American Shooting Journal - October 2023 by Media Index Publishing Group

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A M ERIC AN

SHOOTING JOURNAL Volume 13 // Issue 1 // October 2023

PUBLISHER James R. Baker GENERAL MANAGER John Rusnak EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Andy Walgamott OFFICE MANAGER / COPY EDITOR Katie Aumann LEAD CONTRIBUTOR Frank Jardim CONTRIBUTORS Brittany Boddington, Jason Brooks, Larry Case, Scott Haugen, Phil Massaro, John Mitchell, Mike Nesbitt, Paul Pawela, Nick Perna SALES MANAGER Paul Yarnold ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Brian Abker, Guy Ricciardulli, Zachary Wheeler DESIGNER Lesley-Anne Slisko-Cooper PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Kelly Baker WEBMASTER / INBOUND MARKETING Jon Hines INFORMATION SERVICES MANAGER Lois Sanborn ADVERTISING INQUIRIES ads@americanshootingjournal.com

ON THE COVER Kristen Sarracino downed this bull bison with two shoulder shots as a student at Brittany Boddington’s She Hunts Skills Camp in Texas. It was Sarracino’s first harvest and she’s since gone on to hunt around the world. (BRITTANY BODDINGTON)

Website: AmericanShootingJournal.com Facebook: Facebook.com/AmericanShootingJournal Twitter: @AmShootingJourn

MEDIA INDEX PUBLISHING GROUP 941 Powell Ave SW, Suite 120, Renton, WA 98057 (206) 382-9220 • (800) 332-1736 • Fax (206) 382-9437 media@media-inc.com • www.media-inc.com

8 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

VOLUME 13 • ISSUE 1

CONTENTS

FEATURES 24

THE ‘KING’ AND HIS GUNS Elvis Presley collected and gifted many amazingly engraved guns, including a commemorative 1911 to President Richard Nixon, but he might have left you (and the Secret Service!) “All Shook Up” by his casual handling of firearms. Our Frank Jardim details the armory owned and given away by the “King of Rock and Roll” over his relatively short life.

ROAD HUNTER: HUNTING HIGH-COUNTRY COLUMBIA BLACKTAILS These West Coast deer are the most challenging of North America’s big game to hunt, and blacktail bucks that live in the heights are even tougher. But Scott Haugen knows a thing or two about tagging out – he shares tips and tactics learned over decades of hunting them in the backcountry.

BULLET BULLETIN: POSTING BOND Why do bonded bullets make “plains” sense on African and North American game animals? Phil Massaro details how bonding a bullet’s jacket and core results in fantastic terminal performance, as well as some of the projectiles that have gotten the job done for him over the decades.

SCATTERGUN ALLEY: A LITTLE LIGHTER GOOSE GUN With advances in shotshells and some duck and goose hunters moving away from super magnum shells, Weatherby’s 18i Waterfowler 3-inch – which came out in 2022 – is worth a second glance. Larry Case takes a gander at this inertia-driven shotgun featuring fine Italian craftsmanship and an ability to cycle lighter, less shoulder-punishing loads.

LAW ENFORCEMENT SPOTLIGHT: OFF-DUTY COP PULLS KIDS FROM FIERY CRASH Nick Perna shares the commendable rescue Detective Matt Cydzik of Northern California made when he came across burning wreckage on a dark, remote stretch of interstate.

SELF-DEFENSE TRAINING: NEW RANGE OWNER AIMS TO IGNITE NEXT-LEVEL SHOOTING, TRAINING With an “all-star support cast” on staff, Peter Castleman and PrairieFire outside Las Vegas are looking to become the corps d’elite of multidiscipline shooting institutions.

BLACK POWDER: ‘TRAILBLAZER’ TAKES FORM Mike Nesbitt’s a sucker for building black powder cartridge rifles and then naming them. So it went with his latest – a .50-caliber flintlock built from a Tennessee Valley Muzzleloading late Lancaster kit – that he soon put to good use competing at his shooting club’s fall rendezvous. Grab your safety goggles and buckskin as Mike puts “Trailblazer” together and then takes us through a target course!

COVER STORY

(BRITTANY BODDINGTON)

NEW COLUMN:

SHE HUNTS, SHE SCORES!

Brittany Boddington took a break from TV hunting shows and outdoor media in 2017 to start her She Hunts Skills Camp, which aims to help women take the field more confidently. In her return to writing, Boddington details how huntress Kristen Sarracino launched her journey at the camp on a buffalo hunt.

AMERICAN SHOOTING JOURNAL is published monthly by Media Index Publishing Group, 941 Powell Ave SW, Suite 120, Renton, WA 98057. Display Advertising. Call Media Index Publishing Group for a current rate card. Discounts for frequency advertising. All submitted materials become the property of Media Index Publishing Group and will not be returned. Copyright © 2023 Media Index Publishing Group. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be copied by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying or recording by any information storage or retrieval system, without the express written permission of the publisher. Printed in U.S.A.

americanshootingjournal.com 11

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CONTENTS ALSO INSIDE 49

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Company Spotlight 73

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DEPARTMENTS 15 19 21 83 98

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14 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

PRIMER

GUNSHOW C A L E N D A R

AZ Gun RAdio

October 14-15 October 21-22 October 21-22 October 21-22 October 28-29 November 4-5

Gilbert, Ariz. Tucson, Ariz. San Diego, Calif. Odessa, Texas Glendale, Ariz. El Paso, Texas

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C&E Gun Shows

October 7-8 October 14-15 October 21-22 October 21-22 October 28-29 November 4-5

Fayetteville, N.C. Concord, N.C. Dayton, Ohio Salem, Va. Columbus, Ohio Harrisburg, Pa.

Crown Expo Center Cabarrus Arena & Events Center Montgomery County Event Center Salem Civic Center Westland Mall PA Farm Show Complex

Constellations, Inc.

October 8 October 22 November 12 November 19 December 10 December 17

St. Charles, Ill. Woodstock, Ill. St. Charles, Ill. Woodstock, Ill. St. Charles, Ill. Woodstock, Ill.

Kane County Fairgrounds McHenry County Fairgrounds Kane County Fairgrounds McHenry County Fairgrounds Kane County Fairgrounds McHenry County Fairgrounds

Crossroads Of The West Gun Shows

October 7-8 October 7-8 October 14-15 October 21-22 October 28-29 November 4-5

Las Vegas, Nev. Queen Creek, Ariz. Bakersfield, Calif. Reno, Nev. Prescott, Ariz. Spanish Fork, Utah

Las Vegas Motor Speedway Barney Family Sports Complex Kern County Fairgrounds Reno Convention Center Findlay Toyota Center Spanish Fork Fairgrounds

Florida Gun Shows

October 7-8 October 21-22 October 28-29 November 4-5 November 25-26

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Central Florida Fair Grounds Florida State Fairgrounds Bradenton Convention Center Miami-Dade Fairgrounds Central Florida Fair Grounds

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To have your event highlighted here, send an email to kaumann@media-inc.com. americanshootingjournal.com 15

GUNSHOW

C A L E N D A R

RK Shows

October 6-8 October 7-8 October 14-15 October 14-15 October 21-22 October 21-22 October 28-29 October 28-29

Neosho, Mo. Emerson, Ga. Springfield, Mo. Marietta, Ga. Savannah, Ga. Lexington, Ky. Knoxville, Tenn. Sedalia, Mo.

Newton County Fairgrounds Lake Point Sports Ozark Empire Fairgrounds Machinists Aerospace Union Hall Savannah Convention Center Lexington Ice Center and Sports Complex Knoxville Expo Center Missouri State Fairgrounds

Real Texas Gun Shows

October 7-8 October 14-15 November 11-12

Gonzales, Texas Taylor, Texas Belton, Texas

J.B. Wells Arena Williamson County Expo Center Bell County Expo Center

Tanner Gun Shows

October 13-15 October 27-29 November 17-19 November 24-26

Colorado Springs, Colo. Aurora, Colo. Pueblo, Colo. Denver, Colo.

Norris Penrose Event Center Arapahoe County Fairgrounds Colorado State Fairgrounds Crowne Plaza

Wes Knodel Gun Shows

October 14-15 October 28-29 November 4-5 November 18-19

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Southwest Washington Fairgrounds Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center Linn County Fair and Expo Center Southwest Washington Fairgrounds

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16 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

18 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

PRIMER

COMPETITION C A L E N D A R

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uspsa.org

October 21 NTCSC Rocky Mountain Regional PTO Colorado Springs, Colo.

October 21-22 Team Shooting Stars Airgun PTO Carrollton, Texas

October 27-29 Utah October 2023 PTO Salt Lake City, Utah

October 4-8 Sig Sauer Handgun Nationals Marengo, Ohio

October 12-15 SoCal State Championship Piru, Calif.

October 20-21 New Mexico Sectional Championship Rio Rancho, N.M.

October 5-8 Central California Section Coastal Classic San Luis Obispo, Calif. October 7-8 Manatee Gun Club Glock Challenge Myakka City, Fla.

gssfonline.com

October 7-8 Eastern Nebraska Glock Classic Louisville, Neb. October 14-15 Bluegrass Regional Classic Wilmore, Ky.

cmsaevents.com

idpa.com

October 13-15 Sooner State Showdown Tulsa, Okla.

November 16-19 IPSC Nationals New Smyrna Beach, Fla.

October 14-15 The Sunflower State Classic Wellington, Kan.

October 28-29 Cornhuskers Classic Alda, Neb.

October 21-22 Hoosier State Regional Classic Atlanta, Ind.

October 28-29 Lone Star Classic Carrollton, Texas

October 21-22 OKC Red Dirt Shootout Arcadia, Okla.

November 4-5 Glock Showdown in Savannah Fleming, Ga.

October 6-8 15th Annual Lone Star Classic Vernon, Texas

October 9-14 CMSA World Championship Amarillo, Texas

October 20-21 Heber Valley Classic Heber City, Utah

October 6-7 Indiana State Championship Atlanta, Ind.

October 12-14 IDPA World Championship Talladega, Ala.

October 28 Calamity Jane (women’s only match) Lonsdale, Ark.

To have your event highlighted here, send an email to kaumann@media-inc.com. americanshootingjournal.com 19

20 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

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November 30

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RECENT RESULTS (continued)

2023 FEDERAL GOLD MEDAL MATCH Carbon Hill, Ala. September 9, 2023

1st Place KEITH RUDASILL Open Div. 174.000/100.000 2nd Place KEVIN RICH Open Div. 170.000/97.701 3rd Place DALE RHOADS Open Div. 168.000/96.552

22 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

ROAD TO REDEMPTION Warrenton, N.C. September 23, 2023

1st Place (tie) LEE PETTROSS Open Div. BRIAN BLACK Open Div. 157.000/100.000 3rd Place (tie) KEN SANOSKI Open Div. KEITH BAKER Open Div. 156.000/99.363

CA SHARPSHOOTER SHOWDOWN BY S.A.C. San Luis Obispo, Calif. September 23, 2023

1st Place SOLOMON MANANSALA Open Div. 186.000/100.000 2nd Place (tie) BRIAN LI Open Div. MICHAEL LOOK Open Div. 182.000/97.849 4th Place CORSON PIPER Open Div. 177.000/95.161 (PRECISION RIFLE SERIES)

Elvis Presley holding a gun to manager Colonel Tom Parker, circa early 1960s. The beloved rock and roll singer was a collector of lavishly engraved firearms, but his gun safety skills were less well polished. (RB/REDFERNS)

24 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

The

King , ll o R , k c o of R s m r a e r i F and

Elvis Presley collected and gifted many guns during his relatively short life, but might have left you 'All Shook Up' by how casually he handled them. STORY BY FRANK JARDIM • PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROCK ISLAND AUCTION COMPANY

he recent Rock Island Auction Company sale of Elvis Aaron Presley’s strikingly elegant S&W Model 53 revolver (custom decorated with engraving and gold wire and bicentennial themed inlays) got me thinking about how, 46 years after his death, the singer, still known as the “King of Rock and Roll,” remains a part of popular culture. When the auction was over, the buyer of this particularly well documented handgun paid $199,750 for a piece Elvis owned for just a few months before he died. Nowadays, finding a celebrity from the entertainment world who sees

virtue in firearms ownership, and will publicly admit it, isn’t easy. There are a handful of outspoken supporters of the Second Amendment among recognizably successful country music artists, and one notable, if slightly over the top, retired rock and roller. (I once ran into Ted Nugent and his wife walking around the NRA Annual Meeting checking out the booths.) Once upon a time in America, supporting law enforcement and having an interest in firearms ownership was pretty normal stuff, regardless of whether you swept the floor for minimum wage or made millions singing songs to your fans in sold-out venues. Elvis Presley was a man of those times. In his lifetime, Elvis’s interest in guns and

shooting wasn’t a subject of public controversy and his respect, praise and generous support of lawmen (and soldiers too) was applauded. There’s an appealing humility in someone with the worldwide fame and stature of Elvis Presley wishing he could be as cool, important and admired as a cop. The King of Rock and Roll was a police wannabe, and that was just fine with America. Lots of guys could empathize. In 1964, Gene Barksdale, the sheriff of Shelby County, Tennessee, and a close friend to Elvis, made him a special deputy. The job came with no duties, but the badge and identification allowed Elvis to legally carry firearms almost anywhere in the country. This he did, and all americanshootingjournal.com 25

