as well as the PD10. At a reported MSRP of $499, it’s going to deliver a lot of bang for the buck.
Now the bad news…
If the Avidity PD10 sounds amazing, it is — but you’re not getting your hands on one until summer 2016. For those fortunate enough to spend a little trigger time with the PD10 prototype during SHOT Show’s range day it’s going to be a long, hard wait.
Constitutional Carry (Permitless Carry) back in the Michigan Legislature
House Bills 5301-5304 were introduced by state Reps. Tom Barrett, R-Potterville; Lee Chatfield, R-Levering; Triston Cole, R-Mancelona; and Jim Runestad, R-White Lake.
The GOP with the hope of bi-partisian support due to this being a major election year have put forth a series of bills that look to remove the existing restrictions required to conceal carry.
One of their things we support about this bill is it will not remove the ability for people to obtrain a CPL should they so choose. For those of us who travel on a regular basis this is an important fact. Michigan’s CPL is recognized by the most states possible with only the most anti-gun states not accepting reciprocity.
The bill aims to place into law the Second Amendment rights of Michigan residents to bear arms without asking the government’s permission to do so,” Rep. Barrett said. “The current concealed weapons permit amounts to nothing more than a state tax on a freedom guaranteed in the U.S. Constitution.”
Tom Lambert of Michigan Open Carry has said :
“I think they are very well done. They are clean and they are focused. Rather than trying to do everything at once, they focus in on a specific issue and address it in the way it should be addressed. For example: rather than just deleting 750.227 (2), they change it to apply only to those prohibited from possessing a firearm. That is how this statute should work. Law-abiding citizens are not the problem, it’s the criminals.”
(Existing statues: http://legislature.mi.gov/doc.aspx?mcl-750-227)
The bill would make concealed carry legal everywhere outside the current concealed pistol free zones. This includes in your vehicle, on your bike, snowmobile or other motorized vehicle. You can read about the specifics via the links below.
David Dellinger of Michigan Gun Owners (MGO) had this to say
“Michigan Gun Owners endorses passage of HB 5301-5304. This package of legislation reflects the guarantees that are found in Article 1, Section 6 of the Michigan Constitution, something that Michigan Gun Owners holds as one of its core beliefs.”
Michigan Coalition for Responsible Gun Owwners (MCRGO) has not taken an official stance as of yet. Though the most recent post on Facebook would indicate some concerns regarding the legislation. This is from their Facebook page:
Several Michigan House Republicans have introduced the latest round of constitutional carry legislation. What makes this package different than others is the stronger likelihood of having the legislation considered especially in an election year with Democratic candidates making a partisan issue out of gun control. What hasn’t changed is Snyder’s reluctance to support broad change in Michigan gun laws. MCRGO’s board will consider a position on the package this month. We are aware of the concerns from some carry advocates about the lack of mandated training in the bills conflicting with broad support for permitless carry. Should training be required to carry concealed? It is not required currently for open carry except in some PFZs.
This may be simply a test of their membership as Brady Schickinger did make the following statement to me:
“This is an exciting development that could see some traction in the House and resistance from the administration.”
As a gun rights page we take the rights of gun owners very seriously and as such support bills that make it easier for law-abiding citizens to exercise their right to own and carry firearms.
As you know 248Shooter and GATDaily take firearms training very seriously. In our opinion the existing CPL regulations do not actually do anything to prepare a citizen to carry a weapon. The very nature of the required course is focused on self-defense in the home and not related to training or education relevant to carrying a gun.
Education should be a personal requirement of every person that carries a weapon. Since the mandated education is currently insufficient we see no issue with the removal of the requirement. It is my hope however that each and every gun owner not only practices and train, but actively acquire and re-acquire a useful skill set related to their personal needs.
Self-regulation and self-responsibility are the corner stones to a free market and society. While I applaud this legislation and it’s attempt to reduce the barrier to gun ownership we as a people need to accept this responsibility and show the anti-gun crowd that their fears and claims are unfounded. We can only do that by carrying responsibly.
