Ruger Precision Rifle

March 24, 2016

GearDisclosure.com statement of compliance: This product was provided at no cost for the purpose of review. Ruger has not paid We Like Shooting or provided any financial compensation for this review. The product will be returned to the manufacturer.

So, a day out on the range with the brand new Ruger Precision Rifle; ours was chambered in .308win. The day started off with a 100 yd sight in and then we went to the 300 yd range for a little bit of accuracy testing and to check if getting MOA accuracy was possible. First, a little about the gun.

The design of the rifle is well thought out. From the ability to use a lot of AR parts on the rifle, like the hand guard, grip, stock, and safety switch, to the built-in 20 MOA rail and the multi magazine capable mag well. We used PMags and M1A magazines when we tried it out; both ran just fine. The stock is a very well designed, though a little complicated if you’re used to a standard Monte Carlo or A2 stock. The trigger was a good trigger for a stock rifle and was much like a Savage Accu trigger, no complaints there. The stock with a little looking and thinking is easy to figure out though; looks harder to set up than it actually is. I’ve said before and will again, this rifle is over engineered in the best ways.

Now, as far as accuracy goes, I honestly wasn’t expecting anything great, but I wasn’t expecting anything horrible either. I figured it would shoot with the same accuracy and consistency as one would expect a decently priced rifle to. It was right where I thought it would’ve been. There was nothing spectacular about the shooting of the rifle, but there was nothing wrong with it either. It consistently shot MOA groups provided you used an ammunition that the rifle was compatible with. The trick was finding which grain and style was shot best from the rifle, but when that was found it shot MOA all day long. With a cartridge the rifle didn’t like it was more like a 2-2.5 MOA, but that’s to be expected with any rifle, really.

As far as things that I would change there are a couple. I really wish something touted as a precision rifle would come with a longer barrel. The .308 only comes with a 20″ barrel and I found that to be pretty stupid. Even though I would swear I saw advertisements back before the product was launched that said the .308 would have a 24″ barrel, who knows; either I’m crazy or they changed some shit. Either way it should have at least a 24″ barrel if they want to tout it as a precision rifle. Hell the 6.5 and the .243 have a 24″ and 26″ barrels respectively. The other thing I would change is putting a better barrel on it. The barrel is a 4140 CMV hammer forged and if I’m going to do precision shooting I want a SS option or 4150 CMV barrel. Also, give me either button pulled or cut rifling if we’re going for precision.

Source Article from http://welikeshooting.com/reviews/guns/ruger-precision-rifle/

Notch Gear Hats

Eric TGL

March 23, 2016

Trampas Swanson of Swanson Media Group takes a look at Notch Gear and their hats

A few months ago while surfing the web, I stumbled across a Facebook page representing a company called Notch Gear Hats. Almost immediately, I was captured by the unique design. These hats were no ordinary team themed baseball caps, these were the first specifically made caps to address a common annoyance in the shooting sports world; the battle of the hat versus the eye protection! Those of you, who have ever worn both on the range know exactly what I’m talking about, for others, let me explain.

Coming from a law enforcement background, it was common to be required the standard “eyes” and “ears” to be worn on the range, but also caps. In our department, like most, the patrol guys had their traditional “campaign” hats but also low profile caps similar to the ones issued to me and my team on SWAT. Either way, everyone had to endure the squared eye protection either pushing the cap up unnaturally high or the hat pushing the eye protection down and causing vision problems. The main problem was always the brim of the cap. As a grown man, not wearing gold chains and having a rap album, I like to wear my caps appropriately with a good amount of curve in the brim to protect my eyes from any blinding light or flying debris. Even the slightest proper curve in a cap’s brim normally will engage with the top of the shooter’s eye protection and start to cause problems. The only ways to traditionally wear both items is to either wear the cap very high up and look like Gomer Pyle or to flatten the brim and look like today’s modern pseudo-male, Justin Bieber wannabe, who apparently never watched a John Wayne movie a day in his life and leans too much to his effeminate side.

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What I saw on the Notch Gear website was a way around this little fashion battle through the use of the company’s “notch” system. These adjustable and flex fit caps made by Notch Gear feature a notch cut out on each side of the cap’s brim wear it would normally engage the top of common eye protection, thus allowing the curved brim to come down around the eyepro without obstruction. I immediately reached out to Notch Gear and inquired about field testing these hats on an upcoming trip to SHOT SHOW in Las Vegas. Within a week, I had a pair of the new operator FlexFit hats ready to go!