Presley’s S&W Model 53 revolver recently sold at auction for $199,750. It features custom engraving and was inlaid with gold and silver. Presley owned it for only three months before dying in 1977 at age 42 of a heart attack.

the gun-related stories told about him – including, unfortunately, many examples of what would be considered unsafe and unacceptable gun handling – could fill a book. So far, only one author, Paul Belard, has published specifically on the subject in Elvis: Firearm & Weapon Collector. Much more research remains to be done. 26 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

THE LAST TIME I visited Elvis’s Graceland mansion about 15 years ago, they had part of his personal gun collection on display in glass cases inside the house and you could walk over to the improvised outdoor shooting range Elvis had set up in an old smokehouse. Like most Southern men of rural upbringing, Elvis was no stranger to firearms. He probably got

his first formal instruction in handling and shooting guns the same way millions of other young men did. They got drafted into the military. As a US Army soldier, Elvis earned the pistol and rifle sharpshooter qualification badges with the .45 ACP M1911A1 pistol and .30 M1 Rifle (Garand), respectively, as well as the marksman qualification with the select-fire .30

M2 Carbine. At the time of his death in 1977, I’ve read that Elvis had 37 guns in his collection. Most of them were handguns sporting lavish engraving, monograms, custom grips, and if that wasn’t enough, sometimes garishly gold-plated too. He also had a Thompson submachine gun. That’s certainly enough guns to qualify a

person as a gun enthusiast and/or gun collector. We know from the reminiscence of those close to him – including the other serious gun enthusiast in his “Memphis Mafia” entourage, Richard Grob, director of security and operations for Elvis Presley Enterprises and a longtime friend and personal gun guru – that Elvis loved carrying and shooting

beautiful guns, and he especially enjoyed giving guns as gifts to friends. In the late 1960s through the end of his life, many say Elvis’s interest in guns and shooting became an obsession. He was known to take his entourage, including current girlfriends, on gun shopping sprees. Those at the posh Kerr Sport Shop in Beverly Hills, California, are among americanshootingjournal.com 27

This .357 Colt Python, beautifully embellished by what was at the time West Germany’s Frederick Wilhelm Heym Company and featuring a whitetail (this image) and mountain lion (below) on the embossed ivory grip, was one of many guns that Presley purchased and gave away as gifts. This one was owned by friend and gun guru Richard Grob and was auctioned off in 2017 for $172,500.

the most frequently cited. I suspect that most of these gifted guns were the common popular models of the day in the customary factory finishes that one would find in gun shop cases of the time. However, sometimes those gifted guns were spectacular custom embellished handguns that Elvis spent many times their original price to turn into gifts befitting presentation by a “King.” Informed estimates suggest Elvis purchased

28 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

around 300 guns, most of which he just gave away. In 1970, Elvis spent over $100,000 on 32 guns and 10 Mercedes-Benz cars as Christmas gifts. We know this because his father and business manager, Vernon Presley, and his wife Priscilla thought he’d spent too much! In one month, Elvis ran up $19,792 in firearms purchases at Kerr. Two of Elvis’s gifted guns purchased at Kerr were auctioned by Rock

Island Auction Company in 2017: a 6-inch-barrel Colt Python and a 2.5-inch-barrel S&W Model 19-2. Both .357 Magnums were embellished by Frederick Wilhelm Heym Company of Germany with engraving, gold wire and inlays, and custom grips. The Python was bought specifically as a special gift for his friend Grob, but the snubnose was intended for Elvis’s personal use, though it was ultimately given as a gift to Vice President Spiro

Presley gifted this Smith & Wesson Model 19-2 revolver to Vice President Spiro T. Agnew, who served under President Richard Nixon. The “King of Rock and Roll” also once dropped by the White House to give a World War II Commemorative Colt .45 to Nixon because he reportedly “just thought the president would like to have a gun like that.” While the Secret Service took possession of the semiauto beforehand, Presley did meet with Nixon that day and was given his requested badge from the Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs – albeit an honorary one. Today, the Colt is on display at the Nixon Library in California. Agnew’s S&W sold for $195,500 during a 2017 auction.

Agnew in 1970, returned to Elvis when Agnew resigned, and then gifted again to Elvis’s friend Barksdale. These pistols sold for $172,500 and $195,500, respectively. The S&W 19-2 brought a higher price, perhaps because Elvis bought it for himself and had a custom leather gun-rug, marked “ELVIS,” made for it. He possessed that Model 19-2 at least long enough for him to be photographed showing it off. Probably the single most amazing gun-related thing that Elvis ever did was bring an engraved commemorative Colt .45 Automatic to the White House to present to

President Richard Nixon as a surprise gift. Elvis was angling for a federal agent’s badge for his collection, specifically one from the Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs. Being Elvis, they let him in – sans the Colt – the president visited with him, and he got the badge he wanted too. In 1970, even a concealed carry license holder wouldn’t dream of walking into the White House armed, but Elvis seemed to have thought nothing of it. Similarly, today we wouldn’t dream of trying to walk onto a commercial flight with a concealed firearm. In 1970, Elvis did just that, and again, being Elvis, he got

away with it.

AS MUCH AS I am a fan of Elvis, both

as an artist and a person, I can’t hold him up as a model of responsible gun ownership. His recklessness with firearms was often attributed to anger issues and drug abuse. The often-told story of Elvis shooting out the screen of a color TV when Robert Goulet appeared on it was only one of many known incidents. (By the way, that TV is currently displayed at the new Elvis museum across the street from Graceland.) Goulet, who liked Elvis, spoke about the TV shooting episode americanshootingjournal.com 29

in a 2004 interview. “When he (Elvis) shot the television set? He also shot 50 other people. They told me that he had about a hundred sets in the basement. And he’d shoot the damn thing out … He shot out Mel Tormé. He shot out Frank [Sinatra]. But I get all the credit.” Billy Smith, Elvis’s cousin and part of his entourage, believed Elvis shot televisions and other inanimate objects to vent his troubles and anger because he could. I live in the South, and shooting a gun at something inside the house other than a house breaker is rare these days, but not unheard of. Nor is it always even cause for alarm. Smith didn’t seem to be alarmed by Elvis’s inclination to shoot things. He said, “A lot of times I found it funny, in a way, because of just the way he was. He responded quickly. If something was bothering him, it was, you know, take the gun, boom! And he never thought about it twice.” In the early 1970s, a table-top color TV cost around $330, which equals $2,200 in today’s inflation-adjusted dollars. That’s a lot of money to be throwing away to vent your emotions. Though nobody can say what dollar limit Elvis set on destructive shooting therapy, the most expensive object he is known to have shot was a 1971 De Tomaso Pantera sports car in Graceland’s semicircular driveway. In 1976, after becoming frustrated when the exotic car wouldn’t start, he drew his pistol and shot it in the door, tire and steering wheel. In fairness, who among us hasn’t felt like doing this in similar circumstances? Far more disturbing to me is the story of Elvis shooting a bathroom toilet with his Thompson submachine gun, which was witnessed by Ginger Alden, his last girlfriend. I can understand gun violence directed at inanimate objects. Elvis intended to destroy them, so he was not in violation of the safety prohibition against aiming a gun at something you are not willing to destroy. Without more details, one can’t make a judgment about the adequacy, or inadequacy, of the backstop when these episodes took place. A general indication may 30 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

be found downrange from Elvis’s home shooting gallery, where there are bullet scars on the bricks of Graceland’s outbuildings and a bullet hole through his daughter Lisa Marie’s slide in her playground area. That strongly suggests that inadequate consideration was given to the dangers presented by wayward shots. There’s really no legitimate excuse for that in my book. READING ABOUT VARIOUS gun-related encounters with Elvis, a pattern of careless brandishing, and even reckless behavior, emerges. For example, during a party in the hotel room of singer Tom Jones, Elvis accidently left his Colt .45 Automatic in the bathroom after using the facilities. When Jones discreetly returned it wrapped in a towel, Elvis said, “Aw s___, my .45,” and just casually stuck it in his waistband in front of everyone present. Did Elvis carry with a safe, empty chamber, or was he a cockedand-locked guy? Did he sweep anyone with the muzzle in the process? The details aren’t recorded. On the occasion of the wedding of his beloved friend, radio personality George Klein, a photo was taken of Elvis jokingly holding a pistol to Klein’s head. Granted, the 1970s were rebellious and free-wheeling times, but who would feel comfortable with someone pointing a gun to their temple? At best it was a bad and dangerous joke. Elvis reportedly kept guns unsecured around his hotel rooms and residences. He was also known to keep a pistol on his nightstand at Graceland, which in itself is not unusual. However, when talking with guests in the bedroom, Elvis made jests about shooting people if they disagreed with him, sometimes actually picking up the pistol. In my admittedly limited research on the subject of Elvis’s behavior with guns, I didn’t discover any references that suggested he agitated his family or close associates – with one notable exception. In 1977, his then-fiancé Alden woke to a gunshot to find Elvis next to her holding a handgun. According to her, he fired a

round into the headboard above her as she slept because she wouldn’t get him a yogurt when he asked for one. Again, the “Elvis Factor” came into play, and Alden didn’t immediately end their relationship. One of the most reckless incidents I discovered occurred in 1970 and involved a small social gathering with Elvis at his Hilton Hotel suite in Las Vegas. Elvis invited rock star Alice Cooper, whom he hadn’t previously met, into the kitchen. Alone with Elvis, Cooper recalled how Elvis took a loaded .38 snubnose revolver from a drawer, put it in Cooper’s hand and told him to point it at him, explaining that he was going to demonstrate how to take a pistol away from someone. Cooper did as he was told, and before he could process the weirdness of the encounter, Elvis knocked him to the floor, disarmed him and left him gasping with a boot sole on his throat. Doing that sort of thing today could justifiably result in your mental fitness being called into question, but Cooper enjoyed the visit, saying, “He (Elvis) was an amazing character. Very funny guy. But he was Elvis.”

IF WE TAKE into account the

characteristic of human nature that tends to remember the bad longer than the good, is it possible that the questionable firearms handling I discovered might be overstated? After all, Elvis never accidentally shot anybody. I did find an interview with comedian Steve Martin about the first time he met Elvis in 1970. Martin was the opening act for Ann-Margret, one of Elvis’s old loves who remained close to him. Elvis and Priscilla attended the show and Elvis liked Martin’s humor enough to go backstage to meet him. Elvis asked him if he wanted to see his guns, and Martin, enjoying the attention and compliments from the famed performer, said he did. To Martin’s surprise, Elvis had three on his person. Before handing the guns to Martin, Elvis unloaded each one, holding the bullets in his hand, while Martin handled and admired the pistols. On Martin, at least, Elvis made the impression that he was safety-conscious around firearms. ★

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she HUNTs

Brittany Boddington demonstrates proper shooting position for ladies enrolled in her She Hunts Skills Camp.

SHE HUNTS, SHE SCORES!

Brittany Boddington’s comprehensive She Hunts Skills Camp aims to help women take the field more confidently, and here’s how one successful huntress’s journey was launched. STORY AND PHOTOS BY BRITTANY BODDINGTON

he Hunts Skills Camp started as a way to give ladies the basic skills they need to get into hunting confidently. I’ve found over the years that women are often handicapped by chivalry when it comes to learning to hunt. Some ladies, like myself, are introduced to the outdoors by their father and others by a brother, boyfriend or husband. These guys all mean well when teaching but rarely force their students to do the tough stuff

like mounting their own scope, sighting in their own firearm or choosing what caliber gun or bullet grain weight based on their type of hunt. These simple things are not so simple if you have never done them, and if you don’t know how to do them, you may not feel like you can be independent in the outdoors. These skills are just the start of what She Hunts has to offer. The camp is a comprehensive course that takes place over five days with little down time and walks each camper through the steps, from scope mounting to cooked tenderloins and everything in between.