Take a moment and thank the representatives who sponsored this series of bills:
Reps. Tom Barrett, R-Potterville; Lee Chatfield, R-Levering; Triston Cole, R-Mancelona; and Jim Runestad, R-White Lake.
In addition call your representative and ask why they didn’t help sponsor this bill. Make sure to encourage them to do so moving forward.
As this continues to evolve rest assured we will keep you updated on the legal stance as well as the stance of the various groups working to ensure the success of this bill.
Source Article from http://248shooter.com/index.php/constitutional-carry-permitless-carry-back-in-the-michigan-legislature/
TUFF Products Break Out Pen, The Tactical Pen That Works
Tactical pens have grown in popularity and are now being made by just about everyone in the accessories markets. They range from massive monstrosities that rival a kubaton all the way down to a disposable version that looks almost useless. That is why it so refreshing to finally find one that is stylish and covert enough for office use, yet feature packed.
The Break Out pen is well named and well built. Aptly named because the features of this pen are designed around removing you or breaking you out of harms way. This exit device comes equipped with a carbide tip, glass breaker, on the end of the pen cap.
At the other end of the pen is a stylus for touch screen devices. I have tested this with an iPad and iPhone, and it is as good as any other ordinary stylus on the market.
Unscrew the stylus and you find a hidden feature. Inside is a handcuff key that will work on all standard handcuffs. A nice added touch is the handcuff key and stylus are both threaded so either can be set up to be hidden under the cap of the pen.
The Pen accepts Parker refills, which come in a wide array of colors and styles and are incredibly inexpensive. When embedded in the 6061 aluminum machined pen body it makes an efficient stabbing device.
The shape of the pen is visually attractive but ergonomically designed for both of its jobs. As a pen, it is well balanced and comfortable to write with. The thick ends with a skinny middle section allow for a very firm grip when using the pen as a defensive device. Even without the knurling often found on these devices the shape does an excellent job of creating a proper grip surface.
I love this tactical pen as a pen first and foremost. Since SHOT Show, it has been part of my EDC. It has signed contracts, taken meeting notes on both paper and tablets, as well as performed all the duties my disposable pens have done. At a $60 price point, it is the most expensive pen that has ever left my office. However, it is not so expensive that I am scared to lose it like the Monte Blanc my wife gave me years ago.
When entering a single mom support zone with some friends at SHOT Show, I was stripped of all my personal protection devices. The 6’ 5” bouncer looked at my pen and asked me about it to which I replied, “do I look like MacGyver to you?” Needless to say, I was allowed to enter with it.
I hope you never need to use a pen to defend your life or escape a dangerous situation. If however you do this is the pen you want to have on you. Lightweight, discreet, efficient and well made this item has earned a place in my EDC.
The TUFF Products Break Out Pen is available online via the TUFF Products website. http://www.tuffproducts.com/ with an MSRP of $59.99. If you use the On Target discount code ONTARGET, you can save 20% on this item or any other item that they sell for a limited time.
Source Article from http://248shooter.com/index.php/tuff-products-break-out-pen-the-tactical-pen-that-works/
SMG Reviews the Vortex Crossfire Binoculars
Craig Reinolds from the Swanson Media Groups gives us his review of the Crossfire Binos from Vortex.
Man is uniquely different from the other creatures on this planet and more specifically in being able to adapt and create with his mind to overcome obstacles. Although we may have limitations, comparatively speaking, with our vision, we have overcome by the fantastic tool we call binoculars. In the last several months I have had the opportunity to field test a pair of Crossfire Binoculars from Vortex Optics. I hope to interest you by sharing some of the knowledge I have gained and the wonderful experience I have had with such a great quality product from Vortex. First thing you should know is that I now have many products from Vortex Optics and I can say I am proud to roll with gear from such a well-respected company. This company provides a grade “A Plus” product and a customer service that is unsurpassed by any. The Vortex warranty on my binoculars states “Unlimited, Unconditional & Lifetime” what else can you say. If you can’t match quality, price, service and warranty with what comes from http://www.vortexoptics.com then you may as well sit down and shut up.
