GEAR & TRAINING HUNTING VS. TARGET 6.

5 PRC: MILE-READY
TO WIN MATCHES RIFLE SHOWDOWN GAME CHANGER?

NG-RAN
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Nino Bosaz
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Linas Cernauskas
EDITOR AT LARGE Sean Utley*

GE
O
BEST SENIOR EDITOR Mark Chesnut*
NEW RIFLES, ★ ART DIRECTOR/COVER DESIGN Rory Slifkin

SEND
GEAR &

PRE

SUE
PREMEDIA Franco Nguyen
TACTICS
CI
DIGITAL MANAGER Chad Adams

IS
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Richard Ortega

S CIRCULATION CONSULTANT Scott Hill/ProCirc

+
COVER PHOTOS Sean Utley*
EDITORIAL INQUIRIES editdesk@athlonoutdoors.com
SNIPER
FREE ATHLON SPORTS WHO’S WHO

Display Until October 11, 2021

$9.95

IT!
DECAL
SHEET
SUBSCRIPTIONS / SINGLE COPY INQUIRIES
INSIGHTS ATHLON PUBLICATIONS 800-284-5668; subscriptions@athlonmediagroup.com

GEAR & TRAINING HUNTING VS. TARGET 6.5 PRC: MILE-READY personaldefenseworld.com • tactical-life.com
TO WIN MATCHES RIFLE SHOWDOWN GAME CHANGER?
realworldsurvivor.com • ballisticmag.com

THE PREMIER FIREARMS & SURVIVAL MAGAZINE

athlonoutdoors.com
NG-RAN

SHOOT
SVP/GENERAL MANAGER Nick Seifert

GE
LO
★ ★

PRE

SUE
CI ATHLON OUTDOORS
SIO N IS
ATHLON SPORTS
ULTIMATE
SNIPER
LEGENDARY TRAINER
GUIDE
RIFLES Q
GEAR Q
ADVERTISING SALES
National Office
TACTICS Q 212-478-1910; sales@athlonoutdoors.com
CHARLIE MELTON
››››››
PLUS
HOT NEW CHASSIS
PRS CANS & SCOPES
Independent Account Representatives
DOPE APPS
NORTHEAST REGION Scott Buchmayr • 978-462-6335
FREE
SOUTHEAST & UPPER MIDWEST Amos Crowley • 216-378-9811
RANGE REPORTS DECAL
SHEET

SPRINGFIELD’S WAYPOINT
PWS MK218 MOD 1-M
WESTERN REGION Scott J. Cherek • 307-635-8899
ATHLON SPORTS WHO’S WHO

ere we are with Hoang, an ELR and precision MIDWEST/CENTRAL SOUTH Dan Flavin • 248-515-8654

Display Until October 11, 2021

KELBLY’S ELITE NYX $9.95 US $10.95 CAN

BROWNING’S RECOIL EATER

VUDOO’S .22 THREE 60 ON THE HUNT
GUNWERKING BULL ELK! SPECIALTY/AT LARGE Mark Pack • 949-683-0083
Ballistic’s fourth rifle shooting powerhouse, ATHLON PUBLICATIONS

“Precision” edition, walks us through a few of DIRECT RESPONSE ADVERTISING Jim Coen • 212-478-1949
and the discipline the better offerings to help CHARLIE’S COVER SENIOR DIRECTOR Carrie Roeder

of long-range precision shoot- us nail that important shot. RIFLE: Gunwerks Verdict MARKETING & OPERATIONS
DIGITAL SALES DEVELOPMENT & Brock Norman
6mm Creedmoor. Specs: MARKETING DIRECTOR
ing hasn’t even hit its peak. Also, multi-time King of 2 Mile
18-inch/1:7 twist barrel, MARKETING & Niki Morrison
It simply continues to grow winner Paul Phillips introduces PROGRAM MANAGER
37.5-inch OAL, TriggerTech
in popularity. us to what is likely the most MARKETING COORDINATOR/ Maureen Pichner
trigger, 14 pounds OAW with ADMINISTRATOR
As you’ll notice from our underrated aspect of precision
Revic PMR 428 optic and
main cover (our subscribers shooting—spotting. His article, ATHLON MEDIA GROUP
CGS Group Hyperion QD
cover got the gear-only treat- beginning on page 46, is full Corporate Officers
suppressor.
ment), we spent some quality of useful tips to become an PRESIDENT, CEO Chuck Allen
CFO/TREASURER Mary Lee Vanderkooi
time with former SEAL sniper effective spotter. CORPORATE ADDRESSES New York:
and trainer Charlie Melton, For newcomers to the sport, know that our successful (and 60 E. 42nd St., Suite 820,
NY, NY 10165
who trained some of our most beginning on page 26 Kendl free) “Ballistic Long-Range Nashville:
elite snipers in the War on Wong will show you how to Precision” video series 2451 Atrium Way, Suite 320
Nashville, TN 37214
Terror. Beginning on page get into precision rifle shooting (ballisticmag.com/LRP3) is
* Consultant
36, Charlie walks us through the right way, with her first-ever in its third season, and we
an abbreviated training ses- precision rifle build. After its take on more topics that are TO THE READERS: Be advised that there may be products
represented in this magazine as to which the sale, possession or
sion, helps us to shoot a mile completion, she heads straight useful to the precision shooter. interstate transportation thereof may be restricted, prohibited or
subject to special licensing requirements. Prospective purchasers
and master moving targets, to the Max Ordinate Academy Our “Zero to Hero” episode should consult the local law enforcement authorities in their area.
then sits down with us and for comprehensive precision focuses on what it takes to get All of the information in this magazine is based upon the personal
experience of individuals who may be using specific tools,
chops it up in a revealing rifle training. your rifle set up for consistent products, equipment and components under particular conditions
exclusive interview. Be sure There’s much more in the hits at distance by truing it up and circumstances, some or all of which may not be reported in
the particular article and which this magazine has not otherwise
to visit ballisticmag.com for pages ahead, but we’d be with the aid of a chronograph verified. Nothing herein is intended to constitute a manual for
and ballistic app. Other the use of any product or the carrying out of any procedure or
companion video content. remiss to forget letting you process. This magazine and its officers and employees accept no
There is still much to episodes include proper rifle responsibility for any liability, injuries or damages arising out of any
person’s attempt to rely upon any information contained herein.
unpack from the precision fitment, precision triggers, and
trunk of knowledge, and you’ll we take on the debate of gas BALLISTIC® (ISSN 2573-0290) is published bimonthly by
find out just how much you guns versus bolt actions. Athlon Sports Communications, Inc., 2451 Atrium Way, Suite 320,
Nashville, TN 37214. Single copy price: $9.95 U.S. and $10.95 CAN.
don’t know when you visit the We’re on scope, on rifle and Subscriptions are six issues for $32.97 per year in the U.S. Periodicals
Modern Day Rifleman website ready. Time to send it. Postage paid at Nashville, TN, and at other additional mailing offices.
POSTMASTER: Send subscription requests to: Athlon Media Group,
created by two former military —Sean Utley PO Box 292167, Kettering, OH 45429. POSTMASTER: Send
snipers turned Modern Day address changes to Ballistic, PO Box 292167, Kettering OH 45429.
Submissions of manuscripts, illustrations and/or photographs must be
Snipers. Check out the MDR accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. The publisher
assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material. Copyright © 2021
spotlight on page 18. Ballistic magazine is now NAIL by Athlon Sports Communications, Inc. All rights reserved under
Ballistic solvers abound and available for digital download
THIS international and Pan American Copyright Conventions. Reproduction
at zinio.com. Subscribe in whole or in part, via electronic or any other means, without written
are a must for the cutting-edge for a year and you’ll save CODE permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Printed in the U.S.A.
rifleman. On page 156, Rei money to spend on things WITH Volume 7 Issue 5.
Ballistic Magazine adheres to the California Consumer Privacy Act
like guns. Buy it in print at YOUR of 2018. For more information about your rights as a California
outdoorgroupstore.com. PHONE consumer or to opt out of the sale of your personal information,
please visit BallisticMag.com/ccpa.
2 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
 INSIDE
ISSUE
VOL. 7

LONG RANGE PRECISION ISSUE 05

FEATURES
36
14 BOLTS OF GENIUS By Jon R. Sundra
How America’s most accurate rifle system has evolved

18 SNIPER SENSE By Sean Utley

Let Caylen Wojik and Phillip Velayo guide you on your path to precision success

26 NOOB CHRONICLES By Kendl Wong

Quality equipment and great training provide a shortcut to success

36 CHARLIE MIKE By Sean Utley

Shooting the shit with SEAL sniper and living legend Charlie Melton

18 70 46 SPOT ON! By Paul Phillips

Master the four ultimate keys to spotting from the King of 2 Miles

56 6.5 PRC FOR ME By David Bahde

It’s a mile-ready game changer for competitors and hunters alike

62 VUDOO THREE 60 By Sean Utley

This .22 LR understudy demands your serious attention

70 GUNWERKIN’ BULLS By Len Waldron

Head to Colorado to pick up some long-range shooting and gear tips

88
80 ON POINT By Frank Melloni
Springfield’s second bolt-action design in over 100 years—totally worth the wait!

88 KING KELBLY By Sean Utley

Flying under the radar while winning 92 precision world records

DEPARTMENTS 96 HIGH-VELOCITY ART By Will Dabbs

Handcrafting precision masterpieces one at a time
STOCKPILE
By Sean Utley
New and hot products for
precision shooters ...............
104 RANGER RIMFIRE By Jay Langston
A premium lightweight Christensen Arms .22 LR with accuracy to spare

THE UNKNOWNS
By Frank Melloni
108 HUNTING VS TARGET By Frank Melloni
What’s the real difference between the two rifle types?

A look at two small companies

that’ll keep you safe and
accurate ...................................12
116 PISTON-DRIVEN PRECISION By Mitch Hardin
A look at PWS’ smooth and ultra-reliable .308 powerhouse that won’t break the bank

HIGH TECH
By Sean Utley
126 RECOIL EATER By Fred Mastison
Browning’s new Hawg will keep your X-Bolt Max LR on target…way downrange

Garmin’s got the everyday,

everywhere ballistics
solution ...................................34
134 SILENCER SHOWDOWN By Sean Utley
Today’s top precision rifle suppressors whisper sweet nothings at the range

GEAR GUIDE
By Sean Utley
142 CLASSIEST CHASSIS By Sean Utley
These seven don’t just look good, they’ll get you shooting lights out

A look at some new gems in

long-range optics market . 150 156 HARDCORE SOFTWARE BY Rei Hoang
It’s time to get your dope straight with these top ballistic calculator apps

4 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 KADRE GLOVE TM
WARTORN VENTED GLOVE
TM

$49* $35
Built from a lightweight and breathable The Wartorn Vented glove features a full
mesh and outfitted with a high-dexterity perforated Coolskin™ material engineered for
Ax Laredo palm, the Kadre gloves are fit both durability and breathability. The stretch
for rough duty. The backhand features polyester backhand provides excellent fit, while
an integrated bump knuckle, while the an armored TPR knuckle provides coverage
uniquely patterned palm provides an from things that go bump in the night.
unrivaled grip for pistol and rifle use.

SPARTAN NIGHTFJALL GREYMAN TIGER GREEN FLAG BLACK COYOTE

*INCLUDES MORALPHABET TM
HOOK & LOOP LETTER PACK
COYOTE RANGER NIGHTFJALL

ALL VIKTOS ® PRODUCTS ARE

DESIGNED AND DEVELOPED
BY US VETERANS.
 GEAR FOR
YOUR
DAILY
GUNFIGHT
LEO VENTED DUTY GLOVE
TM
OPERATUS GLOVE TM

$35-39 $29
Built for going hot, the LEO Vented Duty Duty gear defined by its low-profile silhouette,
glove uses engineered laser perforation the Operatus virtually eliminates trigger housing
to reduce heat. In addition, a reinforced interference issues, allowing incredible hand-feel
thumb valley reduces potential slide bite and dexterity. The Coolskin™ palm provides superior
from pistols. The palm consists of our grip, while still allowing critical moisture transfer.
unique synthetic leather for a great mix Additionally, the thumb valley features leather for
of durability & tactile feedback. reinforcement from handgun slides.

APOLLO NIGHTFJALL GREYMAN FOUR EYES SPARTAN GREYMAN

FIELDCRAFT RANGER COYOTE RANGER NIGHTFJALL

WWW.VIKTOS.COM
 NEW AND HOT
PRODUCTS FOR
PRECISION SHOOTERS
BY SEAN UTLEY

2. Eberlestock Lodrag II: Featuring several bag/packs

with rifle retention, Eberlestock is a friend to the precision
rifle shooter. We opted for the X31 Lodrag II pack. It’s a
lightweight pack meant for a day romp to get some shooting
done. It’s minimalist in nature with two good-sized pockets
on the exterior of the upper and lower front flaps. Inside
is a hydration sleeve, and a fold-away shelf to separate
the top and bottom portions of the interior space. It has a
1 volume of 2,400 cubic inches, and is available in five colors.
(eberlestock.com)

3. Gray Ops CNC Brass Marker:

Gray Ops machined brass marker allows
you to keep up with and identify those
precision chamber-specific pieces,
which you worked so hard to load to
perfection, after the shot goes off and the
3 bolt has been run. It features spaces for
three Sharpie-style markers so that you can choose the color
scheme you think will be distinguishable when it’s time to
pick up brass. They’re available for .223, standard (.308), and
2
magnum-size brass. (grayopscnc.com)

4. Gray Ops Arca: The Labradar Arca allows you to

quickly and easily attach your Labradar chronograph to a
RRS or other brand tripod. Machined from 6061 aluminum,
4 it’s four-sided and allows you to mount your Labradar in any
of four directions. It also features a captive stainless steel
screw. The Labrador Arca is one of those little things that
means a lot. (grayopscnc.com)

5. Grayboe Stocks Trekker: Rifles seem to be getting

heavier instead of lighter, but for hunting, lighter is and will
always be better. Also with the introduction of the NRL
Hunter series of competition, weight matters. The Grayboe
Trekker stock weighs just 23 ounces, features a vertical grip
with thumb shelf, and adjustable length of pull thanks to
spacers, embedded bubble, and a Grayboe memory foam
recoil pad to soak up recoil. It requires bottom metal, which
5 6
you can get from Grayboe or another supplier (BDL or M5
style). The Trekker fits Remington 700-style actions and
barrel profiles up to a Proof Sendero. (grayboe.com)
1. Fix It Sticks Long Range Kit: You won’t get much
accomplished on or off the range without a good set of 6. SAC Headspace Kit: The modular headspace com-
tools, and Fix It Sticks may be the single best item you can parator kit will help ensure you load to the best of your ability.
have in your range bag after your rifle and ammo. The Long This incredibly well machined kit has two configurations:
Range Kit has everything you need to work on your long- a standard that works with loaded ammo and can fit .338
range stick with a solid variety of attachments and drivers. Lapua with solid turned bullets, and a short body comparator,
You’ll be able to tighten down (or remove) your action, level which can be used to measure brass or bullets only. Com-
and set your optic in rings, and add and remove attached parator inserts are available for bullet, as well as for caliber/
accessories to the correct torque spec. This kit has saved shoulder angle of varying degrees, and also let you measure
my butt many times. (fixitsticks.com) COAL or base to ogive. (shortactioncustoms.com)

8 Ballisticmag.com
THE RIGHT TO HEAR
FOR YEARS TO COME

Left: SilencerCo Sparrow 22

patented in 2010
Right: Original Maxim silencer
patented in 1909
 7

10 13
11

8
12

7. at a glance. The MDT M-LOK Data Card Holder

in actions with pre-fit barrel capability means ter with expandable capabilities. Tract also offers is polymer and features interlocking polymer links
you can change calibers without a trip to your different eyepieces that feature the reticles for so that you can adjust it to your viewing plea-
smith or builders. But, you will need a barrel vise. measuring. Available in either a 22x or 30x fixed, sure. It’s designed to fit in the magwell section of
SAC’s Bravo Barrel Vise has a two-bolt design they feature Tracts MRAD PRS reticle or MRAD the ACC chassis, but includes M-LOK hardware
that clamps the bottom and the top together. ELR reticle respectively. (tractoptics.com) for fitment in other M-LOK slots and rifles. A dry
It’s made from 7075 aluminum and comes erase pen and data card are included.
with a standard “V” bushing that fits 1.250-, 10. MDT Vertical Grip Elite: MDT is a (mdttac.com)
1.200- and 1.0-inch diameter shanks. You can powerhouse in the long-range precision realm.
also purchase other bushings for different sized The Vertical Grip Elite is a grip replacement for 13. Really Right Stuff S.O.A.R.: Never
barrels. (shortactioncustoms.com) the AR-15 grip interface on the ACC and other finished with innovating and refining, RRS has
chassis. The VGE is fat and comfortable, and released another enhancement to the dovetail
8. SAC Final Scope Level: While leveling a seeing that I’ve had one of the early prototypes platform. First, you should know the Arca is not
scope can be a pain in the butt, the SAC Final for quite some time, I’m happy to see the pro- a standard, while the RRS 1.5-inch Dovetail is,
Scope Level will have you straight and plumb duction unit roll out. It’s adjustable fore and aft and an open source standard at that. That means
in short order. It features a base with Pic rail (distance to trigger), as well as for angle. It also that with this standard, all your dovetail-type
for attachment of your optic in rings. Once features up to 10 degrees of rearward angle. pieces lock up solid. Now we have the R-Lock
secured, you can use a small bubble level and (mdttac.com) system, which adds safety-stop features built into
dial the base adjustment knobs to ensure the a mounting rail and quick-release clamp. A 5mm
base is level. Then you can level your scope 11. MDT Bolt Knob: The MDT bolt knob is diameter steel pin rides in the clamp, while 5mm
using a plumb line or use another bubble level installed over the top of your current knob. It can holes reside in the rail. Once the lever is closed,
to align the optic in the rings. also be threaded onto 5/16-24. It’s larger, grippy the pin engages the hole(s). Throwing the lever
(shortactioncustoms.com) and easy to get hold of. It’s available in thread-on to the open position allows the clamp to slide
for specific models, as well as the universal along the rail. You can now adjust the tension
9. Tract Spotter Eyepieces: If you want model. (mdttac.com) on the clamp when it is in the open position. The
to get serious about your long range game, you parts are made of 6061-T6 aluminum, the unit
need a good spotting scope, and thankfully Tract 12. MDT M-LOK Data Card Holder: is backward compatible with non R-Lock
Optics (see page 54 for more) has what you Dope is important, and so is being able to see it accessories. (soar.reallyrightstuff.com)

10 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 DESIGNED FOR THE
LONG RANGE
A L L-N E W C A RT R I D G E AVA I L A B L E 2 0 2 1

HEAVIER BULLET WEIGHTS than

6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC & 270 WSM

MORE ENERGY than 6.5 Creedmoor,

6.5 PRC & 7mm Rem Mag

LESS RECOIL than 300 WSM,

300 Win Mag & 300 PRC

LONG, HEAVY BULLETS ideal for Big Game

Hunting & Long-Range Precision Shooting

SHORT ACTION for fast cycling,

high accuracy & reduced rifle weight

For available ammunition offerings in 2021, visit: BrowningAmmo.com

For available firearms offerings in 2021, visit: Browning.com
 THE UNKNOWNS

[
ON TARGETS[
A LOOK AT TWO SMALL COMPANIES THAT’LL
KEEP YOU BIGLY SAFE AND ACCURATE
BY FRANK MELLONI

perfect and is the product of rigorous their steel counterparts, or even provide a
NEWBOLD TARGETS testing across more than 300 different new level of fun or training altogether. The
While steel targets deliver the satisfying target designs. Dueling Tree and the HangTuff plate racks
“PING” when struck, it is a little hard to Today, Newbold has boiled this devel- both stay in place through the rico-
ignore the elephant in the room that is opment down to a handful of trouble-free chet-free alpha stands that come together
known as spall. For those who are not varieties that are perfect substitutes for with simple 2x4 lumber and Throom
familiar with the term, it is the combination
of copper and lead bullet fragments that
splatter off of a steel target when struck.
I wish I could say that I am not familiar,
but unfortunately a piece of spall left me
in the hospital a few years back. In my
defense, the person that set the target up
did so improperly, but nonetheless I found
myself digging through my range bag for
combat gauze nearly 30 miles from the
closest hospital.
Afterward, I sought out an idiot-proof
solution to reactive targets. That solution

Newbold targets are reactive and safe for close-

of even a .50-caliber quarters training, which can result in
and sucks back up as serious injury with many typical steel targets.

(unlike my ankle). During

the process, the target

bullet’s kinetic energy to

of safety and reaction

took over 20 years to

12 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
constructed unions. These can be left in
place or transported easily, as setup and The ABR is available
breakdown don’t require any tools. I love for several different
both of these targets for CQB practice, as stocks and provides a
simple alternative to
nothing is stopping you from putting your squeezing a rear bag.
gun just an inch away and blasting them!
The Newbold Throom Target line extends
out to include fun knock-down targets that
come in a variety of familiar shapes that
keep new shooters interested and give old “This system provides
shooters an excuse to dust off their favorite exponentially more
polymer poppers.
The family-owned company has been
surface contact than a
at it since 1995 and has absolutely no monopod and supports
intentions of calling it quits anytime soon. the rifle at just about as
Last year brought about some of its most
innovative products to date, along with an
far back as possible.”
array of new shapes and colors. While the
company call tag hit me right in the feels,
it does a great job of getting across
why you ought to train with Newbold
Targets—“Bullets pass through instead of
back at you.” For more information, visit
throomtargets.com.

LONG SHOT PRECISION

Rear support on a rifle is often over-
looked and, in many cases, even just
plain. However, if you give a machinist
with a love for precision shooting enough
time, he will come up with a solution
that intersects both passions like a pair
of finely drawn crosshairs. Meet Long
Shot Precision and its pioneer product,
the Adjustable Bag Rider. Most of us are an adjustable platform that allows you to five minutes with just the use of an angled
familiar with using a sand sock or some raise or lower the rear of your rifle at will. Torx wrench. I ran it with an Allen’s Ther-
sort of rear bag to support the buttstock of This system provides exponentially more moBlock Rear bag and enjoyed a relatively
our rifle and provide the elevation adjust- surface contact than a monopod and hands-free shooting system that returned
ment we need to achieve our hold. When supports the rifle at just about as far back to my natural point of aim with little to
it is just about there, nearly every one of as possible. This increases its support no effort. Although I praise myself as a
us squeezes this bag to fine-tune where radius and maximizes stability. All of these competent shooter, I did indeed see some
we need to be. The only problem with this parts are hand-fitted for straightness and group size reduction and best of all, my
is that all (and I mean ALL) muscles relax checked with a micrometer to ensure they hand and forearm weren’t stiff at the end
or react as the rifle is firing, moving your are within diminutive tolerances. The labor of the session. As I packed up, I thought
crosshairs off of your target milliseconds is intensive, but the final product is free of of the words of owner David Pobutkiewicz
before the bullet leaves the barrel. The wobble and doesn’t require an exagger- when he said, “You will not want to shoot
Adjustable Bag Rider solves this problem ated effort to raise or lower. without one once you try it, so don’t waste
the only way possible, through precision. I tested my ABR on a Savage Elite Pre- any ammo until you get one!”
After attaching it to your buttstock, a cision, which utilizes an MDT ACC chassis He was right, and that ABR is on my
system of hand-turned stainless steel stock. The ABR came with the necessary rifle to this day. For more information, visit
dowels and linear ball bearing provide hardware, and installation took less than adjustablebagrider.com.

BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
13
 FL SH CK

HOW AMERICA’S MOST ACCURATE

one might think, especially when
couched in terms of its popularity as become generally available until the 1920s.
a hunting rifle. Since we have to start some- It was a time when the lever action rifle that there just might be something to this
where, I don’t think I’d get much argument reigned supreme with America’s hunters—a bolt action thing was Savage, which in 1920
when I say it started with the U. S. Army’s trend that would continue until the 1950s, introduced its Model 1920. Designed around
adoption of the M1903 Springfield. While it’s despite the fact that even the most potent their own .250 and .300 Savage cartridges,
true that the Krag-Jorgensen chambered in lever gun cartridges paled in both power the action was too short to handle the .30-06,
.30-40 Krag had served as the U. S. martial

centerfire rifle, its magazine system was too Hot on Savage’s heels was
weird to be representative of what we came to

THE EARLY DAYS

To say the ’03 Springfield was heavily
influenced by the Mauser would be an Enfield .30-06 rifles for Uncle Sam every day!
understatement, so much so that our
government paid about $3 million to ››
The basic difference between a tri-lug bolt and a Mauser-type bolt can be
the Mauser people for copying it. The seen here. Above are the bolts of a T-C Venture and a Remington 700. The
’03 had a head start here because if latter requires lug raceways, which complicates the machining of the receiver.

14 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 Of
RIFLE SYSTEM HAS EVOLVED
in 1936. Here was a rifle that wasn’t really all
that different from its predecessor, the Model
54, but every change that had been made
worked together to make it the most desired
the barreled action into a sporter-type stock, it staggered column internal box magazine and rifle of the time. It was, in fact, the rifle against
became a successful rifle for Remington, being a wing safety mounted on the bolt shroud. which all others were judged until 1964, when
produced right up to the start of WWII. The 54 was well received, and helping that it was discontinued in favor of a replacement
As for Remington’s prime competitor, the reception was that it was being offered that was easier and cheaper to manufacture.
Winchester folks found themselves in the in the equally new .270 Win., the hottest, Resumption of the original began in 1992 and
same boat at the end of the war in that they, flattest-shooting cartridge to come on the continues to the present day.
too, had been cranking out beau coups ’17 American scene up to that time. After the war—the late 1940s and early
Enfields for the war effort. But with Remington ’50s—saw more and more hunters embracing
having acted so quickly with their Model 30, MOVING ALONG bolt guns because they came to understand
the guys in New Haven figured that coming So as we entered the 1930s, we had the that the only advantage the reigning lever
out with another ’17 Enfield-based rifle was, aforementioned bolt guns—the Savage 1920, action had to offer was rapidity of fire, and
well, beneath them. Do keep in mind that at Remington Model 30, Winchester Model 54, then it wasn’t really that much faster in getting
the time the Winchester name had far more along with surplus, sporterized and custom- off a follow-up shot. Bolt guns, on the other
cachet than Remington. Anyway, starting with ized Mausers, Springfields and Enfields—all hand, were strong enough to digest the most
a clean sheet of paper, the result in 1925 was doing their part to woo America’s hunters and powerful cartridges, were more accurate,
the rolling out of the Model 54, Winchester’s shooters. However, the most seminal event better suited for handloading, and had the
first venture into the commercial bolt action on the bolt action scene prior to Pearl Harbor camming force needed to chamber and extract
arena. Though the 54 was a completely was Winchester’s unveiling of its Model 70 recalcitrant cartridges.

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
15
 LTS F GE IUS

The Remington Model 700 shown here is just the

Model 721/722 with minor design changes in the
extractor, bolt shroud and fire control system.

The Remington 722 of 1948 was a seminal design in that

it influenced so many other marques that were to follow.
Shown here is the standard-length action Model 721.

The next seminal event was the debut of

Remington’s Model 722 in 1948, and the
721 that followed a year later. Here was a
rifle that virtually dictated the basic design
The Savage for countless other marques that would
110 series
follow. Forget the current and phenomenally
introduced in 1957
Winchester’s Model 54 of remains pretty much successful Model 700 that was introduced in
1925 was the company’s first venture the same today. 1962 and still going strong; it is nothing more
into the bolt action centerfire arena. It ushered in new man-
than a refined iteration of the basic Models
All its design elements were carried over to ufacturing methods that
the Model 70 that was to follow 11 years later. were copied by others. 721/722. The defining features of this design
are a tubular receiver, twin-opposed forward
locking lugs, a recessed bolt face with a
plunger ejector, and a washer-type recoil lug
sandwiched between the barrel shoulder and
receiver ring.

WEATHERBY REVOLUTION
The year 1957 was a big year for the bolt
action because Roy Weatherby unveiled his
Mark V Magnum and Savage its Model 110.
The Mark V ushered in the age of the tri-lug
fat-bolt, but it took about 50 years for other
gun makers to pay attention. Though the
Weatherby action has nine locking lugs, it’s
only a minor variation from the current spate
The 1903 Springfield
was an unabashed copy
of tri-lug actions introduced since the turn of
of the ’98 Mauser. the century. It makes no difference whether
it’s three rows of three lugs, two rows of six
lugs, or one row of three lugs, all are oriented
››

on 120-degree centers, making for a shorter

Remington’s
Model 30 was bolt rotation (handle lift), and all have their
simply the ’17 locking lugs formed on a larger-diameter bolt
Enfield service by removing material at the head. The lugs
rifle without
the rear do not project beyond the bolt diameter and
sight base. thus require only a round hole in the receiver
in which to reciprocate. When combined
with other cost-saving measures such as
injection molded stocks, a tri-lug rifle can be
The Savage 110 series bolt looks
produced more economically than a Maus-
complicated, but is a study in
manufacturing simplicity. er-type rifle, though not all tri-lugs are budget
priced, by any means.