I started my career in the outdoors back in 2003 by following my dad Craig Boddington on my very first safari to Namibia. Back then he was filming for Tracks Across Africa and I popped up on that show here and there over the next few years, but my passion for hunting led me to writing about my hunts for outdoor magazines and eventually to hosting several outdoor TV shows over the years, including American Huntress, Petersen’s Hunting Adventures, Remington TV and The Boddington Experience. I retired from all of that in 2017 to start She Hunts. This column is americanshootingjournal.com 33

SHE HUNTS

Camp attendees get the chance to shoot Krieghoff shotguns with a Team Krieghoff shooter as their coach.

my first time getting back into the writing side of things and the reason I wanted to do it is to share some of the incredible stories from our camps. We have ladies from all over the world coming to learn about hunting and leaving with memories and friendships that will last a lifetime – and on top of that, these ladies are going on to achieve incredible things. LET’S START OFF with a story about my good friend Kristen Sarracino. I met her through a mutual friend who asked me to carpool with her to an event since we lived close to one another, and when I picked Kristen up, there was hunting gear spread throughout her living room. I was so excited, and I asked, “Oh, are you a hunter?” She gave me a not-so-excited look and said, “No, my husband is and 34 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

he’s always either planning, packing, hunting or unpacking.” My response was immediate: “Oh, you really need to come to She Hunts.” Fast forward six months and Kristen showed up in camp having never pulled the trigger on a rifle in her life. She was ready to learn and was naturally athletic, so I was sure she would be fine, but on that Friday morning I started her out on a .22-caliber rifle with a scope. It was actually my grandfather’s Kimber that he gave me many years ago but it has a proper bolt action and the mechanics perfectly mirror guns of higher calibers. I wanted Kristen to have an easy entry into shooting but without feeling like she was shooting a BB gun. We sighted in our scopes that day with the entire group shooting 7mm-08 Remington and Kristen had no

issues with the recoil at all. She was still unconvinced that she would be interested in shooting an animal but rather was attending camp to gain understanding of her husband’s obsession with the sport. That camp had a particularly cohesive group and the ladies really rallied around one another as some started to feel more comfortable and decided to hunt. The ladies had the opportunity to hunt evenings and mornings in that camp, although it varies due to daylight restrictions from camp to camp. Several women shot their first animals in camp and were greeted with cheers and hugs when they returned in the morning or evening with animals. It was Saturday night when Kristen asked me a question over dinner. “If I was to hunt something … what would be the greatest quantity of meat that would also be of decent quality?” It was a very

SHE HUNTS valid question, but one I was surprised to hear from her. We thought about it for all of a couple seconds and said, “Bison!” Kristen looked blown away by that answer, but after a few minutes of describing the size of the kill zone on a bison, she was sold on the idea. THE NEXT MORNING we went out looking for a herd of bison. The camp takes place at Recordbuck Ranch in Utopia,

Texas, which has just under 60 species of exotics. They have a very healthy population of bison and we found a large group early that morning. Kristen would be shooting a borrowed Heym in a .375 H&H bolt-action rifle. I know it sounds like a lot for a new shooter, but since that .22 on Friday morning, she’d also shot a 7mm-08, 7mm, .308 and about 20 rounds with a 12-gauge shotgun without showing any signs of

Kristen Sarracino wasn’t sure if she’d be able to pull the trigger when the time came, but she placed two perfect shots on an old bison bull during She Hunts camp.

36 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

recoil shyness. She was sure the gun was not an issue and so was I. She was more concerned that she would not be able to pull the trigger once in place because she had never taken a life. I hear this a lot when ladies who have never hunted come to camp. It is not something to take lightly. Kristen knew that this meat would go to good use – she feeds her dogs a raw-meat diet and her family rarely buys meat but rather eats what her husband hunts – so she felt that she could probably do it with a clean conscience, but we wouldn’t know until the moment came. We found the perfect old bull in the herd. One horn was broomed off, but to anyone else this bull would still be a fabulous trophy. We snuck into place as quietly as possible and Kristen’s guide put up the shooting sticks. She slowly got into position and took a deep breath. I was right behind her, saying, “Just breathe; take your time.” She waited for the perfect broadside shot and hit him square in the shoulder. The bull spun around and Kristen reloaded and hit him in the other shoulder. Two perfect shots on a Sunday morning after only shooting for the first time Friday morning. The bull went down and just as it breathed its last breath, the rest of the herd returned and started to attack it. The other bulls of the herd were trying to gore the now-dead bison on the ground. We had to back off a bit as the bison came running in. The guide explained that this had been the lead herd bull and that the young bulls were now vying for the right to be the next lead bull. As we watched the mayhem ensue, we heard running from behind us and looked back to see a group of yaks running to join the party. This was my first and only experience with a yak attack. Unfortunately, we were between the yaks and the bison, so we had to make some noise and try to get out of the way. We were definitely on edge and had weapons ready as we backed out of the area. The guide helped us get

SHE HUNTS

Boddington and her husband Brad Jannenga pose with Sarracino and her friend just after taking this awesome bull.

to the vehicle and we used that to creep back into the area. When the bison herd finally backed off, we were able to get to Kristen’s bull and it was a beautiful one. Kristen was excited and shaking but she was happy. She had a few tears for the life of the bison and was thankful for all that it would provide for her family, and I also saw in that moment that a hunter was born. Fast forward four years and Kristen has hunted axis deer in Hawaii, whitetail and scimitar-horned oryx in Texas, and red stag, thar and fallow deer in 38 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

New Zealand. Her family now plans, packs, hunts and unpacks as a unit and I couldn’t be more proud. Kristen’s off to Africa this summer on her first safari and I can’t wait to see how it goes! This is one of my favorite stories from She Hunts but there are so many more and I’m looking forward to sharing them with you in this column. 

hunted on six continents and collected just under 100 species. With her father Craig’s help, Brittany discovered a love for the great outdoors and has become a passionate hunter and conservationist. She has learned through experience that the best way to preserve our hunting heritage is to teach the next generation of hunters about our way of life, which is why she developed the She Hunts Skills Camp. Brittany and her husband Brad Jannenga live in Phoenix, Arizona, where they raise beef cattle with their family. Follow Brittany’s adventures on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

LACROSSE URSA MS

Editor’s note: Brittany Boddington is a former outdoor television host and journalist with 15 years’ experience hosting shows about various hunting adventures around the globe. She has

americanshootingjournal.com 39

ROAD HUNTER

HUNTING HIGH-COUNTRY COLUMBIA BLACKTAILS These deer are the most challenging of North America’s big game to hunt, and bucks that live in the heights are even tougher, but here’s one expert’s advice for tagging out. STORY AND PHOTOS BY SCOTT HAUGEN

illing a mountain goat or sheep tag usually comes down to being in shape. Killing a big bear or moose requires patience. But connecting on record-class Columbia blacktail deer, year in and year out, is what I consider the toughest challenge in North American big game hunting. Columbia blacktails thrive in the Pacific Northwest, specifically from the coastal ranges through interior valleys and high into the Cascade Range of western Washington, western Oregon and northern portions of California. The variety of habitats they live in make blacktails even more challenging to hunt. But the most challenging land of all in which to pursue them is the high country. Think of taking wily whitetails and sticking them into hundreds of thousands of acres of the most densely forested, brush-choked, rugged mountains in the country. Toss in a growing number of cougars, coyotes and black bears that routinely prey on blacktails, increase the number of

One of the biggest Columbia blacktail bucks you’ll ever see. Author Scott Haugen caught up with this one during the rut as it searched for does in heat. americanshootingjournal.com 41

So you want to hunt Columbia blacktails? This is what public land hunting in parts of the Cascade Range looks like.

hikers exploring the backcountry all summer long, and open the land to archers all of September, rifle hunters in October, rifle elk hunters in early November and late-season archery deer hunters from the latter half of November into December, and the challenge of finding a wise blacktail buck drastically rises. I LIVE IN the heart of some of the best blacktail deer hunting on the planet. Our family homesteaded the region and began hunting blacktails in the mid-1800s. I run trail cameras year-round to learn all I can about reclusive blacktails. In spring, I monitor antler growth; in early summer, fawn recruitment and predation. All summer I watch buck racks develop and note when they drop in winter. Between 42 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

mid-June and mid-July, in one day of physical scouting, I’ll see more mature bucks than I will in three or more hunting seasons. They’re out there; they just hide well once humans invade their space. When blacktail bucks are in velvet, they reside in openings to feed and sleep. This is how they protect their prized headgear. Summer scouting reveals where bucks are and offers a starting point come season. By opening day, my maps are littered with red circles where I’ve seen big bucks while scouting. Scouting provides confidence – mature bucks are rarely anywhere by mistake. If you’re a traveling hunter eager to chase high-country blacktails, start by monitoring wildfires in the Coast Range and Cascades. There’s plenty of public land to hunt, and with the

labyrinth of logging roads and hiking trails, access is achievable. The number one factor that’s made hunting blacktails so challenging in recent decades is the lack of public land logging. The logging lull destroyed prime blacktail habitat by simply not creating it. Deer are still out there, but just not in the densities or the places they once were. They’re now spread out, living amid dense cover that more resembles an equatorial jungle than any Western deer habitat these deer have thrived in. In recent years, fires burning throughout the blacktails’ range have created the best deer habitat. I used to wait five or six years to hunt a burn, but now I hunt them as soon as the first rain comes. Sometimes the burn is still smoldering when deer start foraging in them. Hunt the edges of burns, where grass and forbs are quick to grow, but avoid

ROAD HUNTER

Haugen with a blacktail taken in the southern end of the Cascades. It was spotted while bedded on a rocky hillside one morning in mid-October.

hunting the places the wildfire burned hottest, as the soil likely got scorched and it will take years for it to be replenished. OVER-THE-COUNTER TAGS ARE available for high-country blacktail hunters, as are special-draw permits. California has the earliest deer season, opening in mid-July for archery blacktails. Bowhunting early blacktails in the heat of summer through September is a game of patience and mental and physical toughness. Early in the morning, glass for bucks and watch where they bed. If it’s hot and a breeze is blowing, deer often climb to the peak of a ridge, bedding in shade where air is rising. These lifting, swirling thermals help deer stay cool. Blacktails will often bed multiple times a morning while seeking relief

from the heat. One August I moved my little ground blind further up the mountain twice in two days to intercept a buck seeking higher ground. It worked, and just after 10 a.m. I arrowed the buck. It was 102 degrees. Stalking to within bow range of bedded bucks is an early-season possibility; just make sure the thermals have stabilized and the buck is in a shootable position. I’ve made many stalks over the years, getting to within spitting distance of a buck but unable to get a shot through thick brush or amid jagged terrain. If the thermals stay steady, wait for the buck to get up and re-bed, which often happens as the sun shifts. If winds change direction, back out and return another day or come in from another angle, maybe intercepting the buck in the evening when it gets up to feed. Once a buck

smells you, the game is over. HUNTING BLACKTAILS IN the high country during general rifle season is one of my favorite hunts in North America. In October, nighttime temperatures are dropping, rain is replenishing the land and vine maple leaves are turning vibrant colors. It’s a beautiful time to be afield, but also the toughest time to kill a wise buck. With rain and greenup, bucks don’t have to travel far. Their goal during this time is to put on as much weight as possible for the upcoming rut, and they do this by covering little ground, conserving energy and eating a lot at night. If it’s warm during the first half of October, hunt high spots early in the morning. Bucks often lay down and soak up the sun for a short while, then retreat to heavy cover until minutes americanshootingjournal.com 43

ROAD HUNTER

Glassing for parts of blacktails in thick cover is the norm, and the later in the season it gets, the better the odds of finding a buck.

before dark. If you see a buck heading to cover but can’t get a shot, be back at the location for the last hour of the day. On October 21st or 22nd, the blacktail game notably changes in the high country and this is when mature bucks are most visible in the general rifle season. This marks the peak of the prerut for blacktails and when bucks cover a lot of ground in search

of does they’ll soon be breeding. Highcountry bucks will travel up and down mountains to find does by detecting pheromones from their interdigital glands and urine. The later in the rifle season it gets, the better the hunting can be, especially when rain and cool temperatures set in. If it’s raining hard and blowing, hunt all day.

Halloween is my favorite day to rifle hunt, as photoperiodism gets blacktail bucks fired up and moving. Cold temperatures and rain don’t expedite the blacktail rut, but they do make it more comfortable for bucks to cover ground without overheating. Rattling and calling can be effective from the third week of October until the season’s end.