My first thought is to address our need for optics or in this case a binocular. Human beings rely on their senses and most of the time a combination of senses combined with experiences, this is how we interpret our surroundings. The animal kingdom normally has far greater senses than we have and this gives them the advantage unless we apply tools and techniques to the equation. Eye sight as far as hunting goes, this can be an animal or an enemy, is limited when it come to natural surroundings and camouflages. We also have to learn to interpret what we see without our mind playing tricks on us. We need a tool to help us break down and focus on the slightest detail. This is done through magnification, and preferably a product developed with these needs in mind. Our eyes don’t always by themselves see the details needed and our brain tends to fill in the gaps of our vision. A high quality binocular can give us a tremendous step in improving our abilities to see our prey or enemy what ever the case may be. Even outdoor hobbies of observing nature or sporting events are brought to a High Definition event through the lenses of a binocular.
The Vortex Crossfire binocular comes in as a very affordable binocular, but gives you a superior value for the price. Listed on the Vortex site as $219 with an accepted retail of $249. It is hard to find another binocular of equal price with the clarity, quality and technology of these binoculars. Throw in the warranty and there are no comparisons, competition void. The others may need a pair of Vortex binoculars to reveal how far off the mark they are as this company is setting a new standard in the industry.
These Crossfire binoculars have been engineered for pure performance; lets get the specifications and technical data out of the way:
- Model # CF-4304
- 12 x 50 binoculars
- Fully Multi-Coated – Anti-reflective lens coatings increase light transmission for greater clarity
- Nitrogen Purged – Gas purged with O-ring seals delivering waterproof, fog proof performance
- Streamlined Rubber Armor
- Tripod Adaptable
- Twist-up Eye Cups – Twist up and down for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses
- Size (H x W) 5.4 x 6.6
- Weight 30.3 oz.
- Eye Relief 15 mm
- Close Focus 9.8 feet
- Linear Field of View @ 1000 Yards 273 feet
- Angular Field of View 5.2 degrees
- IPD (Interpupillary Distance) – 60-76 mm
- Roof Prism – Valued for greater durability and a more compact size
- Center Focus Wheel – Adjusts the focus of both binocular barrels at the same time
- Right eye Diopter – Adjusts for differences in a user’s eyes. Located on the right eyepiece
Accessories in the box:
- Soft Carry Case
- Comfort Neck Strap
- Tethered Objective Lens Covers
- Rain Guard Eye Piece Covers
Available accessories from Vortex to name a few are the harness chest strap, Archer’s strap, Binoc-loc hinge lock, Tripod adapters and many more.
Vortex Warranty as written on the box – We promise to repair or replace any damage or defect over the life of the product. Absolutely free, no matter the cause. Unlimited-Unconditional-Lifetime. The only thing that is not covered is if you loose it or it is stolen.
“What Else Could You Ask For?”
Now I may even let my wife and grand kids use them. So what if they break them?
Vortex describes the CROSSFIRE 12X50 ROOF PRISM BINOCULAR as follows:
Need a quality, performance-driven binocular that won’t break the bank? Enter the all-new Crossfire series—an entirely new optical system, housing, and aesthetic push into a realm previously unheard of at this price point. Fully multi-coated lenses promote impressive optical quality, while a wide field of view and enhanced depth of field ensure optimal subject acquisition. They may be the entry point in our roof prism lineup, but there is nothing entry-level about these binoculars. http://www.vortexoptics.com/video/crossfire_binocular
I can attest to this being a true statement from Vortex Optics and don’t just take my word on it, as the reviews across the board for the Crossfire are currently five, you read correctly 5 out 5 stars!
Right out of the box I was blown away with the very attractive, manly black case. It is a very clean, high quality material with a shoulder strap and pad. The strap has swivel clips for easy removal and preventing strap twist. On the back there is a thick strap you could run a belt through for waist carry. Inside you find a smooth material to prevent scratching and a net style pocket to carry lens cleaning products or what ever else you may desire. The binoculars come with a thick comfort strap that does just that, it allows the Crossfire to hang for hours of use without neck discomfort.
