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American Shooting Journal // November 2020

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A MERIC A N

SHOOTING JOURNAL

Volume 10 // Issue 2 // November 2020

PUBLISHER James R. Baker

INFORMATION SERVICES MANAGER Lois Sanborn

GENERAL MANAGER John Rusnak

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES ads@americanshootingjournal.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Andy Walgamott OFFICE MANAGER / COPY EDITOR Katie Aumann

ON THE COVER

LEAD CONTRIBUTOR Frank Jardim

Sheriff Mark Lamb “leads from the front,” writes our Paul Pawela, who went on a ride-along with the lead law enforcement officer of Pinal County, Arizona, a Connecticut-sized swath of the Grand Canyon State. (MARK LAMB)

CONTRIBUTORS Danielle Breteau, Scott Haugen, Phil Massaro, Mike Nesbitt, Paul Pawela, Chris Rice SALES MANAGER Paul Yarnold

DG Gentry Custom, LLC ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Mamie Griffin, Jim Klark, Mike Smith

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

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American Shooting Journal // November 2020

CONTENTS

VOLUME 10 • ISSUE 2

26 LEADING

FROM THE FRONT

“Rock star” Sheriff Mark Lamb is a hero of the modern West. Paul Pawela profiles the top lawman of Pinal County, Arizona, and joins him on a desert ride-along in search of smugglers. (MARK LAMB)

MORE FEATURES 37

THE HISTORY OF VETERANS DAY It’s one of America’s most cherished observances, but do you know how we came to celebrate the service of our military members on November 11? Frank Jardim has the story.

HONORING AMERICAN HEROES The Medal of Honor is our country’s highest military decoration and only awarded to soldiers, marines, sailors and airmen “whose bravery and valor go above and beyond.” In conjunction with Veterans Day, we share the valorous deeds of three of the most recent awardees.

‘TAPS’: THE DEEP, RICH HISTORY OF 24 NOTES Daniel Butterfield is far from the best known general from the Civil War, but he wrote what might be the most enduring tune to come out of the strife. Danielle Breteau details the interesting origins of the martial bugle call known as “Taps.”

ROAD HUNTER: DEER ALL DAY November’s rut offers great deer hunting and nobody knows that better than multispecies buck hunter Scott Haugen. He shares keys to success for tagging whitetails, blacktails and mule deer this month.

THE 5 BEST STATES TO HUNT WHITETAILS Want to bag a buck? Head to the South and Midwest, where huntin’s good for America’s deer. Chris Rice of Hunting Locator ranks the five best states for tagging out, plus a few runners-up!

BULLET BULLETIN: MATCHING UP TO THE CHALLENGE With long-range target shooting growing in popularity, ammo makers are meeting the bullet needs of competitive shooters, helping to extend their accuracy to new distances. Phil Massaro examines the best match-grade offerings.

BLACK POWDER: THE REPORT FROM ‘BUFFALO CAMP’ There weren’t any real bison, of course, for the crew of grizzled black powder cartridge shooters to plink at, but Mike Nesbitt and pals sure did have fun competing recently with their Quigley-style rifles, “camp guns” and revolvers. Mike shares how their doin’s went down!

DEPARTMENTS 19 23 95

Competition Calendar Gun Show Calendar Company Spotlight: Clipdraw, minimalist carry, made easy 99 Company Spotlight: Seal 1, staying in the fight for the long haul 101 Gift Guide

AMERICAN SHOOTING JOURNAL is published monthly by Media Index Publishing Group, 14240 Interurban Ave South Suite 190, Tukwila, WA 98168. 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 © 2020 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.

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

PRIMER

COMPETITION C A L E N D A R

November 6-8

Anniston’s 2020 Dixie Doubles Anniston, Ala. usashooting.org

November 7-8

November 13-15

November 4-8

November 14-15

November 6-8

November 20-22

November 6-8

November 14-15

Oregon State Championship Bend, Ore.

Glock Showdown in Savannah III Savannah, Ga. gssfonline.com

2nd Annual MRA Air Pistol Competition Woburn, Mass.

Washington State Indoor Int’l 3-P Championship Rochester, Wash.

Prescott Area 2 Championship Wilhoit, Ariz.

uspsa.org

November 8

November 7-8

HCSSC Fall PTO Kerrville, Texas

November 21-22

Team Shooting Stars PTO Carrollton, Texas

November 28

Cedar Hill Jr. Gun Club Blackfoot, Idaho

GoShoot Cup Sanford, N.C.

Area 59 Championship Rosenberg, Texas

Buckeye State Ballistic Challenge XVIII Marietta, Ohio

Duel in the Desert XIV Tucson, Ariz.

November 7

2021 Season Kickoff Versailles, Ky. cmsaevents.com

November 8

Messer Winter Series November Shoot Kiowa, Colo.

November 28-29

Helldorado Better Late than Never Tombstone, Ariz.

5th Annual Salute to Veterans Molalla, Ore.

November 6-7 idpa.com

November 14

Archangel Lone Star Championship Cresson, Texas

November 13-15

2020 Space Coast Challenge Palm Bay, Fla.

November 14-15

Zero Down at the River Bend Dawsonville, Ga.

November 22

IDPA Cedar Ridge San Antonio, Texas

Note: Due to the coronavirus outbreak, social distancing requirements that states have prescribed, and rapidly changing developments at press time, it is highly advisable to check ahead on the status of individual events via the links in the above organizers’ websites. americanshootingjournal.com 19

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

PRS RESOURCE GUIDE Pro Bolt Gun Series Nov. 14

MPA Fall Shootout

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Dec. 12

2020 PRS Pro Series Finale

Ninnekah, Oklahoma

Mar. 12

Accuracy International Long Range Classic

Baker, Florida

May 15

Parma Precision Rifle Rumble

Parma, Idaho

Note: Due to the coronavirus outbreak, social distancing requirements that states are prescribing and rapidly changing developments at press time, it is highly advisable to check ahead on the status of individual events via the link in the organizerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website below.

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PARTS, ACCESSORIES & GEAR

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PRIMER

GUNSHOW C A L E N D A R

C&E Gun Shows

cegunshows.com

Crossroads Of The West Gun Shows

crossroadsgunshows.com

Florida Gun Shows

floridagunshows.com

RK Shows rkshows.com

Real Texas Gun Shows

November 7-8

Hickory, N.C.

Hickory Metro Convention Center

November 7-8

Sharonville, Ohio

Sharonville Convention Center

November 28-29

Columbus, Ohio

Westland Mall

November 28-29

Concord, N.C.

Cabarrus Arena & Events Center

November 7-8

San Bernardino, Calif.

National Orange Show Grounds

November 14-15

Mesa, Ariz.

Centennial Hall

November 20-21

Farmington, Utah

Davis County Fairgrounds

November 21-22

Miami, Fla.

The Fair Expo Center

November 28-29

Orlando, Fla.

Central Florida Fairgrounds

November 6-8

Hallsville, Mo.

Hallsville Fairgrounds

November 7-8

Columbus, Ga.

Ironworks Convention Center

November 14-15

Jackson, Tenn.

Jackson Fairgrounds Park

November 14-15

Clarkesville, Ga.