LACROSSE URSA MS

used to live a semi-subsistence life in Alaska’s high Arctic. In the 1990s, I hunted some of Alaska’s most prized game and ran a 200-mile trapline for wolves. My go-to boots in these harsh conditions were LaCrosse. Over the past six months, I’ve logged many hours in LaCrosse’s new Ursa MS boots. I think the Ursa is the best technical hunting boot LaCrosse has ever created. Light, durable and ergonomic, the Ursa is more like wearing high-top sneakers than hiking boots. The comfort and ankle support of the Ursa is impressive and the sleek sole ensures you’re not kicking rocks or protruding roots. Quiet and sturdy but not stiff and cumbersome, the Ursa is waterproof and resilient in all types of terrain and conditions. The Ursa is a boot every hunter will want to consider. MSRP: $300. Visit lacrossefootwear.com for more.

44 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

ROAD HUNTER

Texas resident Will Granberry dreamed of hunting Columbia blacktail deer for over 25 years and last season it became reality with this mature buck taken in the Cascade Range.

For archery hunters, November’s late season is what many blacktail fanatics live for. November is when it’s cold, wet and stormy, and big bucks are on the move. This is when hunting from a treestand or ground blind can be effective, as can covering ground, especially if targeting migratory deer at high elevations. The week of Thanksgiving is typically a favorite to catch moving, rut-crazed blacktail bucks in the high country. Rattling and calling can be effective for late-season blacktails. If targeting any legal buck, timid rattling can do the job. If I’m after a bruiser buck, snapping branches, raking trees, pounding the ground and loud, aggressive rattling is my go-to approach. In the backcountry, look for does 46 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

late in the season because where does are, bucks won’t be far. It takes a lot of snow to force a blacktail buck from high elevations. I’m convinced a buck would have no trouble surviving in 2 feet or more of snow all winter. But when does descend to look for food, bucks follow. A lot of mature bucks come out of the woods at this time, bucks you’ll never see when scouting and likely never see again once the rut is over. THREE SEASONS AGO I spotted one of the biggest blacktail bucks I’ve ever seen. It was the October rifle season and the buck was bedded in a spot it’d likely been using for years, high in the Cascade Range. It was surrounded by brush and there was no prayer of getting a shot.

I sat, rifle ready, waiting for the buck to stand. Three hours later, something spooked the buck and it was up and gone so quickly I didn’t fire a shot. I never saw the buck again but did fill my tag three days later with a cross-canyon shot on a mature buck bedded in rimrock. When it comes to hunting mature blacktails in the high country, you never know how things will unfold. Work hard, focus and keep searching because when a shot opportunity comes, you want to be ready – it may be the only chance you get all season.  Editor’s note: To order a copy of Scott Haugen’s bestselling book Trophy Blacktails: The Science of the Hunt, visit scotthaugen.com. Follow Scott on Instagram and Facebook.

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“Manufacturers of quality case cleaners, deburring and tumbling equipment since 1959” 48 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

PRODUCT REVIEW

Garmont Tactical’s T8 Falcon boot is designed for rigorous outdoor activities, including military and law enforcement operations, and offers a combination of ruggedness and versatility.

‘LIKE A MOUNTAIN GOAT ON STEROIDS’ Reviewing Garmont Tactical’s T8 Falcon boot for hunting, hiking, police work and more. STORY BY JASON BROOKS • PHOTOS BY GARMONT TACTICAL

oots are among those pieces of gear that are often not thought of until it is too late and blisters form or feet ache. They can make or break a hunt or hike, and for those in law enforcement, duty boots can help you finish strong after a long shift. When it comes to footwear, finding the perfect pair of boots can feel like searching for Bigfoot – seemingly impossible. But fear not, fellow adventurers, because the Garmont Tactical T8 Falcon boot might just be

the answer to your hiking and outdoor footwear dreams. The T8 Falcon is a highly regarded tactical boot that has gained a reputation for its exceptional performance, durability and comfort. Designed for rigorous outdoor activities, including military and law enforcement operations, the T8 Falcon offers a combination of ruggedness and versatility.

Reviewer Jason Brooks found the boot needed little to no breaking in, thanks to its suede leather and nylon upper.

americanshootingjournal.com 49

The wedge-shaped lugs of the boot’s Diamante sole (below) are directionally placed to increase traction during an ascent and braking on the descent.

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FIRST IMPRESSIONS MATTER, even with boots, so when I put a pair of T8 Falcons on for the first time I was surprised at their immediate comfort and fit. The design of the boot strikes a perfect balance between rugged durability and eye-catching appeal. These boots mean business while still looking sleek enough to wear to your local coffee shop. Constructed with high-quality materials, the T8 Falcon is built to withstand the toughest environments. From the reinforced toe box to the rugged outsole, these boots are ready to tackle any terrain you throw at them. Plus, with key features like speed lacing and a padded collar, slipping into these boots is easy and your ankles and feet are locked in place for comfort and safety. When it comes to performance, the T8 Falcon is like a mountain goat on steroids. Whether you’re trekking through muddy trails or scaling rocky terrains, these boots provide stable footing and reliable grip. But performance isn’t everything – comfort matters too! Garmont Tactical understands that long hikes can take a toll on your feet. That’s why their boots come equipped with contoured footbeds and cushioned insoles that absorb impact and keep your feet feeling fresh for miles. Plus, with the boots’ breathable construction, your feet won’t feel like they’re stuck in a sauna. The T8 Falcon is built to last and be worn for day-to-day tasks or for

PRODUCT REVIEW long treks. These boots are made from durable materials that can withstand the harshest conditions, and their reinforced stitching and sturdy construction ensure they won’t fall apart when the going gets tough. But the true test of a boot’s durability is how it performs over time. Can it handle the wear and tear of multiple adventures? Absolutely! The T8 Falcon is a reliable companion that will keep your feet happy for countless hikes, climbs and expeditions. The boot’s Diamante sole is comprised of wedge-shaped lugs that are directionally placed to increase traction during the ascent as well as braking on descents. It offers fantastic grip, so you won’t be slipping on wet rocks or loose gravel. The boots are also surprisingly lightweight and, despite their ruggedness, won’t weigh you down. Unlike some other boots that feel like you’re strapping two blocks of

concrete onto your feet, the T8 Falcon requires little to no breaking in – a win for your blister fears. The suede leather is soft enough that it doesn’t take much for the boots to conform to your feet and the nylon uppers provide good ankle support without the need to wear them for months on end before becoming comfortable. While the T8 Falcon gets a lot of things right, it does have a few drawbacks to consider. The most notable one is the limited number of color options. If you’re someone who likes to express their personality through their footwear, you might be disappointed by the lack of color choices. But hey, black is the new black and the desert tan goes with just about every color of camo, so they are great for early-season hunts. The sizing seems to be on the tight side with a narrow boot. I have wide feet and needed to go up a size, especially with thick hunting socks.

It’s recommended to try them on in person or carefully follow the size chart provided by Garmont to avoid any fit issues. AFTER A THOROUGH examination of the Garmont T8 Falcon, it is clear that this tactical boot offers exceptional performance, durability and comfort. Its well-designed construction, highquality materials and innovative features make it a top choice for professionals and outdoor enthusiasts alike. While no boot is without its drawbacks, the advantages of the T8 Falcon significantly outweigh any minor concerns. Whether you are navigating challenging terrains or engaging in demanding activities, the Garmont Tactical T8 Falcon boot proves to be a trustworthy companion.  Editor’s note: For more info on the T8 Falcon and the rest of Garmont’s boot selection, see garmonttactical.com.

americanshootingjournal.com 51

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

BULLET BULLETIN

Though it isn’t evident from the outside, the act of bonding a bullet’s jacket and core results in fantastic terminal performance.

POSTING BOND

Why bonded bullets make ‘plains’ sense on African and North American game animals. STORY BY PHIL MASSARO • PHOTOS BY MASSARO MEDIA GROUP

rofessional hunter Brian van Blerk had actually woken me from napping in the front of the truck, as the trackers were frantic about a kudu bull they’d spotted 100 yards off the dirt track. We piled out of the cruiser just a few hundred yards down the road and

began a silent stalk down the sandy way. We found the kudu feeding in a thicket, standing straight away from us, sporting very impressive headgear. “Send one up his backside,” van Blerk instructed, and I followed orders. The big bull lurched forward, taking no more than four steps before piling up in a small depression, stone dead. The skinners found the expanded Woodleigh Weldcore from my .318 Westley Richards tucked up against

his breastbone, having penetrated the entire animal. “Based on the performance of that rifle on both that kudu and the zebra you took, I’d bet that .318 would cleanly take buffalo,” van Blerk opined. While the 250-grain bullets out of the .318 Westley Richards have a great sectional density – 0.328, to be specific – the bonded-core construction of the Woodleigh Weldcore certainly added to the deep penetration and terminal ballistics of that bullet. americanshootingjournal.com 53

Let’s take a look at the history of bonded-core bullets and how they can help the hunter in the field.

The expanded Woodleigh Weldcore recovered against the breastbone of author Phil Massaro’s kudu bull (below). The 250-grain bullet traversed the entire length of the Zimbabwean animal’s body.

54 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

THE ART OF chemically bonding a copper jacket to a lead core dates back to the mid-1960s, when Bill Steiger’s Bitterroot Bonded Core bullets hit the market. These bullets showed a significant increase in weight retention – when they could be recovered from a game animal at all – as the bonding process removed the risk of jacket/core separation or of the lead core wiping away altogether. While Bitterroot Bullets may not have become a household name, the bonded bullet would come to be relied upon by the hunting community to this day, carried forward by Jack Carter’s Trophy Bonded Bear Claw bullet, and adopted by a healthy portion of the manufacturers of hunting projectiles.

BULLET BULLETIN

With a classic nose profile, the Woodleigh Weldcore is a perfect choice for hunts at short to medium ranges; the tough construction will handle higher impact velocities.

It is the act of chemically bonding a copper jacket to a lead core that makes the design superior to a traditional cup-and-core bullet in a number of hunting scenarios. With the advent and adoption of slower-burning smokeless powders during and after World War II, the trend of producing higher-velocity cartridges continued into the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s. As cartridges like the .264 Winchester Magnum, 7mm Remington Magnum, .308 Norma Magnum and .300 Weatherby Magnum were released, the additional strain put on a cup-and-core bullet became evident. By the ’90s, bonded-core bullets had gained all sorts of ground, with Federal picking up the Trophy Bonded Bear Claw line (which evolved into a whole family of projectiles), Swift introducing the incredible duo of the bonded and partitioned A-Frame and the polymertipped Scirocco, Nosler coming on

board with the AccuBond, Hornady with the InterBond, and Woodleigh with the aforementioned Weldcore. My first experience using a bonded-core bullet was on a South Dakota bison hunt, when I loaded a 400-grain Swift A-Frame for my dad. Ol’ Grumpy Pants has a Browning Model 1886 in .45-70 Government, and I handloaded him those Swift A-Frame bullets at a muzzle velocity of nearly 1,800 feet per second. Needless to say, he put a considerable hurtin’ on his bison bull. From there, I became a believer in not only bonded-core bullets, but the Swift A-Frame as well. While the A-Frame is a partitioned bullet with two cores separated by a wall of copper, the front lead core is bonded to the thick jacket, making this one of the toughest softpoints on the market. I used the A-Frame on my first African safari, in my .300 Winchester Magnum

Federal’s Terminal Ascent has a short lead core bonded to the copper jacket/base and has garnered a great reputation as a tough big game bullet. (FEDERAL)

americanshootingjournal.com 55

BULLET BULLETIN with the 200-grain bullet and in the .375 Holland & Holland Magnum at 300 grains. From the diminutive steenbok to the formidable gemsbok to the enormous eland, the A-Frame performed wonderfully.

Massaro used a .308 Winchester and Federal’s bonded Terminal Ascent bullet to take this color-phase black bear in Idaho.

56 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

UPON MY RETURN from Africa, my curiosity resulted in experiments with Swift’s Scirocco II, a polymertipped boattail with a respectable ogive, perfect for hunting shots on the longer end of sanity. The Scirocco II is fully capable of withstanding the impact velocities generated by the .300 Weatherby Magnum, 7mm STW, .300 Remington Ultra Magnum and more. Accurate, hard-hitting and wonderfully uniform, the Swift Scirocco II remains an undeniable choice for hunters, providing high weight retention, pinpoint accuracy and reliable expansion, resulting in quick, humane kills. Federal’s adoption of the Trophy

BULLET BULLETIN

The Swift A-Frame might be the toughest softpoint on the market; the bullet’s front core is bonded to the jacket, and often “rivets” just behind the partition upon impact.