The first feature that was a home run for me was the twist-up eye cups. Whether you wear prescription glasses or plain sunglasses, it is always for me an aggravation to lift or remove your glasses to look through the binoculars. This can also be a tragic hindrance in spotting what you are looking for, with that lapse in time. With glasses on you just leave the twist-ups all the way in and raise the binoculars straight to your glasses and view what you want to see. If you are not wearing glasses just twist out the cups for normal binocular use. This for me is the greatest thing since sliced bread. Next just by going through the simple set up with the diopter it is the perfect focused view. You could not get your optometrist to fit you better with the correct lens for your vision then what Vortex has done with the Crossfire binoculars. Once you have correctly focused your binoculars to your eyes you just rotate the center focus wheel for the desired distance and focus. I found this to be a great tool when glassing areas not familiar to me. I would shoot with my range finder a large object like a tree at different ranges 100, 200 and 300 yards. Now all I had to do was focus on that tree at the desired range and could easily determine the distance of what I was looking at based on focusing in or out from that distance. This way I could glass and judge distances without switching back and forth between binocular and range finder. The next benefit to the Crossfire was being able to penetrate the brush. Scanning an area and being able to adjust focus seemingly looking through the trees and brush was awesome spotting game before they even reach an opening was a major hit. Another advantage was during sun up and sun down transitions. If you have ever spent time looking for game during those time periods you know your eyes can play tricks on you especially with the changing degrees of light and shadows. The Vortex Crossfire binoculars gives you your edge back during these crucial times. It is like your entire field of view has been placed into HD mode and what would trick your brain or even worse what may get by you is now under a microscope. The clarity and definition are remarkable. This can only be described in my mind how an eagle must view the world, with such high definition and nothing escaping the field of his vision.
No matter what you desire to view through binoculars, whether you are hunting, bird watching, sight seeing or attending a sporting event I am 100% confident these crossfire binoculars will supersede your expectations. Since I have had mine I have taken several people out on tours into the Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia. I get the greatest kick out of handing these Vortex Crossfires to a client and watching them react when they see a 12’ gator through them. Even when they look at a hawk or an owl it is like looking at a 4k live photo and you always hear a “whoooaaa…” when they get focused in on that bird. The details you are able to see are truly amazing. Thanks Vortex Optics for providing my crew those experiences.
The sleek rubber armored chassis of the Crossfire binocular are not only just for durability. This rubberized look is very handsome in appearance and makes them comfortable to use as well, as it gives you a good grip in foul weather too. The two-tone look makes these binoculars sharp in appearance. Just set them out where others can see them and watch how they are drawn to pick them up and look through them to another world. The reactions are priceless.
To sum it up I would like to say anything you get from Vortex would not disappoint you. I wish I had had these products from the beginning of my outdoor experiences. These binoculars far exceed the expectation for the price point. I can’t even imagine what you would experience from their high end products, but do you really need to spend that much to have the best experience? I think not at $249 and some times less, you are not going to get any better than the Crossfire for most applications.
Source: http://www.thegearlocker.net/2016/02/smg-reviews-the-vortex-crossfire-binoculars/
We Like Shooting 133 – Self Defense Month – Law
Tonight is the fourth episode in a 4 part series discussing self defense. We’ll chat with NRA Board member and founder of Second Call Defense to discuss self defense and the law.
We Like Shooting is a hilarious panel discussion about safety, guns, gear and gadgets and the issues that affect responsible shooters everywhere.
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The Easy Way To Sight In An Optic
One of your key advantages over online sellers and big-box retailers is that you can provide face-to-face service. Teaching your customers how to properly zero and run optics is a great opportunity to show customers your expertise and provide some extra value that your online competitors can’t. There are at least two common ways to properly zero a scope — the “mash” method and the “math” method.
The “mash” method involves firing a carefully aimed shot at a target downrange, then realigning the sights with the original point of aim. A partner “mashes” the rifle into the sandbags or supports, holding the rifle so the crosshairs are perfectly on the original aiming point. The shooter adjusts the windage and elevation turrets until the crosshairs are centered on the actual impact point. The “mashing” part is important, as the rifle cannot move while the shooter is adjusting the scope. In theory, this method is a way to zero a scope with one shot, but I don’t think it’s particularly precise or convenient.