Habersham County Fairgrounds

November 21-22

Lebanon, Mo.

Cowan Civic Center

November 21-22

Gray, Tenn.

Appalachian Fairgrounds

November 28-29

Colorado Springs, Colo.

Colorado Springs Event Center

November 28-29

Great Bend, Kan.

Great Bend Events Center

November 14-15

Belton, Texas

Bell County Expo Center

therealtexasgunshow.com

Tanner Gun Shows tannergunshow.com

Wes Knodel Gun Shows

All 2020 shows cancelled until further notice

All November shows cancelled until further notice

wesknodelgunshows.com Note: Due to the coronavirus outbreak, social distancing requirements that states prescribed, and rapidly changing developments at press time, it is highly advisable to check ahead on the status of individual gun shows via the links in the above organizersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; websites. To have your event highlighted here, send an email to kaumann@media-inc.com.

americanshootingjournal.com 23

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LEADING FROM THE FRONT ‘Rock star’ Arizona Sheriff Mark Lamb is a modern Western hero.

STORY BY PAUL PAWELA

t cannot be said enough: If ever this great country of ours needed heroes, it is now. Too many people idolize movie stars, athletes and singers, but do you want to know who the real stars of America are? You, the badass Americans, that is who! You are Godfearing, family-loving, constitutional believers with a live-free-or-die attitude and an unequivocal molon labe stance on your guns. This is what gets our juices flowing; this is our tribe! And the cream of the crop amongst the populace is our military and law enforcement personnel who protect this great country, as well as its Constitution. One of America’s brightest rock stars is Sheriff Mark Lamb of Pinal County, Arizona.

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

Mark Lamb is the elected sheriff of Pinal County, Arizona, a rugged swath of countryside that sits between the state’s largest cities, Phoenix and Tucson. SAM SALZWEDEL

americanshootingjournal.com 27

SHERIFF MARK LAMB is the real-life embodiment of Gary Cooper’s marshal character in the movie High Noon, the story of one brave man who must stand alone against several outlaws and do battle with them. Meanwhile, he is protecting a town whose people cowardly turn their backs on him when he asks for their help. Sounds exactly like what law enforcement officers are faced with each and every day in this country. Sheriff Lamb is one of those truegrit men who lead from the front, embodying the true lifestyle of the Old West sheriffs of days gone by. His uniform consists of jeans, boots, and nothing says “good guy” more than an American cowboy hat! Just thinking about that – a sheriff who has Old West standards and values – should get the blood pumping in every American reading this magazine. Lamb started his career for the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, located 15 miles northeast of Phoenix. This was far from a daily desk job; quite the opposite. It is a tough and rough job that requires an equally tough and rough person for the job. For six years, Lamb volunteered for every dirty job that came along, while smiling all the way through the dangers and hardships.

Sheriff Lamb and his second in command, Chief Deputy Matthew Thomas. According to Pinal County, they lead a department of 650 that provides an array of services for almost half a million people in this Connecticut-sized jurisdiction. (MARK LAMB)

In 2012, Lamb joined the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office. Then in 2017, with an afflatus inspiration and full support and blessings from his family, he ran for sheriff and won, becoming the 24th sheriff of Pinal County. American Shooting Journal readers may have also caught Lamb on episodes of the action-packed TV series Live PD in recent years.

Lamb on the set of Live PD: Wanted, A&E Studios. (MARK LAMB)

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

IN THE WEST, people, especially cowboys like Sheriff Lamb, live by a code. In my opinion, all Americans should adopt it. • Live each day with courage. • Take pride in your work. • Always finish what you start. • Do what has to be done. • Be tough, but fair.

• If you make a promise, keep it. • Ride for the brand. • Talk less and say more. • Remember that some things aren’t for sale. • Know where to draw the line. Ask Lamb’s staff how they feel about

him, and they will tell you the man lives and probably will die by this code. As mentioned before, Lamb leads from the front; he is not one to always sit behind a desk and be bogged down by the politics of the job. No, he can be found making routine traffic stops, Lamb and his wife Janel have been married for more than two decades. (MARK LAMB)

The Lamb family. (MARK LAMB)

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

showing up at crime scenes backing his deputies, and doing regular patrols throughout the week. In setting a high bar for himself and his department, Lamb has seen his department’s morale jump and the overall work environment improve tremendously. In addition to his work, Lamb is grounded in his faith and in his love for his family. Lamb has been married to his beautiful wife Janel for over 24 years, and the couple has five children together. This love also extends to the community that he serves. Due to his involvement in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Lamb is not quick to judge or condemn people who he says made bad judgment decisions when faced with critical and emotional struggling times. Lamb does not feel misdemeanor crimes should follow human beings for the rest of their lives. He gives his deputies the discretion power to arrest or not, especially when counseling an individual would be far more productive and helpful. WITH HEINOUS CRIMINAL felonies, such as illegal drug smuggling and human trafficking, Lamb has been one of the leaders in the country on that front. In November 2019, he called for increased security along the United States/Mexico border to combat drug cartels from harming our country’s national parks. As this article goes to print, the PCSO just busted a drug smuggler during a recent traffic stop. The officers found methamphetamine, heroin and fentanyl, taking $1.8 million worth of drugs off the American streets. As Lamb states, “These drugs represent a clear and continuing battle against the cartels and against drug addiction; without a doubt, lives were saved by stopping these drugs from being scattered across our communities.” It may be hard to imagine that this epidemic is happening 70 miles from Mexico within the borders of the United States, but this reporter experienced it firsthand on a well-

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Lamb and author Paul Pawela during a ride-along in western Pinal County’s Vekol Valley. BRIAN KOVACS Lamb holds a bale of marijuana seized by law enforcement. BRIAN KOVACS

The sheriff shows evidence of smuggling. “All throughout the desert, we found a plethora of backpacks, water bottles and medicine,” Pawela writes. BRIAN KOVACS

armed ride-along with the sheriff in the Sicario badlands. All throughout the desert, we found a plethora of backpacks, water bottles and medicine. Oftentimes cartels have their “mules” transport drugs, food and supplies in these backpacks. It was truly a heartbreaking sight 32

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

that most of America is oblivious to. As author Henry Miller succinctly put it, “Everything we shut our eyes to, everything we run away from, everything we deny, denigrate or despise, serves to defeat us in the end.” Does Sheriff Lamb wear a cape? The answer is no, but you can take to the

bank his core values: courage, honor and self-reliance. There is no question he is a modern American sheriff, rock star and hero, and America needs more men like him.  Editor’s note: Be on the lookout for Lamb’s new book, America’s Sheriff.

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American Shooting Journal // November 2020

The History Of Veterans Day Originally to honor soldiers of ‘the Great War,’ today’s federal holiday celebrates service of all military vets. STORY BY FRANK JARDIM

eterans Day, as we know it today, is celebrated each year on November 11 in honor of all American veterans for their service to the nation. It is one of only four federal holidays that always fall on a specific numerical date and, as such, it’s in the very good company of Independence Day, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Veterans Day has got some serious juice, and it should. The men and women past and present who have worn the uniform of our armed services honorably deserve recognition for it. Consider that unlike a civilian job, a person who joins the military can’t quit if the going gets rough. Our servicemen and -women may be called upon to give their lives doing their job. Regardless of their military occupational specialties, they are all part of a human organization whose mission it is to protect the American people. The significance of the date goes back 102 years. When I was young, I recall Veterans Day being widely referred to as Armistice Day. In fact, the name of the holiday was actually changed in 1954 when Dwight Eisenhower was president. Now that I am old too, I understand how after a certain age you just lose interest in renaming things and stick with what you are familiar with.