Bonded Bear Claw led to not only a reworking of that bullet, but also to the development of the Trophy Bonded Tip, Edge TLR and, ultimately, the Terminal Ascent. Despite the differences in profile, the concept among all of them remains the same: a short, forwardsituated lead core bonded to the thick copper jacket and base, which extends for the rear half of the projectile. All of the family members are excellent choices when weight retention – and therefore deep penetration – is needed. In the field, you’ll find it difficult to keep one of these projectiles inside an animal; even on big stuff they tend to exit pretty regularly. This spring I used the Terminal Ascent in a .308 Winchester to take a nice color-phase black bear in Idaho; though the shot was close, the bullet worked perfectly and put the boar down quickly. The other writers in the group all used the same load and had similar experiences. Those in the group who routinely hunt Swift’s Scirocco II has a very thick jacket bonded to its lead core and will retain almost all of its weight.

58 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

BULLET BULLETIN

The 6.8 Western is very effective with the 165-grain Nosler AccuBond Long Range; it is both accurate and hard-hitting. Nosler’s speedy .28 Nosler is well served by the AccuBond Long Range, which will open at lower velocities, meaning longer shots. (NOSLER)

The 140-grain Nosler AccuBond is a great choice for the 7mm-08 Remington, as it will hold together despite being light for caliber.

the West, where shots are longer, swear by that bullet for reliable expansion at lower velocities. If the additional expense of bondedcore projectiles does more harm than good to your budget, Federal Premium offers what I feel might be the most overlooked bullet on the market: their Fusion. It doesn’t offer the highest ballistic coefficient value, but it works perfectly in the woods or fields. It has 60 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

high weight retention and has been plenty accurate in my rifles. Nosler’s AccuBond and AccuBond Long Range appeared next on my radar, showing me that the company famous for innovative designs such as the Partition and Ballistic Tip wasn’t content to sit on its laurels. The AccuBond resembles the Ballistic Tip in profile, but is a much stronger bullet due to the bonding of the

jacket and core. The signature white polymer tip aids with expansion upon impact, giving this bullet the ability to offer consistent expansion at lower velocities (read: longer shots), yet the bonding process assures that the bullet won’t separate when shots are closer and impact velocities higher. The AccuBond Long Range (ABLR) is a similar concept, but is engineered to open at much lower velocities,

BOG DEATHGRIP BALL MOUNT ADAPTER BY LITTLE CROW GUNWORKS

hen the BOG Deathgrip was first released, folks were immediately impressed with the rigidity of the Deathgrip tripod and the design of the Deathgrip clamp itself, but quickly discovered that the rifle clamp would only pan and tilt. This is a problem in the field because when you pan the rifle, your crosshairs don’t stay level. What the Deathgrip needed was a ball mount adapter. Along comes Little Crow Gunworks with the solution. A couple years ago, they bought a ball mount and made a prototype adapter to convert the tripod. Complete game-changer! They field-tested the heck out of this thing and decided to bring it to market. LCG’s Deathgrip Adapter pans and tilts much smoother than the OEM parts and it’s a simple matter to level the reticle once you’re on target. Another plus of this adapter kit is that the Deathgrip clamp unit can be quickly removed from the ball mount ARCA slot, allowing you to use the included ARCA plate to mount additional field items like a spotting scope, rangefinder, chronograph or digital camera. Or if your rifle is equipped with an ARCA rail, you can slide the rifle directly into the ARCA slot on the ball mount. CUSTOMER REVIEW: “Little Crow Gunworks’ ball mount adapter rocks!! When I initially got my Deathgrip Tripod, the saddle, when occupied, would sag to the heavy end and not stay horizontal. I have been waiting ever since I got my Deathgrip for someone to fabricate this type of part. LCG’s adapter makes the Deathgrip useful. Until LCG made this part, the best rating I would have given the Deathgrip was 2.5 stars. BOG really missed the mark with the first iteration of this product. Now, even my heaviest rifles stay where I have set them. LCG even has it setup for ARCA Swiss, which expands the Deathgrip’s versatility. If you are vacillating on buying or not, definitely buy this. You won’t regret your purchase. Shipping was fast and there were videos for installation assistance. In short... buy it!! Thanks LCG for making the Deathgrip Adapter (DGA).”

Pick one up today at littlecrowgunworks.com and make that tripod your new favorite way to shoot in the field. Use code SHIPDGA for free shipping!

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BULLET BULLETIN

Norma’s Bondstrike has a polymer tip and a good boattail, plus a bonded core to add up to a great big game bullet choice.

making it a better candidate for true long-range shots. Where the AccuBond will open reliably at a velocity of 1,800 fps, the ABLR will open at impact velocities as low as 1,300 fps. I love the performance of the 165-grain ABLR in my 6.8 Western; Winchester loads this bullet from the factory and it’s a proven winner in the field. I’ve also had good results with the AccuBond in the .27

Hornady made the decision to bond the core of their DGX (Dangerous Game eXpanding) bullet to guarantee proper penetration. (HORNADY)

Nosler cartridge, cleanly taking game at a number of various distances. Norma’s Bondstrike also showed how important the bonding process can be, as three of us took that bullet to west Texas in pursuit of aoudad, a notoriously tough animal from North Africa. I used a 180-grain Bondstrike to take my ram at just under 200 yards and that worked out fine, but another hunter had a unique opportunity with

a ram at just 26 yards. He recovered his bullet – which put the animal down immediately – and it held together just fine despite being served at .300 Winchester Magnum velocities. SO, DOES BONDING a bullet actually offer that much of an advantage over a traditionally constructed cup-andcore bullet? I think it does, and I’m not alone in that sentiment. Hornady has

Massaro used the 180-grain Norma Bondstrike to take this west Texas aoudad ram, an animal with a reputation for being notoriously tough.

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BULLET BULLETIN opted to change its DGX (Dangerous Game eXpanding) bullet to the DGX Bonded in order to avoid premature breakup on thick-skinned dangerous game like Cape buffalo. Norma bonds the rear portion of the jacket/core on their Oryx bullet, and that has always

Federal Premium has long employed bullets from other manufacturers, like the Nosler AccuBond on the left, but their proprietary Fusion on the right makes a great hunting choice.

A recovered Hornady DGX Bonded. The bonding process slows expansion and prevents jacket/core separation. (HORNADY)

64 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

been a great performer. I like to look at a bonded-core bullet as an insurance policy. Yes, there are times when I actually prefer a traditional projectile for its more rapid expansion – my recent leopard hunt in Zimbabwe being fresh in my

mind – but odds are that when I’m traveling to hunt, I’ll have some sort of bonded-core bullet in hand. There are many to choose from and they can be wonderfully accurate, in addition to giving the hunter all sorts of confidence in the field. 

SCATTERGUN ALLEY

Launched in 2019, the Weatherby 18i line of inertia-driven shotguns was initially offered in 3½-inch chambering, but 3-inch models are now available and they cycle lighter loads better.

A LITTLE LIGHTER OF A GOOSE GUN

With advances in shotshells, Weatherby’s 18i Waterfowler 3-inch worth a second glance. STORY BY LARRY CASE • PHOTOS BY WEATHERBY

hotgun season is already here and I know that you scattergun fans out there have already been burning powder. Some of you have been hard at work in the dove fields, and for some the early goose seasons have come and gone. The time that we wait for all year is here, but I would also say that many of us are just not quite in the thick of it yet. Pheasant seasons in most places are not going on yet, and the real duck hunters who love the cold rain and snow and the

birds that this weather brings are not quite in gear yet either. But it’s coming, shotgunners, it is coming. So why am I going on about this? Because you still have time to get that new shotgun you have been thinking about! LET’S CONSIDER THE Weatherby 18i shotgun. No doubt many of us think about Roy Weatherby and his legacy of fine rifles when we hear the name Weatherby. Fact is, Weatherby has been offering a line of fine shotguns for decades now. “Weatherby has been making and selling shotguns for over 50 years,”

confirms Tyler Grethen, marketing manager at Weatherby. “The 18i line of shotguns are made to Weatherby’s exact standards with our partners in Italy, so waterfowl enthusiasts can expect a high-quality Italian-made shotgun that isn’t going to break the bank. The 18i shotgun is an inertiadriven shotgun and launched in 2019 with the 3½-inch models available. In 2022 we launched the 3-inch chamber that featured new camo patterns and some unique-looking Cerakote options.” “The biggest reason for adding a 3-inch model is due to the spring rate; with inertia reloading shotguns, the americanshootingjournal.com 67

SCATTERGUN ALLEY Weatherby 18i in First Lite Cipher.

Weatherby 18i in Mossy Oak Shadow Grass.

spring rate is extremely important when it comes to reliable cycling,” Grethen explains. “The 3-inch model has a slightly lighter spring rate than the 3½-inch version to really handle lighter target loads. With the advancements in shotshell technology,

we have seen a shift in the market where waterfowl hunters aren’t strictly using super mag loads when shooting ducks and geese.” The Weatherby 18i series of semiautomatic shotguns is designed for hunters and shooters who

require performance in the toughest conditions. All Weatherby 18i shotguns are built on a field-proven inertia recoil system that provides reliable cycling and an evenly weighted gun. Let’s talk about that oh-so-popular inertia system for a minute. When

No doubt the name Weatherby is more associated with hunting rifles, but the Wyoming-based company has offered shotguns for decades and its 18i semiautos are made to exacting standards in Italy.

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americanshootingjournal.com 69

SCATTERGUN ALLEY the patent ran out some years ago, the simple but very effective action invented by Bruno Civolani in 1967 started showing up in a bunch of shotguns. The inertia system was made for the waterfowler and anyone else who doesn’t baby a shotgun and is not particularly fond of cleaning guns in general. AVAILABLE IN A 3-inch chamber that allows the 18i series to be more efficient at cycling lighter target and small game loads, the single-piece receiver is precision-machined from billet aluminum for strength and simplicity. The advanced polymer stock is designed to be ergonomic and shim-adjustable for a seamless fit to any shooter. The series features a soft touch area on the cheek rest and aggressive texture in the palm and foregrip; this is where comfort meets rugged toughness. With a full ventilated rib and high luminous LPA fiber front sight, target acquisition is a breeze, even in poor lighting conditions. The 18i series is set up for the Crio Plus choke system and comes standard with five choke tubes. Key features include: • Reliable inertia recoil reloading system. • Elastomer recoil pad for reduced felt recoil. • Comfortable elastomer cheek pad. • Shim-adjustable polymer stock for perfect shooter fit. • Ergonomic textured grip. • Full-length ventilated top rib. • LPA fiber sights. • Camo pattern adheres directly to all metalwork and stock components for longevity. • Chrome-lined bore. • Five Crio Plus choke tubes (cylinder, improved cylinder, modified, improved modified, full) with included storage case and choke wrench. • Four-plus-one shell capacity (twoplus-one with included magazinelimiting plug). 70 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

The 18i Waterfowler 3-inch is set up with the five-choke Crio Plus system and has two elastomer recoil pads to dampen kick felt in the shooter’s shoulder and cheek.

• Compatible with magazine tube extensions. • Waterfowler model MSRP: $1,249. A word about that “elastomer” cheek pad. Most of us aren’t going to be using low-brass, target and field loads while in the duck marsh or goose pit. We’ll be shooting magnum loads and in some cases 3½-inch shells when we are really serious, especially for geese. While it is true that most of the recoil is directed back to the shooter’s shoulder (if we have the gun mounted correctly), there is no doubt that our cheekbone will get hammered if we shoot a lot of magnum loads. This padded, softer feature on the 18i will save you from headaches and allow for

better shooting in the field because if the shotgun fits and is comfortable to shoot, you’ll get back on target faster and be more accurate. For more information on the 18i series, see weatherby.com.  Editor’s note: Larry Case has been a devoted outdoorsman since he was a child. He will admit to an addiction to turkey hunting (spring and fall), but refuses any treatment. He enjoys the company of gobblers and cur dogs that are loud and people who speak the truth softly. Case served 36 years as a game warden in West Virginia and retired with the rank of district captain. You can check out his podcast and other stories at gunsandcornbred.com.

COMPANY SPOTLIGHT

Kinetic Concealment’s holsters feature top-grade leather that is kinetically bonded to a nylon-neoprene backing for “complete comfort” when worn next to the skin.