16 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 ENTER TO WIN
MULTIPLE TIMES *

(Up to 20 Firearms)

NEW FIREARM PRIZE EVERY 2 WEEKS

VARIOUS WAYS TO ENTER

WORLD-CLASS FIREARMS DESIGNED & MANUFACTURED danieldefense.com/anniversary

IN BLACK CREEK, GEORGIA | USA * No purchase necessary. Sweepstakes runs throughout 2021.
 IFLE SKILLS

SNIPER

18 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 LET CAYLEN WOJIK
AND PHILLIP VELAYO
GUIDE YOU ON YOUR PATH
TO PRECISION SUCCESS

BY SEAN UTLEY

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
19
 S I E SE SE

any business, people rienced and no longer deploying snipers. I VIRTUAL MODERN DAY SNIPER
are the greatest asset. don’t think it’s right to refer to them as former. There are many ways to learn precision
I met Caylen at SHOT Show 2019. I had shooting. There are books, videos, online
It matters not how good
no clue of who he was or what his creds courses, and the best and most beneficial in
your product is, for were. All I remember was is that he was a my mind, physical instructional classes on the
without the right human particularly sharply dressed man in a sea range. All of which Modern Day Sniper offers
asset you’ll go nowhere. In this case, the of tac-gear and T-shirt-laden attendees to the seeker of the precision rifle gospel. Each
and exhibitors. I also remember that after a type of educational experience is offered at an
product is less tangible than tangible. Or
colleague introduced us, his mental game expert level by the MDS team and, as far as I
is it? What constitutes a “product”? Is appeared to be as sharp as his threads. He can tell, the response has been phenomenal.
highly useful information such? Before was one of those guys that makes you say, While I plan to attend an actual range class, I
we venture down that rabbit hole, let’s get “Well, he’s going places.” No doubt. thought it would be a good idea to go online
to the virtual world of the Modern Day Sniper
back to people, specifically Phillip Velayo
to see what one might expect.
and Caylen Wojik. If you’re meandering The most impressive thing about the
through the precision landscape and you MDS experience may be the breadth of
haven’t heard of them, you will—especially offerings on its pages. Sections exist for
free access and paying members, who are
if you spend any time on social media.
divided into monthly and annual subscrib-
Velayo was featured on the cover of last ers. Those same subscribers can get
year’s Ballistic Precision magazine. At that access to other pages within the site.
time he was the lead instructor at the Gun-
werks Long Range University. Ballistic mag
If you’re curious to
JOINING THE COMMUNITY
attended one of their classes and learned a The design of the MDS space is
know what’s going
ton while getting to hang with Velayo. Shortly on in the Modern excellent. More on that in a bit. I think it’s
after our knowledge-laden stent there, Velayo Day Rifleman uni- imperative to communicate the overall
left Gunwerks for another venture—one that verse, the events vibe that I got upon entering the space.
section will bring
had been carefully crafted and was soon to you up to speed. If I could describe it with just one word,
be expertly executed by the team of expe- it would be “community.” In fact, being

20 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
PROTECTOR ELITE
WHERE TRUSTED QUALITY MEETS
SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE
ǩ$9$,/$%/(,11$72+$0o5$1'%/.21/<Ǫ

The Wilson Combat PROTECTOR ELITE is available from

your local dealer exclusively through Davidson's
www.davidsonsinc.com and Sports South
www.theshootingwarehouse.com
 S I E SE SE
from judgment and the trolls of other places. It’s
not a snowflake paradise, but instead a proper
and respectful place to learn and interact. I
doubt you’ll end your time on the MDS site
shaking your head and cursing some troll under
your breath. Why, you may ask? Because the
subscription fee weeds out the serious from the
not so, although the same vibe and profession-
alism extends to the non-paid sections.
Once you’ve received your login credentials
to the MDS site, the first thing you’ll enter
is the social site. Think of it as Instagram, a
forum and Facebook in one. It’s well laid out
and easy to follow and read. You can find
information on someone’s latest load data
and testing, with images to boot, or you might
find someone breaking down their thoughts
on their past performance at the latest match.
You’ll also find helpful tips about the site from
its moderator, Kassnadra Wojik.
It’s easy to get caught in the social section,
MDS Schoolhouse
soaking up the shared information and experi-
is full of info. If ences of others, but as good as it is, this isn’t
you want to know where the meat lies. Scrolling down the left
about it, it’s there.
An excellent layout
side of your screen you’ll see other headers
and feel make it a labeled Topics, Events, Groups, Merch and the
pleasure to mother lode—MDS Schoolhouse.
navigate the site.
The topics tab includes information on
everything that MDS is involved in including
in-person classes, a welcome area with info on
the MDS podcast, and match stage debriefs.
The events tab lists upcoming classes and
symposiums. Merch lets you buy MDS-labeled
on the MDS site takes me back to goodies. The groups tab houses several
what I believe is a lost element— sections. Below are some notables:
the element of people and what
they bring to this discipline. It’s too MDR MONTHLY: This is a monthly subscrip-
easy to get caught up in the gear tion for the enthusiast and hunter.
and the gossip, and the MDS uni-
verse pulsates with encouragement, personal MDS MONTHY: For Professional military
development and growth—on the gun and off. and LE snipers. This then breaks down into a
I had long heralded the precision rifle section for active-duty military snipers.
community as one full of people ready to
share information and thoughts to help others FREE STUDY HALL: An interesting section
become better within the discipline and with information and recommendations on
beyond. This has shifted as of late, possibly books and other information to read. The
due in part to its growth in popularity. Some- topics vary and include those such as brain
times it seems as if the discipline is falling science, emotional intelligence, fitness and
deeper into cliques and clubs, ones that physical training, and even business and
claim superiority over others. But on the MDS marketing, to name just a few.
site it’s not like that. There is a positivity that
exudes that doesn’t exist elsewhere. PLANK HOLDER STATUS: This is reserved
What you’ll find are fellow enthusiasts hap- space for the 200 initial MDS subscribers. Get-
pily sharing their successes and failures, free ting in early on the venture has its advantages.

22 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
For personal and home protection or the “mean
street” beat, Fiocchi Defense Dynamics covers
all the bases. Ranging from .32 Auto through the
hard-hitting .44 Magnum and .45 Auto, Defense
Dynamics cartridges are centered around
precision-manufactured jacketed and semi-jacketed
hollow point projectiles to provide maximum
defense performance at a reasonable price.

FUEL YOUR PASSION AT

 S I E SE SE
presents them in a way that is interesting of dense precision rifle meat for whomever
THE MDS CORE and engaging. You just have to see it to longs to learn it all. It’s still hard to imagine
If you’re going to join Modern Day Rifleman, understand. I’m the toughest of critics when it how long they worked to put all this together.
I’ll assume it’s because you want to become comes to my “content” ingestion. In fact, I don’t It seems impossible.
the best rifleman that you possibly can. If that watch any gun-related content on Youtube at MDS also has a podcast that includes
is indeed the case, I suggest you sign up for all because, well, I can’t stand it. But I could different guests and topics. This is accessible
access to the Master Class series of modules. watch the MDS videos over and over. to the general public, but the video of said pod-
The Master Class is in the MDS School- Master class hosts Caylen Wojik and Philip casts is available only to subscribing members.
house tab and is without a doubt the corner- Velayo escort you through several educational
stone of the site. This is where the deepest of topics. Two of them are free, the Rifle Safety READY TO LEARN?
dives commences into the ocean of precision Masterclass and Precision Rifle Cleaning. The world is full of haters, and I know there
rifle topics and information. This is that informa- I skipped those mainly because I couldn’t are people who have taken jabs at the MDS
tion that I wanted for many years earlier in my wait to get into the Circle of Components model. They’ve taken issue with the fact that
precision shooting endeavor, but couldn’t find. Masterclass, which is an overview of the rifle they’re charging for “free” information. I don’t
If I did find it, it was tough to decipher because itself and all its components, and then dives think that’s the case at all. There is free space
those that knew were hesitant, at best, to share deeper into the build and how each part works on the site, yes. And if you want lessons and
what they knew. Now it’s all in one place, and together. It also includes info on how to mount access to more in-depth info, you’ll need to
on MDS the number of topics continues to and zero an optic, ammunition and ammunition subscribe. But as a professional who makes a
increase and roll out. It’s incredible. testing, and more. living contributing in this space, I wouldn’t hold
I’ve sat through countless precision shoot- Other Masterclasses dive way down into clinics and provide information on how to take
ing discussions, often hashing and rehashing every aspect of precision shooting including gun photos for free—not with all the experi-
the same topics to absolute boredom. But marksmanship, long-range shooting and ence I’ve amassed and all the time and effort
somehow MDS takes the same topics and positional shooting. There’s hours and hours I’ve put into it. The instructors at MDS are

These Modern Day Snipers

walk the walk and talk the
talk, including competing
together as a team.

“THE MOST IMPRESSIVE THING

ABOUT THE MDS EXPERIENCE
MAY BE THE BREADTH OF
OFFERINGS ON ITS PAGES.”

24 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 professionals that perform at the highest levels
Live, in-person classes
of the craft. And to put it bluntly, that level of
will help you take your experience and expertise didn’t come for free.
precision shooting MDS is presenting detailed information at
to the next level.
the highest level of quality and production.
That takes massive amounts of work, effort,
planning and money. Your time is worth
something, and if you want to learn the craft as
quickly and completely as possible, you’ll need
to seek higher education from someone. Or
you can just shoot, shoot and shoot on your
own until you get there. Either way, you’ll be
spending a lot of money, and good training can
help you save tons of it.
There are many resources out there, and
I implore you to look at as many as you can.
While much of the information might be the
same, the people are not. And on top of an
unrivaled e-presentation experience, that’s
where MDS sets itself apart—its people. If you
want a strong, no hesitation, no bullshit recom-
mendation, here it is. Join Modern Day Rifleman
at moderndayrifleman.com, dive in, follow the
info and reap the rewards of becoming a true,
high-performing rifleman of the modern era.

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
25
26 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
27
 THE CH ICLES
Let’s talk about my background. I am a fairly
new shooter; a year to be exact. My father was
LAPD so I grew up helping him reload in the
garage. I started out training heavily with hand-
guns until May of 2020 when I started training
in both pistol and rifle. I have competed in a
few local pistol and rifle matches, but I truly fell
in love when I touched a precision rifle. That
switch in discipline came when I was selected
as an evaluator for last year’s Ballistic’s Best
Bolt Gun comparison. Precision shooting
takes a strong mental and physical game, but
if your equipment fails you at a low level, you
cannot progress. That is why the quality of my
bolt gun build was so important.

THE BUILD
Building a great bolt gun takes a lot more
time and thought than piecing together an
AR-15. The base of my bult gun started with
a competition profile Proof Research Barrel
and the silky smooth 7EVEN action from Falkor
Defense. Proof has been well known for high
Mid jump onto performing carbon-fiber wrapped barrels, but
the gun during
lesser known for their all-steel barrels, which
a timed drill.
are some of the best on the market. Once you
have acquired a barrel and an action/receiver,
you have to make sure the barrel is properly
chambered and fit to your action. Because
this is such an important step, I went to a
great machine shop in my own backyard—Axis
Works in Tempe, Arizona. Axis Works is owned
and operated by Eric Goss, a fifth generation
machinist. Axis Works builds some of the best
bolt guns available. Modest in size, the thing
I love the most about this shop is the consis-
tency of the product they produce.
“In this business you can be one of two
things, first or the best,” Eric told me during a
recent conversation. “We ain’t first, so I’ll be

“BUILDING A GREAT BOLT GUN TAKES A LOT MORE TIME AND

THOUGHT THAN PIECING TOGETHER AN AR-15.”

28 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
The perfect ammunition begins with a perfect
case. Precisely designed. Exactingly engineered.
Ingeniously manufactured. Resulting in single-
digit standard deviation. One box will tell you Available in common rifle calibers at tvammo.com.
everything. This is ammunition made perfect. Copyright 2021 True Velocity Ammunition LLC. All rights reserved. Visit www.tvammo.com/legal
 THE CH ICLES
Tim LaBorde discusses
with Kendl how the CNC
lathe works. Kendl checks
for radial lines in the barrel
with a bore scope (middle).
With LaBorde’s blessing,
Kendl does the finishing
100-pound torque on her
barreled action (far right).

damned if we’re not the best.” The “best” is fit my barreled action into a Magpul Pro 700
clearly what they strive for. Goss spends time chassis. It is known for its excellent adjust-
creating processes within the machine shop ability and comfortability. Any precision rifle
to ensure they produce high-quality bolt action is only as good as the optic on top. I have
rifles and components. a high-quality build and needed to make
My barrel was chambered by Tim LaBorde sure I have the glass to rival such a build.
of Axis Works. LaBorde has 20-plus years of My first choice was a Nightforce NX8 8-32
experience in the industry chambering barrels because you get quality Nightforce optics
for well-known rifle builders. The carpenter and HD glass, but at a price point well under
in me appreciated the fact that during his the ATACR line. Unfortunately, with the high
process he was able to feel chippage at the demand for optics, they did not have any
thousandths of an inch as he utilized assis- available so I borrowed a friend’s ATACR
tance from the CNC lathe to spin up my barrel. 7-35x56. For a bipod I chose the CAL Atlas
After LaBorde worked his threading magic, he bipod by B&T Industries, giving me a solid,
dry fit it to my Falkor action, then proceeded to stable platform with just the right amount of
cut the barrel to it’s final 27 inches. The final adjustability. The bipod was equipped with the
steps were to cut and thread the muzzle for a ARMS-LS SOAR bipod clamp by Really Right
Patriot Valley Arms Jet4 muzzle brake and laser Stuff (RRS). This allows the shooter to quickly
engrave the barrel with the QRC code. The move the bipod to more optimal positions.
QRC code will allow Axis Works to access
information on that particular barrel at any time. TRAINING TIME
Once the barreled action was complete, it Once shooters have a solid rifle build, they
was fitted with a Timney 520 CE-ST trigger. often go straight to the range, but not me. I
Although it was labeled as a 1-pound trigger, took it one step further and got training equiv-

→ we actually measured it at 8 ounces. I then

SPECIFICATIONS
alent to my build at Max Ordinate Academy

FALKOR 7EVEN/AXIS WORKS BUILD

CALIBER: 6.5mm Creedmoor
ACTION: Falkor 7EVEN bolt action Kendl spotting for
her partner during
BARREL: 27-inch Proof Research, 1:8 twist, competition profile positional drills.
OA LENGTH: 49 inches
WEIGHT: 18.7 pounds
STOCK: Magpul Pro 700
TRIGGER: Timney 520 CE-ST
CAPACITY: 10+1
MUZZLE DEVICE: Patriot Valley Arms Jet4
OPTIC: Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56
MSRP: $5,900

30 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
YOUR CONCEALED CARRY HEADQUARTERS
VISIT YOUR LOCAL 5.11® RETAIL STORE OR SHOP ONLINE AT 511TACTICAL.COM
 THE CH ICLES

Kendl dialing her

dope in prior to
partnered drills.

FAR LEFT:
(MOA) with lead instructor Tyler Hughes. I Lead Instructor, Tyler
am a total book nerd as well as a video game Hughes, discussing
nerd so the idea of 12 hours in classroom drills and expectations
for the morning.
and 21 hours of range time was amazing. We
LEFT: Instructor Paul
had an intense first day covering topics such discussing proper
as eye relief, length of pull, sight alignment, grip strength on the
sight picture, parallax, body positioning, trigger support bag.
control, buttstock placement, scope mounting
and more—a day jam packed with information. Hornady 140-grain ELDM factory ammo. Its learning nontraditional positional shooting
Most of day one on the range was drills to consistency and reliability across the board that you would likely find in precision rifle style
reinforce fundamentals, as well as truing our enabled me to make my mile shot. competitions, giving me something to look
rifles out to distances of 1,290 yards. forward to in the coming months. We shot
Day two commenced with repeating drills TRAINING RESULTS from obstacles such as small picket fences,
reinforcing the fundamentals, which are bone Is it possible to learn to shoot well without this tank traps, railroad ties and even a shopping
support, muscle relaxation and natural point of kind of training? Sure. But the benefit of train- cart. The culmination of all the drills, science
aim. I don’t think the average shooter under- ing at this level is emphasis and elaboration and hours on the range just added more fuel to
stands how much science and math goes into on the fundamentals. This was evident with my precision rifle fire.
calculating the wind and its effects. I’m used consistent drills each morning. If you told me
to shooting on a flat range with minimal wind, that I could shoot groups with my eyes closed, WRAP UP
so it was a hard but good lesson to learn in I would think you’re crazy. If you told me I could Precision rifle is not an inexpensive discipline
MOA’s valley. Day 3 was an optional day, and shoot a sub-MOA group with my eyes closed, to say the least. After the breakdown of cost,
some students didn’t stay. But those who did I would still think you’re absolutely full of it, but the build came out to around $5,900 and
were rewarded with learning techniques on I learned this is possible through the natural change with extra gear like the bipod. If we
how to shoot moving targets and the coveted point of aim drill. I shot a 0.69-inch group, with take out the cost of the borrowed scope, it
1-mile shot, which I’m happy to say I hit! To four rounds at 0.32 inches. Again, the Hornady drastically cuts the cost. But at the same time,
the average shooter a mile seems far, but 140-grain delivered across the board, not only I think it is worth it. We talked about there
once you learn these techniques you see how for my mile shot, but also at 100 yards. being a right and a wrong way to approach this
feasible it truly is with a great rifle, solid glass We finished up the three days with a brief discipline and after following through with my
and consistent ammo. This lead me to choose preview into the Precision Rifle 2 course by choices, I can tell you that this is the way.

32 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
NEW

HEATSEEKER

1 3

2 4

AVAILABLE AT WWW.SHARPSBROS.COM
 HIGH-TECH

reparing for any precision shoot-

patience. There is so much that has Tactix Delta? Well, it was all I used in my ELR
to be prepped, teased, counted,
accounted for, packed, repacked,
checked and double-checked. Being able to
focus and know that you have the proper tools
my come ups during my strings of fire.

off that list of worries is a biggie. Enter the music apps to workout apps and everything in watch to other devices such as the Kestrel,
Garmin Tactix Delta Solar with Ballistics edition. between is available, but none of those is what various smart device apps and even my AB
Garmin’s Tactix line of watches has enjoyed makes it special. custom curve, but in the end felt most com-
much success, but as a shooter I’ve often Applied Ballistics is without a doubt the fortable with the data from the Garmin. Several
longed for the proper balance of usable most recognized names in ballistics cal- strong runs solidified the Garmin’s capabilities,
features in a watch. Apple’s watch is obviously culation. While there are many other types and the only issues would be some rifle issues
popular due to the app power it packs, and the available, Applied Ballistics is ahead of the as well as tricky winds at longer distances.
same can be said for Garmin. Keeping track of curve in offering solutions outside of your The Garmin can’t help you there other than
our workouts, steps and other activities goes typical smart device app. The Garmin 701 giving you corrections based on your own wind
a long way to keeping us on our good habits. was the first notable device to use it, but it’s estimates…just like any other device.
Other watches like the G-Shock line, MTM better in the Tactix Delta, thanks to upgraded The inputs you’re responsible for when using
and Luminox get kudos for a tactical slant sensors in the watch itself. the Tactix is what you could expect from any
and toughness, but features leaning toward other software. And you can enter these items
shooting are still hard to find. No longer. in detail as well as some automatic settings.
A wrist-worn ballistics calculator isn’t new. Data inputs include detailed rifle data including
5.11 did it a while ago, and while I had no per- names and gun properties such as muzzle
sonal experience with it, it was crude at best. velocity, barrel twist, sight height zero range and
Garmin launched the 701 a couple of years offset, as well as muzzle velocity calibration. You
ago, and while it is pretty good, it’s size made it can also set bullet properties, which includes
less practical for daily wear and it ate batteries an extensive bullet database with updated
for lunch. It was also a bit hard to navigate, but BC information and drag curves. You can also
did have many features inside including a GPS, easily set up target cards, display range cards,
and the ability to receive messages and other and update environmental conditions such as
notifications from a paired smartphone. The temperature and humidity. The Garmin has a
Tactix Delta goes further. pressure sensor on board that is very accurate.
The Garmin Tactix Delta Solar is a powerful
TACTICAL TIMEPIECE tool. For serious shooters and tacticians who
The Tactix Delta is a rugged and heavy watch. I want ballistics solutions at their fingertips, I
like that feel. It feels rugged and durable, where believe it might be the best overall stand-alone
an Apple watch feels like every unintentional option available, mainly because it’s always on
contact with a wall edge, door knob or other you, has great battery life and does so many
stationary object will crack it. According to the other things as well. At an MSRP of $1,400, I
specs, it is built to mil specs, so that’s a plus. It think it’s better than using a smart device. For
features a solar charging lens to help prolong more, visit garmin.com. —Sean Utley

34 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 Winchester® Silvertip® technology has
been trusted for decades to provide threat-
stopping power when you need it most.
2ŌHUHGLQDZLGHYDULHW\RIFDOLEHUVDQG
bullet weights, Silvertip gives you the
Power to Defend.

+ (QJLQHHUHG-DFNHW3URőOH + +
ensures reliable functioning, for controlled expansion
precise accuracy and hollow point
+ Defense TipTM for
consistent expansion
consistent expansion +
+ Hollow point provides
+ Available in 223 Rem,
maximum stopping power
300 BLK and 308 Win
handguns
+ Available in the
most popular
pistol calibers
 COVER Q&A

BY SEAN UTLEY

SHOOTING THE SHIT WITH SEAL SNIPER

AND LIVING LEGEND CHARLIE MELTON

36 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 LWAYS GIVE CREDIT
WHERE CREDIT IS DUE.
There are many incredible shooters
out there, precision focused or
otherwise. That being the case,
there are a few that transcend
the ranks in the shooting
world. This happens not because they are specially
gifted—a prodigy so to speak—but because of the
experience they possess, typically garnered from
hard work, hard knocks and refusing to quit.
Charlie Melton is “one of those”—the few who
have truly been through the gauntlet, executed,
experienced, learned from and adapted to the situa-
tions and elements that many of us train for but will
likely, and thankfully so, never face. Experienced is
one word you could use to describe Charlie Melton,
but that drops a veil of understatement over him and
is almost insulting if not demeaning.
Charlie is a retired SEAL sniper. His credentials
include 26 years as a Navy SEAL with teams 2 and
5, a Bronze and Purple Heart recipient, Sailor of
the Quarter, Sailor of the Year for all SEAL Teams,
and Runner-Up for PACIFIC-FLEET SOY. He was
Master Training Specialist, and retired as Chief Petty
Officer in 2015. He also headed the SEAL sniper
school at Camp Atterbury, developing the curricu-
lum that our elite operators would follow.
Ballistic Precision was honored to shoot
with, learn from and be trained by Charlie
Melton. While we could pretend we have
some exclusive access to Charlie, we
don’t. In fact, anyone can train under
him through Charlie Mike
Precision, the firearms
training school

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
37
 CH LIE IKE

››
Charlie Melton lays down behind the
Gunwerks for a couple of shots. He remarked
that he actually preferred a left-handed
action as a right-handed shooter.

that he runs. If you can get a few buddies As an elite level sniper, surely it must be more
together, he’ll take you through and teach high speed, low drag than that. Right?
you what he learned through his experience Under his training, students don’t move
as a frogman. As a side note, keep in mind on to other challenges until they master the
that Charlie trained warrior-elite greats like basics, nor should they. This just further
Marcus Luttrell and Chris Kyle, but you’ll underlines how important the fundamentals are
never know that. for all of us as precision shooters or otherwise.
A man who has been in theater, been there,
CRASH COURSE done that, in the true mix of it, completely
Our abbreviated session with Melton revealed underwhelmed me with that answer. So, it’s
much about what you can expect from one the fundamentals we practice.
of his courses. It can be summed up in one After a quick 100-yard zero and a couple
word—fundamentals. Yes, we hear it all the of groups to let Charlie feel comfortable that
time from the bevy of capable trainers out I have some idea of what I’m doing, we go
there, but oddly in some way, I didn’t expect out to 500 yards, where I send Hornady’s
to hear that from Charlie, and not with such excellent 6mm Creedmoor 103-grain ELD-X’s
insistency. Why? Probably because it sounds with confidence. Yes, ELD-X, not the ELD-M
so—well, boring coming from a SEAL sniper. you’d expect. That’s mainly because with the
ammo shortage, Hornady was able to send
out the X’s in short order. But I came to find
“…KEEP IN MIND THAT CHARLIE TRAINED through discussions with Hornady that the
Xs are pretty much on par with the Ms. I

WARRIOR-ELITE GREATS LIKE assumed otherwise.

After easy 500-yard impacts, Charlie asked

MARCUS LUTTRELL AND CHRIS KYLE…” if I wanted to shoot at a mile. After much
consideration, I replied with a “Yes” some 40

38 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 CH LIE IKE
››
Melton imparts his knowledge upon the author
and reinforces the need to properly execute
the fundamentals with every trigger press.

milliseconds later. So I spun up the turrets

on the Riton 3-24x56 Conquer X7 optic and CHATTING WITH CHARLIE
sent it. Twenty-one mils is roughly what it took Charlie is passionate about sharing the craft
to hurtle the 103’s to a mile, coming from an as he learned it and taught it while in service.
18-inch barrel on a Gunwerks custom rifle. But his passion doesn’t end there, it overlaps
The CGS Group Hyperion QD suppressor with a passion to cook. Yes, Melton is as
hissed with each press of the trigger, allowing qualified in the kitchen as he was when he
Charlie to sit comfortably, spot, and give was deployed. The guy can straight cook,
commands and corrections without hearing and I was fortunate to share in several meals
protection. I knew the retired SEAL was he prepared.
testing me to see if I’d follow his lead, and I After a meal of inch-thick ribeye steaks,
did with much success at a mile with several bacon wrapped corn on the cob and cheese-
three- to four-round strings of back-to-back crusted broccoli that Charlie expertly prepared,
impacts on a 36-by-24-inch plate. he and I sat and talked.
The next day, Charlie and Jeremiah Alexan-
der, of Riton Optics, rigged up a mover from BM: Please tell us a little about
a wagon, paracord and some 2x2s. Rocks your military history.
were added to the wagon for effect, along CM: I grew up in Macon, Georgia, joined the
with a 23-by-35-inch silhouette to shoot at. military when I was 19 years old, went to boot
This “low-budget mover,” as we referred to it camp then A school and straight into SEAL
served us well and allowed Charlie to get me training. I became a SEAL, was one for 26
past my lack of confidence in shooting movers. years and retired in 2016.
After I understood what he was asking of me,
I was able to place shots very close to each Twenty-six years, that’s a long time.
other on a walking speed target at 200 yards. It was awesome! If I could get a new body,
there is no doubt that I’d do it again.

40 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
CLASSIC
IN
THE

The Dan Wesson

Heritage embodies the
bold characteristics and
classic designs that made
the line famous among 1911
enthusiasts. The Heritage
sports a fiber optic front
sight that glows bright in the
daylight and a 5” match barrel
that makes it a joy to shoot at
the range. With the Heritage,
shooters can experience
Dan Wesson quality at the
most affordable price.

HERITAGE

@DANWESSONFIREARMS
 CH LIE IKE
Tell us about your time at Camp Atterbury. stalking, shooting and all the skill sets. guns for back then, but now the rifles are so
Our East Coast SEAL super school was much smoother. I’m not saying you can’t take a
always run there; there were two separate Is there a rivalry between East and cheaper rifle and hit stuff, but the precision of
schools, the East and West coast. I was on West coasts? rifles has definitely gotten better.
the East Coast when I went through sniper Oh yeah. Always.
schools. I went through the school at Attebury What brand chassis do you like?
in 1994, and it was the best school ever. Do you feel like the rifles available now are I like the MPAs.
So, fast forward 15 years later and I ended that much better than what you had access
up being the senior chief of the West Coast to when you were in service? What types of rifles will you build?
school, and we combined the schools. We The gun industry has come so far, basically I’ll offer a hunting-type rifle and a precision
would do classroom stuff on East and West, we modified our weapons on our own. We chassis type.
and would come together at Atterbury for had to invent our own stuff. We had decent
Who taught you how to shoot?
I was always into guns and blowing stuff up.
My grandpa and uncles all hunted and shot
guns all the time. I got my first gun when
I was 4 or 5, a single-shot .22. My uncles
and grandpa taught me how to shoot, and it
was mostly Kentucky windage, but they had
a couple of the principles down like trigger
control and aim small, miss small. Yeah, me
and my brother would go hunting by ourselves
at like 5 or 6 years old.

Did you know in advance that you

wanted to be a SEAL?
My dad did eight years in the Navy, and he
had a buddy that would come over when I
was young and he would tell these stories,
and supposedly he was a SEAL. Come to find
out he wasn’t, but it inspired me, so I knew
I wanted to be a SEAL or Special Forces or
something since I was 8 years old.

Did you ever want to quit?

Nope. Not once. I’m a weirdo. I grew up pretty
poor and had to work for a living. I actually
enjoyed BUDS. I had a good time. It was fun.

Was the first time you were exposed to a

serious precision rifle at sniper school?
Once I got on my first team, yes. I wanted to
be a sniper when I was in BUDS.
“CHARLIE IS PASSIONATE ABOUT Is there a portion of sniper school that was
SHARING THE CRAFT AS HE LEARNED your absolute favorite?
All of it. I loved every part of it—the fieldcraft,
IT AND TAUGHT IT WHILE IN SERVICE.” stalking, shooting, unknown distance. Sniper
school is my favorite school I’ve ever been to.

What’s the most notable shot you’ve

ever made?
Most notable? I shot a guy at like 60 yards
with a .50-cal. That’s my most notable.