American soldiers of the 64th Regiment, part of the 7th Division, celebrate the news of World War I’s Armistice. (OPEN SOURCE)

The one and only armistice that every American born before 1960 knew was declared on November 11, 1918, ending what we now call World War I. Back then, they just called it the Great War. In four years and four months of hostilities, a staggering and unprecedented nine million combatants and six and a half million civilians died, virtually eliminating a generation of European men. America came to the fight late but with vigor and tipped the scales against Germany and her allies. In 19 months of war, approximately 4.7 million Americans put on a uniform and around 120,000 were killed. The census for the period lists the total American population as slightly over 103 million. The Great War produced more American veterans faster than any other period with the exception of World The front page of The New York Times announcing Armistice Day in 1918. (THE NEW YORK TIMES)

War II. On the first anniversary of the armistice, President Woodrow Wilson called for November 11 to become a day of national remembrance for “the heroism of those who died in the country’s service” during the Great War. By 1926, after 27 of the 48 states had made November 11 a legal holiday, Congress called for the president to commemorate it nationally every year with a proclamation. In 1938 it was made a federal holiday and officially named Armistice Day. Though Armistice Day was originally about honoring World War I veterans, it evolved into a celebration of all veterans, including those from the Civil War, American-Indian Wars, SpanishAmerican War and the Philippine Insurrection. A major shift took place after 1945 when about 16 million more veterans emerged from World War II and outnumbered the Great War vets three to one. The Korean War added another 5.7 million in 1954. In that year Armistice Day was officially changed to Veterans Day to formally acknowledge its de facto transition over the span of a quarter century. So there you have it.  americanshootingjournal.com 37

The Medal of Honor is our country’s highest military decoration and only awarded to soldiers, marines, sailors and airmen “whose bravery and valor go above and beyond.” This is the version given to US Army members.

HONORING HEROES How three of our most recent awardees earned their Medals of Honor. PHOTOS COURTESY OF CONGRESSIONAL MEDAL OF HONOR SOCIETY

n September 11, 2020, Sergeant Major Thomas P. Payne was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor – the nation’s highest military award – with President Trump calling him “one of the bravest men anywhere in the world.” Indeed, the Medal of Honor is only bestowed upon those soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen whose bravery and valor go above and beyond.

In conjunction with Veterans Day this month, we at American Shooting Journal thought it fitting to honor Payne, along with two other recent recipients of the award, by sharing their heroic stories here. THOMAS P. PAYNE • Rank: Sergeant First Class (Highest rank: Sergeant Major) • Conflict/Era: War On Terrorism (Iraq)

• Unit/Command: Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve, U.S. Army Special Operations Command • Military Service Branch: U.S. Army • Medal of Honor Award Presentation Date: September 11, 2020 On October 22, 2015, Sergeant First Class Payne led a combined assault team that was charged with clearing americanshootingjournal.com 39

Sgt. Major Thomas P. Payne

one of two buildings during a daring nighttime hostage rescue in Kirkuk Province, Iraq. His team quickly cleared the building, liberating 38 hostages, but after learning that the second rescue team needed help, Sergeant Payne jumped into action. From his citation:

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

“Sergeant Payne climbed a ladder to the building’s roof, which was partially engulfed in flames, and engaged enemy fighters below with grenades and small arms fire. He then moved back to ground level to engage the enemy forces through a breach hole in the west side of the building. Knowing time was running out for the hostages trapped inside the burning building, Sergeant Payne moved to the main entrance, where heavy enemy fire had thwarted previous attempts to enter. He knowingly risked his own life by bravely entering the building under intense enemy fire, enduring smoke, heat, and flames to identify the armored door imprisoning the hostages. “Upon exiting, Sergeant Payne exchanged his rifle for bolt cutters, and again entered the building, ignoring the enemy rounds impacting the walls around him as he cut the locks on a complex locking mechanism. His courageous actions motivated the coalition assault team members to enter the breach and assist with

cutting the locks. After exiting to catch his breath, he reentered the building to make the final lock cuts, freeing 37 hostages. Sergeant Payne then facilitated the evacuation of the hostages, even though ordered to evacuate the collapsing building himself, which was now structurally unsound due to the fire. “Sergeant Payne then reentered the burning building one last time to ensure everyone had been evacuated. He consciously exposed himself to enemy automatic gunfire each time he entered the building. His extraordinary heroism and selfless actions were key to liberating 75 hostages during a contested rescue mission that resulted in 20 enemies killed in action.” MATTHEW O. WILLIAMS • Rank: Sergeant (Highest Rank: Sergeant Major) • Conflict/Era: War On Terrorism (Afghanistan) • Unit/Command: Operational Detachment Alpha 3336, Company

americanshootingjournal.com 41

C, 3rd Battalion, Special Operations Task Force-33, Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force – Afghanistan • Military Service Branch: U.S. Army • Medal of Honor Award Presentation Date: October 30, 2019 On April 6, 2008, Sergeant Williams was part of an assault element inserted by helicopter into a location in Afghanistan. As the team was moving up a mountain, it was engaged by intense enemy fire and the lead portion of the squad, which included the ground commander, sustained several casualties and was in danger of being overrun. Braving enemy fire, Sergeant Williams led a counterattack across a valley of ice-covered boulders and a fast-moving river. From his citation: “Arriving at the lead element’s position, Sergeant Williams arrayed his Afghan commandos to provide suppressive fire, which kept the insurgent fighters from overrunning the position. When the team sergeant was wounded, Sergeant

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

Sgt. Major Matthew O. Williams

Williams braved enemy fire once again to provide buddy aid and to move the team sergeant down the sheer mountainside to the casualty collection point. Sergeant Williams then fought and climbed his way back up the mountainside to help defend the lead assault element that still had

several serious casualties in need of evacuation. “Sergeant Williams directed suppressive fire and exposed himself to enemy fire in order to reestablish the team’s critical satellite radio communications. He then assisted with moving the wounded down the near-vertical mountainside to the casualty collection point. Noting that the collection point was about to be overrun by enemy fighters, Sergeant Williams led the Afghan commandos in a counterattack that lasted for several hours. “When helicopters arrived to evacuate the wounded, Sergeant Williams again exposed himself to enemy fire, carrying and loading casualties onto the helicopters while continuing to direct commando firepower to suppress numerous insurgent positions. His actions enabled the patrol to evacuate wounded and dead comrades without further casualties. Sergeant Williams’ complete disregard for his own safety and his concern for the safety of his