The “math” method involves a little teaching that you can do right in your store to help your customer understand the basic principles of how scopes and turret adjustments work. I’m convinced this is an area of great educational opportunity, as I see shooters at the range going through boxes of ammo while furiously spinning adjustment dials until they finally leave in frustration with a still un-zeroed optic.
This wheeler engineering torque wrench is a must have for frequent scope mounting.
The first step is to make sure the optic is properly mounted and with the correct amount of torque on both ring, screws and bases. Mounting a scope is in itself a great service opportunity for your store, as doing it right will require a couple of pieces of equipment that most customers won’t have readily available — a torque wrench and perhaps a ring lapping kit if you want to get fancy. If you do decide to provide optic-mounting service for customers who buy scopes from your store, it will be worth your while to invest in a bit of equipment. Most optics and ring vendors will specify their preferred mounting torque, but if not, tightening scope rings to 25 inch-pounds is a good rule of thumb. That will hold the scope steady without bending the tube.
This .22lr scope has all the information you need to do the “math” method of zeroing. Each click will move the point of impact 1/4-inch at 100 yards.
Once the scope is properly mounted, it’s time to plan out the zeroing strategy. Most scopes are consistent enough with their elevation and windage adjustments that you can plan the required adjustments on paper after firing a couple of shots. The actual results after the theoretical adjustment will be close to the desired result. The theoretical calculation is fairly easy, as every modern scope I’ve seen has units of adjustment printed right on the windage and elevation dials. The most common measurements seem to be ¼-MOA-per-click, although I frequently see ½-MOA-per-click and .1-Mils-per-click adjustment increments.
A minute of angle (MOA) is an angular measurement that translates to just over 1 inch at 100 yards. Since angular measurements are proportional, you simply adjust for any other distance. If one MOA is 1 inch at 100 yards, then one MOA is ½-inch at 50 yards, since 50 yards is half the distance of 100 yards. Likewise, one MOA is ¼-inch at 25 yards and 2-inches at 200 yards. Understanding the concept of minutes of angle is critical to easy scope zeroing and use, as it allows you to easily match the actual point of impact with the crosshairs of the scope at any distance. The best part is that you can educate your customer on this in the store using their new scope as a teaching aid.
It’s critical to use proper rests and sandbags when zeroing to eliminate other variables. If the shooter is skilled, a supported prone position can be even better.
I recommend firing a three-shot group at a target 100 yards downrange. Why three shots? As you’re giving advice in the store, you really can’t evaluate the shooting skill of your customer. Are they a hunter who pulls the trigger a half dozen times a year or a competitive shooter who fires thousands of shots per month? A carefully fired, three-shot group will establish an average position that shows the difference between the point of aim and point of impact.
A three-shot group will give confirmation that everything else is consistent before you start messing with scope adjustments.
Once the initial three-shot group is fired at 100 yards, it’s time to evaluate how far the center of the group is from the aiming point. The easy way to do this is to use sighting targets with 1-inch grid patterns. If the center of the group is two squares above and one square to the left of center, that tells you that the scope needs to be adjusted 2 inches down and 1 inch to the right. Be sure to sell sighting targets in your store!
I would disregard the flyer to the lower right and adjust the scope up 2 inches and 1 inch to the right. The 1-inch grid pattern on this target makes adjustment calculations easy.
Now that we know how far the point of impact is from the point of aim, it’s time to implement the math. Going back to your example, suppose the bullets hit 2 inches high and 1 inch left. Now it’s time to correlate that difference in point of impact with the effect of each click of the windage and elevation dials. If this scope is a ¼-MOA-per-click variety, then each click will move the point of impact ¼-inch at 100 yards. We’ll need to spin the elevation dial enough to move the point of impact down 2 inches. Since each click is ¼-inch, that would be eight clicks down. We also have to adjust 1 inch to the right, or four clicks to the right using the windage dial.