42 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
800 -338 -3220 | HORNADYSECURITY.COM

RAPiD
®

y>Ì>Li ÕÌ}ÃÞÃÌiwÃÌi}>«LiÌÜii VEHICLE SAFE

seat and console to hold safe in place.
Keep your handgun by your side and quickly accessible — even
01|$1.650'%'55#4;
when you travel. The RAPiD® Vehicle Safe secures your gun
i>ÀÌi`ÀÛiÀ½ÃÃi>Ì°ÌÃÕμÕiy>Ì>Li ÕÌ}ÃÞÃÌi
i>ÌiÃÌiii`v ÀL ÌÃ À ÌiÀ ÕÌ}>À`Ü>Ài°
-«Þ«>ViÌi,iÞv L]Ü>ÌVL>`Ì>} À`iV>
over the reader and the safe springs open to present your
>`}Õ°/iVÕ`i`ÃiVÕÀÌÞV>Li>ÌÌ>ViÃÌ Ãi>ÌvÀ>i
Ì }Õ>À`>}>ÃÌÌivÌ°9 ÕÀÃ>viÌÞV Õ`½ÌLiëiÀ°

FAST AND DEPENDABLE TOUCH-FREE ENTRY

WITH PATENTED RFID TECHNOLOGY.

RFID WATCH BAND TAG RFID KEY FOB RFID DECAL

IMPORTANT: Do not store loaded firearms in any safe, vault or lock box. Follow local,
state and federal laws for firearm storage and transport. Check dimensions of your
firearm against safe’s internal dimensions noted on packaging.
 CH LIE IKE
the world, and everywhere I went I’d always
have someone teach me to cook a dish from
that place. I enjoy cooking, feeding people and
making them happy.

What’s your favorite food?

Shellfish. I’m a huge shellfish fan. Whether it
is lobster, crab, crawfish, oysters, shellfish is
definitely my favorite…and steak (chuckles).

What’s the most difficult dish that

you prepare?
Crawfish Étouffée. It’s a crawfish dish with rice
and a sauce, but it takes about four hours to
prepare to do it right. I learned it from a guy in
Louisiana—his grandma’s recipe.

The CMP logo. What is it? What’s the

Longest shot… inspiration?
On paper or combat? CM stands for Charlie Mike, in the military that
Both. means continue mission. Basically it means
My longest shot in combat was like 300 or never quit, and continue on until you get the
400 yards. Because most of my operating was mission done. The star stands for indepen-
done in an urban environment. And my longest dence and liberty. The actual logo itself is a
paper shot was 5,025 yards. skull. It stands for unachievable mortality. It has
a bandana on there, and that stands for pro-
What’s your favorite caliber? tection and humility. The cowboy hat stands
.300 Win. Mag. for walking tall and striding with confidence.
The bone frog stands for the SEAL team,
What do you like about teaching? which represents brotherhood and loyalty. The
I like interaction with people, and my favorite crosshair on the eye stands for focus. So all of
thing is finding someone who is having trouble the things put together is kind of the principles
with something and being able to convey the of being a warrior.
information that you’re teaching to that person
and seeing that light bulb come on and have There’s a lot of meaning there.
them get it. It’s very satisfying to me. I thought long and hard on that and came up
with the logo. And it’s funny, you’re the only
Do you think the average PRS-style person to ask. I mean people ask what the
competitor is as good as your average CMP stands for, but nobody has asked about
military sniper? Not fieldcraft, but shooting the logo with the cowboy hat.
purposes.
You mean all branches of the military? CONTINUE YOUR MISSION
Yeah. It’s interesting to be in the presence of such
I would say they could probably compete in the an accomplished warrior, sniper and precision
shooting aspect with some snipers. Definitely shooter. After three days, I can tell you that
not a SEAL sniper. There’s some good shoot- Charlie wants to contribute to the precision
ers out there. Country boys—they can shoot. shooting community more than anything—both
through his rifle instruction and through his
Okay. You’re a foodie. You love to cook amazing ability with food. He spends a lot of
Where’d that come from? time on the spotting scope and beside the
I do love to cook. I used to help my mom and shooter giving guidance and feedback, instead
grandma cook all the time, and they taught of on the rifle saying, “Watch me.” If you want
me a lot. And, my dad and uncle grilled and to experience what I did (minus the grub),
smoked stuff. In the military I traveled all over check out CMP at charliemikeprecision.com.

44 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
MARK 5HD
RUGGED PERFORMANCE.
RELENTLESS PRECISION.
 TE SKILLS

46 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
 SPOT ON!
MASTER THE FOUR ULTIMATE
KEYS TO SPOTTING FROM
A MULTI-TIME WORLD CHAMP
ost long-range

and extreme long-

range rifle shots

have a very low percentage of

BY PAUL PHILLIPS • SEAN UTLEY PHOTOS
accurate first-round impacts.

Spotting is the skill set that

could determine a successful

hunt, saving a life or winning a

gold medal on game day. Even

if you have the most accurate

rifle in the world combined

with the best shooter in the

world, you still need to be able

to identify where the bullets

impact to make corrections

for an accurate follow-up shot

if needed.

BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
47
 S T !
Spotting is the most underrated skill in optic to help find targets before moving to a
extreme long-range shooting, in my opinion. higher power spotting scope with a narrow BALLISTICS
We use spotting skills in long-range hunting, field of view. I use my Kestrel/Applied Ballistics Analytics in
competitive shooting, law enforcement, Once you find all of the targets, I like to do my prep for any match, hunt or expected shoot
military and recreational shooting. Regardless a dry run through the course of fire to help that I might be spotting for. These tools assist
of what discipline you’re involved in and what remember where the intended targets are me with the direction of fire, time of flight and
gear you’re using, the skill set and approach located. I keep this routine and practice it, and max ordinance. I’m using science to help me
should be the same. You want to be able to it becomes a ritual. As a shooter, between predict the bullet’s flight path and expected
identify where the bullet is traveling, how the each target engagement you should lower ETA. I use the Kestrel to give me the direction
wind is affecting it and where it lands when your magnification while transitioning to locate of fire. I use the AB analytics program to give
it makes impact. Once you can master this the next target, then increase magnification me my time of flight and max ord. The time
skillset, the percentage of accurate impacts and adjust parallax before taking the shot. of flight is a very useful piece of information.
will increase. Performance eye protection is also very Once you hear the report of the rifle, you can
I feel the best way to explain my process for important for being able to acquire your target start counting off the seconds in your head.
spotting is to break things down in categories. and see splash as a shooter. Many matches This gives you a very good reference point on
So let’s look at target acquisition, ballistics, require you to wear eye protection during when you need to be relaxed and ready to see
stability and communication with the shooter. the match. If you have poor visibility looking
through cheap safety glasses, you might have
TARGET ACQUISITION a difficult time. I have tested a lot and discov-
You need to make sure you know where the ered that the Pilla Performance eyewear
target is and be able to locate it quickly on gives me crystal clear visibility and
glass. There are a lot of things that can help also the protection I need in a
you perform this skill quickly and accurately. match. If you can’t see the tar-
First, you want to make notes before the hunt, get clearly through your scope,
mission or match. Any information that you there is not a high probability
receive prior to spotting that will assist you in of seeing any splash.
identifying targets quickly will
help you find them faster and
be ready for the shooter. Most
times there will be known ter-
rain features and or manmade
objects that will assist you in
identifying targets quickly. “SPOTTING
A simple sketch or taking notes can
help with this. You can also use IS THE MOST
a red-dot sight or a low-power
UNDERRATED
SKILL IN EXTREME
Target acquisition is one of the
four most important aspects of LONG-RANGE
doing a good job spotting.
SHOOTING…”

48 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
 S T !

Communication between the spotter and

shooter is paramount. The author suggests
being short, to the point and only relaying the
essential information needed for a hit.

“THE BEST ADVICE THAT I HAVE

IS PRACTICE SPOTTING LIKE
YOU PRACTICE SHOOTING.”

an impact. It’s hard to keep your eyes open will increase your ability to identify the bullet After this experience, I made it a mission to
all of the time, and this technique will help flight path and impacts. not only find the most stable method for spot-
you avoid missing the impact. Max Ordinance ting, but also find the best optics for seeing
is the maximum height above the axis of the STABLE MEANS ABLE impacts at extreme long range. The rest of the
barrel that a bullet will reach along its flight While I was shooting in the finals at the 2017 competition on my down time, I went up and
path. This is very helpful in assisting the King of 2 Miles, I discovered that using my down the lines borrowing people’s spotting
spotter on where to look for trace/vapor trail riflescope in a prone position was more stable scopes to determine which scope had the
while in flight. than using a conventional spotting technique. best clarity. I determined the best spotting
Sometimes if you’re spotting in heavy During my finals run, my spotters had a hard scope was the Swarovski BTX 95. After
vegetation or in wet areas, you may not see time seeing any impacts with their spotting acquiring this optic, I found the best method
the impact or splash of the bullet. You can still scopes on their tripods while standing. After was to mount the BTX 95 on a 35-pound plate
pick up the bullets flight path and make some a few misses, I decided to help them out by with their stability bar. This method keeps you
helpful adjustments off of that in relation to staying in my riflescope instead of instantly close to the ground and very stable. I found
windage. This will help with wind corrections. If reloading. This gave me very a stable spotting that using a support bag under my chin kept
you can start narrowing down your wind calls, position. On my next shot I was able to see my head stable while looking through the
you will increase the chance of seeing splash. my splash. I made a quick correction for an glass. If the glass is stable and your head is
I find it helpful to line up directly behind the accurate impact on my next shot. This caused stable, you are much more likely to see a small
shooter and start watching at the predicted a lightbulb to go off in my head and made me impact. After training all year in 2018 on stable
max ord elevation. If you have trouble picking start thinking about how I could be more stable spotting platforms, the methods proved to
up the trace, keep looking above and below to help assist seeing the distant signatures. work when my team, GPG, finished first, third
what you think is the predicted max ord and After learning this, I got permission from the and fourth at the 2019 King of 2 Miles out
you will be surprised when you see a big vapor match director to use my rifle as my spotting of 80 shooters. Stability is huge in spotting.
trail. Try not to focus on one point, just relax scope to spot for Derek Rodgers in the finals. Don’t just rush into something; take the time
your eyes and watch for the trace to come Using my rifle as a spotting scope, we were to experiment and be able to find a stable
up from the bottom of your field of view. After successful impacting at 2 miles, which helped platform with quality optics, and your shooter
learning how to use these small techniques, it Derek Rodgers win the King of 2 Miles. will greatly appreciate the help.

50 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 S T !
COMMUNICATION
After being on three world championships
teams, 14 national championship teams and
three King of 2 Mile championship teams,
I have learned a lot about team communi-
cation between the shooter and spotter. I
like to keep communications very short and
to the point with only essential information
being relayed. In general, the spotter/
shooter will have a very consistent dialog to
each other that is very quick and informative.
You may have a dual role as a spotter/wind
coach. The first thing you need to do is to
make sure the shooter is on the correct
target. This can be done by having him tell
you some unique identifiers near the target.
After you have identified the correct target
and you have the correct dope, you take a
quick peak at the shooter and his position.
Look at the bipod legs, bubble level, rear
bag, mag and ammo. You don’t need to say
anything to interrupt him unless there is an Winning the King of 2 Mile isn’t
issue that needs to be addressed. an accomplishment to sneeze at.
But to do so, quality spotting is as
After this you can let your shooter know important as great shooting.
that the spotter is up. The shooter should let spotter need to have excellent communica-
the spotter know when he is ready. When tions with not only spotting but with their wind
both the shooter and spotter have given each calls, ballistics and shooting position issues.
other the up command, the spotter can let This all leads to success in shooting.
the shooter know when to send it. This lets No matter what discipline you’re spotting
the shooter know that the spotter is ready for and what type of gear you have, the best
and waiting for the shot. There might be times advice that I have is practice spotting like
where the shooter is taking an extremely long you practice shooting. Try different meth-
time and at this point the shooter needs to ods until you make the most out of what
remind the spotter that he is sending the you have. Just remember the main points—
shot. This needs to be practiced so that the target, ballistics, stability and communication.
spotter is not caught off guard with blinking Good Luck!
or staring too long. Both the shooter and

52 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 ©2021 O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc.

MOSSBERG | MVP ®
PRECISION

LET
FREEDOM
RING...
AT 1000+
YARDS.
 S

1. NIGHTFORCE TS-82: The TS-82 Xtreme High Definition is Night-

force’s top-dog optic and features an aluminum body, large precision and easy
to use focus ring, and 82mm objective with razor-sharp resolution. This premium
optic sports a premium price tag of $3,000. (nightforceoptics.com)

VORTEX VIPER HD: Shooters have come to know that Vortex 4

20-60x85 angled does just that with a price tag of $1,350. It has an HD
optical system and other premium level features. It’s also built tough to handle
(vortexoptics.com)

3
TRACT TORIC: Last year Tract introduced the Toric UHD 30x80

(tractoptics.com)

5 BUSHNELL LMSS2 ELITE TACTICAL: The LMSS2 Elite

aluminum chassis with overmolded rubber armor. EXO barrier repels water,

mounting accessories. The reticle options include the H322 or TREMOR4.

Both allow for precise ranging. The LMSS2 also has excellent ED Prime
glass and is compact and lightweight. The MSRP is $1,750. (bushnell.com)

5. Leupold is a tried and true name in the optics

space, and while they have many different options for spotting scopes we
prefer the Mark 4 Tactical line. The Mark 4 12-40x60 is an excellent spotter
and it can be had with mil dot and TMR-type reticles. We think it’s best to
6 go with one featuring an inverted H-36 reticle for precise measurements and
corrects from spotter to shooter. It’s also built tough and will last pretty much
as long as you decide to be a lover of precision shooting. Plus, it’s one of just
a few spotters with a solid history of use by military and LE snipers. Price range is
$1,700 to $2,626. (leupold.com)

6. Arguably the holy grail of sport optics, Swarovski’s

glass is unmatched. The BTX spotting scope is the top of the heap with clarity like
no other. Swarovski’s BTX is ultra-premium and priced out of the range for many
of us—$3,110 to $6,442. But if you’re shooting and competing at the highest
levels, that won’t deter you. (swarovskioptik.com) — Sean Utley

54 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 L G GE TEST

6.5
AS A LONG-TIME 6.5MM FAN,
the 6.5 PRC has always had some interest.
Over the years, I have used the 6.5-284 Norma,
.260 Remington, 6.5 Creedmoor and a few
others. Both the .260 Rem. and 6.5 Creedmoor
remain favorites, and I’ve taken them to their
ballistic limits. Having reached a mile with both,
I can attest that it is a stretch and very difficult

PRC
with factory ammunition. Even 1,300 to 1,500
yards is a bit of a chore, although possible.
As the 6.5 SAUM became popular among
PRS (Precision Rifles Series) shooters on
longer courses, it started to pique my interest.
Many were using it for long-range matches,
especially where substantial wind
was present. That fact that
it was hard hitting using

FOR IT’S A MILE-READY

GAME CHANGER FOR
COMPETITORS AND

ME
HUNTERS ALIKE
BY DAVID BAHDE

56 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
proven bullets for larger game at longer ranges 143-grain ELDX was traveling 2,960 fps from wanted to use factory ammunition and I really
made it even better. My only issue was the a 24-inch barrel, and the ELDM (match) ammo wanted to use a box magazine. Accurate
need to primarily handload. Consequently, reached 2,910 fps. Handloads can easily Magazines’ 300 WSM AICS seems the best
when the 6.5 PRC was introduced, it was time surpass 3,000 fps if necessary. As long-range fix for true short actions, but after talking to the
to give it a try. With factory match and hunting hunting and competition become increasingly folks at Alamo Precision Rifles, we decided
ammunition available, it is opened up to a much popular, this cartridge bridges a gap between to eliminate any issue and used one of that
larger market. the 6.5 Creedmoor and the big .30-calibers. company’s G2 long actions. This allowed me to
test for both hunting and long-range PRS work,
HORNADY 6.5 PRC LONG AND SHORT OF IT? plus facilitated a later move to the .300 PRC
The brainchild of George Gardner from G.A. When I started looking at the 6.5 PRC, my with just a barrel change.
Precision, the 6.5 PRC was designed to touch assumption was any Remington 700 short
near the PRS velocity limit of 3,200 fps using action or clone is suitable. Talking to various RIFLE PARTICULARS
a short or medium action. While the 6.5 SAUM builders, however, it was not that simple— Alamo Precision Rifles built a 6.5 Creedmoor
was viable, the PRC used a non-rebated rim, mostly because of the factory ammunition for me on its new G2 action that was incredibly
fit in more rifles and was more amenable to available. Factory loads don’t fit the AICS accurate and smooth. For the PRC, Alamo’s lat-
reloading. A standard magnum bolt face made magazines and have feeding issues in some est G2 long action was fit with a 24-inch barrel
things easier, as did Hornady’s support with short actions, even with a .300 WSM version. using a nice dimpling pattern and capped with
brass and factory ammunition. The company’s Handloading would fix this, of course, but I an Area 419 Hellfire 6.5mm muzzle brake. The

BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
57
 .5 CF E

With a great scope

and bipod, the
Precision G2 is a
rifle made for long-
distance shooting,
both on the range
and in the field.

scope base had 20 MOA, taking this caliber RIGHT: The TriggerTech
to its limits with most scopes. I dropped it in Trigger set at 2 pounds
proved to be a real
a Grayboe Ridgeback that made it suitable boost to the rifle’s
for most any use. TriggerTech provided its inherent accuracy.
Diamond R700 trigger using a flat face and
FAR RIGHT: The Alamo
covered by a Hawkins Precision bottom metal. Precision Rifles action
The magazine is a long action AICS pattern proved to be just as
made by Accurate Mag. accurate in 6.5 PRC as
in 6.5 Creedmoor.
Bushnell’s Elite Tactical DMR 2 Pro using
a G3 reticle was mounted in a set of Badger
Ordnance steel rings, providing a solid plat- close to a single hole at 100 yards. Post
form and ED glass for long-range shooting. An SPECIFICATIONS break-in, the best five-shot group was a tad
OSS Suppressors Helix 762 QD was used for under 0.5 inches. Moving to 300 yards, the
much of the testing. Given no back pressure, it ALAMO PRECISION G2 groups were nearly the same at just under 1
does not add nearly as much recoil as others, inch. Groups with the 143-grain ELDX were
CALIBER: 6.5 PRC
with a minimal first round “pop.” Hornady’s maybe a bit tighter, but there was little doubt
147-grain ELDM and 143-grain ELDX were BARREL: 24 inches this rifle was accurate—more accurate than
the loads tested. OA LENGTH: 47 inches (including brake) me most of the time.
Skipping the middle ground, the next
ACCURACY TESTS WEIGHT: 11.4 pounds (empty)
target—a 16-by-22-inch steel silhouette—was
Alamo Precision builds a very accurate rifle, STOCK: Grayboe Ridgeback set at 1,000 yards. Wind was moderate at 5
and the TriggerTech quickly became one of SIGHTS: 20-MOA rail to 10 mph. Starting with the listed velocity of
my favorite R700 single-stage triggers. Very 2,910 fps, Hornady’s 4DOF iPhone program
ACTION: Bolt
crisp with no take-up or overtravel, it has a was used to calculate my 6.8 mil hold. Two
positive reset and solid hammer pressure, FINISH: Black DLC rounds to deal with the wind (.5 mils) were
even when set to 1.5 pounds. This combo CAPACITY: 5+1 followed by three centered on steel. Moving to
resulted in my first three-round group during the 1,308-yard target, the hold was confirmed
MSRP: $2,500
break-in using the 147-grain ELDM cutting at 10.5 mils truing at closer to 2,900 fps, but

58 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 The 24-inch, dimpled
barrel will accept a
number of different
muzzle devices. The
author suggests Area
419’s Hellfire brake
for the range and a
suppressor for hunting.

very close. At 1,500 yards on a slightly larger

steel target, my first round was centered just OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
off the edge holding 12.5 mils and just under My preference remains a standard stock;
.8 mils for wind. My next five-round string net- chassis systems are fine, just not my favorite.
ted four out of five on steel—pretty impressive Most of my time as a police sniper was spent
for a 147-grain bullet. on a similar stock, making Grayboe’s Ridge-
Just for kicks, I lined up the 1-mile target back very comfortable. Rested on barricades
with 18 mils dialed in and held at the top and obstacles, the flat handguard is stable, bag
of the 2-by-2-foot steel. Wind was kicking or not. M-LOK attachments were solid, and
up, so it took more than a mil to get on, but the Atlas CAL bipod was rock solid, especially
I confirmed at least one hit, maybe two over using the spikes. Even the level came in handy
five rounds. With no spotter, it’s difficult to at the very long ranges. Cheek height adjust-
confirm through, even as clear a scope as ment is easy and stayed in place during testing.
the Bushnell DMR Pro, but at least one hit Length of pull is accomplished with spacers
centered on the leeward edge. Likely outside that are easy to add or remove, and the butt
any practical range, it does provide some pad is very cushy. As configured, retail was
indication as to how well the bullet holds its $624, and it’s a ton of stock for the money.
own. At a mile, the 147-grain ELDM is still Alamo Precision’s action is very smooth with
making 1,095 fps, so it’s got some juice. positive brass ejection. Run the bolt hard, and With outstanding accuracy like this when
using factory ammo, what’s not to like about
But consistent shots at this range are better brass ends up about three feet to the right at 2 the Alamo Precision G2 Action in 6.5 PRC?
suited to the .300 PRC or .300 Norma. o’clock. Single feeding was mostly positive. On

“AREA 419’S HELLFIRE MIGHT BE

THE BEST MUZZLE BRAKE
USED ON A RIFLE LIKE THIS.”

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
59
 .5 CF E
The Hornady ELD
“MY FIRST THREE- Match load in 6.5 PRC
proved extremely ac-
ROUND GROUP curate, even at much
longer distances.
DURING BREAK-IN
USING THE HORNADY
147-GRAIN ELDM CUT
CLOSE TO A SINGLE
HOLE AT 100 YARDS.”

the 6.5s. Energy at 1,000 yards is 1,100 ft.-lbs.,

falling to just under 600 at 1,500 yards—300
ft.-lbs. more than the 140-grain ELDM out of a
6.5 Creedmoor at both distances.

BOTTOM LINE
occasion I had to double clutch, but generally Compared to the 6.5 Creedmoor, holds at
PERFORMANCE
it slid right in, even with quite a bit of jump. 1,000 yards are 2 mils less, and closer to 5

ALAMO PRECISION G2
Feeding from the magazine was flawless. The mils less at 1,500 yards. Added velocity and a
trigger was fantastic, settled on 2 pounds, and higher ballistic coefficient with the 147-grain
it was easy to control and predictable, even on LOAD VELOCITY ACCURACY bullet really takes over when reaching out.
obstacle runs. That’s a bit light for me, but this Energy at 700 yards is almost 500 ft.-lbs.
trigger did not give me any issues. Difference Hornady 143 ELDX 2,968 0.51 greater, and that is important when hunting
in length between the short and long action larger game. This cartridge truly does fit
Hornady 147 ELDM 2,900 0.50
is about 1 inch, practically unnoticeable nicely in between the slower 6.5mm rounds
during position drills. Side by side with the Groups were five rounds from prone using a bipod and the big .30-calibers. Recoil is about the
and bag for support. Velocities are trued to the
Ridgeback short action you can hardly see the rifle using the Kestrel Meter with Applied Ballistics
same using a brake—maybe a bit more with a
difference. It’s not quite as fast during rapid Software at 1,308 yards and proven at 1,500 yards. suppressor—but it is anything but oppressive.
bolt manipulation, but not enough to matter in It might be more noticeable if using a really
a match—at my level, at least. Working in and a no-back-pressure design. I would hunt with light rifle, but not so much it’s not worth the
out of obstacles was comparable, not much the suppressor, but use the brake for compe- difference given the proper conditions.
difference with the brake attached compared tition. The attachment method is ingenious, This caliber is just starting to catch on,
to my short-action rifles. If moving around a lot, allowing you to move it between rifles. Plus, and ammunition is starting to show up from
I would double up on the hearing protection it can be timed and tightened with no tools. other companies. As much as I like my .260
and use the brake. It will definitely see some use on a couple of Remington or 6.5 Creedmoor, this 6.5 PRC
Area 419’s Hellfire might be the best other rifles. is all it’s made to be, at least for me—faster,
muzzle brake used on a rifle like this. Blast Hits on steel from 1,000 yards or longer flatter and harder-hitting, with greater range
at the shooter is minimal. I wouldn’t want to exhibited much greater authority, moving the and little recoil. Whether reaching out to steel
be next to it, but shooting it is nowhere near steel more than the .260 Rem. and 6.5 Creed- at a match in a stiff wind or hunting larger
as punishing as many. Difference in barrel moor. Inside 100 yards, it spun the 12-inch game at distance, this caliber and the Alamo
movement between the brake and suppressor steel quite a bit. At 1,500 yards, hits could be Precision G2 are excellent choices. For more
was noticeable, as was recoil, and that’s using heard much more easily than when shooting information, visit aprifles.com.

60 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
PRECISION PERFORMANCE
TAKEN TO THE NEXT LEVEL
The Sako S20 Precision is now powered by Sako TRG
Precision Cartridges, one of six new & innovative cartridge
families developed by Sako and now available in the United
States. Developed for unparalleled results in competition
and long-range shooting, the TRG Precision Cartridge
features Sako’s unique brass & a Scenar L HPBT projectile.

AVA I L A B L E N O W AT S E L E CT D E A L E R S SAKO.FI/EN-US/CARTRIDGES
62 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 CKI ’ I FI E

hard to believe how quickly

time zips by. It’s been four
years since Vudoo launched
the highly sought after, addictive V-22 action,
allowing hardened precision shooters the
opportunity to build and have a rifle cham-
bered in .22 LR, and yet be compatible from
a training aspect with whatever their current
centerfire rifle is. The action lets you attach
barrels of all profiles and lengths, drop it into a
Remington 700-compatible chassis or stock
of your choice and hit the range. The magazine
was also dimensionally equivalent to the AICS
pattern to maintain functional likeness as
well. It only lacked the full length of throw of a
centerfire bolt action.
The action was heavy, too, made from steel
and robust as can be, and you could also dry
fire it to your heart’s content. Its success and
popularity helped drive competitive rimfire
series like the NRL .22. Shooters could
shoot in smaller venues, with challenging
courses of fire and maintain their competitive
development while saving a bit of money on
ammo, even if the rifle itself still cost as much
as a similar centerfire version. Or they could
simply use it to practice positional work from
barricades at home or elsewhere and disturb
the neighbors less.
I purchased a V-22 as soon as they
announced left-handed versions and I have
since loved that rifle. It quickly became one of
my favorite rifles because it was easy to shoot
and easy to maintain. If some things needed to
disappear, like annoying rodents and the like,
it could happen, especially with a suppressor
onboard. I shot fairly frequently in my backyard
in a particularly nice neighborhood. No one
was the wiser.
People will bring up the 40X and yes, that’s
been around a while. However, it was not

U N D E R S T U D Y
T H I S . 2 2 L R
DEMANDS YOUR SERIOUS AT TENTION
BY SEAN UTLEY

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
63
 This is what a serious precision rig looks like,
regardless of caliber. You’d be hard pressed
to tell that it is chambered in .22 LR.