TOWARD A COMFIER HOLSTER

Kinetic Concealment’s neoprene backing, craftsmanship ‘has customers clamoring for more.’ PHOTOS BY KINETIC CONCEALMENT

eeking to design a more comfortable holster, the folks at Kinetic Concealment have done just that with their neoprene-backed leather hybrid holster. The patented design features topquality American-made materials that ensure a solid, comfortable fit. The foundation of the holster is made of an 8-ounce top-grade drum-dyed leather,

which is kinetically bonded with the nylon-neoprene backing. The shells are .093-inch-thick Kydex and are vacuumformed for a tight and snug click fit. The neoprene backing creates the ultimate in comfort. The neoprene is bonded to the body side of the leather, then the edges are precisely stitched using standard leather stitching techniques. Per the company’s website,

this added feature gives complete comfort even when the holster is being worn without an undershirt directly on the skin. If the holster is worn with an undershirt, the neoprene slides smoothly along any common undershirt fabric, such as cotton or polyester, allowing for a better range of motion as the body moves. According to Kinetic Concealment partner Josh Sykes, each holster is americanshootingjournal.com 73

COMPANY SPOTLIGHT The Tennessee-based company makes holsters for Hi-Point Firearms’ Yeet YC9 and JXP 10mm, among many other handguns.

handmade in Jackson, Tennessee, and is tested before it leaves the shop. This craftsmanship and attention to detail, not to mention the comfort of the hybrid design, is what truly sets the company apart and has customers clamoring for more. In fact, Kinetic Concealment recently brought some new products to market, including holsters for the Yeet YC9 and the JXP 10mm, both from Hi-Point Firearms. “We are also now offering our Tac Pack Gun Cleaning Kits for $29.95,” Sykes adds. This comes in addition to the variety of inside- and outside-thewaistband holsters, belts, knives and other accessories already on offer from the company. If you are searching for a more comfortable hybrid holster, look no further. Contact Kinetic Concealment to find out what they can do for you.  Editor’s note: For more information, visit kineticconcealment.com.

74 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

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L.E. SPOTLIGHT

2 KIDS PULLED FROM FIERY CRASH Off-duty detective’s late-night rescue beside busy interstate commended. STORY BY NICK PERNA • PHOTO COURTESY REDWOOD CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT

ires are scary things. Being close to a burning structure or building taps into a primordial fear that humans have had since our caveman days. Fire, with its seemingly endless ability to hurt, maim and kill people, stirs fear in even the bravest of hearts. Cops hate fires. We often respond to locations where we are first on scene. We show up with the gear we use to fight crime: wool uniforms, neoprene gloves – all stuff that burns easily. Cops like to make fun of our public safety counterparts in the fire department but we are awfully glad to see them when they show up with the right gear and training to extinguish the flames. A real test of one’s intestinal fortitude is being in close proximity to a fully engulfed car while trying to determine if it is occupied. Cars are full of accelerants and propellants like oil and gasoline. When a gas tank ignites it turns the average car into a massive bomb, spewing flaming gas and shrapnel for long distances. One of the worst-case scenarios an officer can face is dealing with this situation while off duty. You have none of the resources available to you and, more importantly, you don’t have a radio. A police radio is an officer’s lifeline, arguably the most important piece of gear you hit the street with. With it, you can request just about anything. Without it, you are on your own.

father’s 2017 Maserati and were going approximately 100 mph when they crashed into the guard rail. Both juveniles were transported to UC Davis Medical Center with major injuries but both survived the accident. Detective Cydzik received his department’s Lifesaving Award for his actions, along with a letter of commendation from the California Highway Patrol.

SUCH WAS THE case for Detective Matt Cydzik of the Redwood City Police Department near San Francisco.

The quick thinking and bravery of Detective Matt Cydzik of Northern California’s Redwood City Police Department saved the lives of two juveniles.

On September 3, 2020, at approximately 11:30 p.m., Detective Cydzik was off duty and traveling eastbound on Interstate 80 just east of Donner Pass, in Truckee, California. This is primarily a rural area, far from any major cities or towns. Detective Cydzik observed a car that had crashed into the right guard rail and was fully engulfed in flames. With complete disregard for his own safety, he ran towards the burning vehicle and pulled the two occupants to safety before the vehicle exploded. Not only was Detective Cydzik dealing with a burning vehicle, but also traffic, mostly semi-tractor trailers on I-80 doing speeds of over 65 mph on a downward slope in pitch-black conditions. His actions that day saved two lives. The two juveniles were a 15-yearold driver and 14-year-old passenger. They had stolen the 14-year-old’s

WHILE ON DUTY, Detective Cydzik is just as tenacious. Also in 2020, he was one of the primary investigators during a particularly heinous domestic violence case where the suspect attempted to kill his girlfriend by choking her. The same subject attempted to run over two detectives while fleeing. Detective Cydzik coordinated the investigation with local, state and federal agencies, even traveling to Tahoe to assist them with trying to capture the suspect. He authored a search warrant for a third-party residence to further the investigation. The suspect was eventually arrested, bringing his violent crime spree to an end. I’m proud to call Matt Cydzik a hero and, since we work at the same department, my friend. ★ Editor’s note: Author Nick Perna is a sergeant with the Redwood City Police Department in Northern California. He previously served as a paratrooper in the US Army and is a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He has a master’s degree and is a frequent contributor to multiple print and online forums on topics related to law enforcement, firearms, tactics and veterans. americanshootingjournal.com 77

COMPANY SPOTLIGHT

A STYLISH WAY TO CARRY Pistol Packn Mama features a wide variety of good-looking, functional all-leather purses for better self-protection. STORY BY JOHN MITCHELL PHOTOS BY PISTOL PACKN MAMA

launched Pistol Packn Mama a few years ago as a result of hearing some very sad news from one of my family’s close friends. She had been raped and severely assaulted. Knowing the kind of trauma that she had endured encouraged me to build the Pistol Packn Mama website. If she’d had a pistol when this attack occurred, it is likely that it would never have happened. There is no reason for any woman to go through what our friend endured. Every woman has the right to defend herself from such an attack. By legally carrying a concealed pistol, a woman has a much better chance to protect herself by practicing true selfprotection. If a woman knows how to confront an attacker by brandishing a pistol in a timely manner, there is a high probability that she will not even have to fire the pistol. If need be, however, she will have the self-protection that she needs if the attack is continued. THE LINE OF concealed carry purses that we offer includes only 100-percent fullleather products. We offer only leather purses because of the durability of leathers. Most of our purses are cowhide leather, but we have some that are

Allie leather backpack for stylish concealed carry.

ostrich or other exotic leathers. Leathers have been proven to have a long life and can stand up to a lot of abuse and still keep their beauty. The types of purses that we carry are in the categories of satchel, clutch, crossbody, phone bag, hobo, RFID (or radio frequency identification) protected, backpack, tote and over-the-shoulder. There are several of these purses that cross over from one category to another; for instance, we have crossbody purses that are

also offered as over-the-shoulder. This is a result of customers defining the concealed carry purse they want in one category or another. Our customers are really pleased with the leather construction because of the long life, long-lasting beauty and stability of the purses. They have been most interested in the purses that have crossbody straps because these can be carried in several different ways based on the environment in which the americanshootingjournal.com 79

COMPANY SPOTLIGHT

Vintage crossbody purse.

Studded flap tooled cowhide bag.

Evelyn concealed carry leather crossbody.

Delaney leather crossbody concealed carry purse.

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customer carries the purse. Most of our crossbody purses actually have two straps – the long adjustable crossbody strap in addition to the short handle straps. When using the long strap, the user opts for the crossbody length, for a “hands-free” carry. The adjustable strap could be extended to its fullest length for crossbody carry. The user can also opt for the shorter “over-the-shoulder” look, where the purse straps are shortened and the purse is carried right under the armpit. But the customer might wish to use a hand-carry option, where the clipon crossbody strap is removed and the purse is carried with the short handles. Another very popular feature for our customers is obviously the availability and immediate access to the concealed pistol. The concealed compartment on each bag has a secure closure that is visible only to the user and can be opened very quickly when the need for self-protection arises. Each opening to the concealed compartment is situated next to the body of the carrier or at the top of the bag. Every purse comes with a holster that is attached by Velcro to the inside of the concealed compartment. This feature also gives the customer the

option to adjust the drawing angle of the holster so that the draw can be made in the most efficient and comfortable way when needed. The concealed pistol is protected from being seen by others because of special lining in the concealed compartment that prevents the imprinting of the pistol when it is in the holster. THERE HAS BEEN a lot of interest in our line of distressed buffalo leather bags. These are concealed purses made from 100-percent buffalo leather that have a rugged look. We offer this leather as a backpack, crossbody, clutch, hobo, messenger and satchel. These purses can take a lot of abuse and continue their service as beautiful concealed carry purses. The distressed buffalo backpack is very popular. More customers are carrying this type of bag in places where they were not carried in the past. Younger customers have always been carrying backpacks to school, but now we have seen older customers take these bags shopping and on other short trips. New purses are coming into our inventory every year. The Camo and Snake designed purses came online

COMPANY SPOTLIGHT

Raelynn leather organizer.

Crossbody hipster camo bag.

this past year and have been very popular with younger customers. The acceptance of new colors in the market has been seen with more cashmere, blue, gray, mustard, cherry and red versions. The colors tend to fit readily into high-style wardrobes and are a deviation from traditional colors. There has been some increasing interest in purses that have RFID protection, which eliminates the illicit capture of personal data from within the customer’s purse via outside tracking devices. I feel like this interest will grow over time and soon the only purses we offer will be those that have the RFID protection built in. There are always new purse designs either under consideration or being designed. These new designs are based on the feedback about changes that have been recommended by our customers or from observations we have made of purses that are offered in the marketplace. 82 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

PISTOL PACKN MAMA is a website owned by a small company, Provision, Inc. We have established a very close relationship with our customers over the last few years. We have done this by offering very high quality concealed carry purses. When a customer places an order on our site, we process it immediately. If an order is made in the morning, most of the time it will ship in the afternoon that same day. If the order is placed in the afternoon, it will ship the next morning. Shipping is, of course, dependent on the product being in stock. If someone orders a purse that is not in stock, we will call them and tell them. They will be given the option of waiting for the purse to come back into stock, or they can elect to receive a full refund. It is important for us to keep our customers up to date on their order status. When it ships, we will change the order status on our website to “completed.” We are making changes to our online system now. Soon we’ll be

able to send an email to each customer when they place an order. The email will advise them of the tracking info for their order – ship date, carrier, tracking number, and delivery name and address. Our suppliers have several new concealed carry purses coming into the inventory very soon as well. We will be offering two new styles of backpacks and two new hair-on crossbodies, all in various new colors. The individual crossbody straps will be offered in hairon and camouflage styles to add flair to existing bags. Next fall we will be adding lots of new styles that feature pebbled leather. These are designed to fit everyone’s budget. New design is always in process based on the desires of our customers. We are watching the market and are trying to meet the needs and desires that are represented there. Keep watching our website at pistolpacknmama.com for new products. We will be adding them as they become available. 

CONCEALED CARRY

GALLERY MERNICKLE HOLSTERS

If your cowboy gun is what you shoot the most, why not make it your daily carry? Mernickle Holsters’ PS06SA is made of the highest grade Hermann Oak leather. This holster can be carried in the strong-side position or a crossdraw. Holsters are hand-molded to your model of gun to ensure a perfect fit every time.

www.mernickleholsters.com

KINETIC CONCEALMENT

A Tennessee-based holster manufacturer makes outside-the-waistband holsters for both the Hi-Point YC9 Yeet Cannon and the Hi-Point JXP 10mm. They also make holsters for over 300 other firearms. Kinetic Concealment believes that all gun owners should have access to quality carry holsters. The OWB holsters are $49.95 and are available on their website.

www.kineticconcealment.com

TAP RACK HOLSTERS

Tap Rack Holsters IWB offers function and form with safety and comfort as two principles in their line of handmade holsters. They mold to your specifications for a correct fit. No buckets here. Holsters feature adjustable retention, a 550 corded loop for securing to a belt or belt loop, semiclosed bottom that can be left open for threaded barrels on request, different body shield heights in low, medium and high upon request, and nonbinding smooth edges with no sharp points in their designs for comfort. Different colors and patterns available upon request.

TRIPLE K MANUFACTURING Crossdraw Holster is designed for gun owners who prefer a dedicated crossdraw-style carry. The opentop design allows for easy draw and features an adjustable tension screw that ensures proper gun retention. Made in the USA with premium vegetabletanned leather and heavy nylon stitching. MSRP: $53.

www.triplek.com

www.taprackholsters.com

americanshootingjournal.com 83

CLASSES OFFERED

NRA CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR CHRISTOPHER CUNIO

+ GUN SAFETY SEMINAR NRA seminar introduces new gun owners to gun safety fundamentals

+ RUN YOUR GUN One on one firearms coaching with Christopher

+ RANGE SAFETY OFFICER NRA Range Safety Officer (RSO) Certification

+ NRA EDDIE EAGLE GUNSAFE® PROGRAM + NEW GUN OWNER The NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting course

+ PREPARE TO CONCEAL NRA Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) Certification

+ FIREARMS IN THE HOME NRA Personal Protection In the Home Certification

+ FIREARMS OUTSIDE THE HOME NRA Personal Protection Outside the Home Certification

+ LONG GUN NRA Basic Rifle for basic and skill based learning with a long gun

+ BASIC SHOTGUN Basic shotgun for basic and skill-based learning with a shotgun

SCAN FOR MORE INFO

84 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

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Self-Defense TRAINING

A guest fires on the range at the grand opening last month of PrairieFire, a shooting and training facility – and so much more – outside Las Vegas.