The elevation direction is clearly indicated on this Hawke optics scope. Each click in the counter-clockwise direction moves the bullet impact up ½-inch at 100 yards.
Remember, the directional arrows on scope dials and turrets imply the direction you want the bullet to move. If the windage turret has an arrow pointing counter-clockwise and marked with an “R,” then each click in that direction will move the bullet impact to the right.
Once the theoretical adjustment has been made, it’s time to shoot another three-shot group. Odds are pretty good that the new group will be just about right at the point of aim. If there is a slight variance, then just redo the math, make click adjustments as needed and retest the group.
Some scopes like this one have click adjustments measured in .1 milliradians. That works just like minutes of angle, except 1 mil is 3.6 inches at 100 yards, so .1 mil clicks shift the bullet impact .36 inches at that distance.
Is it possible to zero a scope with fewer shots? Absolutely — but remember, you’re giving instruction to a shooter of unknown experience and skill in your store and you won’t be at the range to help. Your best bet is to educate the customer on the process and underlying science in order to improve their chances of success at the range.
Source: http://www.shootingsportsretailer.com/2016/02/24/the-easy-way-to-sight-in-an-optic/
Choosing a Hunting Optic on A Budget
Thus, it is completely understandable if you are not pursuing the highest quality and most expensive scopes, but are looking good enough scope, with a decent price that just gets the job done.
This is exactly what this guide will help you to do, help you to choose a good optic for hunting purposes while not breaking the bank.
Essential and Non-Essential Features
When you are choosing a budget scope for your hunting rifle you have to consider a variety of different factors. These factors include the things you need and the things you really don’t. When you factor out the things you don’t need and find an optic with the qualities you do need, you save money and acquire a quality optic. Let’s first focus on the some of the features you may need.
Essential For Hunting
Right Magnification Type
Most hunters agree that a 300-yard shot is what most shooters/hunters are capable of making to score a humane kill. Some experienced hunters and shooters may extend past that range, but for most of us, this is the range we can humanely kill an animal. This may change with the actual size of the animal and the weapon used, but we’ll use it as a baseline for most deer, bear, and hog hunting.
The most common and often most affordable option is the 3 to 9 power optic. The 3 to 9 power option will work well at 300 yards, and, of course, works well at closer ranges. Other options include 2-7 power, and even as high as 4 to 16 power. In these magnification ranges, you have plenty of versatility and plenty of different options.
Another idea is to choose a dedicated fixed power optic. Fixed power optics can run anywhere from 4 power to 10 power, and offer a variety of advantages.
The first is cost savings. A fixed power optic will be much more affordable, and provide a high level of quality. A fixed power optic is also extremely durable and has fewer failure points than a variable optic. Of course you are isolated to one magnification range and sometimes 4 power may not be enough and 10 power may be too much. Everything is a trade-off when it comes to budgeting.
Durability
Hunting can be a rough environment, it can be rough on you, on your rifle, and on your optic. You and your rifle can be pretty durable inherently, an optic, however, uses glass, and any kid playing baseball in the yard realizes how easily glass breaks. One of the most important features in purchasing an optic is its level of durability. The field by its very nature is averse, and can be devastating to a piece of gear made from aluminum and glass.
The first thing you need to take into account is how well the optic takes the shock. You may fall, trip, bang your rifle on your tree stand, or a rock while climbing up a hill. All may result in little more than a scraped knee for you but can destroy a scope if it’s not prepped for the fall. A shockproof rating is something you should look into when it comes to an optic.
Rain, dew, and fog are the enemies of optics , so you want something that is both waterproof, and fog proof, because you never know in what conditions you may be hunting.
Ability To Take Recoil
Another factor is the caliber you are firing, is the optic rated to handle your round? Are you hunting with a 45-70 or a 223? The recoil for both rifles is very, very different, one can be brutal, and the other is a pussycat. So the bigger the caliber, the more shockproof scope you may need.