“IT’S EASY TO FALL INTO THE MIND TRAP

THAT THE .22 LR IS A TOY OR ‘PLINKSTER’
AND NOT TO BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY.”

designed from the ground up as a .22 LR,

but instead is a conversion from a centerfire
to rimfire. The 40X also doesn’t have full-size
AICS footprint mags like the V-22. This is
possible because the V-22 utilizes full-size
bottom metal and, again, with the Remington
700 footprint it can go in numerous varieties
of chassis.
The V-22 would soon see competition,
though, and nothing spurs on improvements
and refinement like competition. Vudoo then

released a Gen 2 version of the V-22 that

had small improvements that are natural
throughout any product’s life, and they added
a tool-less bolt disassembly. This explanation
is a bit of an oversimplification because the
Vudoo action is truly a state-of-the art design
and one that is machined in its entirety. With
no broaching, no EDM of the raceway, it’s true
patented technology.
››

Now, Vudoo has added to the lineup a

Thinking ahead, brand new version of the V-22 known simply
Vudoo has included as the Three 60.
a threaded muzzle
for the fitment of a
suppressor, which is
almost a must for a A robust and unique The V-22 Three 60 features a three-lug,
rimfire nowadays. design with lugs in the 60-degree throw. It’s now shorter and faster
middle of the bolt make
the V-22 action a patented than ever—not that the previous version with
“mid-bolt” action. its 90-degree throw was slow. In fact, running
the Three 60 is almost comical. The question

64 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 'ZNQY.YѣXFXNRUQJ\TWIGZYNYNRUQNJXYMFY^TZѣ[JUJWXTSFQN_JI^TZWWNᠵJKTWFXUJHNᠴHSJJI&JWT5WJHNXNTS*5(WJHJN[JWXFWJ
XUJHNᠴHFQQ^IJXNLSJIYTJSMFSHJJ[JW^FXUJHYTK^TZWGZNQIUWTHJXXJSXZWNSLYMFY^TZWJHJN[JFVZFQNY^J]UJWNJSHJFYFLWJFY[FQZJ

<MFYFWJ^TZGZNQINSLKTW$

AEROPRECISIONUSA.COM
 I found myself asking was, “How much more You still get the reliable feeding and
SPECIFICATIONS
can I not move my hand?” It’s so minimal that extraction/ejection of the Gen 2. The con-
it’s almost hard to get used to. Almost. But
VUDOO GUNWORKS trolled feed of the Vudoo makes it a rimfire
I found that after a couple minutes laying on
V-22 THREE 60 ripper. You can run it hard or you can slow it
my belly in the hallway, dry-firing between my
pups, it had an excellent feel.
BARRELED ACTION down. Either way it will accomplish what you
need it to. The Vudoo has no feed ramp; its
Why a three-lug, 60-degree throw? CALIBER: .22 LR geometry is designed to feed .22’s without
Well, apparently it was requested by many BARREL: 18 inches (MTU profile) damaging the soft lead tips. This leads to
customers. And like a good company does, improved accuracy and less junk in the
OA LENGTH: 28 inches
Vudoo responded when they realized the chamber as the lead builds up in all the wrong
demand could support their efforts to WEIGHT: 6.6 pounds (empty) places as it’s shaved off. It doesn’t take much
produce it. So, if you run a centerfire action STOCK: Remington 700 compatible to ruin a .22 bullet, and these days they’re just
with a 60-degree throw, the Three 60 will as valuable as centerfire rounds.
SIGHTS: None
keep you more inline with that from a bolt High levels of accuracy require the right
manipulation standpoint. ACTION: Bolt types of barrels, and when you call to order
FINISH: Sniper gray either your barreled action or complete build,
you can pick brand, length and profile. I
CAPACITY: 10+1
opted for an 18-inch MTU from Bartlein and
MSRP: $1,920 (barreled action only) 30-MOA rail. Other brands will be on the
menu in the future. Four different profiles are
offered: Specter, Ranch, Kuri and MTU-V.
Each has its own benefit or liability in weight
and maneuverability. I opted for heavy because
my original V-22 is light so I thought this would
balance everything out between them. Barrel
lengths also vary from profile to profile. Barrel
muzzles are threaded to 1/2x28, and I strongly
advise taking advantage of a suppressor for
your build if your state laws allow for one.
An all-steel action Like any quality centerfire build, there are
adorned with the Vudoo many other options for the Three 60. It can
Gun Works moniker
means you’ve stumbled be had in .22 LR, .17 HM2, .22 WMR or .17
upon something special. HMR chamberings. The top rail is available in
Note the 30-MOA rail and 0, 20, 30, 40 and 60 MOA. Don’t laugh. Many
robust bolt stop.
rimfire ELR matches demand such angles
of attack. The bolt body is one piece with a
thread-on knob that allows you to change it
out. While my sample is southpaw, you must
know by now that RH versions are available.

AICS-sized mags mean

handling is the same, and
the mag is easy to load with
the help of tabs on the sides.

66 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 FASTER | FLATTER | FARTHER

X  . B  & . C   X ǵ Ɩ ƚ U  X % I X B  C   ǡ + . & +  X s  < I  . c .  \ ǡ < I C &  X X  C &  ǡ

<  \ \   X I U   C    X . % cǡ  B I X     U   . < . c .  \ ǡ  B   c  c +    y U  C   
Ɨ Ɨ ƙ  s < : z X .   < . C  h U  % X I B  %    X  < ® ǡ  c +   % h < <  \ U   c X h B  I %  < I   \
% I X c +  h <c . B c    X c X .  &  DZ I C <z % X I B c +  C I ǡ Ɩ  B B h C . c . I C  X  C  ǡ

BUY NOW AT FEDER A LPREMIUM.COM

BARNES® TSX® &I<B<\.XX®Bc+:.C&® %h\.IC®B\X \t.%c®\.XII®..

78 Grain // Medium/Big Game Hunting Improved 90 Grain // Comp // Long Range 90 Grain // Deer Hunting 81 Grain // Medium/Big Game Hunting

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

HORNADY®sǵBy® BX.C&<®X.%< NOSLER®<<.\c.c.U® &I<B<® BERGER®

60 Grain // Varmint Hunting 75 Grain // Value Target sXB.Cc UXcIX 80.5 Grain // Comp // Long Range
60 Grain // Varmint Hunting
 Your barreled action can also be had in
seven different standard Cerakote colors,
and custom colors are available for an
additional cost.

SET UP
When the V-22 Three 60 barreled action
showed up I couldn’t get the box open quickly
enough. Inside sat the beauty coated in sniper
grey, just like my first one, except with a fatter
and shorter barrel. I only had a couple of
chassis sitting around, one being my prized J
Allen Enterprises with special race colors. The
grey on the chassis complimented the barreled
action nicely.
Before settling it into the chassis I had to
add a trigger because they don’t come with
the barreled action. A Trigger Tech Diamond
was slid into place and secured with the
included trigger pins.
Once it was together, it only needed a cou-
PERFORMANCE
ple more bits and pieces to be shooting-wor-

VUDOO GUNWORKS thy. One thing was an optic, and I grabbed

up Vortex’s new Venom 5-25x56 that was on
V-22 THREE 60 hand for this year’s optics overview. The EB-7
BARRELED ACTION MIL reticle would work well for the inevitable
wind and elevation holds that were to come
LOAD VELOCITY ACCURACY
with shooting .22 LR. After adding the optic, I
Eley Tenex 40 1,095 0.25 added at Ckye-Pod from MDT, and connected
directly to the Arca rail of the J Allen.
Lapua Center-X 40 1,074 0.11
It only needed one more thing—a suppres-
Bullet weight measured in grains, velocity in feet sor. And sometimes that choice is just hard. I
per second (fps) by chronograph and accuracy couldn’t resist adding more weight and lines
in inches for best five-shot groups at 45 yards. to this build, so I went with the Nex Gen 2 Max
Flo 3D. It’s a bit big and a bit heavy and maybe
a bit unnecessary for the .22 LR, but I’ve seen
great things happen with this can attached to
the original V-22.

SIGHT IN
With the rifle completed the next step was to
zero. I removed the bolt and performed a bore
sight to get it on paper. I then stepped back to
25 yards to get a solid zero—while standing in
my front yard. I do live outside city limits and
have a residence that allows me to shoot a .22
without issue, but to do it in silence with no
one the wiser is always exciting and satisfying.
I used Eley subsonic hunter to get it right in the
center of some 1-inch dots, and the next day I
headed to the range to shoot groups.
Groups were shot at 45 yards because
I could ensure the wind wouldn’t have an
overreaching effect on the flight of the bullet

68 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
and I couldn’t get access to the 50-yard bay fun to pilot, especially when suppressed. The gun at 100 yards. But that would be tough to
at the time. Frequently, our 100-yard bays at mechanical action is exact in its movement do. My second best group was 0.18 inches
the range experience significant winds that will with a fulfilling audible element as icing on the (.39 MOA) with the same ammo.
blow over target stands—even ones with nice cake. And it flat out shot lights out with Lapua
sized rocks to anchor them down. Center-X ammo. My best group measured PARTING LONG SHOTS
The Vudoo did what I expected it to, by 0.11 inches, which equates to .24 MOA. It’s easy to fall into the mind trap that the
running without issue and being an absolute Given the right conditions environmentally and .22 LR is a toy or “plinkster” and not to be
pleasure to shoot. It’s an incredible amount of shooter ability, this is possibly a quarter-inch taken seriously. But once you pair it with a
solid platform—one on par with other custom
precision rifles—you start to realize how useful
A top-quality optic, like this 5-25x Venom
and effective it can be. It’s rather easy to shoot
from Vortex, is needed in order to take full
advantage of all the Three 60 has to offer. them 300 to 500 yards given favorable wind
conditions. And with top-performing ammo
you’ll have consistent hits on target.
I know it’s not for everyone, because you
can find some very affordable rimfires out
there. Bargains can be hard to pass up. But
when you decide to take it seriously and
start to understand how the rimfire can be an
effective training tool and serious precision
instrument, as well as how it can be used to
hone your skills, a rifle like the V-22 Three 60
starts making a lot of sense. It can help to bring
your precision shooting game full circle. For
more, visit vudoogunworks.com.

THE REST
OF YOUR
RANGE CAPABILITY
Increase the number of hits on target at ranges beyond your initial effective
range with the flip of a lens. Just aim center™ with the Second Zero ®.
AxeonOptics.com/Ballistic

FLIPPED DOWN FLIPPED UP

© 2021 UMAREX USA, INC.

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
69
 THE HU T

HEAD TO
COLORADO TO
PICK UP SOME
LONG-RANGE
SHOOTING AND
GEAR TIPS
BY LEN WALDRON •

70 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 here are no layups in elk
hunting. Sure, there’ll always
be stories of that mythical
hunter who steps out of the
truck into the sunshine and
drops an imperial bull elk on

a cow Tule Elk to become the first

to take all 29 North American big
game animals with a recurve bow
and complete the Super Slam.

animals—and those were the ones

that didn’t get away. Still an extensive trav-

BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
71
 GU WE KI ’ ULLS
but also boasts sustainable populations, the Spaniard’s souls were resigned to purgatory,
likes of which are the stuff of early pioneer and the river received its name.
journals, not the 21st century. Known as the “East Ranch,” the plains are
In the shadows of the Spanish Peaks constantly buffeted by high winds, occasional
just north of the 7,800-foot Raton Pass that bank-busting thunderstorms and extreme
crosses the Sangre de Cristo Mountains into winter temperatures. However, the Eichler’s
New Mexico sits a plot of land Eichler’s family active, intelligent land management both
has worked over the past decade to sustain sustains a small agricultural operation and
wildlife and agriculture—side-by-side. The par- provides necessary cover and food for an
cel has a few advantages. First, the Purgatoire abundance of game. There are no high fences
River runs through most of it, bringing water here, but on any given day and in many cases,
to an otherwise arid landscape. The property a single field, one can see whitetail and mule
also has several natural springs, one of which deer, antelope, elk and turkey within sight at
Eichler expanded to an impoundment that the same time.

“Most think of elk as mountain-dwelling

along the river attacked and killed many Span- animals, and they certainly thrive there, but
I think that in most cases, we pushed them
there,” Eichler told me. “They’re actually
a proper Christian burial. As such, the dead a prairie-dwelling animal, and you get the
chance to see that here on the ranch.”
Though these are the same species of Rocky

Chambered for the Hornady 6.5 PRC cartridge,

the Gunwerks ClymR featured a titanium action,
an oversized bolt knob great for gloved hands,
along with the familiar safety location of the
Remington 700 push-feed action.

Those wanting a Gunwerks ClymR rifle can choose

between stock materials, action types, action metal,
action design, trigger types, trigger pull weight, barrel
construction, threading and a variety of other options.
TANGO6T
TM

PROVEN
PERFORMANCE
again, and again, and again.

SELECTED RIFLESCOPE FOR THE US ARMY

SQUAD DESIGNATED MARKSMAN RIFLE (SDMR)

SELECTED RIFLESCOPE FOR USSOCOM SQUAD-

VARIABLE POWERED SCOPE (S-VPS)

SELECTED RIFLESCOPE FOR DEPARTMENT OF

DEFENSE (DOD) DIRECT VIEW OPTIC (DVO)

OPTIMIZED AND RUGGEDIZED FOR CLOSE

QUARTERS BATTLE TO MID-RANGE TACTICAL
ENGAGEMENTS

NINE DAYLIGHT BRIGHT AND TWO NIGHT VISION

ILLUMINATION SETTINGS WITH LOCKING DIAL

MIL-STD-810H, IPX-8 WATERPROOF RATED AND

FOG-PROOF PERFORMANCE

30MM MAINTUBE, FIBER OPTIC POWER

SELECTOR INDICATOR, THROW LEVER INCLUDED

ASSEMBLED IN USA

FIRST FOCAL PLANE SECOND FOCAL PLANE

DWLR-556 FL-6
HELLFIRE
5.56MM / 7.62MM
DWL-6 MOA MILLING HELLFIRE

sigsauer.com
 GU WE KI ’ ULLS

principles forged from his experience is keep-

ing the spread of human scent and the impact
on the natural daily rhythms of animals—in
this case, the elk herd—to a minimum. I had
a peaceful first night in the blind, but others
would not be so lucky.
The cold, clear night was full of bright
stars, coyotes calling and stereophonic elk
bugling that promised great potential for the
following morning. The moment legal shooting
hours began, I awoke to over 200 pronghorn
antelope, several dozen whitetail deer and a
Sean McGee and Fred Eichler few mule deer outside the blind. Unfortunately,
with the bull elk believed to be the bulls who had kept me awake most of the
the same animal that ransacked night had already moved past the blind, down
McGee’s blind the previous night.
into the river bottom and off Eichler’s property.
There were a few lingering cows at more than
700 yards, but no legal bulls. I returned to the
blind early in the afternoon, but the herd did
not return until after sunset.
We elected to hunt the next morning on
foot, using the cover of mesas and ravines to
approach the herd from the opposite side of
the Purgatoire River. The wind was constantly
shifting and blowing 25 to 30 mph. We
crawled up the edge of a mesa while the sun
rose and caught a few members of the herd
moving into the river bottom. A quick move
to scramble down the mesa and into a ravine
that led down to the river bottom netted us no
additional elk. Elk 2, hunters 0.
That evening, I elected the “sleep-in-the-
blind” technique again. Tonight would be more
severe as the front that brought in the high
winds of the morning had dropped tempera-
tures precipitously. However, Fred predicted
the temperature change would cause the elk
to exit the river bottom before sunset.

74 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 MADE IN NORWAY

LIKE IT´S THE 21st CENTURY

YTRE HAUGEN 75 / N-6763 HORNINDAL / NORWAY

GRS@GRSRIFLESTOCKS.COM / +47 57 87 96 50
READ MORE: GRSRIFLESTOCKS.COM/GRS-SHOOTING
 GU WE KI ’ ULLS
K
Fred was dramatically correct. As the
sun began to descend, four scouting cows cleanly. I looked up at the vertical turret—2.0
jumped a low wire fence into the alfalfa field MOA. My ham-fisted snatch of the rifle had
400 yards to my left. Just over half an hour
later, I saw a cloud of dust coming out of the
river bottom. It was the entire herd. Over 150
elk came at full gallop out of the river bottom,
across a sage flat and into the open field.
When the cows arrived, I had ranged them
figuring that was likely where the herd would
enter the property. I dialed in +4.25 MOA to 3, hunter 0.
the Leupold Scope, which was the Hornady
4DOF’s solution for 369 yards at this altitude SilencerCo Omega suppressor attached to
and temperature. I have rarely been prone to the Gunwerks ClymR. Those more familiar
buck fever, though, at random times, it strikes.
Seeing a massive herd of elk galloping toward
me was a joyful sensory overload. The cows
were in front, dozens of them. Then mixed
with the crowd, the bulls came.
Several of the bulls were large and mature
with the bright, light-colored antlers of the
prairie elk. I located a large bull and grabbed property. Slowly, the cluster began to loosen.
my rifle and, in doing so, made a rookie error.
In my heightened state, I grabbed the rifle by
the scope in a manner that turned the eleva-
tion adjustment knob. Worse, I didn’t re-check
it before aiming. The big, old bull gave me a
clear broadside view with no cows behind
him. I controlled my breathing, held slightly to
the right for the crosswind, and broke the shot than the females after the rut
only to see a puff of dust below and slightly and are more motivated to
past the bull. I was dumbfounded. The hold

Fred Eichler’s ranch near Trinidad, Colorado, is a rare balance

of successful agriculture and game management. Here a buck
antelope crosses out of the Purgatoire River bottom.

76 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 GU WE KI ’ ULLS
winter to come—and these bulls were hungry.
Though cut close to the ground and harvested The author with Fred Eichler and son (far left and right) along with
Neil Emery (center right) from Gunwerks. Note the difference in
recently, the nutrient-rich and still green alfalfa antler pigment between the mountain (left) and prairie elk.
scrub was too much to pass up.
This time, there were no mistakes in range
adjustments, and I was ready. A beautiful 6 x 5
bull stepped into the open at 239 yards, and I
dropped him cleanly with the 143-grain ELD-X
round. At that range, the Hornady 6.5 PRC
bullet hit the elk at more than 2,500 feet per
second with 2,000 foot-pounds of energy. It
was a quick and ethical end for a magnificent
specimen I would savor, nose-to-tail, for food
over the winter, and as it turned out, more than
a dozen family meals during the COVID-19
quarantine.
In a bizarre epilogue to this story, Sean
McGee, with Hornady Manufacturing, decided
to take my place the next night, sleeping
in the blind. At 2:30 a.m., he texted Eichler
that an elk was attacking the blind. Though panicked and began slamming his antlers into down and extricated himself from the wires.
encircled at its base by barbed wire, a bull the base and uprights of the polymer Muddy The following night, from the same blind, he
elk had jumped over it to feed below the blind blind. The thrashing went on for some time, harvested a mature bull with two freshly broken
and became entangled in the diagonal wires and McGee rode out the chaos as the blind front brow tines. The same elk? It’s impossible
securing the blind to the ground. The animal pitched and rolled. The elk finally settled to say, but the evidence would indicate so.

independent of each other. In calculations will not be complete

the case of a fired projectile, unless critical factors such as
those actions and responses are altitude, barometric pressure

→
Hornady Manufactur- projectile’s dynamic movement windage, elevation, range, and in and humidity are included. The
ing’s 4DOF (four degrees around its center of mass in the case of the 4DOF calcula- Model 5700 allows a shooter
of freedom) ballistic relation to its line of flight), in its tions, the angle of attack. to carry one small device, take
calculator is different from ballistic calculations. The result But what does 4DOF miss? a weather reading and include
other systems as it measures a is a consistent and accurate The answer is weather and that real-time, on-the-spot data
projectile’s drag coefficient, not prediction of a projectile’s path altitude, commonly referred to to give the most accurate bal-
the ballistic coefficient. Hornady given an accurately measured as “environmentals.” Fear not, listic data possible. It can also
chose this approach because muzzle velocity. By including however, as Kestrel Ballistics communicate to the Hornady
the ballistic coefficient, the the angle of attack, modeling of now includes the 4DOF calcu- 4DOF app via a Bluetooth con-
common measure of the effi- accurate projectile flight paths lator in its Model 5700 weather nection with your smartphone.
ciency with which a projectile increases due to the modeling meter. While 4DOF can tell you After establishing a zero on
moves through space, changes of drag curves specific to where the projectile will fly, the my hunt, I used the Kestrel 5700
as velocity changes. Conversely, each projectile shape. 4DOF to collect environmental data
a projectile’s drag curve doesn’t accounts for the effects of and the 4DOF to confirm scope
change. Hornady’s 4DOF calcu- trajectory, the projectile’s adjustments out to 400 yards.
lations combine the projectile’s mass properties, aerodynamic How does all this tech work in
drag coefficient with the exact properties, responses of the real life, and is it worth taking
physical model of their pro- projectile, and movement of on a hunt? When I inadvertently
jectiles. The 4DOF system also spindrift, gyroscopic stability moved the scope 2.5MOA by
accounts for the vertical shift a and aerodynamic jump. hastily grabbing the turrets, I
projectile experiences when it What is a “Degree of missed. I made no such mistake
encounters a crosswind (known Freedom?” Much less four? A the second time, and with the
as aerodynamic jump). degree of freedom is a term, appropriate range adjustment
The 4DOF system uses when applied to physics, calculated by the 4DOF on the
windage, elevation and range, as that refers to the actions or Kestrel, I dropped the elk where
well as the angle of attack (the responses of objects that are he stood. —Len Waldron

78 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 AP5-M

BIG THINGS COME IN SMALL PACKAGES

AP5 AP5-P

CENTURYARMS.COM FOLLOW @CENTURYARMS : b v

 ON
EW HU TI G IG
ven if you aren’t into history, you
can’t escape its awe as a gun
owner. For instance, how many
companies do you deal with that

POINT
were around 100 years ago?
When you pick up the Springfield Model 2020
Waypoint, your first impression might be,
“Cool, they made a bolt-action now.” But, if you
scratch your head a little more, you’ll remember
that Springfield already had a bolt action, and a
pretty important one too—the M1903. If you do
a little more digging through that brain, you’ll
realize that this was also the last major bolt
action that Springfield designed!
SEE N It wasn’t exactly a lightbulb moment when
AS
AT

I first laid hands on the rifle at the Athlon

RENDEZVOUS
2020
SPRINGFIELD’S SECOND
BOLT-ACTION DESIGN
IN OVER 100 YEARS—
TOTALLY WORTH THE WAIT!
BY FRANK MELLONI

80 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 Outdoors Rendezvous in late 2020. In fact, it or tall mountains without bringing more
wasn’t until several months later that I realized weight than they need with them. Through the
the historic significance of the new rifle. How- use of more modern materials and modern
ever, once I did, I reached out for a sample manufacturing processes, many of the 32
because I just had to spend more time with variants of this model have been shaved down
it at home. While the Waypoint might not be to nearly 6.5 pounds.
Springfield’s first bolt action, it is the com-
pany’s first one built specifically for hunting. WAYPOINT DETAILS
It’s hard to picture it, but back before the first Just as in rifles past, Springfield drew “inspira-
World War, that M1903 was essentially an tion” from existing designs and both adopted
“assault rifle” (cue thunder and lightning, so and enhanced many common features. The
very frightening). Well, “combat rifle” would 32 varieties of this rifle are split between
be the more accurate term, but nonetheless familiar stainless steel barrels or the increas-
they built it to be dragged into a trench, not ingly more common carbon-fiber variety.
up into a tree stand. Springfield’s new rifle is Springfield departs from the norm in the way
built for those looking to explore deep woods they build these carbon-fiber barrels, which

MOA accuracy out of a lightweight hunting rifle is common

these days, but sub-MOA accuracy is exceptional.
Feeding the right ammo is more than half the story.

The author found the

ergonomic controls
of the 2020 to be
second to none.

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
81
 I T

Alex Landeen Photos

››
The Waypoint turned a
bunch of heads at Athlon
Outdoors’ Rendezvous in
Driggs, Idaho. More than
30 different shooters
spent time on the rifle
and it ran like a champ
during some foul
weather conditions.

is the defining characteristic of the Waypoint.

A typical carbon-fiber barrel is a relatively
simple gun part. You start with a pencil-thin
barrel and then wrap it with layer upon layer of
carbon fiber material, sort of like a roll of paper
towels. The Model 2020 is built with the same
materials, however altogether differently. That
same stainless steel barrel is found at the core,
except in this case it is fluted. Why fluted?
Well because more than 95 percent of the
carbon-fiber material is not going to contact
it, so might as well let it breathe. Instead of
slopping material directly on the barrel, the
barrel is slid into a tube of carbon fiber and
then torqued into place by a nut both fore and
aft. This allows the barrel to float within the
exterior carbon-fiber shroud, leaving room for
cooling and harmonics while stiffening the final
product without adding excessive weight.
While the barrel is the most critical
component to accuracy, it doesn’t make a
quality rifle by itself. To put rounds into the
same exact chamber position each and every
time it also takes a precision-built action.
The Waypoint receiver is built from solid bar

82 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 I T
stock with exacting tolerances to include
EDM cut railways. This ensures a slick
bolt throw with minimal cocking effort
and butter-smooth cycling that locks up
the exact same way each time you slam
a round home. While the refined railways
take the edge off of manipulations, they are
just the roadway for the nitride-treated bolt
that utilized dual camming lugs to balance
and reduce cocking effort. After reading all
of this, you might wonder if the Waypoint
is blueprinted to better align all mating

››
surfaces. The answer is no, because
the parts were built right the first time. Having a detachable
Blueprinting is the process of shoring magazine means
faster loading and
up parts after production. While it is unloading when
an alluring industry term, it’s really just driving to distant
telling the end-user, “Hey they weren’t hunting areas, climb-
ing into treestands
perfect when we built them, but we fixed it and crossing fences.
before we sent the gun to you.”
A quality cannon without a quality
carriage hardly makes any sense; that is
why every Waypoint is complete with a
hand-laid, 100-percent carbon-fiber stock.
Carbon fiber is a far cry from hardwood or
polymer, as it is stronger than both and in
many cases even lighter than the flimsiest
of synthetic materials. Once molded, the

››
stock is pillar bedded to ensure the most
secure attachment possible and then
completed with five QD sling points and
The 2020 is built
three reinforced M-LOK slots for bipods or with a carbon-
other forward accessories. fiber stock,
All Waypoints come with a one-piece ensuring that it is
just as rigid as it
Picatinny rail, and my sample was no different. is lightweight.
This rail follows the standard Remington short- SPECIFICATIONS
action screw pattern, so if you want to change
it out for whatever reason there is already a SPRINGFIELD
vast aftermarket. Before hitting the range I
mounted a Riton 3-24x variable power X7
2020 WAYPOINT
Conquer across this rail using a Contessa CALIBER: 6.5mm Creedmoor
base. I chose this optic for testing because BARREL: 22 inches
being able to dial down to 3x is important for a
OA LENGTH: 43.5 inches
gun that might be used to take game as close
as 25 yards, yet at the same time having a 6.5 WEIGHT: 6.75 pounds (empty)
STOCK: Carbon fiber

“THE 32 VARIETIES OF THIS RIFLE ARE SIGHTS: None

ACTION: Bolt
SPLIT BETWEEN FAMILIAR STAINLESS
FINISH: Matte green Cerakote
STEEL BARRELS OR THE INCREASINGLY CAPACITY: 5+1
MORE COMMON CARBON-FIBER VARIETY.” MSRP: $2,275

84 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 LEG DAY. ARM DAY.

RANGE DAY. REPEAT.

©2021 Trijicon, Inc. | Wixom, MI USA | 1-800-338-0563 | 21TRIJ14512-R21 | Trijicon.com

®
Every Trijicon riflescope follows in the
footsteps of our most proven, battle-tested
products. Otherwise, it wouldn’t be a Trijicon
riflescope. Expect absolute precision, brilliant
clarity in any lighting condition, and extreme
durability that lets you improve every day.

THE NEW THE NEW Trijicon

Trijicon Ascent ®
Trijicon Credo ®
Compact ACOG ®

See what it takes to make a brilliant aiming solution at Trijicon.com.

 I T

Alex Landeen Photos

MAIN PHOTO: The Springfield 2020 Waypoint features a one-piece Picatinny rail, making it ready
Creedmoor means that 600-yard shots are right out of the box to mount the high-quality optic of your choosing.
beyond realistic, even for semi-experienced INSET: A crisp, single-stage trigger limits shooter error, making it easier to produce dime-sized
groups. The included radial muzzle brake reduces recoil and allows you to spot impacts.
hunters. At the same time, 24x is strong
enough to count points at typical engagement
distances in case you are hunting in one of
“those counties.”

TO THE PROVING GROUNDS

I was lucky enough to get two different Berger
factory-loaded rounds for my range day. I
wound up with the 156-grain Elite hunter
round that boasts a hammer of a 6.5mm bullet
for the Creedmoor case. However, through
patented engineering, this slug will stabilize
in a standard eight-twist barrel. The other PERFORMANCE
round was the 140-grain Hybrid Match load.
This bullet has a well-earned reputation for SPRINGFIELD
being extremely accurate, and being that it 2020 WAYPOINT
is built with an ogive that isn’t dependent
LOAD ACCURACY
on seating depth for accuracy, it makes it a
great candidate for a factory load. The goal Berger EOL Elite Hunter 156 BTHP 1.12
was to put these side by side to see how
Berger Hybrid Target 140 BTHP 1.46
well the rifle shot both for target use and, of
course, hunting. This was important for me Bullet weight measured in grains and accuracy
because between the Decelerator recoil pad, in inches for best five-shot groups from a
Caldwell Rock Rest at 100 yards.
lightweight profile and radial muzzle brake, the
gun is just too nice to sit in the safe between
hunting seasons.

86 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 Range day was a cold one for sure—32 was determined by shooting
degrees with a brisk 8 mph full-value wind, to the industry standard of five
be exact. In a way, it worked out well because five-shot groups from a rested
I received the full “Waypoint experience,” as I 100-yard position. Naturally,
had to layer up in what I normally wear hunting. things open up slightly when
The crosswind also gave me a good oppor- you have to keep five shots
tunity to demonstrate how well the 6.5mm together as opposed to three,
bullets resisted drift. As the Waypoint boasts but the results were still beyond
a .75-MOA guarantee at 100 yards, it was impressive for a hunting rifle.
going to present a challenge—or so I thought. Shooting the rifle in different
Springfield’s rifle not only met the guarantee hunting positions was an
in the wind, but exceeded it as my tightest absolute joy, as the little weight
three-shot group nearly hit the .25-MOA that comprises the Waypoint
mark at 0.291 inches. This was done with balanced very well. Recoil was a joke, and hunting season, so I wasn’t able to drop an
the 140-Grain Berger Match ammo, however spotting hits at high magnification was excep- animal with it in time for this article. However,
the Berger 156-grain hunting ammo wasn’t tionally easy. The overall function was also I was quite satisfied that I got the extended
too far behind at 0.486 inches, still far below flawless as feeding and ejecting commenced range time with it that I deeply sought after
the 0.750-inch requirement to stay inside of without even a hint of resistance. That’s pretty my introduction to the new platform back in
the .75-MOA guarantee. After the first shot, cool stuff, especially since they accomplished Idaho. I thoroughly enjoyed the Model 2020 as
I quickly recognized the TriggerTech trigger this through the use of a common Magpul a product, but also for its historic significance.
that was nestled away below the receiver. AICS magazine. I mean, the last time Springfield developed
Later, a measurement via a Lyman digital a bolt-action rifle, WWI was on the horizon.
trigger gauge would reveal that it was dialed PARTING SHOTS Let’s hope this isn’t another shining example of
just about all the way down for a crisp break My time with the Waypoint came just a few history repeating itself. For more information,
at just 2 pounds, 10 ounces. Overall accuracy weeks outside of any local regular firearms visit springfield-armory.com.