NEW RANGE OWNER AIMS TO IGNITE NEXT-LEVEL SHOOTING, TRAINING With an ‘all-star support cast’ on staff, PrairieFire outside Las Vegas is looking to become the corps d’elite of multidiscipline shooting institutions.

STORY BY PAUL AND LINDA PAWELA • PHOTOS BY PAUL PAWELA

s this issue heads to print, mixed emotions rush through my mind – sadness and overwhelming joy, honor and privilege – as I remember heroes, both the fallen and the living, here in this column. This October is the 30-year anniversary

of Operation Gothic Serpent, aka the Battle of Mogadishu, better known by the name of the bestselling book and blockbuster movie Black Hawk Down. Many key soldiers in that historic battle have since become mentors and lifelong friends of mine. One special man, retired Col. Danny McKnight, Ranger Task Force Commander/Convoy Ground Reaction Force Commander, was the best man at my wedding.

Those men who fought in that battle with such bravery against overwhelming odds have become legends in their own right, including two posthumous Medal of Honor recipients. However, for many a common person, the Battle of Mogadishu has almost become an apocryphal mythological story similar to Homer’s classic The Iliad. To try to honor these great men americanshootingjournal.com 85

Mark O’Neil, facility CEO.

Peter Castleman (right), owner of PrairieFire, with author Paul Pawela.

Hans Hansen, chief training officer.

Director of Marketing Sonny Leggett (left) with retired Gen. Scott Miller, the range’s executive chairman.

86 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

Lanny Barnes, chief experience officer, three-time Olympic shooter, and current 3-gun world champion.

SELF-DEFENSE TRAINING in every way, I have written several articles about their endeavors. This article is no different. THE COMMON DENOMINATORS for successful people in business and in defending this great country of ours are the love of God, the love of country and the love of family. Peter Castleman is an excellent example of having those three principles. A giant in both the business and shooting worlds, he is the owner of Staccato Firearms, a firearm that some say is the best handgun in the industry. Now, Castleman is the new owner of PrairieFire in Pahrump, Nevada. He not only invested hard-earned dollars into upgrading the training shooting facility, but as a wise businessman he has also added an all-star support cast to make PrairieFire one of the best training and shooting facilities in the world. Drawing from over 200 years of respected special operations and worldclass competitive shooting experience, Castleman’s leadership team includes retired Gen. Scott Miller as the company’s executive chairman and retired Maj. Gen. Mark O’Neil as CEO. Miller retired as a four-star general and Joint Special Operations Command commander. O’Neil is also a former commander of special operations. Both individuals have had combat operational experience in the toughest of battles all over the world, and both climbed the ladder to be the unit’s institutional leaders in every position. To the point, both men are exceptionally skilled in weapon craft and have experience recruiting the best of the best in order to complete the mission. This is exactly what they are doing at PrairieFire. For example, the company has hired Hans Hansen, a retired master chief, as the chief training officer. Hansen, who served 21 years in the Navy, specializes in instructor development and curriculum design. Lanny Barnes is the chief experience officer. She is an American biathlete who competed in three Olympic Games and is now a

Grand opening attendees Leggett, Gabe Barton, Miller, Ashton Ballesteros and Quay Barnett.

Jennifer Williams, former producer of Fox and Friends and now working for PrairieFire.

Frank Shinault, world champion long-distance shooter and long-distance shooting coach.

current 3-gun world champion. PrairieFire also assembled a wide array of trainers to fit everyone’s needs, from foundation to development and up to advanced. They have classes for everyone – women, men, and even a children’s safety course.

watched, watched by those all across this land who once again dare to believe that our concept of responsible, peopleoriented government can work as the founding fathers meant it to work. If we prove that here, we can, as I have said before, start a prairie fire that can sweep across this country. But to start that fire, we must nurture that flame here at home or it will flicker and die, and those who come after us will find only the ashes of lost hopes and dead dreams.” The term “prairie fire” holds a few meanings. It’s typically used to describe a fire in open grassland or an uncontrolled fire in a grassy

PRAIRIEFIRE IS NOT only a state-of-theart adventure facility and range, but it is an idea that was born out of an ideology from one of the greatest living men to become one of this country’s greatest presidents. It gets its name from the words of President Ronald Reagan: “We are being

americanshootingjournal.com 87

Map of PrairieFire.

Shooting at long-range steel targets.

At some of the ranges, a foot pedal helps reset all the steel targets.

One of several range bays.

area. Prairie fires tend to spread really quickly and alter the land they leave behind. The words have also been used when talking about how sometimes you need to burn things to the ground to be able to start anew with a fresh perspective. Prairie Fire was also the name of a series of highly classified multi-service United States special operations patrols during the Vietnam War. The PrairieFire shooting facility is a 550-acre property located 45 minutes outside Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world. The picturesque land and stunning beauty of Nevada and the American West has often been called majestic. This is the appropriate 88 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

word as one travels from Las Vegas to PrairieFire, which takes you through the breathtaking Red Rock Canyon and Mountain Spring Pass. Currently, PrairieFire has 50 outdoor shooting bays that can be set up for various types of shooting classes. The facility’s armory includes an assortment of Staccato firearms, as well as Sig Sauer M400 series rifles and JP Enterprises carbines, considered the best in the industry. There’s also an area for trap shooting, and the 18-station clay circuit course is integrated into the natural landscape. A guest can also experience a 1-mile shot on the long-distance range, or have a Wild West experience

and run and gun on the facility’s uniquely rugged terrain area known as Gunslinger Canyon. And it is not just shooting; PrairieFire also has an archery range, a rappeling tower and a ropes complex. The rock wall will challenge your grip and stamina, and the one-of-akind Burma Bridge will provide you with a breathtaking experience. But Castleman and his staff are not finished yet; they are continuously improving upon this vast facility and building a portfolio of outdoor experiences that will be unmatched. PRAIRIEFIRE WILL BE the home to the American Experience, a destination

SELF-DEFENSE TRAINING

A few more range bays.

Many targets have red lights that go off when hit, as seen in this photo (inside the blue circle).

A panoramic view of the extensive area PrairieFire occupies. americanshootingjournal.com 89

SELF-DEFENSE TRAINING

A shooter on the 1-mile range.

Rappeling tower.

Skeet shooting with electronic pull.

where you never stop learning and continue to grow and have fun. PrairieFire is dedicated to empowering individuals to reach their full potential. The staff explained that they have designed and created the most unique experiences and courses to accommodate all who are interested in pistol, rifle and sporting clays, with plans to include helicopter experiences, situational awareness training, leadership development, archery, precision rifle and medical training. The range has something for everyone. You must experience it for yourself. On September 23, 2023, PrairieFire had its grand opening and invited over 1,000 guests to experience firsthand the new destination for outdoor 90 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

adventure. It was an honor to be at the event. Everything was done in a first-class manner, with first-class people and first-class equipment, all a testament to PrairieFire’s new owner and his incredible staff, who are the embodiment of the mantra “for the love of God, country and family.” This article is dedicated to both the fallen and the living men of Operation Gothic Serpent. They, too, lived this mantra. May God always bless them and their families. ★ Editor’s note: For more info about PrairieFire, visit prairiefire.com. Author Paul Pawela is a nationally recognized firearms and self-defense expert. For his realistic self-defense training, see assaultcountertactics.com.

Plaque honoring Operation Gothic Serpent.

92 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

BLACK POWDER

'TRAILBLAZER' TAKES FORM, AND THE FIELD Building a late Lancaster from a TVM kit.

A closeup of author Mike Nesbitt’s new .50-caliber flintlock, constructed from a late Lancaster kit by Tennessee Valley Muzzleloading, shows the custom striping he applied after the stock was finished.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MIKE NESBITT

ennessee Valley Muzzleloading is a company that I’ve had good dealings with for 40 years, and more than 20 of those years have been with Matt Avance, the current company owner. So it should be no surprise that I went back to them when I wanted a somewhat special .50-caliber muzzleloading rifle, mainly for shooting on “the trail” at rendezvous and similar muzzleloading matches. Based in Natchez, Mississippi, TVM produces very good kits for several different muzzleloading guns, both rifles and fowlers, and a kit that I could customize

was just what I wanted. When you order a kit from TVM, you will be asked for the desired length of pull – that important distance from the midpoint of the butt plate to the forward trigger. Because each shooter’s needs are different, this means that no kits are “in stock” and ready to send. The stocks for TVM’s kits are not cut until the order has been placed and each kit is “cut out” for the buyer. I ordered TVM’s standard kit for a late Lancaster rifle. The standard kit has several important things already done for the buyer/builder. The breech of the barrel and the lock, in addition to the triggers, are already located with the important screw holes already drilled. The location of those

ingredients is important so the flash pan of the lock will be properly aligned with the flash hole in the barrel, and the triggers need to be in alignment with the lock to properly trip the sear. Getting a standard kit from TVM is really helpful to the builder. TVM also makes a “builder’s kit” for more experienced gun builders. They will also make completed rifles on order, built to the buyer’s desires. For a better look at what they offer, visit their website at tvmnatchez.com. WHAT I WANTED was a fairly lightweight flintlock .50-caliber rifle for fun and for friendly competition, especially on our muzzleloading trail. The guns I already have would certainly do the job, but

Nesbitt’s rifle, which he nicknamed “Trailblazer,” is styled after the guns made in southeast Pennsylvania’s Lancaster County and specifically those manufactured after approximately 1810.

americanshootingjournal.com 93

my lightweight Hawken in .50 caliber isn’t a flintlock, and my Kunz-style .50-caliber half-stock flinter is simply too long and heavy for what I was looking for. And that’s the beauty of custom handmade muzzleloaders – you can get exactly what you are looking for; all you need to do is build it. This

rifle was named “Trailblazer” even before it was finished. A Lancaster rifle is a muzzleloader styled after the guns made in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and a “late” Lancaster is styled much like the guns made after 1810 or so. If the buyer desires a rifle similar to the guns used Allen Cunniff in his shop, making “sawdust” while building Nesbitt’s gun.

in Colonial America, an early Virginia rifle would be a better choice. For me, the late Lancaster was it and I would modify the kit to represent a rifle from an even later era, at about the end of the fur trade rendezvous period, just after 1840. There is a definite evolution in all firearms and the muzzleloaders are certainly no different. Things changed over time, and through those changes we can generally guess which era the gun is from, if it is an antique, or what it might represent if the gun is newly made. My .50-caliber late Lancaster kit from TVM included the following: a 13 5/8-inch length of pull, a 7/8-inch-wide and 36-inch-long Colerain barrel, a large Siler flintlock, double set triggers, and all-brass furniture. And I specified that I wanted a very plain maple stock. I then ordered a patch box kit from Cash Manufacturing (tdcmfg.com), and cut it to the design you see fitted to the rifle. Another added part was the trigger guard with the added spur, which can be considered a “later feature.” AFTER RECEIVING THE rifle kit, I took it to Allen Cunniff’s shop for assembly. There is still plenty to do in getting one of these kits put together. The TVM kits are definitely not “screwdriver kits” like some of the mass-produced muzzleloader kits. Putting a TVM kit together still requires some gunsmithing and an array of good tools. Allen has all of those tools and he invited me to do the work in his shop. Actually, Allen did most of the work in getting the rifle assembled and I certainly appreciated his help. A couple of the little pieces for the rifle were actually made by Allen. One of those was the front sight. I wanted a silver blade in a copper base and I had one that was made by Cash Manufacturing, but that one didn’t fit the dovetail cut into the barrel by TVM. So Allen simply made a new sight for the rifle. He’s a very crafty guy. Once the rifle was put together, it had to be taken apart again to finish the stock. That was my special job. The

94 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

BLACK POWDER Nesbitt artificially striped the stock, modeled after the style of Lancaster maker Henry Leman.

very plain maple stock was stained a dark walnut color, and then the striping you see was added artificially. One late Lancaster maker was Henry Leman and Leman was noted for his artificially striped stocks. I like to copy that artificial striping and I do it with a very fine paint brush with dark brown leather dye. Dip the tip of the brush just a little bit into the dye, then begin striping. Draw lines very close together, continuing until the brush is “empty” and the line fades. Then dip the brush in the dye again, just a little bit, and continue like that. Striping a stock takes time, about four hours for this one.