Sergeant Atkins maintained his hold on the insurgent, placing his body on top of him, further sheltering his patrol. With Staff Sergeant Atkins on top of him, the insurgent detonated a bomb strapped to his body, killing Staff Sergeant Atkins. Staff Sergeant Atkins acted with complete disregard for his own safety. In this critical and selfless act of valor, Staff Sergeant Atkins saved the lives of the three other soldiers who were with him and gallantly gave his life for his country.” Staff Sergeant Atkins’ award was given posthumously to his son, Trevor, at a presentation at the White House.

teammates ensured the survival of four critically wounded soldiers and prevented the lead element of the assault force from being overrun by the enemy.” TRAVIS W. ATKINS • Rank: Staff Sergeant • Conflict/Era: War On Terrorism (Iraq) • Unit/Command: 2d Platoon, Delta Company, 2d Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2d Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division • Military Service Branch: U.S. Army • Medal of Honor Award Presentation Date: March 27, 2019 On June 1, 2007, while manning a static observation post in the town of Abu Samak, Iraq, Staff Sergeant Atkins was notified that four suspicious individuals, walking in pairs, were in the area. When one of the individuals began behaving erratically, Staff Sergeant Atkins approached to conduct a search. Both individuals responded belligerently toward Staff Sergeant Atkins, and a

Staff Sgt. Travis W. Atkins

fistfight ensued. From his citation: “When he noticed the insurgent was reaching for something under his clothes, Staff Sergeant Atkins immediately wrapped him in a bear hug and threw him to the ground, away from his fellow soldiers. Staff

THESE THREE SOLDIERS are true American heroes, exhibiting bravery, honor and valor of the highest order. American Shooting Journal would like to thank them, and all military veterans, for their service and sacrifice.  Editor’s note: Citations were excerpted from the Congressional Medal of Honor Society website (cmohs.org).

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‘TAPS’ It’s just 24 notes, but the bugle call has a deep, rich history. STORY BY DANIELLE BRETEAU

he story and origin of the bugle call known as “Taps” can be found in many versions, including the legend of a son fighting on the opposing side of the Civil War from his father. This legend depicts a Northern boy who was killed fighting for the Confederates. His father, Robert Ellicombe, a captain in the Union Army, came upon his son’s body and found the notes to “Taps” in the pocket of the dead boy’s uniform. When Union General Daniel Sickles heard the story, he had the notes played at the boy’s funeral. While this very short version of the legend is deeply meaningful to anyone who reads it, historical documents show us another story. According to tactics manuals of the time, as well as letters on record, “Taps” was a modified version of a previously known Scottish “tattoo.” The term tattoo was originally a form of military music. The tattoo titled “Extinguish Lights,” meaning lights out at the end of the day, was played each night for the troops even before the Civil War and was borrowed

from the French. This is documented in Silas Casey’s (1801-82) tactics manual, among others of the time. The song was even referred to as the “go to sleep” song by the soldiers. To look back even further into history you will find that the word tattoo was most likely derived from an early 17th century Dutch phrase “doe den tap toe,” meaning, “turn off the tap.” This signal, sounded by drummers or trumpeters, instructed innkeepers near military garrisons to stop serving beer and for soldiers to return to their barracks. Union General Daniel Butterfield (Third Brigade, First Division, Fifth Army Corps, Army of the Potomac) is credited with writing “Taps” as we know it today, and according to a series of letters, “Taps” was a modified version of this previously known and used tattoo. One of the letters on record depicts how General Butterfield used his version in battle: “I had composed a call for my brigade, to precede any calls, indicating that such were calls, or orders, for my

Day is done, gone the sun, From the hills, from the lake, From the sky. All is well, safely rest, God is nigh.

Fades the light; And afar Goeth day, and the stars Shineth bright, Fare thee well; day has gone, Night is on.

Go to sleep, peaceful sleep, May the soldier or sailor, God keep. On the land or the deep, Safe in sleep.

Thanks and praise, For our days, ’Neath the sun, neath the stars, ’Neath the sky, As we go, this we know, God is nigh.

Love, good night, Must thou go, When the day, and the night Need thee so? All is well. Speedeth all To their rest.

americanshootingjournal.com 47

brigade alone. This was of very great use and effect on the march and in battle. It enabled me to cause my whole command, at times, in march, covering over a mile on the road, all to halt instantly, and lie down, and all arise and start at the same moment; to forward in line of battle, simultaneously, in action and charge etc. It saves fatigue. The men rather liked their call, and began to sing my name to it. It was three notes and a catch. I cannot write a note of music, but have gotten my wife to write it from my whistling it to her, and enclose it. The men would sing, ‘Dan,

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

Dan, Dan, Butterfield, Butterfield’ to the notes when a call came. Later, in battle, or in some trying circumstances or an advance of difficulties, they sometimes sang, ‘Damn, Damn, Damn, Butterfield, Butterfield.’” If you read further, General Butterfield mentions he solicited the help of someone who could actually write music, although he could also play the bugle, as that was an important duty of his position. Butterfield lengthened some notes and shortened others until he achieved the sound that he felt was appropriate. It is said that buglers from surrounding

camps, after hearing Butterfield’s bugle calls, would come and ask for the tune, which he freely shared.  Author’s note: There are many thoughts on the origin of “Taps.” I would like to thank Jari A. Villanueva, who is a bugler and bugle historian. A graduate of the Peabody Conservatory and Kent State University, Villanueva was the curator for the Taps Bugle Exhibit at Arlington National Cemetery from 1999-2002. He has been a member of the United States Air Force Band since 1985 and is considered the country’s foremost authority on the bugle call of “Taps.”

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ROAD HUNTER

DEER ALL DAY! November’s rut offers great hunting – here are the keys to success for tagging a whitetail, blacktail or mule deer buck. STORY AND PHOTOS BY SCOTT HAUGEN

ovember marks some of the best deer hunting in the country, especially throughout the West. Understanding why the hunting can be so good, and being prepared to stay afield from daylight to dark, is key to success, no matter what state you’re hunting in or what species you’re targeting. OWN THE PRE-RUT Be it blacktails, whitetails or mule deer, the pre-rut is considered that time in early November when an increasing number of bucks become visible. The pre-rut is not to be confused with the peak of the rut, when actual breeding takes place. What makes the pre-rut so special is the fact that bucks are on the move, learning which does are in the area and what bucks they will be competing with for breeding rights. To size up the breeding potential and competition, bucks have to cover ground, and as a result, they become more visible. Trail cameras reveal a lot about buck movement, especially ones that remain nocturnal. There’s nothing more humbling than dismissing an area as being void of bucks, only to hang trail cameras and discover how

In November, timing your hunting approach to coincide with specific deer behaviors is vital to filling a tag. Here, author Scott Haugen captured one of the biggest Columbia blacktails ever photographed as it chased a doe and paused to lip curl. americanshootingjournal.com 53

ROAD HUNTER

Rattling can be very effective during the month of November, no matter where your deer hunting adventures take you.

many are actually there. If you want to learn what bucks are in an area, hang trail cameras in the pre-rut. During the pre-rut, hunters usually devote the first and last few hours of the day to being afield. But in the prerut, heightened levels of testosterone in a buck force it to be more active, meaning the buck can be anywhere at any time. Whether hunting with rifle, bow or muzzleloader, early November is the time to dedicate yourself to being afield all day long, no matter where you’re hunting out West. This is because bucks are cruising, covering more ground now than during the peak of the rut, when their movements become more isolated around known doe populations. 54