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
87
 ECISI

L E W I N N I N G
U N D E R T H E RADAR WHI
FLYING
BY SEAN UTLEY

ow much should a good employees and then turning a profit so

precision rifle cost? This that they can continue to operate.
inquiry comes around The better question is what are your Throughout my firearms related pro-
more frequently than a expectations from a good precision rifle? gression and maturation I have become
bad case of the farts on And, we must get closer to matching the familiar with many different brand names.
Taco Tuesday. It’s also a term “good” to actual end-user perfor- Kelbly’s is/was not one of them, I’m sorry
question that brings angst as I attempt to mance and ability. Somewhere in the to say. And if you are honest, regardless
reply. Why? Because I don’t actually know back of my mind I can still hear the fading of where you lie in the precision shooting
how much a good precision rifle should echoes of minute-of-angle being that spectrum, you’re probably in the same
cost. Seriously. I don’t know how much acceptable limit, while my heart knows boat. If I wanted to further drive home
material costs. I have no idea about a par- that’s not good at all. Can I just say that’s this point, I could easily name three
ticular company’s manufacturing costs— an antiquated standard? It’s a standard other action brands, and you’d have
how much time it takes to effectively turn that I could never live with in my stable of heard of them or considered them, and
out a rifle while paying their bills, their bolt action pew sticks. Kelbly’s wouldn’t be one of them, even if

88 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 you’re relatively new to precision rifles. you want the history of Kelbly’s, go to over there, their shooters won’t accept
This leads to my rhetorical questions. their website under the “About” page mediocre products because shooting
Why? How? How does a company with and you’ll get the brief break down. The isn’t the overabundant luxury that it is
over four decades of doing this and 92 shortest version is it’s a family-owned here in the U.S., and they are willing to
precision shooting world records fall into company here in the United States pay for quality stuff that will allow them
a popularity abyss? that has continued to operate, improve to make the most of every outing.
Ignorance is bliss, until it makes you and innovate, while maintaining their My first meeting with Ian Kelbly was at
miss. In this case, I’ve missed out on passion for precision shooting. That Shot Show 2019. I met him at the KRG
referring people to a solid brand and trickles down to you and me in the way booth while having discussions with
company for many years. It’s a company of refined and functional products. The them. I’d heard the name before and
where the people live for precision saddest part may be that 30 percent of recalled my one interaction with a Kelbly’s
shooting and producing quality prod- Kelbly’s business goes to the overseas rifle from 2016. I distinctly remember how
ucts, regardless of how the popularity civilian market. Think, Europe, the UK well the rifle shot and thinking “Why don’t
pendulum swings from year to year. If and South Africa. Say what you want, but I know about these guys?”

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
89
 KI G KEL LY

A barricade stop is a nice touch to allow you to

run the rifle stable against a barricade without
potentially hindering magazine function.

RIGHT: The bolt is spiral fluted and helped the NYX run in dirty conditions
like those at the Max Ordinate facility in the California desert.
After a two-day Guardian Long Range match
TOP LEFT: The NYX Elite makes good use of the XLR chassis. It’s a solid
during COVID-ridden 2020, I was lucky platform that is more race oriented but easily fills multiple roles.
enough to have dinner with Ian Kelbly. This BOTTOM: The Area 419 muzzle brake concludes the business end of the
guy is smart, and he is a true pleasure to be rifle and features rearward-facing ports for good recoil reduction.
around. Obviously, we discussed any and
everything precision shooting. And here I “The tolerances of our headspace hasn’t voids. Yes, it’s more moment-to-moment and
asked many questions in an effort to build my changed since our start. All of our actions less day-to-day, but during these brief dances
knowledge off the trigger. Intimately knowing have a tolerance of .001. We’ve had pre-fit in the precision ballroom, the rifle must be way
the inner workings of the rifle is my ultimate barrels since the ’90s.” When I hear this, better than I, for I may never experience this
goal. That takes time and repetition with the coupled with their time in the game, that gives specific performance again. I’m willing to pay
right people. Ian is one of those types. me confidence in their product, even before for the rifle to never be my excuse for these
“We don’t have a cool name and we’re not pressing the trigger on one. occasions passing me by. The NYX Elite is one
a gimmicky company,” Kelby said. “We don’t of those rifles. And at $4,000, from what I’ve
NYX IT known, seen, shot and owned during my time
An MOA-capable rifle is still more than enough as a paid professional in the firearms space,
on a vast majority of days, but it’s the times it’s priced appropriately and affordably.
when I’m functioning at an elevated level as Actions are the primary building block of
a shooter, seemingly on ballistic LSD—when precision rifle DNA and Kelby’s has perfected
the action. The Black Bear Tactical action is
a beast, no pun intended. It’s stout and bullet
proof. Oops. I did it again.
While many, if not most, actions are round,
the Black Bear Tactical Action is square

90 Ballisticmag.com
 RITON OPTICS / CONQUER SERIES

CONQUER THE
DISTANCE

CONQUER SERIES
X1 CONQUER X3 CONQUER X5 CONQUER X7 CONQUER X7 CONQUER
The Riton Optics Conquer Series is for shooters
6-24×50 6-24×50 5-25×50 3-24×56 4-32×56
seeking ultimate precision to conquer any
distance or competition. With maximum
magnifications ranging from 15 to 32 power,
the Conquer optics are meant for PRECISION
LONG DISTANCE shooting.

WWW.RITONOPTICS.COM
The Only U.S. Military And Law Enforcement
SE E THE D IF F ER E NC E Veteran Owned Optics Company.
 KI G KEL LY

This is what a great rifle looks

like. The complete package all
but ensures success for the
shooter. Just add a solid
optic and bipod.

rotational torque, that round actions don’t. Out of the gate the NYX showed considerable
This additional stiffness gives that additional agreement when spitting forth Hornady 108-
consistency that is hard to measure in some grain ELD-M’s. I put about seven strong fac-
instances but is more easily witnessed in a rifle tory options down the tube, but the red-tipped
that outperforms your expectations on many pills from Hornady printed 0.4 inches in the
levels. Again, this is worth paying for. first group, then 0.36 inches on a different day.
There’s always a risk of regurgitating With this, I grabbed the NYX on a last-minute
webpage specs at this point, but I won’t. You whim to head to the Max Ordinate Academy
can visit their page to get all the specs on in California with friend and fellow precision
the NYX Elite. Space is short and I want to enthusiast Kendl Wong.
convey other key features on the NYX Elite I was there to snap images for her article
that elevate it as a precision rifle, like the Bix (see page 26) but knew I’d find time to jump
N Andy trigger. It’s on another planet and I on the rifle. Specifically, I wanted to get a feel
can’t verbalize how it feels. The trigger hangs for the NYX Elite from the belly and positional/
in a bracket with screws—no pins to drive out barricade positions. With the XLR Envy
when you need to remove it. chassis as its housing, it feels like a proper
The bolt is fluted, and the bolt face is flat. I rifle. The XLR doesn’t feel too racy, although
expect bolt faces to be flat, but there is more that’s where it resides in its genetic make up.
to it than that. The flat bolt face makes it easier
for smiths to chamber for it and allows for SPECIFICATIONS
better feeding from the magazine. It’s available
in left- and right-hand versions.
Because of tight and repeatable tolerances,
KELBLY’S NYX ELITE
the bolt can be replaced for other chambering CALIBER: 6mm Creedmoor
options including .222, .208 and .532 for
BARREL: 26-inch Krieger
magnum cases.
The recoil lug is beefier than normal, with a OA LENGTH: 48 inches
.300-inch spec as opposed the to the typical WEIGHT: 19 pounds
.250-inch of other lugs. Again, how much TOP: The NYX is a
ACTION: Kelbly Black Bear w/ integral 20-MOA rail and recoil lug good-looking rifle
difference does it make? All the difference
STOCK/CHASSIS: XLR Envy w/thumb rest and barricade stop and weight kit when maxed out with
when you burn it down at the range on a the Nightforce ATACR
consistent basis. TRIGGER: Bix N Andy TacSport Pro single stage on the top rail.

GOING FOR 1 MILE SIGHTS:

GRIP:
N/A
Ergo Tactical Deluxe
ABOVE: The XLR Envy
is highly adjustable
The NYX Elite did not receive my typical and gives the NYX
user more capabilities
approach to evaluating. It wasn’t nearly as MAGAZINE: AICS compatible
and comfort. The
structured, basically because I needed to see
CAPACITY: 10+1 bagrider is a must-
how and if it would work where I needed it to. have accessory.

92 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
Camera
p
light & robe with LED
side-vie
w mirro ring
r.

Inspect gun barrels for carbon deposits, throat erosion, tool marks,
rifling wear, chamber damage and fouling.Teslong HD digital
borescopes operate as stand-alone, WiFi, or USB-connected
devices. Available with flexible, rigid rifle or rigid pistol probes.
Fits 0.20 caliber, and larger barrels.

www.teslong.com

Use this coupon code and receive 10% off any order: ballistic2021
 KI G KEL LY
Hot desert conditions didn’t bother the
NYX at all. It is truly a pleasurable and
confidence-inspiring shooter, especially in
the 6mm Creedmoor chambering.

PERFORMANCE

KELBLY’S NYX ELITE

LOAD VELOCITY ACCURACY

Hornady 108 ELD-M 2,940 0.36

and easily, even with wrong-handed righty’s round of this string using the same hold as the
Bullet weight measured in grains, velocity in feet on the gun when some of the attendees ran shooter before me. At 1,760 yards, the NYX
per second (fps) by chronograph and accuracy in out of ammo. I heard no gripes about it being Elite was hardly breaking a sweat. I’ve said it
inches for best five-shot group at 100 yards.
wrong-handed when the Magneto Speed before and I’ll say it again: Hornady has got
target hit indicator confirmed an impact with their game together on their factory offerings,
It’s solid and free of any rattles and shakes. It that crimson flash. and I’ve never been disappointed by its
also lacks an abundance of little screws that One of the borrower’s impacted within eight performance in my high-end rifles.
need periodic maintenance. rounds, which was quite good considering the
Although initially tempted, I didn’t add shifting winds and significant mirage. It was THE COST OF PRECISION
any of the included weights to the Envy, all but impossible to see misses. The second So this brings us back to the original question:
and according the specs the NYX Elite is borrower hit on shot number three. After a How much should a good precision rifle cost?
still a hefty 19 pounds. With the addition successful stent on the spotting scope, I then Well, it looks like a great rifle starts at $3,900.
of an Area 419 brake and the tender recoil jumped down on the gun and hit on the first Keep in mind once you buy, and assuming
of the 6mm Creedmoor, the you’re not like the myriad of overly-influenced
rifle needed no extra weight. gun gear junkies who changes out guns and
Anything else would have been accessories like they are sweaty socks, the
an unnecessary flex. action and chassis will last you a lifetime. You’ll
The PR1 course saw us only change out barrels depending on how
through many drills throughout many rounds you send down the pipe. And
several days, and the NYX I’d encourage you to send as many as your
performed without issue. But lifespan allows. Barrels are like tires on your
it really shined on the third day car; wear them out, then replace. In short, the
when we dropped down on the NYX Elite is a long-term investment with many
line for the 1-mile target. The years of enjoyment as the dividend.
NYX shot the mile consistently There are lots of brands out there, but (and
at the risk of sounding old) there are some
names that are trusted, tried and true. Kelbly’s
“AT 1,760 YARDS, THE is one of those. They also take care of their

NYX ELITE WAS HARDLY customers—the way it should be. So, tell a
friend. Get on the web and chop through
BREAKING A SWEAT.” Kelbly’s website. Click on the NYX Elite and
buy with confidence. It’s what a great precision
rifle is. For more information, visit kelbly.com.

94 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 DUAL SPEAKERS: PCB:
• Patented speaker • Multiple audio
design for high profiles patented
performance audio • Enhanced Radio
EAR SEAL BASE: • Patented protected Frequency shielding
• Resists high temps speaker grill for • Dual processors
• Proprietary design improved airflow & for smooth audio
for improved noise endurance productivity
reduction

SOFT TOUCH
@SAFARILANDGROUP

COMFORTABLE EAR PAD: CONTROL:

• Resists high temps • Heat resistant
• Proprietary material • 500° for 5 min.
• Super comfortable
• Increased noise protection
• Scratch and crack proof
layered skin material

DUAL FUEL FEATURE:

• Runs on either two AAA DUAL MIC SYSTEM:
or one CR123 battery • Resists high temps
EAR CUP DESIGN: • Custom material
OR • Slim/low profile • Waterproof
• Proprietary design
©2021 SAFARILAND, LLC.

• High definition

SOUND ACTIVE NOISE ACTIVE NOISE

LOCALIZATION CANCELLATION REDUCTION
 CUST UIL S

he assembly line revo- want to own something truly exceptional, accomplished at crafting precision rifles
lutionized the way we something reflective of your personality from scratch.
make stuff. Distilled to its and character, something that will reliably The guys who fashion these firearms
essence, Henry Ford said perform shot after shot with breathtaking literally grew up in the machine shop.
you could accumulate a precision, that something still needs to be This family-owned business is nestled
bunch of identical parts, crafted by hand. in a wooded piece of rural Mississippi
formulate an efficient process and manu- well off the beaten path. The lavishly

F C
facture lots of very similar copies of very equipped prototyping shop is surrounded
similar items at very reasonable cost. Old by the homes of those who labor within.
Henry quite literally changed the world. I am part owner in Advanced Tactical Ord- Little kids scamper around the place
Henry Ford is the reason a typical nance LLC. Our logo is the cross between after school.
American family can afford a Nissan the Alpha and the Omega, and it was One of these guys built his first
Altima, a Ruger 10/22 has an MSRP of our common faith that originally forged reloading machine from scratch when he
$309 and McDonalds throws in Happy our friendship. We started the company was 12. The gentleman who started the
Meal toys for free. Without Ford, there years ago so that we could build and sell place so many decades ago invented the
could be no Walmart. However, even this the stuff we had grown up playing with. self-cleaning oven. Massive CNC mills,
deep into the Information Age, if you After a lot of toil, we have become fairly CNC lathes and EDM wire machines

96 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 -
V c y
››
HANDCRAFTING
PRECISION
MASTERPIECES
ONE AT A TIME
BY WILL DABBS, MD • SCOTT BAXTER PHOTOS

conjure magic from steel stock. A press the

size of a small house sits in one end of the
building for those times when they need to
make really big stuff. Boomsticks are their
artistic medium.
Precision rifles are fabricated one at a
time to the precise specifications of the
owner. You get to pick the serial number.
The gun we built for this project sports
“741776.” If you are the sort of patriot known
to clutch this storied tome, you will readily
recognize the birthday reference.
At the end of the process, the shooter
has a rifle that is a reflection of their partic-
ular skills, temperament and personality. If
you want a bolt-action rifle that will group
inside a jelly jar lid at 100 meters, hit your

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
97
 HIGH-VEL CITY T
favorite big-box store and pick one that looks
shiny. If you want to make a first-shot kill on
››
ATO custom builds sound
a tangerine at 700 meters (true story), come suppressors to support
their specific rifles.
talk to us. The sealed design is
exceptionally rugged
and simple to
maintain.

The beating heart of a modern precision

rifle is the receiver, and we build those from
scratch. Each receiver starts life as a 5.3-
pound cylinder of 17-4 PH stainless steel. This
particular steel is a martensitic precipitation
hardened stainless steel that contains around
15 percent chromium, 4 percent nickel and 4 Our receivers begin life as digital models
percent copper.
Not unlike a piece of artist’s marble, the
trick is to meticulously remove everything that
isn’t a rifle receiver. Each receiver requires
about 10 hours to craft. At the end of the
adventure, the receiver is as perfect as man and lots of practice.
can make it. Everything is true, square and Our barrels begin as heavy blanks from
smooth in every possible dimension. several sources. The blanks come bored
We cut our recoil lugs out of the same and rifled in either a bull or tapered contour.
stainless stock using an EDM wire machine. Different calibers obviously require different
and had their chambers cut. Each step in the
“NOT UNLIKE A PIECE OF ARTIST’S MARBLE, process requires the utmost patience and
precision. The angry end is threaded to accept
THE TRICK IS TO METICULOUSLY REMOVE a muzzle brake or sound suppressor.
We cut our own scope mounts out of
EVERYTHING THAT ISN’T A RIFLE RECEIVER.” 4140 pre-hardened steel using the EDM
wire machines. The details of the mounts are
scope-dependent and part of the custom
building process. We cut the blanks our-
selves, mill out the slots and then finish them
in Cerakote.

C
As an integral part of the process we help
customers determine the type of stock that
will best compliment their rifles, something
that optimally suits their personality and
application. If the mission is to provide sniper
overwatch for your SWAT team, you need a
certain type of hardware. If you are going to
use your rifle to bag a record bull elk from
an adjacent terrain feature, that application
››

demands something different.

The XLR Envy chassis accepts XLR builds professional grade chassis,
detachable box magazines and is a buttstocks, scope rings and rails. We settled
precision instrument unto itself.
on the superb XLR Envy chassis to transport
this custom rifle build. The Envy is the product
of years of cooperation with some of the
finest trigger pullers on the planet. The Envy

98 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
Ballisticmag.com
 includes an Arca-Swiss-style
››
Sightmark glass offers
rugged construction and
world-class extreme
long-range performance
at a reasonable price.

The buttstock on the XLR Envy

chassis folds to the side for
easy transport or storage.

››
The Sightmark Pinnacle offers
perfect glass and professional
features at a reasonable price. A
scope of this sort is a dichoto-
mous paradigm—part precision
instrument and comparable part rug-
ged tool. It is designed to tolerate hard use and beyond. This first-focal-plane optic
in the field under brutal recoil while delivering includes zero-stop elevation dials that allow
surgical-grade precision shot after shot. you to easily set a stopping point at the cho-

Big CNC lathes cut the chambers and thread the

›› sen sight-in distance. The 34mm tube maxi-
mizes the internal adjustment range and offers
improved rigidity compared to smaller scopes.
ends of the barrel blanks. Gigantic CNC mills conjure
rifle receivers out of big chunks of stainless steel.
The Pinnacle 5-30x50TMD is the finest scope
for the money I have yet encountered.

The angry end demands something special.

We build our own muzzle brakes that substan-
tially decrease the rifle’s recoil impulse. If you
want to do it up right, however, we can custom
build you a sound suppressor to compliment
your particular rifle. Our heavy stainless steel
baffles employ turbine stators to disrupt and
slow the efflux gases from your rifle’s muzzle.
››

We alternate our baffles right-hand and left-

hand to ensure that muzzle blast doesn’t either
Bolts are custom fitted, while the recoil lug is cut with an EDM machine
and then ground precisely for a perfect interface with the chassis. spin the can off or lock it down too tightly to
remove. A sound suppressor on a high-velocity

100 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
 The Korth NXR
The new Korth NXR model brings a six-shot .44 Magnum to the legendary roster
of Korth revolvers. The NXR is available with a 4” or 6” hammer-forged precision
barrel and an integrated Picatinny rail on the frame. The barrel housing has been
ventilated for faster cooling while the entire revolver has a DLC finish for a beau-
tiful, yet durable look.

The World’s 877-268-4867

Finest 1911 Pistols www.nighthawkcustom.com
 HIGH-VEL CITY T

“OF COURSE OUR HOLES TOUCH AT 100

METERS. ANYTHING LESS IS UNACCEPTABLE.”

rifle will effectively ameliorate muzzle blast hue suits. For this build we opted to leave the
and gun noise while also improving the gun’s piece a natural stainless.
harmonics and handling. It also substantially

’ V
mitigates recoil and masks muzzle flash. modest ranges. Tactical rifles will demand
The trigger module is another branch in the gnat’s-butt precision at 100 meters while
decision tree. Lots of folks make them, and we Of course our holes touch at 100 meters. still retaining breathtaking performance at
have used them all. Matching the right trigger Anything less is unacceptable. Once we have many times that. Precision target guns can be
to your new custom rifle is part of the art. The printed a few close-range cloverleaves we can crafted to kill fruit of various flavors out to a
rifle we built for this project sports a Timney move out a bit farther. kilometer or more.
Featherweight Deluxe trigger. The application and particulars of the build Each rifle is a journey. Each creation has
Lastly, pick a color. Most anything is on the will determine the performance. Hunting guns its own spirit. The end result is a gun that
table, so you can have your rifle in whatever might throw heavy bullets accurately out to is custom fit to a shooter’s personality. I’ve

The entire precision rifle package is a custom

hand-built, ultra long-range precision hole puncher.

102 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
watched these men handcraft custom rifles for increasing the range. Dale dropped prone
a long time, and it is still a breathtaking thing behind his rifle while the guide called out FOR MORE INFORMATION
to behold. distance using a laser rangefinder ADVANCED TACTICAL
Some artists use marble. Others wield oils. and spotting scope. ORDNANCE
These guys conjure art from steel. The bull elk stopped and paused ato-us.com
at 860 yards. Dale laid his crosshairs XLR INDUSTRIES
on the animal’s shoulder, dialed in his xlrindustries.com
scope and sent one. The elk dropped SIGHTMARK
sightmark.com
I’m just a gun nerd who likes to type. Dale and in his tracks.
my other two partners, Brian and Durward, Two elk. Two rounds. Two perfect shots—
actually build the guns. Dale is the guy who one at 465, the other at 860. Both animals occupy roughly the same space as a .308
built the reloader when he was 12. dead where they stood. That’s what happens Winchester, so they will run in a standard,
Dale recently built himself a .300 Win. when you take an exceptional marksman and short-action Remington chassis as well as a
Mag. rifle for an elk hunt in New Mexico. He build him an exceptional rifle. properly configured semi-automatic AR-10.
conjured the gun from scratch and zeroed Hornady is a foundational name in modern
it out behind the shop. His first bull elk was ballistics, and the company was an early
bugling broadside at 465 yards about 200 feet adopter of the radical 6mm Creedmoor round.
below him across a wide snow-covered valley. This particular creation is chambered for 6mm Their Heat Shield bullet tip resists the effects
Dale dropped the old gentleman with a single Creedmoor. It is essentially a 6.5 Creedmoor of aerodynamic heating, and their unparalleled
shot to the heart. The big bull fell backwards case necked down to accept a .243-inch experience in the field of precision bullet
without taking a step. bullet. Hornady developed the 6.5 Creedmoor design and manufacture offers consistent
Later, a companion hunter wounded a in 2007 using the .307 Winchester as a foun- performance. Whether the mission is hunting,
bull and couldn’t get back on the animal for dation. The 6mm Creedmoor offers superb tactical precision for LE or military applica-
a follow-up shot. The injured elk crossed a long-range performance along with mild recoil. tions, or fruit shooting at a kilometer or more,
river and began climbing a hillside, rapidly Both the 6mm Creedmoor and 6.5 Creedmoor Hornady makes the stuff to get the job done.

YOUR NE X T
GREEN OP TIC
HE507K-GR X2

HE507C-GR X2

HOLOSUN introduces all-new models with Super Green LED technology. With the human eye more sensitive to green light
(507 nm and 555 nm), HOLOSUN’s Super Green LED technology produces a 540 nm reticle that allows for a fast sight picture
in all lighting conditions with more contrast against various backgrounds. Experience the innovation and durability of
HOLOSUN for yourself and see why self-defenders, competitors, hunters, and law enforcement all trust HOLOSUN. HOLOSUN.COM

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
103
BY JAY LANGSTON
 trees, I didn’t have to go very hit song in my head while my Meandering a few hundred I cleaned it during break-in.
far before I felt the first spider eyes scanned from branch to fork yards over the next 90 minutes, I It required a small number of
web. Switching from a casual to trunk and back for something managed to find and dispatch a patches soaked in Hoppes to
over-the-shoulder carry, I placed that was out of place. I finally couple more bushytails. Moments come clean.
the butt of the rifle on my right found a round shape that was later, darkening skies started In addition to lapping, the
hip. The muzzle, pointed up out of place among the straight unloading their wet burden. I barrel’s chamber is cut with a
at a 45-degree angle, plowed lines of branches and tree trunks. moved to lower the scope covers Bentz Match profile. The Bentz
through spider webs as I He was sitting in a fork, frozen. I and realized that the rear one was chamber is designed to be
ghosted along. It’s funny what flipped up the scope lens covers missing. I started my back-track, tighter than a standard .22 LR
runs through one’s mind on an on the Bushnell Engage scope I alternately scanning the trees and chamber, but is not as tight as a
early-morning trek. Wiping the had mounted on the Ranger .22. ground along my back trail. true match chamber. Specifically,
sticky webs from my face, I’m Planting the crosshairs on the a Sporting chamber measures
sure my expression went from squirrel’s throat, I applied more RANGER DETAILS 0.7751 in length, while a Bentz
grimace to a grin in an instant and more pressure on the trigger Over the past couple of weeks measures 0.6900 of an inch, and
when the line from a song, “I until the sear broke. The rifle I’ve gone over the new Chris- a true Match chamber measures
don’t like spiders or snakes,” “coughed,” when the Remington tensen Ranger rimfire inch by 0.6876. The Chamber mouth cut
came to mind. subsonic round left the business inch, inside and out, to learn by a Sporting reamer measures
Stopping beneath a tree that I end of the SilencerCo Sparrow its potential. It’s a lightweight 0.2307, a Bentz is 0.2270 and
suspected held a bushytail I had suppressor mounted on the rig, thanks in no small part to a Match is slightly tighter at
heard gnawing Ranger. The report of the rifle a heavy-profile carbon-fiber 0.2267. A Sporting chamber’s
the nut earlier, I was quieter than the sound of the “tensioned” barrel. A benefit of throat measures 0.2270, the
played more of “thunk” when bullet met squirrel the hand lapping the barrel got Bentz is tighter at 0.2255, while
the Jim Stafford Number 1 of the morning. at the factory was evident when a Match chamber is tighter

Outfitted with a SliencerCo

Sparrow suppressor, the Ranger
brought down multiple bushytails
from the same tree.
››

A PREMIUM
LIGHTWEIGHT
CHRISTENSEN
ARMS
.22 LR WITH
ACCURACY
TO SPARE

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
105
 GE I FI E
yet at 0.2248. A Bentz chamber also has a with an aluminum receiver. The bolt has dual drop free with a simple press forward. The rest
1.5-degree taper at the throat. ejectors and dual opposing locking lugs. An of the carbon-fiber composite stock offers a
I’ll be the first to admit that I didn’t have the integral 0-MOA optic rail gives a secure foot- lot. At the aft, a rubber recoil pad doesn’t really
previous chamber dimensions memorized and ing to your favorite scope. The bolt handle is mitigate nearly non-existent recoil, but it does
got the data courtesy of the forum on rimfire- threaded. To light the fire, a Trigger Tech Rem help keep the butt planted in the shoulder
central.com. What I do know is that a Bentz 700-style fire control unit is utilized. When pocket without slipping.
chamber is a compromise between a Sporting removing the barreled action The stock feels good
and Match chamber. The Bentz chamber is from the stock, instructions in the hands; the reason
SPECIFICATIONS
also referred to as a semi-auto match cham- are printed on the trigger being is that it has a
ber, since a true Match chamber in a semi will unit that it can be adjusted
CHRISTENSEN ARMS palm swell, which not
create some extraction issues.
One thing to keep in mind is that not
between 2.5 and 5 pounds of
pull. Try as I might, however, I RANGER only correctly positions
a large hand to reach
all .22 ammo will fit in a Bentz chamber. was never able to adjust and CALIBER: .22 LR the trigger at an optimal
CCI Quick Shok, CCI Stinger and CCI LR drop trigger pull weight below BARREL: 18 inches place, it gives a bit of
Shotshell are all too long to chamber… 3.5 pounds. Ruger 10/22 leverage to improve
OA LENGTH: 38.25 inches
properly. These actually have longer cases, magazines are compatible trigger press. It’s
which will be deformed in a Bentz chamber. with the Ranger, and a WEIGHT: 5.1 pounds versatile, too. It mounts
On some rifles, you may also be able get an factory Ruger magazine was STOCK: Carbon-fiber composite on the shoulder well, and
out-of-battery discharge if you slam the bolt included. The action wears a rides a rest and bags
SIGHTS: None
closed hard enough. black anodized finish. precisely by virtue of a
Another premium for the Ranger’s barrel is ACTION: Bolt flat forend. Once you’re
a muzzle threaded 1/2 x 28. I took advantage T FINISH: Matte black set on the front rest,
of the feature and attached a SilencerCo Mounted beneath is bottom CAPACITY: 10+1 your off hand can utilize
Sparrow .22 suppressor. metal with a paddle-type the palm hook to further
MSRP: $799
Moving to the action, this rifle trims weight magazine release, and mags steady the rifle.