When the hats arrived, I contacted fellow writer and friend, Craig Reinolds about trying one of them out for himself. A few weeks later, Craig and I arrived in Las Vegas for the firearms industry’s largest event of the year. To kick the week’s events off; Industry Day at the Range was a full day of shooting stations from nearly every firearms manufacturer in attendance. What I discovered while wearing the Notch Gear hat for the entire day in combination with my Oakley Tombstone shooting glasses is just how comfortable the hat was over the course of events. The hat seemed to lock my eyepro into place so I didn’t have to worry about any adjustment at all. What I didn’t expect was the comfort while wearing hearing protection. Traditional hats have a metal button on the top of the crown, but instead, the Notch Gear caps are flat, buttonless with a small patch of Velcro on top for either IR ID patches or to work in conjunction with Velcro altered hearing protection bands. On top of working well, the hats simply look good. Throughout the day on the range and through the week on the show floor, people would stop Craig and I to ask about the hats. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from all of our firearms industry contemporaries assured us that Notch Gear was definitely on the right track!

Aside from making a great hat, the company is making a difference in the world as well. While researching the company, I came across this statement from Notch Gear discussing the background of its founder, why the company was started and what they contribute outside of the sport cap business.

“Our founder, Paul Cunningham, is a veteran of the US Marines who had always been frustrated with traditional hats because he loved to wear them and sunglasses but was never able to wear them together the way he wanted to; he was always forced to choose one or the other. Notch was born out of his search for an answer to this problem. A Yuma based company, Notch was also founded on the principle that it is better to give than it is to receive. So for every hat you purchase, you provide 5 meals to children in need through our partner, Children’s Hunger Fund. They’ve been rated as one of the most cost effective charities around by Forbes.com.”

Now the Swanson Media Group has spent a considerable amount of time wearing caps from Notch Gear, I can speak for us all in saying these hats are highly recommended for not just shooters but anyone who has to spend time wearing hearing and eye protection. The caps are comfortable and form to the wearers head quickly. Retailing between $24.99-$27.99, this is a best buy for the quality product offered. To find a Notch Gear hat that’s right for you, check them out at http://www.notchgear.com/.

Source: http://www.thegearlocker.net/2016/02/notch-gear-hats/

Rubber Dummies

We Like Shooting

March 23, 2016

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

248 Shooter

March 23, 2016

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.

This footage is coming from Syria and you are able to see a pickup with a mounted rocket launcher. Despite it looks serious, believe me, it’s not. This particular vehicle is unusable. Take a look how it looks live.

Source Article from http://www.special-ops.org/16429/when-pickup-with-rocket-launcher-gone-bad.html

TLP 139 Team Multicam & The Baja 1000

Talking Lead

March 22, 2016

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…

Ricky Johnson sits in for a portrait ahead of Frozen Rush at Sunday River in Newry, ME on January 06, 2015 // Brian Nevins/Red Bull Content Pool // VIN: SI201501080017 // Usage for editorial use only // Please go to www.redbullcontentpool.com for further informations. //

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Source Article from http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TalkingLead/~3/-GDYafoRBJA/

WLS 130 – Self Defense Month – Principles

We Like Shooting

March 22, 2016

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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.

Source: http://welikeshootingpodcast.com/130-2/

Finnish top model rides a soviet-made main battle tank

248 Shooter

March 21, 2016

The T-55, a Soviet-made main battle tank is something you won’t see on your ordinary way to work, especially when a tank driver is a Finnish model who was crowned Miss Suomi 2010.

Vivi Pumpanen represented her country at the Miss Universe pageant in 2010. See what happens when she takes control of an armored monster.

Source Article from http://www.special-ops.org/16511/finnish-top-model-rides-a-soviet-made-main-battle-tank.html

New Russian monster for all-terrains – SHERP ATV

248 Shooter

March 19, 2016

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

We Like Shooting

March 19, 2016

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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Source: https://welikeshooting.com/show/wls-132/

The New PD10 From Avidity Firearms Might Surprise You

248 Shooter

March 18, 2016

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.

Source: http://www.shootingsportsretailer.com/2016/02/03/the-new-pd-10-from-avidity-firearms-might-surprise-you/

Constitutional Carry (Permitless Carry) back in the Michigan Legislature

248 Shooter

March 18, 2016

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

248 Shooter

March 17, 2016

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.

Gratuitous picture of cool stuff with a TUFF Tactical Pen

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

Eric TGL

March 15, 2016

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

We Like Shooting

March 15, 2016

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.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: iTunes | Android | RSS

Source: https://welikeshooting.com/show/wls-133/

The Easy Way To Sight In An Optic

248 Shooter

March 15, 2016

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/

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