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

Seeking out does, covering travel corridors between drainages, glassing flats and horizontal ridgelines, and paying attention to sign are all key to filling a buck tag in the pre-rut. Watch for rubs and scrapes and spend time locating does. If does are around, bucks won’t be far. The pre-rut is a good time to cover ground, searching for bucks on the move. Calling and rattling can be productive, as the urge for bucks to prove their dominance is beginning to grow. Glassing – covering ground with your eyes, not your feet – is also efficient and productive. HUNTING THE RUT Generally, the peak of the deer rut out West is considered to be around

November 10. But don’t limit yourself to thinking the date is set in stone. Over the decades, I’ve personally observed does being bred in midOctober and early December, and every week in between. I believe the deer rut out West – especially for less visible blacktails and whitetails – isn’t as well understood as we might think. Does usually enter a period of estrus once every 28 days, and will be in heat for about 24 hours. If missed being bred, they’ll enter another cycle. Because deer are not herd animals, their breeding doesn’t seem to follow tight timelines. This means the actual breeding can take place anytime from late October into December. When hunting areas during the

ROAD HUNTER peak of the rut, stay out all day, no matter what the conditions. Bucks can be active all day during the rut and you don’t want to miss an opportunity. The bucks are seeking that short, prime window of breeding opportunity, and with competition mounting to breed a single doe, multiple bucks can converge in one spot. One thing I’ve personally observed is when the peak of the rut commences, buck movement isn’t what it was during the pre-rut. Again, pre-rut is a time for bucks to learn what does and bucks are out there, and this requires covering ground; peak rut is a time to breed, and these acts occur in specific places. This means bucks will hang tighter to does, often not covering as much ground as during pre-rut. This is why it’s important to know where pockets of does are and concentrate Deer hunting out West can find hunters in a range of terrain, facing storms and sub-zero temperatures. Be prepared to hunt all day, like the author did in South Dakota, and the chance of punching a tag increases.

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

hunting efforts around them. Rattling and calling can be effective during the peak of the rut, especially when it comes to targeting big bucks. While I’ve had better success rattling and calling during the pre- and postrut timeframes, peak rut rattling has produced fewer, yet bigger bucks. Set up on the fringes of known doe populations and along trails, as these are good places to rattle and call from during the peak of the rut. Muleys can be called in, too, but often the sequence has to start closer to them than it does with whitetails and blacktails. POST-RUT HUNTS By the third week in November, the peak of the rut is generally winding down throughout the West. However, the last week of November is a favorite time of many serious hunters to fill

buck tags. At this time, the biggest of bucks typically go into seclusion, licking wounds they suffered during fights in the peak of the rut. With winter in full swing, I’m convinced the majority of older, wiser bucks shift their focus to recovering from the rut and putting on weight, not breeding. This means they retreat to core areas or wintering grounds, where movement is limited. What this equates to for other bucks is an opportunity to breed does coming into a late-season estrus cycle. Because big, dominant bucks are largely out of the picture, the second rut in late November and early December is prime time to score on aggressive, younger bucks. Don’t get me wrong, there are still some monster bucks taken in late November, but the ratio of giant bucks to average bucks is

ROAD HUNTER typically lower than in mid-November. During the post-rut period, younger bucks – four to six years of age – are in better physical condition to cover ground than older bucks, so they continue fighting and breeding. This means they can be aggressive and go back to searching out receptive does, much like they did in the pre-rut. Of all the rut timeframes, I’ve rattled in, called and taken more mature bucks during the last 10 days of November

than any other time in the month. This is a good time to be aggressive as a hunter – glassing, covering ground, calling and rattling all day long. Decoys can also be beneficial here. Because bucks are focused on finding the select few does that enter into a late estrus cycle, they cover ground. They don’t stick with a pod of does, like during the peak of the rut, waiting for them to come into heat. Instead, they track does and detect November marks a time of increased buck movement, meaning hunters who are willing to stay afield all day gain an advantage. Here, the author’s wife, Tiffany Haugen, packs out a late-season muley she took in eastern Washington.

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

their hormone levels. If she’s in heat, they’ll breed; if not, the buck moves on. Hunters willing to do the same – be active and aggressive – will increase their shot opportunities. GO IN PREPARED The biggest key to taking mature bucks in November is being afield all day, no matter what the conditions. Whether hunting amid driving rains in the Pacific Northwest for blacktails, high elevations in sub-zero temperatures for whitetails or facing snow and incessant winds for mule deer, being prepared to safely and comfortably be afield all day is important. Start with water and food. Though it’s cold, dehydration can be a setback suffered by late-season hunters. Put your water in a backpack filtration system with a drinking straw and you’ll be surprised at how much water you drink on cold days. If it’s extremely cold, pack the filled bladder around some clothes; between the added warmth and continued movement, the water will not freeze. Be sure to take enough food and high-energy snacks, too. These are the shortest daylight hours of the year to hunt, so don’t leave the hunting grounds to get a hot meal. Being comfortable is a must in order to keep hunting all day. In addition to a small first aid kit, flashlights and a space blanket, dress accordingly. To determine what clothes to wear, thoroughly research the area and monitor weather conditions you’ll be hunting in. Early in November, temperatures can vary, meaning you may dress for 40 degrees one day and 0 degrees the next. If actively covering ground, dressing in layers is key. If sitting in a stand, dressing warm from head to toe is important. Know that rain gear not only keeps you dry, but is a good insulator. By midmonth, cold temperatures are the norm, and serious storms can kick up. For these conditions, heated clothes are a good investment, especially if hunting stationary from a blind or stand.

ROAD HUNTER If hunting from a ground blind, try carpeting the floor. Not only will this keep the blind quiet, but it will help insulate it. Put a little heater in the blind and you’ll be hunting in comfort all day long. As for guns on cold-weather hunts, tape the end of the barrel when in heavy rains and snow. Use hard scope covers rather than neoprene ones that can cause fogging, and consider graphite lubricant over liquid-based ones in extreme cold conditions. All that’s left to fill that prized deer tag this season is to get afield and be willing to hunt from daylight to dark. The rest will take care of itself. 

November marks the end of the deer pre-rut, the beginning of the peak rut, as well as the post-rut, out West. Hunters who are aware of buck behavior and movement during these periods will increase their chances of success, like Haugen did for this Wyoming whitetail.

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American Shooting Journal // November 2020

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Deer are the most pursued game animal in the United States, and of the three major species, whitetails easily have the widest range, stretching from Florida to Maine to well into the Rockies and beyond.

THE 5 BEST STATES TO HUNT WHITETAIL DEER Want to bag a buck? Head to the South and Midwest, where the huntin's good for America's deer. STORY BY CHRIS RICE â&#x20AC;˘ PHOTOS BY SHUTTERSTOCK

he deer hunting sector has been changing over the last few years, with new entrants moving into the top positions as far as the number and quality of whitetail hunting is concerned. Judging which states are working hardest to produce a high number of deer for hunting can be difficult, but there have been many changes to the states that sit at the top of the list in the last few years. The best states for deer hunting are spread through the eastern half of the nation and take in areas from Kentucky to Texas and east into Georgia.