106 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
 This rig is made to withstand the elements,
and it looks pretty cool. It’s offered in black PERFORMANCE
with gray webbing, and the other option is
the tan stock with black webbing, like the one CHRISTENSEN ARMS RANGER
tested for this review. LOAD VELOCITY ACCURACY

TRIGGER TIME Aguilla SuperExtra 40 1,017 1.284

All of the accuracy features found in this rifle CCI Stinger 32 1,621 0.731
help build toward the factory’s sub-MOA
Federal Lightning 40 1,200 0.924
guarantee, which is that it will put three
rounds inside a 0.524-inch circle at 50 Lapua Center-X 40 1,053 0.371
yards. Company representative Dave Melton Remington Target 40 1,108 0.838
further qualified their accuracy guarantee that
Remington Subsonic HP 40 1,025 0.688
premium match ammo—either 40-grain Eley
Tenex or SK Rifle Match Lead Round Nose— Winchester Tin HP 26 1,604 0.764
provided their guaranteed accuracy.
Bullet weight measured in grains, velocity in feet per
All that being said, I didn’t have any of the second (fps) by chronograph and accuracy in inches for
high-dollar match ammo on hand for testing. best five-shot group at 50 yards.
I had seven different loads of standard and
subsonic ammo with which I punched paper ammo and brought home a couple boxes. The scope cover I lost on that first early
and bagged a few bushytails. Once I got back on the range and ran some of morning foray for squirrels stayed that way,
Testing wasn’t as flawless as I expected the Lapua ammo through this rifle, it not only but I did find a quality firearm in the Chris-
from a rifle with a $799 price tag, but a quick met but exceeded Christensen Arms’ accuracy tensen Arms Ranger .22. If you are looking
trip back to the factory in Utah fixed the issues. expectation. The smallest five-shot group mea- for a quality, lightweight rifle for small game
It was back in my hands a week later. While I sured 0.371 inches, with the next group going hunting capable of target-grade accuracy,
was attending Athlon’s editorial Rendezvous, 0.376. That’s not bad for a 50-yard group, and look no further. For more information, visit
I happened on some Lapua Center-X target certainly small enough to dot a squirrel’s eye. christensenarms.com.

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
107
T LE F TW S V GES
 WHAT’S THE REAL
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE
TWO RIFLE TYPES?
BY FRANK MELLONI

ith 2020 welcoming cover this information several times a

more new gun own- year within the first hour of the Basic
ers than ever before, Rifle Course at Renaissance Firearms
we thought it would Instruction. Truth be told, I was never
be a good idea properly informed on what designated
one best for hunting and one best for
target shooting, and until I put in a
little research on the subject, I made
a bad purchase or two. After all, they
both shoot bullets, so why can’t both
be adequate target rifles? Actually,
each one is built around one specific
quality and for that reason, you will
likely be dissatisfied if you buy one
style rifle expecting it to perform the
alternate task.
For purposes of illustrations, we
decided to take a rifle from each end
of the spectrum. Savage’s lightest
hunting rifle, the 110 Ultralite, and its
most precise target rifle, the 110 Elite
Precision. Sure, they are both built
with factory blueprinted actions, both
use the AccuTrigger system and both
are even adjustable for length of pull
and comb height. However, this is
where all similarities end. And, as they
say, the devil is in the details.

BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
109
 HU TI G VS. T GET

further reduced by using shorter barrels, as

even a magnum offering, like our 28 Nosler
test rifle, only employs a 24-inch barrel.
Finishing off this most critical rifle component
is a stainless steel cap that protects the
5/8x24 threading to add a sound or flash
suppressor or a muzzle brake. This brings us
to the other trade-off, recoil. Light guns have
less opposing mass, which means far more
kick gets transferred to the shooter. For this
reason, we topped our test rifle off with a
Kahntrol Solutions Brake using the CWES
(crush washer elimination system) to make
things a little easier on our shoulders.
The barrel isn’t the only place where one
can save weight; there is also the stock and
action. The stock on the Ultralite is pretty
straight forward—just everyday lightweight
synthetic material. There’s no need to reinvent
the wheel on that one as it is far lighter than
traditional wood or even modern alloys. The
action is very unique on the Ultralite, as every
The Savage Ultralight is built for steady last ounce is saved through the spiral fluting
offhand shooting, not necessarily benchrest- on the bolt and the lightening cuts on the
grade accuracy you would look for in a target
rifle. Still, the gun is plenty accurate to get the HUNTING RIFLE receiver. These small details add up to big
job done in the field or in the woods. Let’s begin by addressing and understanding weight savings; your back will thank you.
the theme behind all hunting rifles, and that Everything is fed from a detachable magazine
is to save weight at all costs. Now, most new that is flush fit and has a reduced capacity to
gun buyers are under the impression that the help it meet DEC regulations for nearly any
overshadowing criterion for a big-game rifle hunting season, although its slightly smaller
SPECIFICATIONS is accuracy—that’s not true. To humanely
dispatch most big game, you only need a
SAVAGE rifle that is capable of hitting within a 9-inch
110 ULTRALITE vital zone at 100 yards. To achieve this level
of “accuracy,” you barely need rifling! Most
CALIBER: 28 Nosler
hunting rifles are far more accurate than this
BARREL: 24 inches by accident, so they trade a bit of it off to
OA LENGTH: 44.5 inches enhance other important features, namely
weight. Hunting rifles are shot in the field,
WEIGHT: 6 pounds (empty)
where there aren’t any shooting benches and
STOCK: Black gray synthetic more likely than not no real opportunity to
SIGHTS: None successfully deploy a bipod.
With that being said, these guns need to
ACTION: Bolt
be easy to shoulder and fire in what might
FINISH: Matte black be a completely unsupported position. The
CAPACITY: 3+1 Ultralite achieves this by using a thin stainless Groups like this will put meat on the table all
steel barrel that is reinforced with carbon-fiber day long. Unfortunately, they don’t display the
MSRP: $1,499 accuracy needed in order to win a match.
wrapping, making it light, yet rigid. Weight is

110 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
CONQUER YOUR GEAR
MADE IN USA VEHICLE • BACKPACK • CASE • SAFE + MORE

GREYMANTACTICAL.COM
 HU TI G VS. T GET

“SHOOTING THE ELITE

PRECISION OFF OF A BIPOD
OR A COURSE OBSTACLE IS
AN ABSOLUTE DREAM.”

magazine body certainly shaves off a few rapidly, changing point of impact as your round
ounces as well. count enters the teens. When hunting, this is
We tested our Ultralite using Browning’s never a realistic worry, because most hunters
160-grain Long Range Pro ammunition, will testify that you are lucky to get one shot off,
which touts a Sierra Tipped MatchKing bullet. and should you miss, that animal is not going to
Accuracy was fantastic for a hunting rifle, with stand around waiting for a follow-up attempt on
our average 100-yard groups hovering right its life. Paper, on the other hand, has a death
Heavy target guns like the Savage Elite are around 1.5 inches—not bad for the first round wish—it’ll just sit there all day long and absorb
built to be fired from a supported position. we grabbed off the shelf. That’s tight enough an ever-rising string of impacts.
While they’re hard to shoot offhand, they are
to put a confident shot on an elk out to 600
TARGET RIFLE
capable of producing outstanding accuracy for
those interested in competing at a high level. yards, and the 28 Nosler will certainly have the
energy to drop it in its tracks. For a 6-pound So, if a lightweight rifle gets hot too fast and
rifle, the accuracy wasn’t the only impressive recoils a little too much, the answer is to sim-
BOTTOM RIGHT: The additional weight of target
rifles soaks up recoil and helps the guns thing. Unfortunately, the recoil was, too. After ply swing the other way by adding some mass.
produce consistently tiny groups, as seen here installing the Kahntrol Solutions brake it was far The Savage Elite Precision is the epitome of
shot by the Savage 110 Elite Precision. more effortless to send another box and a half this concept and tips the scale at more than
downrange. However, without it…ouch. The twice the weight of the Ultralite, even in its
last downside of an elongated range session lightest chamberings. All of this weight makes
SPECIFICATIONS with a hunting rifle is barrel temperature insta- the gun far more comfortable to shoot and
bility. The thinner, lighter barrels tend to heat up even more accurate, as much of it comes in
SAVAGE
110 ELITE PRECISION
CALIBER: 6.5 Creedmoor
BARREL: 26 inches
OA LENGTH: 44 inches
WEIGHT: 12.6 pounds (empty)
STOCK: Aluminum chassis
SIGHTS: None
ACTION: Bolt
FINISH: Matte black
CAPACITY: 10+1
MSRP: $1,999

112 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
The M&P Shield® Plus. Our most comfortable,
high-capacity, concealed carry, Micro-Compact EVER.
The Shield™ Plus pistol is the next evolution in everyday carry. With a standard capacity of 13+1 rounds, the M&P Shield®
Plus delivers a natural point-of-aim and a newly optimized grip texture to help you manage recoil to keep you
on target round after round. The new flat face trigger design allows for consistent finger placement that helps
with repeatable, accurate, comfortable shooting.

See the full lineup including ported barrel, optics cuts, and longer slide options at smith-wesson.com.

©2021 Smith & Wesson Inc. All Rights Reserved

 HU TI G VS. T GET

the form of extra barrel length and girth. For lightweight synthetics used in guns like the Shooting the Elite Precision off of a bipod
comparison, I put the Ultralite up against the Ultralite and, therefore, reduces recoil by or a course obstacle is an absolute dream.
6.5 Creedmoor Elite Precision to see how they giving the gun more mass. The MDT stock The nitrided bolt provides inherent lubricity
fared against one another in accuracy and accepts larger AICS-pattern magazines that to ensure smoother cycling when you are on
shootability. Although chambered in a much hold more rounds than the traditional flush-fit the clock and the enlarged, ambidextrous
smaller cartridge, this Elite runs a barrel that is magazines that are customary on hunting magazine releases speed up reloads. This
actually two inches longer than the 28 Nosler rifles. This adds a little more weight to the feature could be a thorn in your side on a rifle
Ultralite and it is significantly heavier as it is package and not only allows, but encourages, that you plan on tromping through the woods
100 percent stainless steel. Together these longer strings of fire. The same holds for the with because a branch or a piece of kit could
qualities reduce barrel harmonics and make receiver that is entirely unrelieved because inadvertently send your feed-box to the forest
punching one-hole, sub-MOA groups just in this case, you want all the weight you can floor. These guns are built with higher capacity
plain normal, as was the case with our 140- get. Combined with a stock muzzle brake, magazines and provisions for fast reloads
grain ELD MATCH Hornady ammunition. recoil is all but eliminated, but this comes at because they are more comfortable in the long
Aside from a longer, heavier barrel, the a cost—and that cost is dear if you are going haul, and don’t heat up as fast, causing that
Elite is held together by an MDT ACC to need to shoot this rifle offhand. At just over impact shift that comes with guns from the
Aluminum Chassis Stock that creates a 12.5 pounds (before adding an optic), you other side of the rifle realm.
glove-like cradle and gives the shooter the are dead in the water if you are trying to hit
ultimate in comfort and adjustability. The anything offhand other than the broadside of WHICH ONE?
Before choosing your first rifle ask yourself
exactly what it is that you want to do with
it. Shooters who buy a rifle like the Ultralite
my .308 Win., but was blown expecting a quarter minute of angle accuracy
There is something to be said away when he let us shoot will feel like they’ve been cheated because the
his .300 Win. Mag. with the value in this rifle comes in its ease of shooting
stock folded up. With the unsupported and the comfort of carrying it over
Crush Washer Elimination a long run of rough terrain. Those who are con-
first exposure to Kahntrol System, we were able to sidering the Elite Precision under the premise
Solutions came in the form of the range and gave us a install and time our brake that all of that extra accuracy will make it easier
a suggestion from a buddy. thorough product overview right on the range in just a to shoot in the standing position are going to
After calling the number on of his entire line and a little matter of seconds. These realize exactly how heavy a 12-plus pound rifle
the website and getting Mr. backstory on how he got brakes take the pain out of is and what that means to your wobble area. At
Kahn himself, we shared a started and maintains a shooting and make 6-pound the end of the day, do some deep consideration
laugh when we found out that strong foothold in the brake hunting rifles kick like of what the ultimate goal is for your shooting
I would be filming just 30 game. I was impressed when 12-pound target rifles. For career and remember to comfort yourself in the
minutes from his home. I tried his clamp-on brake on more info, visit kahntrol.com fact that gun safes can hold more than one rifle.
For more information, visit savagearms.com.

114 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
FORGE
YOUR
OWN

More than just another

striker-fired pistol, the
P-10 is decidedly CZ, from
the way it feels to the
way it shoots. Industry-
leading features, legendary
build quality and superior
shootability make the P-10
stand out from the crowd.
The world is full of followers
– take your own path.

Experience CZ.

CZ P-10

@CZUSAFIREARMS
 -

116 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
 s certainly needs no
rimary Weapons System l-
ctio n. Th e te am ov er at PWS, led by Dean Sy
introdu many
their way to the top of
vester, have innovated
list. Imagine an insanely
a firearm owner’s wish equally
rated rifle mated to an
reliable gas piston-ope intessential
lo ng -d istan ce ca pa ble rifle. This is the qu
accurate (DMR).
of a de sir ab le De sig nated Marksman’s Rifle
definition nd,
th ro w th e ov er us ed “sniper rifle” term arou
I’m hesitant to are
ha s be en be aten to death. However, if you
as that horse also bag
m et hi ng wo rth y of that title, but that will
looking for so arch is over.
at troph y elk or bu ck , then perhaps your se
th

M EE T TH E BE AS T a rifle all in its own cla

ss.
The PWS MK 218 MOD 1-M is truly
troke gas
e to th e leg en da ry three-position, long-s
This is du ly being
that is us ed in all of PWS’ weapons current
piston lity that has
sa ve fo r th eir PC C lin e. Think AK-47 reliabi
offered,
in an AR.
been adapted to work able
es te d MS RP of just over $2K, it’s an afford
At a sugg orting
“M at ch ” gr ad e ch am bered .308 modern sp
option for a t
ed th e MK 21 8 fu ll of great features, while no
rifle. PWS pack e, thus
h of flu ff to inf lat e costs. They kept it simpl
adding a bunc
 IST - IVE ECISI
allowing for a lower MSRP, while letting the of mention is that all of the above-mentioned
SPECIFICATIONS individual owner to customize the MK218 to rifles are substantially more expensive than the
their own liking. Let’s face it, everyone has their PWS MK218 MOD 1-M. This leaves more
PWS MK218 MOD 1-M own favorite brand of trigger, muzzle device, money left over for upgraded triggers, glass
CALIBER: .308 Win. grip, stock, etc. and bullets, so it’s a win-win.
One argument against gas piston rifles is
BARREL: 18 inches
that they are heavier than their direct impinge- FIREBREATHER
OA LENGTH 36.75 to 40.25 inches ment cousins. That is an old argument, and PWS knew that the end user might want to
WEIGHT: 6 pounds, 15 ounces (empty) really no longer a valid point with today’s tech- customize these rifles to their own liking, but
nology. In its factory configuration, the MK218 that didn’t stop them from offering top-shelf
STOCK: Bravo Company USA
MOD 1-M is 9.02 pounds for an 18-inch-bar- quality components to make this a great MSR.
SIGHTS: Troy 45-degree offset reled rifle chambered in .308 Match. Now if we The upper and lower receivers are forged from
ACTION: Gas piston semi-auto compare it to its direct impingement relatives, T6-7075 aluminum before being anodized in
one will find the differences between the black. Having forged receivers is a bonus, as
FINISH: Black
two ever so minute, or even the DI rifle being forged is the stronger choice. Next they added
CAPACITY: 20+1 heavier and more expensive. For instance, an 18-inch stainless steel, button-rifled barrel
MSRP: $2,199 the Daniel Defense DD5v4 ($2,933) is 8.6 with a 1-in-8-inch twist. PWS decided to
pounds with an 18-inch barrel, Knights Arma- upgrade the MK218 with their .308 “Match”
ment KAC SR-25 E2 CC M-LOK ($5190) chambering, to squeeze more accuracy out
As built, the ultra-accurate is 8.4 pounds (16-inch variant), and the of this tried and true powerhouse of a round.
Primary Weapons Systems MK218
MOD 1-M in the right hands is a Larue Tactical’s OBR ($3370) is 9.5 pounds Then they capped it off with PWS’ own leg-
1K-plus-yard rifle all day long. (18-inch variant). Another comparison worthy endary PRC30 compensator on the end. For
››

those that don’t know, it’s the same compen-

sator that FN equipped the SCAR with, so that
should tell you how popular it is. The PRC30
comp actually helps tame the MK218 to help

120 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
STANDARD COMPACT

The all new OZ9C X Combat.

See our complete line of innovative products at ZEVTECH.com

 IST - IVE ECISI
great choices, but the new Super Dynamic
Enhanced (SD-E) 2-Stage trigger seemed
like the better choice for this application. It
seemed like the perfect pair when mated to
the MK218. Our Wheeler trigger pull scale put
the SD-E at a total combined pull weight of
just a hair under 4 pounds. As I pulled through
the second stage of the SD-E, I could feel it
snap like an icicle. It’s hard to describe, but be
assured that the SD-E will put a smile on your
face. The flat trigger bow really is a welcome
change from the “norm.”
It seems evident that this rifle was designed
to be a highly effective long-distance com-
munications provider. As soon as we got
our hands on the MK218, instantly that old
AT&T commercial jingle from the ’80s came
to mind, “Reach Out, Reach Out & Touch
Someone;” well, something anyway. We knew
that exceptional quality glass was needed, but
without breaking the piggy bank wide open.
And nobody wants to show up at the range
with a nice high-end rifle that’s wearing a
cheap, dime-store scope.
“…if you are looking for something For this test, we selected a Primary Arms
worthy of that title, but that will Platinum Series 6-30x56 FFP with the ACSS
HUD DMR reticle. To keep it safe and secure,
also bag that trophy elk or buck, we mounted it in a Bobro Engineering 34mm
Dual Lever Precision Mount. I’ve seen another
then perhaps your search is over.” scope take a beating in this same mount and
come out the other end laughing. Yes, admit-
tedly this scope is probably a little overkill,
make it one of the softer shooting MSR .308’s of a rifle, a trigger upgrade from the factory is but so far, it’s a great scope, especially at
out there. usually called for. For single-stage triggers, $899. It’s made in Japan, and carries Primary
Next, PWS added a 15.1-inch free-floated, Rise Armament makes some exceptionally nice Arms legendary lifetime warranty. One of the
M-LOK-compatible handguard. It offers a con- triggers for a very fair price. However, for this most attractive features, though, is the ACSS
tinuous rail on top, with three rows of M-LOK long-distance negotiator, a two-stage trigger reticle. If you head over to PA’s website, your
slots on either side, and one row on the bot- was preferred. brain might freeze up while trying to decide on
tom. Supplied from the factory was a Radian After surfing the Geissele Automatics which reticle for which scope. There are many
Raptor ambidextrous charging handle, as well website for quite some time, the mental different variants of the ACSS reticle. Simply
as PWS’ own custom ratchet lock castle nut vapor lock began to set in. There were lots of put, the Advanced Combined Sighting System
design, with built in QD socket. It’s actually a
great design; no more staking the castle nut,

››
no more loosing of the castle nut if you don’t.
That’s a positive innovation to help make the
AR a more user-friendly modern sporting rifle.
The author found
The supplied stock and grip from PWS are
the ACSS HUD DMR
standard Bravo Company USA furniture. reticle very easy to
use. What’s not to
CUSTOM TOUCHES love about zero-
resettable turrets,
The stock trigger in the MK218 MOD 1-M NV compatible, easy
isn’t bad at all. It’s a single-stage trigger and to toggle between
magnification rang-
will more than get the job done. However, if
es with gloves, and
one wants to squeeze as much accuracy out a lifetime warranty?

122 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
 THE EVOLUTION OF SUPERIORITY

CANIKUSA.COM FOLLOW @CANIKUSA : b v

 IST - IVE ECISI
(ACSS) makes shooting at any distance that
much easier.

RANGE REPORT
Range time was a hoot. We took the PWS
MK218 MOD 1-M to a 1,000-yard range not
too far from us. We shot from a tabletop and
an Accu-Tac Bi-Pod, and were banging away
at steel out to 700 yards. The Accu-Tac bipod
is solid as a rock, and ringing steel was made
much easier. The MK-218 cycled like a champ
for us, no problems to report. That’s not too
shabby for simply using Prvi Partizan M80
FMJBT 145-grain rounds. All in all, performance
was very impressive for a brand-new rifle.
PWS didn’t leave much out in order to keep
A shooter delivering precision shots from the prone position with the PWS MK218 MOD 1-M. With the
the price point affordable. However, if a com- outstanding features included in this top-quality rifle, doing so isn’t as much of a chore as you might think.
pany starts adding all of the bells and whistles,
then the price tag ends up going into sticker check can be made by simply using the indent The PWS long-stroke gas piston is unar-
shock territory. Sling swivel sockets being on the side of the bolt carrier and pushing guably reliable, and keeps the chamber much
built into either side of the handguard would forward as Eugene Stoner originally designed. cleaner and cooler than its direct-impingement
be nice. Not having a forward assist isn’t a However, I’ve had its little brother chambered cousins. On the plus side, we know that we
deal breaker, either, as it’s not really needed in .223 Wylde (MK116) through some nasty can fire a case or so of ammunition through it
unless you are crawling around in nasty crud crud over the last couple of years and only before even remotely needing to wipe the pis-
and want to press check it. Even then, a press clean it every few range trips. ton down. One can simply run a Bore Snake

PRODUCT WARNING AND RECALL NOTICE

BROWNING® 9mm Luger 115 grain FMJ
Browning Ammunition is recalling the following lots of 9mm Luger 115 grain Full Metal Jacket pistol ammunition.
Symbol: B191800092. Lot Numbers: SC13LD20, SD10LD20
Note: If ammunition was purchased before March 25, 2021, it is NOT subject to the recall.
Browning Ammunition has determined the above lots of 9mm Luger 115 FMJ ammunition may contain propellant that does not properly ignite
DQGEXUQZKHQWKHFDUWULGJHLVőUHG$PPXQLWLRQFRQWDLQLQJSURSHOODQWWKDWGRHVQRWSURSHUO\LJQLWHDQGEXUQPD\UHVXOWLQDEXOOHWUHPDLQLQJ
LQWKHEDUUHOLHDEXOOHWLQERUHREVWUXFWLRQ)LULQJDVXEVHTXHQWEXOOHWLQWRWKHERUHREVWUXFWLRQFRXOGFDXVHőUHDUPGDPDJHUHQGHULQJWKH
őUHDUPLQRSHUDEOHDQGVXEMHFWLQJWKHVKRRWHUDQGE\VWDQGHUVWRDULVNRIVHULRXVSHUVRQDOLQMXU\
DO NOT USE BROWNING® 9mm Luger 115 FMJ SYMBOL B191800092 THAT
HAS LOT NUMBER SC13LD20 or SD10LD20. The ammunition Lot Number is
stamped on the 50-round carton as indicated here:
7RGHWHUPLQHLI\RXUDPPXQLWLRQLVVXEMHFWWRWKLVQRWLFHUHYLHZWKH6\PERODQG/RW1XPEHU
,ILWLV6\PERO%DQG/RW1XPEHU6&/'RU6'/'immediately
discontinue use DQGFRQWDFW%URZQLQJ$PPXQLWLRQWROOIUHHDWIRUIUHH
836SLFNXSRIWKHUHFDOOHGDPPXQLWLRQ8SRQUHFHLSWRI\RXUUHFDOOHGDPPXQLWLRQ%URZQLQJ$PPXQLWLRQZLOOVKLSUHSODFHPHQWDPPXQLWLRQ
directly to you or issue you a reimbursement check.
7KLVQRWLFHDSSOLHVRQO\WR6\PERO%ZLWK/RW1XPEHU6&/'RU6'/'2WKHU6\PEROVRU/RW1XPEHUVDUHQRWVXEMHFWWR
this recall.
,I\RXKDYHDQ\TXHVWLRQVFRQFHUQLQJWKLVPP/XJHU)0-SLVWRODPPXQLWLRQUHFDOOSOHDVHFDOOWROOIUHHZULWHWR%URZQLQJ
$PPXQLWLRQ3RZGHU0LOO5RDG(DVW$OWRQ,/$WWQPP/XJHU5HFDOORUYLVLWRXUZHEVLWHDWwww.browningammo.com.
We apologize for this inconvenience.
%52:1,1*$0081,7,21 -XQH

124 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
 MORE SHOTS. MORE VELO ITY. LEAD: 1075 FPS .22 / 985 FPS .25

MORE ENERGY REMOVABLE 4500 PSI AIR CYLINDER

REGULATOR: 1900 PSI .22 / 2100 PSI .25

ON IMPA T. ONE FILL: 70+ SHOTS .22 / 50+ SHOTS .25

EXTREMELY QUIET: 4-BAFFLE DESIGN
MAGAZINE: 10 SHOT .22 / 8 SHOT .25
OVERSIZED KNURLED BOLT HANDLE

NEW!

© 2021 UMAREX USA, INC.

UMAREXUSA.COM/GAUNTLET-2

though it after a range session, and feel more Engineering Mount, Troy 45-degree sights the M60 or even the M47 Dragon Anti-Tank
than confident. Personally, we like to clean our and Geissele SD-E trigger, the PWS MK218 Missile System for a living in our past lives,
weapons after every range session but we’re MOD 1-M came in at a whopping 12.49 so everything is relative. As we get older,
morbidly curious to see just how far we can pounds. Keep in mind that about 3 pounds though, we can just pick up the PWS MK218
push the PWS, and it hasn’t failed us yet. of that is scope and mount. We’re not talking MOD 1-M and order take-out dinner.
about the .22 LR that granddad gave you All in all, the MK218 MOD 1-M from
BOTTOM LINE as a kid here, we’re talking about a serious Primary Weapons Systems has been a smooth
When fully equipped with the Primary Arms weapon capable of conveying a message at shooting rifle that has proven reliably accurate
Platinum 6-30x56 ACSS scope, Bobro a really long distance. “Some of us” carried thus far. At a street price of just over $2K,
it’s a very reasonable price tag, especially
considering that some of its competitors can
PERFORMANCE
easily go for well north of $3K.

PWS MK218 MOD 1-M

The accuracy potential is definitely there,
provided that the shooter does his or her
LOAD VELOCITY ACCURACY part. With Prvi Partizan M80 Ball pushing
2,835 feet per second, and Hornady 168-
Black Hills Gold 168 Hornady ELD-M 2,531 0.90 grain A-MAX Match netting 0.80 inches at
Federal Gold Medal 185 Berger Juggernaut OTM 2,553 1.50 Bullet weight 100 yards, it doesn’t leave much to argue
measured in grains, about. Whether you want to hunt and need
Federal XM80 149 FMJ 2,761 1.80 velocity in feet per a long-distance modern sporting rifle, or you
second (fps) by
Hornady 168 A-MAX Match 2,534 0.80 chronograph and simply want to challenge yourself into becom-
HSM Trophy Gold 210 Berger HPBT 2,381 1.00
accuracy in inches ing a better shooter at longer distances, the
for best five-shot MK218 MOD 1-M from Primary Weapons
Prvi Partizan M80 149 FMJ 2,835 2.00 group at 100 yards.
Systems is a serious rifle for serious shooters.
Sig Sauer Elite Performance 150 FMJ 2,765 1.70 Buy this one with confidence. Check it out for
Wilson Combat .308 168 Barnes TTSX 2,469 1.40
yourself at primaryweapons.com.

BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
125
126
 GU
TEST
has gone a step further with the development and the punchy .300 RUM have felt recoil similar to that
inclusion of their new Hawg muzzle brake. If you run of a 6.5 Creedmoor. Specially designed directional
any magnum-sized calibers in your boom stick, you porting blows gasses up and to the sides to minimize
know it can take a toll on your body. This can even dust signature. Muzzle jump is also limited to keep
be the case with long sessions in something like shooters looking downrange at their target. The
6.5 Creedmoor. Serious shooters look for ways to brake has a multi-port design with top and side ports
mitigate this punishment and, in turn, enhance their to direct gas and reduce muzzle rise. With rugged,
accuracy. It is no secret that magnum calibers pack all-steel construction, the brake will survive even the
a wallop, and an afternoon ringing steel behind a harshest of environments.

››
magnum rifle can be taxing. Another area where this rifle shines is its stock.
Browning has developed a versatile stock that rivals
The X-Bolt Max
LR is the perfect
COOL COMBO an aftermarket chassis. As always, correct rifle fit
bridge between the In response, Browning has developed one of the is paramount to achieve consistent, repeatable
target shooting and most effective muzzle brakes in the industry. The new accuracy. The more the stock can be customized to
hunting worlds.
Recoil Hawg reduces felt recoil and muzzle rise. In the shooter, the better it will be. The composite Max
fact, it is proven to reduce recoil up to 76 percent stock has easy-to-install 0.25- and 0.5-inch spacers
(depending on the caliber). This reduction makes to customize length of pull. Another nice feature is an

BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
127
 EC IL E TE

“THIS COMBO OF THE X-BOLT MAX LR,

HAWG BRAKE AND TORIC OPTIC MADE FOR
SOME VERY ENJOYABLE SHOOTING.”

adjustable comb. Once a necessary aftermar-

ket add-on, Browning has built it into the stock.
A very nice feature is the adjust- It allows for perfect eye-to-scope alignment
able comb. It allows for perfect
with a simple turn of the comb screw. The
eye-to-scope alignment with a
simple turn of the comb screw. system makes setting comb height for
multiple users and for prone or bench positions
extremely simple. Height markings make it
easy to record settings for quick adjustments.
For left-handers, the adjustment knob can be
swapped to the left side of the stock.
Browning even looked at the smallest detail
like the finger-to-trigger reach. It is optimized
with a comfortable vertical pistol grip. A thumb
rest eases the transition to the tang-mounted
safety button. A stippled checkering and fleck
in the composite material provide comfortable
and highly textured gripping surface. Another
area Browning focused on was bolt manipula-
tion speed. Serious shooters know they have
to be ready for a second shot very quickly. An
extended bolt handle makes operating the bolt
faster and easier. It has a short, 60-degree bolt
throw, which speeds cycling and clears large
target turrets on optics. The rifle has a three-
lug bolt, which self-centers on the chambered
round. Equally as important is the trigger. The

128 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
 EC IL E TE

››
Browning even looked at
the smallest detail, like the
finger-to-trigger reach,
when designing the rifle.