Quality Reticle
For two or three hundred yards you won’t need anything especially fancy. I suggest either a simple duplex reticle or a simple mil dot design. These are both easy to use, and highly effective reticles. They are also quite affordable since they are simple and affordable to produce. An illuminated reticle is nice, but not necessary. Often times the illuminated reticle on a budget optic features a degree of washout that can make it difficult to see your target, or could kill your natural night vision. Keep it simple.
Glass
I want to go over a couple of bullet points with glass, which is simple, and easy to observe.
- Objective size aids in light gathering and field of view size, but two to three hundred yards won’t require anything larger than 40 or 42mm.
- Fully multicoated lenses aid a lot in reducing glare and aids in gathering light, which gives you a brighter, clearer picture. Fully multi-coated lenses make a massive difference in optical clarity.
Non-Essential Features
A few things you don’t need on a hunting budget optic include.
- A massive amount of magnification, like a 28 power, is not necessary for hunting. It’s nice, but hardly necessary, and adds weight and cost to your optic.
- An illuminated reticle is nice, but another unnecessary addition that can work well, but can also kill your natural eyesight.
- Tactical turrets. If you can find a set of fingertip adjustable turrets in your budget, then great, but they aren’t necessary, and can add close to a hundred dollars to some optics.
- Tactical anything. Tactical features are often oversold and unnecessary for hunters. Tactical work and hunting are two different fields, and one doesn’t cross over into the other.
Scope Suggestions
I do have a few suggestions for budget optics. First and foremost these are optics I have personal, hands on experience with. They range a bit in price, but each delivers when it comes to performance and durability.
Leupold VX-1
The Leupold VX-1 is one of my favorite scopes of all time. The VX-1 ranges right around 200 dollars. The VX-1 is superbly simple, easy to use, and durable as hell. Leupold provides an excellent warranty on their optics, which will cover anything that happens to it.
The Redfield Revolution
The Redfield is an American tradition, a scope design that has been around for generations. The Revolution is dead nuts simple and is incredibly reliable. The optic shines with its simplicity and is an excellent option for a hunting optic. The Redfield is one of the most affordable options available as well. And in matter of fact, I even have a full Redfield Revolution review up on my site. More specifically it was the 3-9×40 version and got 4.3/5 stars from me. Quite good for such a budget scope.
Source Article from http://248shooter.com/index.php/choosing-hunting-optic-budget/
How Winchester Played A Big Role In The Fight For Freedom
Though Winchester rifles and shotguns have always been popular with the troops — sometimes even becoming an issued standard weapon like the “Trench Sweeper” model of the Model 1897 shotgun — the company has also done its duty when the nation called, putting its expertise and experience to work producing guns from other sources to ensure victory.
As World War II heated up in Europe, the U.S. military was gearing up for what appeared to be an inevitable American entry into the conflict. Troops would need large numbers of the new M1 Garand rifle, and production couldn’t keep up with orders. In 1939, Winchester was given a small order and one set of tooling to see if it could produce the rifle. When the company proved that it could meet the orders, Winchester began lending a hand with the Garand.
The company was no stranger to building military guns, having produced 750,000 British-designed Enfield rifles for both British and American troops during World War I. Called the Model 39 internally, the Winchester M1 Garand began regular production in 1941. Winchester produced over 513,000 of the famous semi-auto service rifles. American Gen. George Patton called the M1 “the greatest battle implement ever devised” and Winchester built a special M1 for “Old Blood and Guts” himself.
Interestingly, the tooling used by Winchester for M1 production was used by Beretta to produce M1s for NATO use in the 1950s. The Beretta version of the Springfield gun produced on Winchester’s tooling was known as the Model 1952.
In addition to M1 production, Winchester designed the M1 Carbine. It originated as a design by Jonathan “Ed” Browning, brother to John Moses Browning, and eventually incorporated design elements from many sources. A rush need for an intermediate rifle propelled the gun into production, and the M1 Carbine was a successful light rifle, first delivered to U.S. troops in 1942 and serving with them through the Vietnam War.
Winchester built 828,000 of the over 6.5 million M1 Carbines produced, and the rifle remains popular with shooters around the world.