TEXAS The state of Texas has been growing in whitetail deer hunting importance for the last decade or so. The Lone Star State has seen impressive gundeer harvests for the last few years, with 2018 and 2019 being more than 800,000, with the success rate climbing. The rise in the number of bucks harvested over the last decade has been moving hugely, from just over 300,000 to 800,000 by 2018, with the majority of these being mature deer over three years of age. There is plenty of public hunting available, with an estimated 1.6

million acres of state and federal land across Texas. GEORGIA Back in 2017, Georgia was sitting in 10th place on the list of the top ten best whitetail deer hunting states. But Georgia has risen to the number two spot on the list with the consistency the state has shown over the last five years, with a whitetail deer hunting harvest of over 350,000 in 2019. The state has become one of the most consistent buck producers, with hunters in the state reporting a success rate close to 60 percent. americanshootingjournal.com 65

MICHIGAN The Midwest has been changing the way it regulates hunting, with Michigan now at risk of falling way down the list of whitetail deer hunting states. While still ranked in the top echelon of deer hunting regions, the state recently outlawed baiting and feeding. Still, the harvest sits above the 300,000 mark to keep the state rising in the annual lists of best whitetail deer hunting states. KENTUCKY Much like South Carolina and Georgia, Kentucky has been a wellkept secret in terms of whitetail deer hunting. The state has always had a strong reputation amongst its residents regarding the quality of its hunting, but few outside the state knew of its potential as a deer destination. Hunting is a popular

A wide-basketed whitetail buck looks out from a forested copse. Novemberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rut makes hunting the species all the better.

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

sport in the state, but the number of hunters has been so low that the only halt called on the long season is the number of tags an individual can afford to purchase. MISSOURI Another state that may not have the history of success when it comes to whitetail deer hunting, but the vast amount of public land available and the low number of hunters makes this a top destination for deer hunters. The five-year average harvest to 2018 in Missouri was an amazing 274,000, with just over eight hunters per square mile. The pressure on the herd in Missouri is not high, with just over one-third of all harvested deer aged 3.5 or older. This shows the state is moving in the right direction to become a longterm favorite for hunters.

BEST OF THE REST Outside of those five, some of the most popular states for whitetail deer hunting lie in the Midwest and Southeast. South Carolina is continuing to rise in the charts, despite its herd not being as well structured as in Georgia, with fewer deer aged 3.5 and older. Another state that could feature heavily in the coming years is Iowa, which has always been known as a state with giant bucks on offer. However, the many restrictions that have been placed on out-of-state hunters means the state remains a mystery to many who would love to pursue whitetail there. ď&#x201A;Ť Chris Rice is the content editor of Hunting Locator, one of the USA's most reputable sources for finding deer and other game hunting opportunities.

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Match bullets are essential for precision shooting. Pictured left to right: Berger AR Hybrid OTM Tactical, Sierra MatchKing, Hornady A-Tip, Cutting Edge MTH and Sierra MatchKing (flat base).

MATCHING UP TO THE CHALLENGE With long-range target shooting growing in popularity, ammo makers are meeting the bullet needs of competitive shooters, helping extend their accuracy to new distances. STORY BY PHIL MASSARO • PHOTOS BY MASSARO MEDIA GROUP

ying prone on a shooting mat in the midday heat of August in Texas, I was having a hard time with the mirage. The 1,500-yard target – located diagonally across the canyon – was swimming in the heat waves, which were, to my consternation, moving inconsistently. Using the adjustable

objective to best ascertain the various winds, I dialed the necessary elevation adjustment, held three minutes left on the horizontal hair, and broke the trigger of the 6.5-284. The 143-grain Hornady ELD Match ripped the air and caught the left third of the target, admittedly to my surprise. The rising popularity of long-range

target shooting – as well as extreme long-range target shooting, like the King of Two Miles competition – has led to the rise of new, and rather impressive, target bullets. Mated with some of the new cartridge designs, shooters are regularly hitting targets at distances considered extraordinary just a decade or two ago. americanshootingjournal.com 71

BULLET BULLETIN What exactly constitutes a match bullet? Well, generally speaking, the focus of a match bullet is simply reaching the target, whether that may be a piece of paper or a steel target, in the most accurate manner possible, ignoring any of the aspects of terminal performance. They can be of cup-and-core construction, using a lead core and copper jacket, or of monometal construction. They might feature a hollowpoint with an opening of varying size, a polymer tip or – in some instances – a metal tip. Aside from the rare instance, the match bullet will wear a boattail, though the angle of the boattail will vary. And the match bullet is available in calibers from as small as the .17 centerfires, all the way up to John Browning’s .50 BMG. The key attribute of the match bullet is consistency, in both dimension and weight. Consistency is one of the most important factors in the accuracy equation, and having a bullet with voids in the lead core, or with a jacket with poor concentricity, will not give the results target shooters need. One of author Phil Massaro’s favorites: the Hornady 140-grain ELD Match handloaded in the 6.5-284 Norma, over a charge of Hodgdon H4831.

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

The classic 168-grain Sierra MatchKing loaded in the .308 Winchester in Federal’s Gold Medal match ammunition.

THE BENCHMARK IN the match bullet world remains the Sierra MatchKing, though there are contenders to that crown. The MatchKing comes in all sorts of shapes and sizes, and remains available in the classic hollowpoint iteration, as well as in the form of the Tipped MatchKing, having adapted to the changing times. Sierra developed its reputation on the consistency of their bullets, both in their ProHunter and GameKing hunting bullet lines, and in the fantastic accuracy of the MatchKing line. The famous Sierra No. 2200 – the 168-grain .30-caliber hollowpoint boattail – mates up with the .308 Winchester case like peanut butter and jelly, and still makes a wise choice for the competitive shooter who enjoys that case. While it may not be advised by the company, I have long used the 53-grain .22-caliber MatchKing in

BULLET BULLETIN my .22-250 Remington as a varmint/ predator hunting bullet; it absolutely flattens woodchucks, yet handles coyotes and foxes very well. Even in the sporter-weight barrel of my Ruger Model 77 MKII, the Sierra 53-grain MatchKing prints three-shot groups between ¼- and ½-MOA, at nearly 3,700 feet per second. On the other end of the spectrum, Norma loads its fantastic .300 Norma Magnum with the 240-grain Sierra MatchKing, though that bullet has sadly been discontinued. The 230-grain MatchKing, with its 27-caliber ogive (meaning the curved nose section of the bullet is based on a circle with a radius 27 times the bullet’s diameter) and G1 ballistic coefficient of .800, will make a suitable replacement. Sierra also offers their bullet jackets in .224-inch, 6mm and .308-inch diameters for those who wish to create their own bullet designs. Sierra has also embraced the polymer tip in their Tipped MatchKing line, which uses a green acetal resin tip in place of the standard hollowpoint to maintain a consistent BC figure, and

Many shooters have been introduced to the precision shooting world through the 6.5 Creedmoor and 140-grain ELD Match load.