SPECIFICATIONS

6.5 Creedmoor
26 inches

X-Bolt comes with an adjustable Feather brake that reduces felt recoil and uses sup- 46.125 inches
Trigger. It is a three-lever design that comes pressor-ready 5/8- 24 TPI threads. A thread 8 pounds (empty)
preset from the factory at approximately 3.5 protector is included if you opt not to use
Adjustable composite
to 4 pounds—light enough to break clean but the muzzle brake or add a suppressor. The
not so much that it is dangerous in the field. 1-in-7.5-inch twist is slightly faster than most None
other guns in the caliber. I attribute this to Bolt
DIGGING DEEPER Browning’s foresight, which allows the gun to
Matte black
Browning continued their long-range accu- run longer and with heavier bullets.
racy theme by designing a scope-mounting The folks over at Browning were kind 4+1
system that locks your optics in place. The enough to send a rifle out for me to test drive, $1,340-$1,400
X-Lock Scope Mounting System uses four and I immediately got ready for the range.
screws to secure each scope base to the The only two things I had to do were to add a
receiver and provides more secure attach- bipod and an optic. Glass for this adventure
ment for larger optics. The action is solid as would be the TORIC 4.5-30x56 34mm from
well by being bedded at the recoil lug and
rear screw to ensure the barrel is correctly
floated. Speaking of barrels, their high-per-
Tract Optics. I was excited about getting
this scope into the mix because everything I
had read about it suggested it would shine.
››
The composite
stock has very
formance 26-inch stainless steel barrel is The scope features an MRAD “Christmas easy-to-install
fluted to reduce weight, add rigidity and tree”-style reticle for serious accuracy and 0.25- and 0.5-inch
improve barrel cooling for more consistent precision. Their proprietary Ultra High Defi- spacers to adjust
length of pull.
accuracy from shot to shot. Browning rifle nition (UHD) optical system proved to give
barrels are button rifled and triple checked at me excellent clarity and light transmission.
the factory for interior finish and straightness, The large eye box design of the quick-focus
and are air gauged for uniformity. The rifle eyepiece provides 3.6 to 3.8 inches of eye
come with a removable, thread-on muzzle relief. The glass-etched MRAD ELR reticle

130 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
 ››
From stock to
muzzle, the X-Bolt
Max Long Range
is set up to help
ensure that once-
in-a-lifetime shots
pound the vitals.

can be illuminated with 11 different intensity

settings. These two features combine to pro-
vide solid performance in low-light conditions
at longer distances. Even with all of these
features, the fact that it is engineered here
in the U.S. and built in Japan by the world’s
leading optical manufacturers make this a
great option.

ROCK BOLT GUN (RBG) SERIES

Once on the range, I set up and in short
order began to appreciate the fit and finish of
the rifle. I was able to set the cheek riser to
the perfect height with little effort and time.
AND O
OT INC

More importantly, it never shifted during the

testing. The length of pull fit me well so I did
not need to add the spacers that Browning
had provided. A few test cycles and there
was no slop in the bolt; everything was tight,
and I did not need to tinker with anything.
Groups were shot off a bench with a rear
sandbag for stability. For those hardcore
precision shooters, the temperature was 82
degrees with a 5 mile per hour zero-value
wind. I laser bore sighted the gun to save

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
131
 EC IL E TE

››
Glass selected
for this article
was the TORIC
4.5-30x56
34mm from
Tract Optics.

The rifle was as smooth shooting as advertised, and made

for a great day on the range during testing and evaluation.

ammo, then made my final adjustments. From item is the cheek riser. Browning has included
there, we were off to the races. Before the witness numbers and a scale at the rear of the
LANSKY.COM adjustable comb. Once you have the height
optic and bipod, the gun comes in at just over

AN EDGE
8 pounds so it was not going to be bouncing set to your needs, take note of the number.

ABOVE .
around the bench. It was a good balance of That way, when you need to drop the comb
weight to soak up recoil, yet not so hefty that I to clean the barrel or remove the bolt, just

THE REST
would cross it off a hunt list. replace it at your reference number and it is
There are some fine details worth noting back to the correct position.
about this gun. First is that it has two swivel
studs on the foregrip. This is the tell-tale sign THE UPSHOT
that serious shooters and hunters designed The rifle performed very well and is one I
this gun—one point to attach a bipod and would certainly take on a trophy hunt. While
a second point to attach a sling. Nothing is the gun is long at 46.5 inches, it is still easy
worse than having to choose one over the to carry. The gun printed exceptional groups
other. The action on the gun is silky smooth. at 100 yards and easily rang steel out to 700
It has polished raceways, and the 60-degree yards, which is where I ran out of range. I ran
bolt throw makes the gun very fast to run. It it in several modified shooting positions, and
has an easy-to-index tang safety that locks each time it settled in nicely while producing
the bolt closed when engaged, yet there good shots.
is an override so shooters can unload the This combo of the X-Bolt Max LR, Hawg
chamber with the safety engaged. Then brake and Toric optic made for some very
there is the trigger, which I feel is one of enjoyable shooting. Even though it was not
the best factory triggers available today. It in a magnum caliber, I could absolutely tell
DELUXE
is user adjustable, and gold-plated to boot. the brake was working. I was able to send
SHARPENING A little bling never hurt anyone. It is housed follow-up shots quickly as the muzzle barley
SYSTEM
in an alloy triggerguard engraved with the moved. If you are looking for a rifle that
Browning Buck Mark logo. Forward of that, checks several boxes, you should take a hard
the detachable magazine seats comfortably in look at the X-Bolt Max LR. For more informa-
Stay Sharp | Find us on a composite floorplate framework. One final tion, visit browning.com.

132 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
 PRODUCT WARNING AND RECALL NOTICE
WINCHESTER® 9mm Luger 115 grain

Olin Winchester, LLC is recalling the following lots of 9mm Luger 115 grain Full Metal Jacket and 115 grain Jacketed
Hollow Point pistol ammunition.
Symbols: Q4172, RED9, USA9JHP, USA9MMVP, USA9W, WW9B
Lot Numbers:
SC03LD44, SC03LD45, SC03LD46, SC03LD47, SC13LD1, SC13LD6, SC13LD18, SC13LD44,
SC13LD45, SC13LD46, SC13LD47, SC52LD44, SC52LD45, SC52LD46, SC52LD47, SC62LD44,
SC62LD45, SC62LD46, SC62LD47, SC72LD44, SC72LD45, SC72LD46, SC72LD47, SC92LD44,
SC92LD45, SC92LD46, SC92LD47, SD10LD1, SD10LD3, SD10LD6, SC10LD12, SD10LD18, SD10LD46,
SD10LD47, SD50LD1, SD50LD3, SD50LD6, SD50LD11, SD50LD12, SD50LD18, SD50LD46, SD50LD47,
SD60LD1, SD60LD3, SD60LD6, SD60LD11, SD60LD12, SD60LD18, SD70LD1, SD70LD3, SD70LD6,
SD70LD11, SD70LD12, SD70LD18, SD80LD1, SD80LD3, SD80LD6, SD80LD11, SD80LD12, SD80LD18
The Symbol designations and locations of the Lot Numbers are depicted in the photographs below.

NOTE: If ammunition of the above Symbols was purchased before March 25,
2021, it is NOT subject to the recall.
Winchester has determined the above lots of 9mm Luger 115 FMJ and JHP ammunition may contain propellant
WKDWGRHVQRWSURSHUO\LJQLWHDQGEXUQZKHQWKHFDUWULGJHLVőUHG$PPXQLWLRQFRQWDLQLQJSURSHOODQWWKDWGRHV
not properly ignite and burn may result in a bullet remaining in the barrel (i.e., a bullet-in-bore obstruction). Firing
DVXEVHTXHQWEXOOHWLQWRWKHERUHREVWUXFWLRQFRXOGFDXVHőUHDUPGDPDJHUHQGHULQJWKHőUHDUPLQRSHUDEOHDQG
subjecting the shooter and bystanders to a risk of serious personal injury.
DO NOT USE WINCHESTER® 9MM LUGER 115 FMJ / JHP OF THE ABOVE SYMBOLS THAT HAS ANY OF THE
ABOVE LOT NUMBERS. The ammunition Lot Number is stamped on the cartons of the Symbols involved as
indicated here:

To determine if your ammunition is subject to this notice, review the Symbol and Lot Number. If it is any of
the above Symbols and Lot Numbers, immediately discontinue use and contact Winchester toll-free at
844-653-8358 for free UPS pick-up of the recalled ammunition. Upon receipt of your recalled ammunition,
Winchester will ship replacement ammunition directly to you or issue you a reimbursement check.
This notice applies only to the above 9mm Luger 115 FMJ and JHP Symbols with the above Lot Numbers.
Other Symbols or Lot Numbers are not subject to this recall.
If you have any questions concerning this 9mm Luger 115 FMJ / JHP pistol ammunition recall please call toll-free
ZULWHWR:LQFKHVWHU3RZGHU0LOO5RDG(DVW$OWRQ,/$WWQPP/XJHU5HFDOO
or visit our website at www.winchester.com.
We apologize for this inconvenience.
:,1&+(67(5 -XQH
 C TEST

134 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
 MUCH OF WHAT WE FOCUS ON IN THE PRECISION
REALM IS PERFORMANCE AND HOW TO IMPROVE IT.
Shoot smaller groups, shoot farther distances, increase our
consistency, find more stability, etc. It’s always about moving forward and
helping ourselves to new levels. But, I believe there is one particular portion in
precision shooting that we are not improving in. In fact, we are going backward,
and to our own detriment. This is a fact, not an opinion. Our insistence on
shooting these high-performing rifles unsuppressed (especially with muzzle
brakes) is harming us.
New data from credible studies show the negative effects that concussive
impulses have on people, affecting cognitive function both long and short term.
At higher levels these effects are permanent, while at lower levels the cumulative
exposure yields a permanent result. While mitigating recoil, the modern muzzle
brake significantly amplifies concussion, measured in PSI, and each trigger
press can result in miniature TBI (traumatic brain injury) depending on where the
shooter and bystanders are located.

BALLISTIC 08 09 2021
¥
135
 SILE CE SH W W

“New data from credible studies show the negative

effects that concussive impulses have on people,
affecting cognitive function both long and short term.”

While this might not seem alarming

at first, it shouldn’t be taken lightly. Many
shooters express their development of
headaches during range sessions, and 1 teristics and intended use. These represent
specifically many precision rifle shooters some of the better precision-focused suppres-
mention headaches after the first day of sors. Of course, it’s not a complete list, but
a two-day match. And while it’s easy to these are easily top contenders.
downplay this with statements about the
shooters’ age or time in the sport, it’s
important to remember that precision rifle 1. DEAD AIR NOMAD L
has a huge and growing number of youth The Nomad was released as a general
shooters who are exposed to these loud, Suppressors have come a long purpose, all-rifle suppressor. What made it
concussive rifles. In short, the damage interesting was the E-brake that Dead Air
is starting earlier, and often their hearing added in an effort to help cut down recoil.
protection efforts are suboptimal at best. I’ve shot many different versions of the
Nomad and it has always improved shooting
THE CASE FOR CANS characteristics, even if it was never meant to
While we can double up on hearing in this manner.
protection—which you should have two Groups always improve or stay extremely
levels of, by the way—these efforts can tight, and recoil isn’t a major issue. There is
fall short because the blast waves travel movement of the rifle while shooting, but it’s
through our bodies and impact the fluid predictable and not overwhelming in any way.
in our bodies, head and bones within our As precision shooters, it’s import- It makes every rifle you put it on easier to
ears. These waves are amplified more or shoot. (deadairsilencers.com)
less by our surroundings. For instance, if
you shoot while laying on a concrete pad
with a metal awning, you are basically in an 2.
amplifier. It would be better to be on grass or In last year’s issue we included KGM Tech’s
dirt with nothing above you. to that of a rifle with a muzzle brake. More R65, a suppressor designed specifically for
The better answer is to ditch the loud suppressors are coming to market with this as muzzle rise/movement mitigation. It features
brakes and bare muzzles and install a suppres- a focus, while the more traditional suppressors ports at the front of the can where gas is
sor. Most of us realize that a good suppressor focus on overall noise mitigation. exhausted in several directions and the ports

136 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
 SILE CE SH W W

“…it’s important to remember that precision rifle has a

huge and growing number of youth shooters who are
exposed to these loud, concussive rifles.”

you can tailor its behavior on your rifle to your

3 5

3. CGS GEN 2 HYPERION

ically has minimal to no impact on POI. It’s quiet

years ago, where it got top honors. The new Gen

2 Hyperion is narrower than Gen 1 and is now
monolithic (3D printed) instead of pressed and

4. SILENCERCO OMEGA 300

4
2015, it really hasn’t changed much. Back then,

Ballisticmag.com
the addition of their Anchor brake provided device” by its creators, it represents the most tion. You can also add the brake to further
improved recoil response. Were they ahead of technological advancement of the group, if enhance the recoil-reduction properties, which
the game? It is also a rather small suppressor that’s a thing, and without a doubt has the most is what the Maverick is designed for. You can
in this crowd. That said, it has been a solid complex and modular design. run the Maverick in different configurations,
performer for many and is a popular choice for The Maverick has a serialized “core” piece whichever is best for your shooting needs,
precision shooters. (silencerco.com) that you can add to or subtract from. What with the focus being controlling movement
you can add are modules available in stage of the rifle. While we are on this topic, I was
1 or stage 2 configurations. Think of them as excited to watch the Area 419 videos and
5. THUNDER BEAST ARMS ULTRA 9 GEN II additional baffles that add to the noise reduc- find that they were addressing the issue as
If there was ever a suppressor brand synony-
mous with precision rifles, it’s Thunder Beast
Arms, and the Ultra line has been a mainstay
and standard for many years. The Ultra series is
I N T R O D U C I N G

MASTER-FIT
lightweight, quiet and exhibits minimal POI shift
and improved groups. The Gen 2 brings us an ™
updated Ultra that is even lighter and quieter
than the first generation.
Thunder Beast takes things a step further by
testing sound levels like other companies do
not, and in a world of lower and lower decibel
ratings, they can back up their findings with
metering capabilities that lend more accuracy.
The Ultra line isn’t designed to decrease
movement as far as we know, but it still exhibits
great characteristics in this category.
(thunderbeastarms.com)

6. ELITE IRON ASSET

Elite Iron is a suppressor born out of hard use
and the need for reliability. They also have
deep roots in precision long-range shooting.
The Asset is their newest offering meant to
fulfill a government-specific contract. It’s
technically not even on their website yet. The
product name is there, along with scant infor-
mation. It’s a modular design and is intriguing
“A SERIOUS KIT FOR “AN INSTANT MUST-HAVE “THIS WRENCH SET IS “UPPERS, LOWERS,
to say the least.
SERIOUS GUN BUILDS” FOR THE BENCH.” THE REAL DEAL” FULL GUNS...OH MY”
The Asset has two main parts and can
be run in a short configuration or long with a    
removable brake in either configuration. Look- “REAL AVID “GREAT. MORE TOOLS “LITERALLY THE RIGHT
ing at the Asset and considering why it’s being DOES IT AGAIN” I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT” TOOLS FOR THE JOB!”
produced, you understand that other “users,” in
  
this case the military, may be realizing that other
properties are more desirable beyond ultra
quietness, depending on the scenario of use.
(eliteiron.com)
AVAILABLE AT YOUR FAVORITE RETAILER OR AT
R E A L A V I D . C O M NOW PLAYING
GUN NUTS NEVER HAD IT SO GOOD.
7. The only all-in-one AR15 Armorer’s Torque Wrench Kit ever assembled.
The Maverick is a different beast altogether. It’s Master-Fit™ single-purpose crowfoot wrenches are made specifically for
a product that many don’t know how to classify, the job. Specialized for precise fitment and manipulation of MIL-SPEC
but the ATF says it is a suppressor—which and free-float barrel nuts, muzzle devices and castle nuts. Paired with
is what it is. Dubbed a “recoil suppression the heavy-duty Master-Fit™ Torque Wrench, it takes Gun DIY® building
to a new level of Master Grade quality and precision.

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
139
 SILE CE SH W W
movement or muzzle control. Recoil
is a general term used for the overall 7 The Maverick from Area 419 features
reaction but might not be the best modularity at another level, and performs
descriptor. Hence, why I used the quite well for movement mitigation.
term “movement” early in this piece.
(area419.com)

THE TEST RESULTS

A significant amount of work went
into this test. Unfortunately, I have to
cut to the chase on the results. Keep
in mind this is a hard look at what
I feel are the most prominent cans
with a precision-shooting weighting.
There are many great suppressors
out there, but in this category the
cream rises to the top quickly.
The hard data was broken down
by Anthony Palazzetti with Reactor are effectively neutralized. movement. The Nomad is super quiet but feels
USA. He is their chief technology If the utmost noise like there is more movement compared to oth-
officer. He put together a thorough reduction is your goal, the ers, although that might not be the case. Even
report that compared the rifle/ more traditional suppres- the old school Omega did a fairly decent job,
suppressor behavioral data in graph sors like the Thunder but with POI shift that was significant. Keep
and wave form. You can see that Beast, CGS Group in mind the recoil-focused suppressors can
data at ballisticmag.com. Hyperion, Dead Air Nomad all be configured into traditional suppressors
In the end, my internal data col- and SilencerCo might be where maximum noise mitigation is the goal.
lector did not lie to me. If you want more your speed, but even That means different performance in sound
reduction in rifle movement where it this is a cloudy picture and movement.
would be easier to see your impacts because the Thunder We should note that the Hornady 168-
or misses but still get effective suppression Beast performs close to the “recoil focused” grain ELDM proved not ideal for the Falkor.
of some sort, you’ll want to look toward suppressors while still being very quiet. The While initial unsuppressed groups were
suppressors like the Elite Iron Asset, the KGM CGS is very quiet with no point of impact shift sub-MOA, they only got worse with every
Technologies R30 and the Area 419 Maverick. on the Accuracy International, but it had more suppressor except the Thunder Beast, where
My guess that the Elite Iron Asset groups were better and POI didn’t shift. This
had the least amount of movement, drives home the point that every gun/ammo
PERFORMANCE
called “energy” in the data sheet, combo will be different. That said, the Falkor
was correct. I was surprised to see
that the KGM Tech R30 had less PRECISION RIFLE SUPPRESSORS rifle shot the Federal Gold Medal match just
fine with sub-half-MOA groups. The Accuracy
than the Area 419 because it didn’t SUPPRESSOR POI SHIFT ACCURACY International and FGMM was used for final
feel as such. They both produce group and POI shift due to consistency in
their “movement effects” differently. Bare muzzle 0.0 0.533 ammo/rifle performance.
To further differentiate these Area 419 Maverick 2.2 left, 1.7 down 0.720 While you might want to focus on group
products we’d need more time, sizes, you shouldn’t. No suppressor increased
ammo and preferably shooters, to CGS Hyperion none 0.446 group size from what I could tell. Any
get a broader data set. Dead Air Nomad L 0.2 down, 0.54 left 0.710 increased group size was due to me as the
These suppressors bring Elite Iron Asset 0.25 down, 0.7 left 0.670 shooter, not the suppressor attached.
performance closer to that of a Keep in mind we are splitting hairs
muzzle brake, where minimal forces KGM 0.2 down, 1.2 left 0.630 because we have to at this level. With all the
are induced on the rifle. The effects SilencerCo Omega 300 1.6 down, 2.1 left 0.442 different offerings out there, we must try to
are quite noticeable when you TBAC Ultra 9 0.6 left 0.439 weed our way through them. Any of these
shoot them side by side with more would make a solid precision rifle suppressor,
traditional suppressors. They are POI shift and accuracy measured in inches. Groups were shot at but you’ll have to decide which character-
considerably louder in these con- 100 yards with Accuracy International AIAX using Federal Premium istics are ideal for your personal precision
FGGM 168-grain ammo.
figurations, but concussive effects shooting needs.

140 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
 HOME
COMMUNITY
PROTECT COUNTRY
CONSERVATION

HWS E X P S 3 ™

eotechinc.com
©Copyright 2021 EOTECH, LLC. All rights reserved. EOTECH®, Vudu® and HWS® are registered trademarks of EOTECH, LLC.
 CLASS IEST
UYE ’S GUI E

parts
a y th e re e xi s ts an ocean of
od as
a c c e s s o ri e s , and the rifle h
and sh if
e fr o m c u s to m to custom-i
gon e
e rs o n a liz e d ,” mainly becaus
not “p e by
as mostly gon
custom work h d
d iv id u a ls o ft e n order barrele
s in
the wayside a into a chassis.
e n s la p th e m
actions, th asis on barrels
and
or her personality and style. Yes, the chassis
o m u c h e m p h
With s to light and sizes of
nd ri g h tf u lly s o—it’s coming W ith all of the different shapes has been burdened with an extraordinary
actions—a e an afterthough
t for
in order to be accepted an
d widely
s s is m ig h t b sh oo te rs, responsibility.
that the cha in teract with a la
rger
as sis must be highly adjus
table.
in fa c t, a s I us ed a ch I partnered with fellow shooter Tom
many when, s , I’m more and more th at, it must be of quality cons
truction,
p le te ri fle Be yo nd McKenna. Tom helped me evaluate rifles in
variety of com s is (or stock) is eq
ually
c an d stiff. A good chassis mu
st be
t th e c h a s co nc en tri last year’s issue of Ballistics Best (Dec. 2020/
convinced tha e r this: The barre
led
co mm odate a barreled action
and
y? C o n s id ab le to ac Jan. 2021). We looked at some of the more
important. Wh g else in the ri
fle ile, and maintain
do e s n ’t n e e d a n yt h in
e ac companying barrel prof popular chassis available to try to draw some
action secure th the action is
c o m p le te its duties. If you a lev el of repeatability when conclusions on what they offer and what
build to
s o rt o f m o u n t or sled, whic
h
re mo ve d an d repla ce d. And, the action screws we like about them. We considered many
e
action into som d o , you can fire it
an u fa c tu re rs must stay tight. things, including how the chassis will likely be
many ammo m al hu m a n chassis must
o t tin y g ro u p s without any
re
O n the operational end, the used by the end user, as well as how it was
and sho ract e ability to
n . B u t in o rd e r for us to inte ha ve a good balance or have th designed and marketed.
interactio uch as a ugh the use
w it h it , w e n eed a device s re ac h an appropriate balance thro While we drew our own conclusions, keep
intimately mponent isn’t
just so, The forend must be we
ll laid out
c k. If th is c o of we igh ts. in mind all of these chassis are excellent in
chassis/sto l effect on outc
omes y accessories
a d e tr im e n ta an d ac co mmodating of necessar their own right and category. Ultimately, how
it can have k of the ts and NV rails, Pic rails
, etc. It
te r. T h e re fo re , we must thin su ch as we igh one stacks up against another will come down
for the shoo rface. It’s where
the
be sta ble when placed on a ba
g or
k a s a n in te mu st als o to the end user. The chassis, and which one
chassis/stoc n e n ts congregate
to
an d be able to effectively and ea
sily
e c o m p o ba rri ca de , is best, is a personal thing. We did our best to
shooter and th in g s to happen. He
re,
pla ce . Let’s not forget it has
to
g re a t th “s et tle ” int o generalize in this comparison.
hopefully allow s s is , so from here
on
ortab le grips for the shooter
and
g o n c h a ac ce pt co mf
we are focusin s s . ow fo r adjustability for the shoot-
e ’ll a d d re ho pe ful ly all
out that’s all w this, and it should look
ing hand and finger. All

NUTS AND BOLTS

ically carries the brunt
good, as the chassis typ
e ideal or poss
ess ession of his
rf a c e m u s t b of th e operator’s external expr
This inte perator.
to b e c o m e ideal for the o
the ability

n give you
ality chassis ca
A to p -q u atures you
ty and other fe
adju s ta bil g-range
ke your lon
need to ma nd fun.
ti n g m o re accurate a
s ho o

142 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
 TH E S E S E V E N
J U S T L O O K
DON’ T G E T
T H E Y ’ L L
GOOD, O T I N G
YO U S H O
Y
BY SEAN UTLE

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
143
 CL SSIEST CH SSIS

1. MASTERPIECE ARMS MATRIX 1

Masterpiece Arms owned the chassis space
several years ago. The BA line was widely
accepted, and many still think it is the best
chassis around. Two years ago they released
their Matrix line and with it came more modu-
larity/adjustability.
The Matrix has six grip options, three
thumb rests and four trigger support options.
The forend has M-LOK attachments and is 2
inches longer than the BA/Comp chassis. It
accepts barricade stops, night vision and a
weight kit.
The Matrix has an interesting look that you
either love or hate, with a thumbhole and more
traditional looking buttstock. I like the feature,
while my fellow reviewer did not. Yes, the
Matrix is packed with stuff. 2. MDT ACC
The MDT ACC is a popular chassis within
What we like about it: NV capable, almost the competition scene and rightfully so. It
toolless adjustability but with lots of range, has excellent balance, tons of adjustability in
mag release size, weight kit, built in Arca the buttstock, and the grips come in different
Swiss rail, protected mag well, thumb rest sizes and can be adjusted fore and aft. MDT
options and ambidextrous capability. supports the chassis with tons of accessories
including a weight kit. When you pick up the
What we’re not crazy about: Several small ACC it feels good from the start.
screws and detents that can loosen or get
lost can be a problem. Although there are What We Like About it: Long flat forend,
many grip choices, it was hard to find an excellent balance, built-in Arca rail, buttock What we’re not crazy about: The mag
ideal one. We also didn’t care for the overall adjustable for height and cant, shorter LOP, release paddle is small, screws can loosen
aesthetic appeal of the large rear end, and protective mag well, AR grip compatibility, and get lost, it’s not ambi, it has a small thumb
the length of pull that starts at a long 13.5 good general ergonomics, aesthetic appeal. rest and it’s a non-folder. The ACC is a great
inches. It’s hard to describe exactly but the The ACC feels like it was meant for compe- chassis, but the maintenance required for
MPA, for as good as it is, just feels “dated” tition work with outstanding balance. It is easy the “little parts” is probably the biggest ding
compared to other chassis on the market. to get comfortable behind and might require against it. All in all, it’s an amazing chassis on
(masterpiecearms.com) the least amount of setup time. the racy side of things. (mdttac.com)

sis from
The ACC chas
r with
MDT is popula
ooters.
competition sh

144 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
 THE FASTEST-GROWING

RA-535
Advanced-Performance Trigger

1
PERFORMANCE EASY
2 DURABILITY
4
EASY
5
ACCURACY
6
MORE
“More hits on the first
MAINTANENCE INSTALLATION “Reduced my 100 yard
TRIGGER FOR
“Well designed and
shot in 3-Gun than with solidly built.” “Very quick and simple groups by 25%.” THE MONEY
“A really simple trigger
the factory trigger.” install.”
cassette. I just blow it “MPX rifles are hard on “No take up, great reset. “I’ve amazed several
“No more trigger freeze out every few thousand hammers. After about “It installed just as Extremely accurate, trigger snobs with the
when I fire 4 or more rounds and put grease 2,000 rounds your easily as your videos much more than I am.” candy cane break and
rounds on a single back on the friction hammers are holding said it would.” lightning fast
surfaces.” up well.” “The trigger breaks reset. They’re crushed
target.”
“Just bought and right where I like
“Easy to access when I tell them the
“The feel of the trigger installed two RISE it (not too light, just
maintenance points.” cost.”
resetting after a shot is triggers. I was blown hard enough to
away.” keep me honest).” “By far the best triggers
a really great feature.”
and at an amazing price.
“No creep, I mean “A high quality, precision I have 4 of them!”
part that will make me a
zero creep.”
much better shoot.” “Hands-down the best
triggers on the market
at the best price.”
“My only problem is
deciding how many
more I need!”

MADE IN THE USA NO GRAVEL. LESS TRAVEL. RISETRIGGERS.com

 CL SSIEST CH SSIS

5 While the KRG Whiskey 3 appears as if it

would fit more closely into a “tactical” type of
use, it’s a good-looking chassis and unique
in ways. It is highly adjustable and has the
ability to accept lots of accessories such as
NV rails, spigot mounts, an Arca rail and an
enclosed forend.