After the striping is completed and has dried on both sides, the stock is ready for its actual finish. For that I use Tru-Oil. Tru-Oil, some gunmakers say, is for beginners. Well, that suits me just fine. In addition to that, I like the finish and the protection it gives the wood. It is the finish that really lets the figure of the wood, and the artificial striping, stand out. I applied eight thin coats of the Tru-Oil over five days before taking the stock back to Allen’s to have the rifle assembled for the final time. SIGHTING IN WAS a pleasure. To begin with, a fairly large target was posted at

just 25 yards and the rifle was loaded with a .490-inch ball. The balls were wrapped in Bridgers Best .015-inch patches and rammed down the barrel to rest on top of 45 grains of GOEX FFFg powder. Those first shots went a little low, so some filing needed to be done on the front sight, lowering the top of that front sight in order to raise the point of impact of the bullet. This was done slow and easy, being somewhat careful not to take too much away from the top of the sight, which would make the rifle shoot too high. Sighting in shouldn’t be hurried; take plenty of time and enjoy the shooting. americanshootingjournal.com 95

BLACK POWDER

A shot fired “on the trail” at the Fall Gathering, a new event held at the author’s club near Littlerock, Washington, not far south of the state capital of Olympia.

Just a week later came our Fall Gathering Rendezvous, a new event in these parts, held in the same camp as our Rain-de-voo at the Capitol City Rifle & Pistol Club near Littlerock, Washington. It is generally raining at Rain-de-voo, which is held in February, but the Fall Gathering might draw in more ’skinners to enjoy the better weather. And it was at this Fall Gathering where my new rifle really made its first appearance on the trail. The gun really worked just fine and I do wish I could say the same for myself. I should be shooting lefthanded so I can use my best eye. The only reason I don’t is because I just don’t want to – at least not yet. And this rifle can still be fired from the left shoulder just fine. It looks like shooting left-handed is going to be the way to go. Back to the rendezvous, I started fairly well, even shooting right-handed. Then, with the alignment of the trail and the cast of the sun, we started shooting into the sun. That was when I had real problems in seeing the new rifle’s rear sight. Perhaps I should have switched shoulders then, but instead I 96 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

kept trying. Like I said, the rifle worked beautifully and I did get some good hits, so Trailblazer was doing its job. And while those hits weren’t enough to make me one of the leaders in the Nesbitt and Trailblazer fired a good group with bullets from a Callahan mold.

scores for this doin’s, they do serve to show me that the gun can do it. Now I’ll have to make sure that I can do it. This rifle and I are partners now and I’m going to give it several more chances, so you’ll be seeing it again. ★

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Holiday Gift Guide

TactaLoad

tactaload.com TactaLoad is a new company providing quality aftermarket accessories. The FLASH-5 is a unique shotgun stock incorporating an internal magazine that offers the shooter instant access to five additional rounds of ammunition. The FLASH-5 protects your spare ammunition and feeds them out the bottom of the stock fast!

WMD Guns

Bullard Leather

bullardleather.com Bullard Leather uses premium Hermann Oak Leather to handcraft all their leather holsters, carry belts, wallets and knife sheaths. All products are handmade, and holsters are molded and boned to the gun for a snug, firm fit. Bullard Leather has an array of products, colors and exotic skins. Pictured is the Defender Holster for a Taurus Judge Magnum with .44, .45 and .410 bullet loops. Stop by Bullard Leather’s location in Cooper, Texas, or visit their online store.

98 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

wmdguns.com Give the gift of long life! The proprietary NiB-X nickelboron-coating process from WMD Guns extends firearm life by permanently defending against wear, abrasion, rust and corrosion. So this year, give NiB-Xcoated parts – they just might be the longest-lasting gifts you ever give! (And check out WMD’s Beast NiB-X AR rifles/pistols.)

Gentry Custom LLC

gentrycustom.com New quiet muzzle brakes with suppressor-length threads. Available in ½x28 or 5/8 x24 threads, straight or custom contours. Call Gentry Custom today at 406-388-4867.

Dead Foot Arms

deadfootarms.com The SCW 2.5 kit is by far the most compact PDW-style stock or brace that the industry has ever seen. While compact, it is very versatile with a collapsed length of 2.5 inches, button-free deployment, and six length-of-pull settings.

Black Hills Ammunition

black-hills.com The 6.5 PRC (Precision Rifle Cartridge) from Black Hills Ammunition pushes modern 6.5 high-BC projectiles another 250 feet per second faster than the 6.5 Creedmoor and with comparable accuracy. Ballistics with these calibers were similar, but the 6.5 PRC has advantages over all of them. For Black Hills’ first loading, they chose to load this cartridge with the Hornady 143-grain ELD-X.

V-Line Industries

vlineind.com Introducing the SRT Vault, specifically designed to be used by law enforcement agencies and security personnel. Safely stores firearms in areas where officers need their weapon readily available in an emergency situation. Made from heavy-duty 14-gauge steel with a low-gloss powder-coated finish. Measures 43½ inches by 14 1/8 inches and weighs 50 pounds. Damper for soft closure when mounted horizontally, welded and ground corners on the door, predrilled holes in the back so it can be mounted, and a S&G Spartan lock that can be rotated 360 degrees to accommodate left- or right-side door opening, as well as horizontal use. Features include: multipoint locking mechanism; 2 square feet of standard MOLLE panel to organize firearms or accessories; preinstalled ¾-inch foam pad to protect contents; and adjustable quick-release nylon security straps. Made in the USA. V-Line offers a full line of multipurpose safes, gun safes and security cases. Choose the right one for your next holiday gift. To order, visit V-Line’s website. Use code ASJ10 to get 10% off and free shipping.

Knives of Alaska knivesofalaska.com The slim drop-point Alpha Wolf coupled with the Cub is specially designed for hunters who need excellent field-dressing capabilities with almost no weight. This set is super light (9.9 ounces) and perfect for hunters who hunt the mountaintops, where every ounce of weight matters.

Holiday Gift Guide

AlumaGrips

alumagrips.com The Desert Eagle grips from AlumaGrips have undergone a redesign with improvements that are second to none. First, almost 1/8 inch was removed from the thickness of each grip, then the radius on the back edge of the grip was enlarged to reduce the overall circumference. Finally, AlumaGrips eliminated the need for two screws, as well as the plastic insert that traditionally is needed for mounting the grips. Excellence in design and function, that is the goal of AlumaGrips. americanshootingjournal.com 99

Holiday Gift Guide

Zermatt Arms, Inc.

zermattarms.com Manufacturer of custom firearm components with a focus on precision long-range shooting.

Hi-Point Firearms

hi-pointfirearms.com The YC9 is the next generation of Hi-Point Firearms C9. It is loaded with features such as Glock-compatible front sights, front and rear cocking serrations, opticready, 1913 rail, grip safety, new grip design, and the YC9 comes with a 10-round magazine standard.

Collar Clinic

collarclinic.com Track and train your pack with the Garmin Alpha TT25 dog collar. This universally sized collar fits large and small breeds and is slim and durable. Using a compatible handheld (sold separately), track and send training commands up to 9 miles with up to 68 hours of battery life.

Diversified Innovative Products

diproductsinc.com The folks at DIP Inc. are not content with the cheap plastic parts that many firearms companies produce to cut production costs for rimfire firearms. DIP makes drop-in metal replacement parts and accessories that are both high quality and affordable. All products are made in the USA. DIP manufactures parts for the following brands: CZ, Marlin, Savage, Ruger, Remington, Tikka, Steyr, S&W, Howa, Marlin, Sako, Anschutz, Henry and others.

Vault Pro USA

vaultprousa.com The Handgun Pro II standard features include: • American-made handgun safe – factory direct. • Superior-strength handgun safe. • 10-, 7- or 3-gauge steel body models. • S&G D-Drive digital lock. • Auto easy-open system with gas shock. • Military-grade PE foam insert. • Holds two handguns plus magazines and ammunition. • Bolt-down capability. 100 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

Exquisiteknives.com

exquisiteknives.com From Czech maker Arpad Bojtos, the folding “Rambo” knife depicts scenes from its namesake film. Using Damasteel, lapis lazuli, gold and other items, this piece comes to life! All of the carving was done by the maker and this collectible art knife is just one of the many fine pieces in the exquisiteknives collection. Please contact Dave Ellis, ABS mastersmith, for more information.

Redding Reloading Equipment

redding-reloading.com Redding engineers have developed a unique concentricity gauge, which uses the science of ergonomic design to improve overall precision and ease of use. The single-point contact-bearing surfaces are placed at an angle and made of hardened stainless steel, creating an ergonomic positioning of the case and improving the ease of motion turning the case by making the action far more natural. The new Slant Bed Concentricity Gauge features a large and easy-to-read dial indicator that quickly mounts in a factory-aligned base dead-on the centerline of the case.

Michlitch Co.

spokanespice.com Shopping for a unique, useful gift has never been easier. The Michlitch Co. has five options of spice gift boxes to choose from. Each box contains a locally produced sauce and three bottles of their own blends. Prices range from $25 to $30.

High Adventure Ranch

highadventureranch.com Nestled in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains in Missouri, High Adventure Ranch offers all of the excitement of western big game hunting. Be prepared for a fair chase hunt! With over 3 square miles of prime natural habitat, the ranch provides challenges to even the most seasoned hunter, but their experienced guides and “No Game, No Pay” policy practically ensure that you won’t go home empty-handed. While the whitetail, elk, wild boar and red stag hunts are most popular, hunters from around the world have visited the ranch, hunting everything from American bison, black buck and fallow deer to Spanish goats and African game. High Adventure Ranch guarantees memories of an unparalleled hunting experience that will bring you back again and again.

October Country Muzzleloading

octobercountry.com Back in 1977 when the company was in its infancy, October Country Muzzleloading was a hunting bag. One product. Today, the northern Idaho-based outfit offers a complete and thorough line of muzzleloaders and muzzleloading accessories, including ramrods, Pushing Daisies patches, Blue Thunder solvent, Bumblin’ Bear Grease, quality leather shooting bags, powder horns and hand-forged shooting tools. All exceptional quality goods for the hunter, shooter, collector and history reenactor enthusiast. October Country products are made in the USA, designed and manufactured for muzzleloading, cowboy action and black powder cartridge shooters. americanshootingjournal.com 101

Holiday Gift Guide

Luth-AR

luth-ar.com The AR Armorer Wrench from Luth-AR is a versatile and indispensable companion for every firearm enthusiast. Made from 8620 steel with a nitride finish, at 11.75 inches it combines durability with functionality to deliver unparalleled performance. Weighing 1.29 pounds, this wrench effortlessly handles a range of tasks, including barrel nut installation and removal, castle nut tightening, flash hider installation, and more.

Camo Face Paint, Inc.

Evolution Gun Works

egwguns.com Enhance your Henry Homesteader with the durable, versatile Picatinny rail from Evolution Gun Works. Ideal for mounting any optics or attachments and it’s a one-piece aluminum build. It preserves iron sight use, is easy to install, and includes necessary hardware. Customize your carbine experience; order today from EGW’s website.

Davis Tent

davistent.com The sleeping bag cover from Davis Tent is a great way to protect your sleeping bag and add a little warmth. You can even sleep under the stars on a starry night! Roll your sleeping bag, pillow and sleeping pad up and it’s a perfect bedroll to keep all your sleeping gear organized. 102 American Shooting Journal // October 2023

camofacepaint.com Camo Face Paint celebrates 27 years in business making camouflage face paint for the US military and hunting industry. They use the finest ingredients. Non-glare, odorless, non-toxic, no animal products, hypoallergenic, and washes off with soap and water. All compacts include a mirror, 20-plus applications and a 5-year shelf life. Made and packaged in the USA. To order, call 305-893-5650 or visit their website.

True Blue Gun Lubricant

truebluegunlube.com Gun oil: True Blue’s proven technology provides long-term smooth performance. Does not create carbon like other brands. It loves the heat and cold with a -35-degree pour point. Gun grease: Silky smooth and stays viscous in use and storage. Eliminates carbon bonding in choke tubes. Keeps buffer springs silky smooth and has a -30-degree pour point. Gun cleaner: Safe on all parts of a firearm. Does not smell. Effectively breaks down carbon. The Urban Dictionary definition of “True Blue” is: “The real thing, no b.s.!” Tested, proven, trusted. To purchase, visit shop. mylifeatspeed.com. For free shipping, use discount code betrueblue2023.