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

The Sierra MatchKing remains the benchmark in the target world, and for good reason: they work wonderfully.

shares the same fantastic accuracy potential that the standard design has. I’ve found the 168-grain Tipped MatchKing to be as good, and better

in some instances, as the standard MatchKing. BERGER BULLETS ALSO has some fantastic choices for the target shooter, using their proprietary J4 bullet jackets with a number of designs that will get the job done, and done well. Their VLD Target bullets have long been a friend of long-range shooters, with their heavy-for-caliber bullet weights and secant ogive designs resulting in high ballistic coefficients. I’ve always found that the Berger Hybrid series, which uses a blend of tangent and secant ogives, was a very intriguing design, as it blends the best characteristics of both curves to achieve optimum results. Without putting you to sleep with algebraic formulae, the standard G1 bullet model uses a tangent curve (a trigonometric function) for the ogive, while the G7 model uses a flatter tangent function for its curve, and the (rarely used) G8 model uses a secant curve. Put simply into a real-world explanation, the tangent ogive bullets handle the violent jump into the lands and grooves

americanshootingjournal.com 75

BULLET BULLETIN Hornady’s A-Tip match bullet features a machined aluminum tip to give an ultra-consistent meplat.

of the rifling very well, yet aren’t the best design to handle atmospheric drag. The secant ogive bullets are wonderfully resistant to atmospheric drag, yet don’t handle that jump into the lands very well. Berger has blended the two designs, using the tangent curve for that small portion above the shank of the bullet that first meets the lands, working into the secant curve for the remainder of the ogive. This is the brainchild of Berger’s head ballistician Bryan Litz, and this is a very good bullet. They are also available in the Long Range Hybrid Target variant, heavy-forcaliber and suitable for the long haul. HORNADY HAS, IN the last decade, come up with a pair of revolutionary match

Hornady packages their A-Tip sequentially, directly off the machine; they still have the machine oil and need to be cleaned before being handloaded.

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

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BULLET BULLETIN bullets, both of which have been wonderful to me. Building on the polymer tip technology, Hornady developed the ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match when their Doppler radar testing indicated that the polymer they’d been using in previous designs was actually melting in flight from the heat of the atmospheric drag, and drastically reducing BC values.

To combat this, Hornady engineers developed a new polymer for the tips, resulting in the Heat Shield tip. This, combined with their proprietary AMP bullet jackets, results in a great design, one that works wonderfully in a number of my rifles. In my Savage Custom Shop 6.5-284 Norma, it will print 1/3-MOA out to 500 yards, and it was that bullet that I handloaded

Massaro used the 135-grain Hornady A-Tips to good effect in the 6.5 Creedmoor at the Leupold Optics Academy.

to bring down to the SAAM Shooting School at the FTW Ranch in Texas, as it has a very similar point of impact to the Hornady ELD X hunting bullet. The 140-grain ELD Match 6.5 Creedmoor is an extremely popular choice, and has brought many new shooters to the range. Most recently, Hornady brought their A-Tip Match to the market; it shares the same AMP jacket as the ELD Match, but uses a machined aluminum tip – longer than most polymer tips – to achieve both a high BC value and a near-seamless tip-to-jacket transition. That tip, coupled with a sleek boattail, results in a bullet that gives a flat Berger match bullets were once loaded in ABM ammunition; the combination was wonderfully accurate.

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

BULLET BULLETIN

The 130-grain Berger AR Hybrid OTM bullet features the famous J4 jacket, which has earned a great reputation for concentricity and accuracy.

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

trajectory and resists the effects of wind deflection wonderfully. I had the opportunity to give the A-Tip Match a thorough workout at the Leupold Optics Academy last year, as we engaged targets out to a mile with the 6.5 Creedmoor and handloaded 135-grain Hornady A-Tip Match bullets. The high desert of eastern Oregon can make for some challenging shooting, as the winds are constantly blowing and ever-shifting. The A-Tip Match was a very good choice in those conditions, and we were all consistently ringing steel out to 1,500 yards. The Hornady A-Tip Match is only available as a component bullet, so they must be handloaded. They are loaded into the packaging exactly as they come off the press, in sequential order. In fact, they are so fresh that the machine oil is still on the bullets, and Hornady provides a polishing bag to clean the bullets before you load them.

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BULLET BULLETIN

The 77-grain 6mm Cutting Edge MTH all-copper hollowpoints are equally at home in the hunting fields as they are on the target range.

The Cutting Edge 6.5mm 130-grain MTH bullets are all-copper, and are turned on a lathe.

The Cutting Edge Single-Feed Lazer uses a polymer tip and steep boattail; note the Seal Tite driving band used to seal the gases behind the bullet.

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

MEANWHILE, CUTTING EDGE Bullets from Pennsylvania makes some latheturned all-copper hollowpoint boattail match bullets that have earned a good reputation among long-range shooters and competitors. Their MTH (Match/Target/Hunting) bullets and their single-feed Lazer bullets – longer than normal, which preclude use in the magazine, hence the single-feed moniker – use their proprietary Seal Tite band to seal the gases behind the bullet, both reducing fouling and maximizing velocity. They’ve proven to be very accurate, and have become the choice of championship winners. Federal loads both the Sierra and Berger bullets in the ammunition line, and Hornady loads the ELD Match in their factory ammo. But many target shooters handload their own ammunition, so all of these bullets are available in component form. Grab a good set of reloading dies – I like the Redding Competition dies with the micrometer seating adjustment – and a good VLD bullet seating stem, and try some of these bullets in your rifle to see what kind of accuracy you can achieve. 

americanshootingjournal.com 83

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BLACK POWDER

THE REPORT FROM 'BUFFALO CAMP' Among the replica firearms used during author Mike Nesbitt and fellow black powder cartridge shooters’ “Buffalo Camp” competition is this ’74 Hartford model in .44-70 by C. Sharps Arms.

Shooters bring out their black powder cartridge rifles, camp guns and revolvers for fun competition. STORY AND PHOTOS BY MIKE NESBITT

nother Buffalo Camp is in the books and can now be reported on. This is the doin’s where “buffalo hunters and skinners” gather for some good black powder cartridge shooting, competing for prizes much like muzzleloading buckskinners do at rendezvous. Buffalo rifles are used in the Little Quigley Match and “camp guns” are then used on the Meat Hunt, which uses silhouettes and gongs in the shapes of animals at varying distances. I’ll make this report in first person because I do have a tale to tell. I got the best scores I’ve ever shot at one of these gatherings and, at the same time, I also got my worst scores. How did I manage a victory and defeat at the same time? Read on. WHILE OUR NUMBER of shooters did not climb as much as hoped or expected, perhaps because of the “dem-panic,” we did welcome some new shooters. One of them was Tom Brown, who also helped put this doin’s together and handled shooter registrations. Tom