What we like about it: Toolless adjustable

buttstock, great adjustability with height and
cant, few screws to loosen or lose, solid feel,
folder option.
Another widely used chassis is the XLR
Envy. Offered in “packages,” it starts out as a What we’re not crazy about: LOP started at
chassis only but can be expanded to include 13.3 inches, weight kit is not available, lack of
PRODUCT SAFETY WARNING & weights, a night-vision mount and more. M-Lok compatibility (upgradable with enclosed
Weight can be added inside the forend like forend), Arca not built in, lots of parts to add/
RECALL NOTICE FOLLOW UP the ACC and MPA chassis. The Envy pro JV upgrade, not ambi.
WALTHER PPS M2 comes with a nose extension that allows the The Whiskey 3 is a pretty specific chassis
user to run their bipod further out front. for a specific type of shooter in that you have to
Walther Arms, Inc. discovered a potential safety issue
with certain PPS M2 pistols shipped before September
set it up right, and it takes some work. I found it
21, 2018. Walther voluntarily initiated a recall in What we like about it: Solid feel, LOP starts to be the least comfortable of the chassis, but
November 2018 to protect the safety of its customers at 12 inches and can be shorter as well as that doesn’t detract from its capabilities. It has
because under certain conditions it is possible that much longer, built in Arca Swiss, ambidex- its following, though, and will be right for fans of
some of these pistols may fire when dropped. The only
trous, mag release size, buttstock adjustability, the KRG. (kineticresearchgroup.com)
PPS M2 pistols affected by this recall are those in the
following serial number ranges:
folder option.
AN3020 - AN9999 AR0000 - AR9999
What we’re not crazy about: Tools are 5. CADEX
AO0000 - AO9999 AS0000 - AS9999 needed to adjust cheek height, the included Cadex products are known for being high-end.
Hogue takes getting used to, AR tube style They make some battle-capable chassis, and
AP0000 - AP9999 AT0000 - AT9999
and aesthetics are questionable. the Field Competition falls in this category,
AQ0000 - AQ9999 AU0000 - AU7502 The XLR Envy has a super solid feel. Even minus features that would otherwise run up the
though it’s a competition-style chassis, it cost. The Field Competition is sturdy, but is a
Please do not load, fire or use your Walther PPS M2
feels robust and is free of rattles and ques- two-piece design where the forend bolts to the
pistol and contact us immediately to arrange to have
your pistol upgraded free of charge tionable screws to come loose. It seems like main lower portion of the chassis. The forend
it might be the least maintenance intensive mitigates mirage, features M-Lok attachment,
Contact us at www.WaltherArms.com/Recall and of the race chassis and could pull double and an ARCA rail can be attached.
complete the online form. Alternatively, you can duty as an “all-around” type of chassis. The skeletonized stock needs no tools for
contact us by email at ppsrecall@WaltherArms.
(xlrindustries.com) adjustment, but once you loosen the bolts,
© 2021 Walther Arms, Inc. | All Rights Reserved.

146 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
 6

LOP and cheek height are affected so you

must be careful during setup. 7. MAGPUL PRO 700
I’ll go on record and say the Magpul Pro
What we like about it: Few screws, M-Lok 700 has to be the most overlooked and
compatibility, stock adjustability, AR-style underrated chassis on the market. Why
grips, solid, comfortable, folding stock. is it overlooked? Probably because of its
aesthetics. While there is nothing wrong
What we’re not crazy about: Adjustability with its looks, it’s not exciting by any stretch
can be challenging, length of pull at 13 of the imagination. Magpul may have done
inches, Arca Swiss separate part, no thumb- What we like about it: Highly adjustable a better job with their hunter stock in the
shelf, mag well area angled and not able to without tools, including cant and height of butt appearance category.
be loaded. pad. While the AI is not new, it does this better But form follows function, and the Magpul
The Cadex is more of a general use/tactical than any other chassis. It’s bombproof, mag is nothing short of amazing in function, with
chassis that could do occasional competition well is cut away on one side, it folds and is mounds of adjustability, good balance, ability
work, and it has undeniable good looks along night-vision capable. to accept accessories and expandability (sup-
with functionality. (cadexdefence.com) ported by Magpul), and a great price point.
What we’re not crazy about: Key slot propri-
etary, no Arca without adaptation, mag well area What we like about it: Rugged design with
6. ACCURACY INTERNATIONAL AX is not protected, odd angle in front of mag well, no parts to jiggle loose, adjustability in stock,
This is another tactical chassis that might be no thumb shelf, length of pull starts at 13.25 ambi, folder or fixed modularity, NV capable,
the standard by which all others are measured. inches, no left-handed for Rem 700 footprint. adjustable vertical grip distance, different
Tough, functional, solid, and adjustable without The AI makes comfort look easy and vertical grip angles.
the use of tools, the AI AX just does work. That although it is tactically based, it expertly
said, it is not ideal for competition, but can executes adjustability and adaptability. What we’re not crazy about: Boring
work in that space if necessary. (accuracyinternational.com) aesthetics, magazine not protected, minimum

Equally at home atop a bolt action or a semi-automatic rifle,

the 4-20x50 F1 is smaller and lighter than our 5-25x56 F1
while offering a 25% improvement in magnification over
our 4-16x42 F1. With Digillum, a ZeroStop turret,
power throw lever, ED lenses, and 20x max magnification,
the ATACR 4-20x50 F1 is our apex mid-power scope.

Go to nightforceoptics.com to find a dealer near you.

Nightforce is a registered trademark of Nightforce Optics, Inc.
© 2021 Nightforce Optics, Inc. All rights reserved. RUGGED. RELIABLE. REPEATABLE.

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
147
 CL SSIEST CH SSIS

length of pull is too long, thumbshelf is small that a particular model was subpar, there Expandability is there as well. It’s ambidex-
and nonadjustable. would be a significant number of people using trous, comfortable, and even though it’s on the
While it’s not perfect, I personally believe the it to the contrary. racy side, it’s very solid in construction and
Pro 700 is the best “all-around” chassis with If we both had to crown a winner, it would we believe it could be used in an all-around or
the ability to morph into nearly every roll and be the XLR Envy. It seemed to have all the fea- even tactical role. Aesthetically it leaves a bit
maintain durability and capability. (magpul.com) tures we deemed necessary in one package. to be desired, but the other factors more than
Adjustability is plentiful but it still needs tools. make up for that.
THE LAST ROUND
It’s clearly impossible to say which chassis FOR MORE INFORMATION
is the absolute best without clearly defined ACCURACY INTERNATIONAL KINETIC RESEARCH GROUP MDT
measurement parameters. Even with that, we’d accuracyinternational.com kineticresearchgroup.com mdttac.com
have to assume that every shooter’s body, CADEX MAGPUL XLR INDUSTRIES
technique and end use were the same, and cadexdefence.com magpul.com Xlrindustries.com
that’s clearly not the case. No, the decision of
MASTERPIECE ARMS
which chassis is best is truly a deeply personal masterpiecearms.com
one and will continue to be. Even if we agreed

BRINGING THE HEATSEEKER

→
Cost will always be a we are sensitive to this, and so is but affordable to get you into sides. Each side also features
consideration if not a Sharps Bros. something more personalized two QD points.
limitation for many who You may know them for their and adjustable. The use of standard AR-style
want to wade into the satisfying AR lowers that broke the status The Heat Seeker is avail- grip means the sky is the limit
and sometimes murky waters of quo by featuring unique magwell able for Remington 700, on options. They have a Brazilian
precision-everything. Actions, designs with skulls, warriors and Ruger American and Howa Cherry wooden grip and hand-
barrels, optics, bipods, ammo, other unique bits. Soon you may 1500 actions. The main body guard panel set that is rather
training, matches, reloading know them for their bolt action portion (receiver, magwell,
components—it all adds up products if this keeps up.
quickly and even at bargain Their Heatseeker chassis

Ballisticmag.com
It’s our duty to build the best performing firearm...

IT’S YOUR DUTY

TO BE READY
PDP Full Size

Red Dot Performance Duty Red Dot Ready

Ergonomics Grip Texture

PDP Compact

What does it mean to be ready?

SuperTerrain Modularity Performance waltherarms.com
Serrations Duty Trigger © 2020 Walther Arms Inc. | All Rights Reserved
 GE GUI E

A LOOK AT SOME NEW

GEMS IN THE LONG-
RANGE OPTICS MARKET
BY SEAN UTLEY

ompetition is fierce amongst

the manufacturers within the
precision shooting circle. Never petitive products to the tune of 20 ounces or
before has the consumer been more in some cases. It features a Zero Lock,
front and center to so much mixed reviews. Now they have the PR2. for inadvertent turret movement prevention
development and so many product releases. The PR2 reticle is a clean reticle, still and return to zero. Of course it has excellent
The floodgates of new options and accesso- featuring the .25 Mil subtensions. The PR2 HD glass, is crystal clear and features 30 Mil
ries have been opened whether it’s chassis, has quite a bit of open space at the center of of travel in three revolutions. Its 5:1 zoom ratio
bipods and, of course, optics. Here are some the reticle with the first marker being .25 mil is a nice range, and it also has a throw lever
optics worth a look. left or right. Having the .25 markers removes with smooth movement. It’s also available in
one-fifth of the markers, adding to a cleaner an MOA version.
field of view. A small center dot is easy to see The MARK 5HD 5-25X56 M5C3 FFP
1. LEUPOLD and place over targets without PR2-MIL is competitively priced, in our
Leupold released the Mk5 HD roughly taking up too much real estate opinion. (MSRP: $1,999; leupold.com)
three years ago. And in an effort to bring an on them. It also features .1 Mil
advantage to the shooter, they released a new markers between the 3 and 4

150 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
 :LWKWKHLQWURGXFWLRQRIRXUUVWHYHUPLFURFRPSDFWPPWKHDOOQHZTaurus GX4™EROGO\RXWFODVVHVDQ\WKLQJHOVHLQ
LWVFODVV̱UHDFKLQJXQSUHFHGHQWHGQHZKHLJKWVLQFRQFHDOHGFDUU\UHDUPHQJLQHHULQJHUJRQRPLFVDQGLQQRYDWLRQ2QWKH
RXWVLGHWKHUHFDQEHQRGRXEWWKDWHYHU\VWUHDPOLQHGLQFKRIWKLVUXJJHGVWULNHUUHGVHPLDXWRZDVPHWLFXORXVO\FUDIWHG
IRU('&UHDGLQHVVDQGUHOLDELOLW\:KLOHDJDPHDOWHULQJFRPELQDWLRQRIIXOOVL]HGFDSDFLW\DFFXUDF\DQGSRZHUUHVLGHV
ZLWKLQLWVXOWUDFRQFHDODEOHRQHLQFKZLGHUHLQIRUFHGIUDPH7KHH[FHSWLRQDOO\DIIRUGDEOHTaurus GX4™LVEDFNHGE\RXU
/LPLWHG/LIHWLPH:DUUDQW\DQGLQGXVWU\OHDGLQJFXVWRPHUVHUYLFHIRUDGGHGSHDFHRIPLQGZKHQLWPDWWHUVWKHPRVW

MICRO-COMPACT 9MM 18.5 OZ. 3” BARREL 11 ROUNDS

Learn more at TaurusGX4.com.

 GL SS U

as well. The first-focal-plane scope features a The glass etched reticle is available in the
34mm tube, and zero stop is included. popular EBR-7C reticle that gives you the
The Kahles K25i DLR (Dynamic Long Range) (MSRP: $3,549; kahles.at/us) ability to hold accurately for wind and eleva-
is another high-end, high-quality offering from tion when dialing isn’t an option or desirable.
the folks at Swarovski. The DLR is Kahles’ The picture is bright and crisp, thanks to XD
move to create a riflescope optimized for 3. VORTEX (extra-low dispersion) glass. The body is a
“dynamic long range” competitions. This summer, Vortex released the Venom single-piece tube made from a solid piece of
It features an extra wide field of view—8 5-25x56 FFP with many features at an attrac- aircraft grade aluminum.
percent wider than the non DLR. It also tive price point. The Venom features a 34mm The Venom appears to be a whole lot of
features 10 Mil (100 clicks) per revolution as tube, giving the turrets more room to move, optic for the money and is available in MRAD
opposed to 16 Mil on the K25i. Big, easy- is a first-focal-plane scope and has Vortex’s and MOA. (MSRP: $699; vortexoptics.com)
to-see/read turret markings help, along with RevStop zero system. The parallax can be
large parallax knob and throw lever that make achieved down to 15 yards.
adjustments easy.
The windage turret can be had on the left
or right side of the optic, and it features an “THE VENOM APPEARS TO BE A WHOLE
optional Twist Guard windage knob that pre- LOT OF OPTIC FOR THE MONEY AND IS
vents the knob from being turned inadvertently.
Featuring a SKMR4 reticle, it is illuminated,
AVAILABLE IN MRAD AND MOA.”

152 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
 REDEFINING
THE ALPHA
LIFESTYLE
SUBSCRIBE AND
SAVE UP TO 59% OFF
NEWSSTAND
4 ISSUES/YEAR

NAME

ADDRESS

CITY STATE ZIP

UP TO 59% OFF THE NEWSSTAND RATE
T $ 19.97 - 1-YEAR PRINT SUBSCRIPTION EMAIL
T $ 32.97 - 2-YEAR PRINT SUBSCRIPTION TBILL ME LATER TPAYMENT ENCLOSED
T $ 9.97 - 1-YEAR DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION
CHARGE MY: TVISA TMASTERCARD TAMEX TDISCOVER
T $24.97 - 1-YEAR PRINT + DIGITAL COMBO SUBSCRIPTION
CARD NO. EXP. DATE
SIGNATURE
MAIL TO: ATHLON MEDIA GROUP SUBSCRIPTIONS PLEASE ALLOW 6-8 WEEKS FOR DELIVERY OF YOUR FIRST ISSUE. ADD 30% FOR CANADIAN SHIPPING 100% FOR INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING.
P.O. BOX 292167, KETTERING, OH 45429 YOU CAN ALSO
OR ORDER ONLINE AT OUTDOORGROUPSTORE.COM FIND US ON
 GL SS U
4

Fit and finish on the RS.3 is superb. target shooting but it can still play the role. The
4. MAVEN Markings are clear and distinct, and it’s got RS.4 is their target model but wasn’t available
You might or might not have heard of Maven. some heft to it; whether that’s good or bad at the time. It also features a lifetime warranty.
Maven was started in 2013 in Cody, Wyo- is up to you. The magnification ring moves (MSRP: $1,600; mavenbuilt.com)
ming, and is a company that delivers its optics smoothly with just the right amount of tension
directly to consumers to keep costs down for on it. It also has side parallax. While it is no
the end user. Though they are young, their sign of how good or bad the tracking is, the 5. LEICA
goal is to provide shooters with a quality optic turret feedback is excellent both in feel and Leica is one of those names that we relate to
that they can afford. auditory terms. You can make your adjust- quality, refinement and sophistication. Last
The RS.3 is a first-focal-plane, 50mm ments and feel confident that you aren’t year, they introduced their PRS 5-30x56i and
objective and 30mm tube optic. Magnification blowing by your inputs. it seems to have gone mostly unnoticed. The
range is 5-30x. It’s available in MRAD and The RS.3 has three reticle offerings, and PRS 5-30x56i was designed specifically for
MOA versions and features ED glass. Like you can even have the accent colors custom the long-range crowd with 32 Mils of travel
other optic models of these times, it also anodized, with your name engraved if you wish. in its multi-turn elevation turret, which can be
features multi-coated lenses. The RS.3 is targeted for hunting more than zeroed without tools. The zero stop feature in

154 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
 6

the Leica can be deactivated or activated at

will and as necessary.
As you might imagine, the glass is up to
snuff with excellent light transmission and
clarity. It’s built tough, too, with superb fit and
finish throughout. Three different reticles are
available with us nodding toward the L-PRB
with its grid-style layout, featuring .2-Mil
markings and a crosshair thickness of 4 cm.
Interestingly, there is an open center dot,
where most other optics have a solid one.
It measures 1 cm and makes zeroing a very
precise ordeal. The top portion of the field of
view is completely unobstructed save for one
Mil of hashes on the elevation stadia.
The Leica is built to last with all metal parts.
(MSRP: $2,699; leicacamerausa.com)

6. PRIMARY ARMS
Primary Arms PLx 6-30x56mm FFP is a first-
focal-plane optic that utilizes HD Japanese
glass (like many others) for enhanced clarity.
It is intended for medium- to long-range use
and also features a 34mm tube and 56mm
objective.
Turret adjustments are .1 Mil and are zero
returnable, but it has no zero stop. The illu-
minated reticle is NV compatible. The ACSS
Apollo 6.5CM/.224V reticle is calibrated for
6.5 Creedmoor and .224 Valkyrie ammo and
features a lifetime warranty. The center aiming
point is a chevron instead of the dot that many
other optics use.
If you’re running a 6.5 Creedmoor (or .224
Valkyrie) the Primary Arms may be a good
option for you. The instruction manual includes
all the information on the reticle and optimized
conditions for the ballistics to match up.
(MSRP: $1,500; primaryarms.com)

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
155
 ECISI E

efore ballistic calculators were next time you go to the range and the wind
available to the masses, most of speed and direction changes, your app will
us went to the range and shot at calculate your correct solutions for you without
known distances and recorded the having to input all the directions of fire back in.
adjustment on our scope we had dialed or Keeping the screen simple, it gives you your
held when we impacted the target. This was elevation solution and wind holds. Another
our data on previous engagements (DOPE). feature in competition mode I find handy is
I remembered doing this in my first precision the holdover data zero setting. This calculates
rifle class. We shot in 100-yard increments 1 2 your solutions if you had dialed for elevation
from 100 to 1,000 yards. More ammo was and not on zero. I use this a lot when I have
needed to gather this DOPE since you had to to hold for a stage. For example, I will dial for
shoot at every distance you wanted data on. the first target, then hold for the rest. I will not
Another thing to note is that this DOPE have to do the math myself of the subsequent
was gathered on a specific range with specific targets as the app will tell me what to hold.
atmospherics. As environmental conditions Map mode utilizes google maps to give you
change—like temperature, pressure and version where you get one rifle profile. The Pro solutions by GPS. After you set your shooting
relative humidity—the flight of your bullet is version unlocks the ability to make unlimited location, you drop target pins on the map. As
also changed. For instance, if you gather your rifle profiles that can be saved to the cloud you drop your target pins, the app will give you
DOPE at Range A, which is at sea level, when and accessed on other devices, which makes the distance and shot bearing. When you click
it is 30 degrees, then use that same DOPE it easy when you change phones. The Pro ver- on the target, your firing solutions will pop
when you go to Range B at 8,000 feet eleva- sion also unlocks the ability to save and export up, giving you the elevation and wind. I have
tion when it’s 90 degrees, you will miss the range cards. The app supports WeatherFlow used this feature before when I have forgotten
targets high due to the change in environmen- and Kestrel meters, which allows for conve- my rangefinder. I have also used this in the
tal conditions. With advancements in cellular nient Bluetooth transfer of your environmental opposite fashion. At the target location, I’ll
phones, apps are available that can crunch conditions directly to the app. drop a pin, then I’ll find a shooting spot. This is
numbers and perform complicated math in You have an option of three different modes a method I use when I setup an ELR practice
milliseconds, acting as our own personal por- for your firing solution. In chart mode, you range. The developer has notified me of a new
table computer. After inputting your specific choose the max range and increments. You version update soon to be released.
rifle sight height, twist, muzzle velocity (MV), will be given your elevation, wind, velocity, ($14.99; geoballistics.com)
zero range and your bullet specs, with a click energy of the bullet at the target and the time
of a button you can get your firing solutions for of flight (TOF). TOF is important when you
any range you want. You can manually input are shooting movers and also beneficial in
your environmental conditions, or you can get Extreme Long Range (ELR). Another popular app is Strelok Pro. This
a weather meter that can input it automatically In competition mode, you can customize app calculates your horizontal and vertical
via Bluetooth. your own target card. This allows you to name, correction on the main screen. The first
add angle and shot bearing to each individual feature that stands out is that you can view
target. You can save this as a range card, your elevation and wind holds on a reticle
1. GEOBALLISTICS which is nice when you go to multiple range and even change magnification on your virtual
GeoBallistics, also known as BallisticARC, locations to shoot where the targets do not scope. Currently there are over 1,800 reticles
has a user-friendly interface that offers a free move. Since you added the azimuths, the supported in the app. Also notable is the

156 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
 TODAY’S TOP
BALLISTIC
CALCULATOR

With today’s advanced

ballistic calculator phone
apps, competitors can get
all the info they need to
send their next shot with
absolute confidence.

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
157
 H C E S FTW E

“The additional degree of

freedom that Hornady 4DOF
app takes into account is
3 4 the projectile’s movement in
relation to its line of flight…”

app’s moving-target calculator. If additional Custom Drag Models (CDM) curves and Per-
data is needed, retained velocity and energy, sonal Drag Models (PDM) files to build profiles
TOF, spin drift, trajectory height, crosswind to load to your Kestrel Meter. When using the
and Coriolis effect are available on a separate Kestrel Meter on a wind vane, you can receive
section. Target cards are easy to make, which updated shooting solutions on the firing line
also calculates wind 1 and wind 2 and can be by remotely viewing your single target or the
exported. The third feature is the Converter multiple-target card on your phone.
section, which has many useful calculators like (Free; kestrelballistics.com)
distance. It makes range estimation a whole
lot easier. You input the target size, then the
size in angular unit using your reticle, and it 4. HORNADY 4DOF
will calculate the target range. The angular Hornady 4DOF takes into account four
unit conversion is also very useful. The app degrees of freedom (DOF). In physics, a
supports multiple Bluetooth devices. degree of freedom is a term to describe
($11.99; borisov.mobi/strelokpro) actions or responses that are independent of
each other. Most ballistic calculators available
to the public use three DOF—windage,
elevation and range. The additional degree
Although not a stand-alone ballistic calculator, of freedom that Hornady 4DOF app takes
it is a companion app to Kestrel ballistic into account is the projectile’s movement in
weather meters. You can build new gun relation to its line of flight, which they call the
profiles, update firmware and even view angle of attack. The 4DOF app also moves
solutions remotely. Note that the Kestrel Link away from using a ballistic coefficient (BC)
app does not calculate your solutions, you to using a drag coefficient. When calculating
will need the Kestrel Meter, as it acts like the BC using the Siacci method in G modeling,
brains. The Link app recognizes which Kestrel the standard projectile is a fictitious one.
Meter the user connects and unlocks different Using BC is a good approximation of trajec-
features for different models. The Kestrel Meter tories, but mismatch in the actual drag of the
5700 Ruger unlocks the Ruger-specific library projectile compared to the standard projectile
with its prebuilt gun profiles; the meter with can cause inaccuracies. When using drag
Hornady 4DOF matches the 4DOF solver. coefficient, you can use the exact physical
Kestrel Elite and the 5700X unlocks the target and aerodynamic properties of your projectile
card, the Applied ballistics library in the Link in calculations instead of comparing it to a
app of over 1,000 projectiles, offering G1/G7, “standard projectile.”

158 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com
 powder’s performance changes, the pressure
Shooters compare data at and muzzle velocity will change as well. The
an ELR competition. These
top-quality phone apps make
4ODF app has a powder library that incorpo-
shooting easier and more fun. rates a temperature sensitivity coefficient to
the calculations, which can be turned on or off.
The chart works the same as GeoBallistics,
but it also gives you gyroscopic stability and
breaks down total elevation and total windage
in additional sections so you can see individual
pieces (e.g. aerodynamic jump, spin drift, wind
drift). On the heads-up display, you can change
the range by a slider bar or type it in. You can
tap and move the direction of wind instead of
inputting degrees. (Free; Hornady.com)

With these advancements in ballistic calcu-

lators, our range time can be more effective
and efficient. We can hit more targets and
The quality of an individual barrel, its geom- was a discrepancy that cannot be explained by accurately shoot out to longer distances. I
etry, twist and muzzle device can be different common errors. have personally used GeoBallistics and the
and can slightly cause a drag shift. In 4DOF The performance of gunpowder changes Kestrel with Applied Ballistics to hit targets
you can adjust the Axial Force Form Factor to with temperature. Some powders are more during competition past 2 miles. Hope to see
line up your data for your individual gun if there temperature sensitive than others. As the you at the range!

PRODUCT WARNING AND RECALL NOTICE

HERTER’S™ 9mm Luger 115 grain FMJ (manufactured by Winchester®)
Herter’s is recalling the following lots of 9mm Luger 115 grain Full Metal Jacket pistol ammunition.

Symbol: HRT9A. Lot Numbers: SC13LD44, SC13LD45, SD10LD44, SD10LD45

Note: If ammunition was purchased before March 25, 2021, it is NOT subject to the recall.
Herter’s has determined the above lots of 9mm Luger 115 FMJ ammunition may contain propellant that does not properly ignite and burn when
WKHFDUWULGJHLVőUHG$PPXQLWLRQFRQWDLQLQJSURSHOODQWWKDWGRHVQRWSURSHUO\LJQLWHDQGEXUQPD\UHVXOWLQDEXOOHWUHPDLQLQJLQWKHEDUUHO
LHDEXOOHWLQERUHREVWUXFWLRQ)LULQJDVXEVHTXHQWEXOOHWLQWRWKHERUHREVWUXFWLRQFRXOGFDXVHőUHDUPGDPDJHUHQGHULQJWKHőUHDUP
inoperable and subjecting the shooter and bystanders to a risk of serious personal injury.
DO NOT USE HERTER’STM 9mm Luger 115 FMJ SYMBOL HRT9A THAT HAS LOT
NUMBER SC13LD44, SC13LD45, SD10LD44 or SD10LD45. The ammunition Lot
Number is stamped on the 50 round carton as indicated here:
To determine if your ammunition is subject to this notice, review the Symbol and Lot Number.
,ILWLV6\PERO+57$DQG/RW1XPEHU6&/'6&/'6'/'RU6'/'
immediately discontinue use DQGFRQWDFW:LQFKHVWHUWROOIUHHDWIRUIUHH836SLFNXSRIWKHUHFDOOHGDPPXQLWLRQ8SRQUHFHLSW
of your recalled ammunition, Winchester will ship replacement ammunition directly to you or issue you a reimbursement check.
7KLVQRWLFHDSSOLHVRQO\WR6\PERO+57$ZLWK/RW1XPEHU6&/'6&/'6'/'RU6'/'Other Symbols or Lot Numbers are not
subject to this recall.
,I\RXKDYHDQ\TXHVWLRQVFRQFHUQLQJWKLVPP/XJHU)0-SLVWRODPPXQLWLRQUHFDOOSOHDVHFDOOWROOIUHHZULWHWR:LQFKHVWHU
3RZGHU0LOO5RDG(DVW$OWRQ,/$WWQPP/XJHU5HFDOORUYLVLWRXUZHEVLWHDWwww.winchester.com.
We apologize for this inconvenience.
+(57(5̏6 -XQH

Ballisticmag.com BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
159
 H C E S FTW E

FEELIN’ THE FUSION Once connected, you enter

pertinent data on your rifle and
speed, standard deviation or even
sun altitude. You can also activate
ammo. You will need to enter the HUD, which pulls up info on
in rifle specifics such as rifling your rifle’s direction and cant,
twist, barrel length, action, optic muzzle angle and so on. Addi-
type, etc. You can scan the tionally, you can store pictures of
barcode on your ammo (if using your groups for that particular set.
factory) and it auto-populates You can even tailor the settings
with brand, caliber, even price, to be used for dry-fire practice.
and can even remind you to The Fusion Module has a built-in
reorder after so many shots with mic that can read differences in
that specific round. sound, and you can even figure
The main page of the Fusion out your trigger’s lock time.
module lists your shot logs by One of the most valuable fea-
month and overall total. Swiping tures might be the accelerometer,
through this section unveils “Rifle which can collect fairly accurate
Usage,” which lists the rifles in recoil data. I used it for the testing
order of which one has the most of precision rifle suppressors for
shots on it. The “Ammo Usage” this issue. It displays a graph that
section does the same by brand/ shows deviation from initial incline
type of ammo. It’s a good, quick just before and after each shot.
A HIGH-TECH RIFLE DATA BOOK glance at your activity overall. It plots out each shot with a differ-
From there you can select any of ent color. As far as I can tell, it’s
WORTH ITS WEIGHT IN GOLD the shot logs to get detailed info very accurate information and can
by date, time of day and location if reveal a lot that is going on during
ow many times you desire. the shooting process.
have you sworn REACTOR TIME While shooting, you can record You can view your collected
to yourself that The Fusion module is a small a “set,” which is your string of fire, data from your phone or if you
“on the next rifle,” device featuring an acceler- during which the Reactor Fusion want more detailed (and easier to
you’re going to ometer and GPS unit inside. module displays atmospheric see data), you can log on to the
keep a log book with all the Coupled with the Reactor app conditions and each shot, along Reactor Pro website and peruse
information that you collect? If that you download, it gives the with a display showing your time your data there.
you’re like me, then you’ve said it shooter a plethora of info and between shots. You can custom- This capability is only the tip of
numerous times. Even if it’s not can be tailored to regurgitate ize the info displayed with wind the iceberg, and the Fusion mod-
a new rifle, you might suddenly what information you personally ule has the ability to do more such
realize the importance of keeping find valuable. as sync up with a chronograph for
up with the round count on the All you need to do is pair the real time velocity info, which could
barrel, ammo and load data, and Fusion module with your smart- really help with load development.
accuracy info. phone. Just turn on the unit, open It could also work in tandem with
If you are more tech savvy, the app and the module unit pops ballistic apps and more.
though, you have a better chance up on the screen (multiples if The Reactor Fusion module
of collecting and keeping oodles you have more than one around), mounts via M-LOK or Pic rail. It
of complex data with the Reactor select yours and it’s connected. retails for $299 for the regular
Fusion module. This unit can The unit also stays connected version and $399 for the accel-
replace the data log book for even at distance so you don’t erometer version. For more, visit
most precision shooters. have to reconnect over and over. reactorusa.com. —Sean Utley

160 BALLISTIC 08 09 2021

¥
Ballisticmag.com