used my .44-70 Sharps during the Little Quigley Match, and then did much better using his own Winchester ’73 in .44-40 on the Meat Hunt. The Little Quigley Match is our buffalo rifle event. For this doin’s we shoot at steel targets, much like those used at the Quigley Buffalo Rifle Match held in spring just outside of Forsyth, Montana. However, we shoot at reduced-size targets that are posted at shorter ranges. This year we started with the bucket target, offhand at 100 yards. Then we went to the buffalo, the octagon and the circle, all out at 200 yards and shot at from the sitting position while resting those heavy rifles over cross-sticks. Twenty shots are fired by each shooter to complete the match, and we enjoy shooting in two relays so no shooter has to wait too long before getting some shots downrange. My shooting partner was Jerry Mayo again and he spotted my shots. Then I spotted for both Jerry and Tom Brown while they were shooting. The top score this year was shot by Bob DeLisle, who was using his Pedersoli 1874 Sharps in .45-70 caliber, lobbing 500-grain paper-

patched bullets downrange with enough precision to claim 15 hits. No one has ever made every shot count in our Little Quigley Match and the record so far was shot last year by Jerry Mayo, getting 17 hits. Me? My shooting was not very good, even though I was shooting with “Hannah,” my heavy .44-77 that has done so well at the previous Buffalo Camps. I got only seven hits. But my bragging gets better as we continue in this story. THE NEXT SHOOTING event at our Buffalo Camp is the Meat Hunt, which is shot on the Puget Sound Free Trappers’ trail-walk, with camp guns. The targets are animal-shaped hanging silhouettes that vary quite a bit in size and distance. We try to make this “hunt” as varied as a real hunt might be. All cartridges for the Meat Hunt must be loaded with black powder and the distances of the targets reflect varying hunting conditions, from 15 to 80 yards. The Meat Hunt requires 16 shots, one each at the 15 targets and one more at a tiebreaker. This year I won the Meat Hunt, which was something americanshootingjournal.com 87

BLACK POWDER Shooting at the small 200-yard target, Tom Brown fires a shot during the Little Quigley Match.

new for me, by getting 13 hits on those 15 targets with my 30-inchbarreled ’73 by Uberti in .44-40, shooting 205-grain bullets over 34.0 grains of Olde Eynsford 2F. Shooting the Meat Hunt is a lot of fun, and even though most of us are using repeating rifles, such as the copies of the Winchester ’66 or ’73, we carry those rifles empty and with the actions open. The general safety rule when shooting the trail with muzzleloaders is that the guns are not primed until the shooter is at the shooting station. To follow that rule with cartridge guns, we simply do not insert a cartridge into the rifle’s chamber until we are at the shooting station. That’s an easy rule to follow; when your group gets to the next target, each shooter waits for their turn, then they step up to the firing 88

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

line to chamber a cartridge and take the shot. We can’t think of a safer way to do it. Following the Meat Hunt, we have a black powder Revolver Match with another 10 shots on the trail. Revolvers also need to fire black powder loads or be percussion revolvers (single-shot muzzleloading pistols are certainly acceptable). The pistol targets are a real mixture in shape and size, including one shot at a “bear” at least 70 yards away. The revolver match is not part of the aggregate. With safety in mind, when shooting a revolver, either cartridge or cap and ball, we follow the same rules as when using a percussion revolver. That is, load and prime all chambers at the first shooting station. Then take the first shot. After taking that shot, return the loaded gun to the holster without

moving the hammer. That leaves the hammer “down” on an empty chamber. Safety is certainly a priority. Let me brag just a little again; I won the Revolver Match and beat my old score by one more hit. I got 8 out of 10 targets this year and I finally did hit the chicken at the end of the trail. That bird had “gotten away” from me both times at our previous Buffalo Camps. My load in the Starline .44 Colt cases uses 21 grains of Olde Eynsford 2F powder underneath Accurate Molds’ No. 43-220NR. PRIZES FOR THE event were obtained from a variety of donors. Donations came from: C. Sharps Arms, The Single Shot Exchange, Big Sky Lube, SPG Sales, Bear River Powder Company, Wolfe Publishing Company, October Country, Capitol City Rifle &

• October Country bought Doc. James Davis’s Collection of black powder revolvers from Claremore, Oklahoma. All revolvers are unfired and most come with original box. Doctor James had an extensive collection of reproduction revolvers (Pietta, Uberti, A. Sam Marco, Witloe etc.) Visit www.octobercountry.com to see this collection. • Many of the revolvers come with accessory kits and display cases. A lot of the revolvers have low serial numbers, consecutive matching serial numbers and some are one of a kind rare collectibles. • October Country is one of the leading manufacturers of muzzleloading suppliers in the United States. We have a little something for everyone at discount prices.

We at October Country are thankful to our Loyal Customers for the last 42 years. We are looking forward to continuing to provide our quality products to our distributors and valued customers.

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BLACK POWDER Bob DeLisle cleans his .45-70 after winning the Little Quigley Buffalo Rifle Match.

Pistol Club, Tommymaker, Jeff Ritter, Wes Davis and myself. They simply can’t be thanked enough. For the Little Quigley Buffalo Rifle Match, offering a possible 200 points, the winners were: 1) Bob DeLisle (top Sharps shooter with 150 points), 2) Allen Cunniff (130 points), and 3) Jeff Ritter (also 130 points with his new Bridgeport Model in .45-90). For the Meat Hunt, with 150 points possible, the winners were: 1) Mike Nesbitt (130 points), 2) Tim Sampson (120

points), and 3) DeWayne Pritchett (also 120 points). For the Black Powder Revolver Match, with 100 points possible, the winners were: 1) Mike Nesbitt (80 points), 2) Will Ulry (70 points, shooting a genuine Colt SAA in .44-40), and 3) Wes Davis (40 points, shooting a .45 Colt). Aggregate scores combining the Little Quigley silhouettes and Meat Hunt (possible 350 points) were: 1) Bob DeLisle (260 points), 2) Jerry Mayo (230 points), 3) Mike Nesbitt (200

points), 4) Phil Wiebe (170 points), 5) Allen Cunniff (160 points), 6) Will Ulry (150 points), 7) “Loco” Jeff Ritter (150 points), 8) Tom Brown (140 points), and 9) Wes Davis (140 points). In review of such doin’s, we had a lot of fun doing a wide variety of shooting with our black powder cartridge guns, both rifles and revolvers, and we gained a number of shooters too. Several of those new shooters entered the Meat Hunt as a single event, but maybe next year

Nesbitt’s ’73 rifle with a 30-inch barrel in .44-40 caliber.

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

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BLACK POWDER they’ll be shooting Sharps or similar rifles in the Little Quigley Match. Tom Brown did an excellent job handling registrations and he will be running the whole show for next year’s event. We’ll set a date for that at the next planning meeting, but several of us hope to schedule the next Buffalo Camp in May 2021, to be held at the Capitol City Rifle & Pistol Club near Olympia, Washington. For info, check the calendar at ccrpclub.org. The next Buffalo Camp is something to look forward to. Try to join us for some good doin’s! 

Using a two-handed hold, the author fires his .44 Colt on the Black Powder Revolver Match trail. Nesbitt was happy to hit the final target, a “chicken” that had “gotten away” from him in the past, as well as win the competition.

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COMPANY SPOTLIGHT

MINIMALIST CARRY, MADE EASY Clipdraw a good fit for concealing your handgun. PHOTOS BY CLIPDRAW

lipdraw truly embodies the spirit of the American dream: a successful familyrun business built upon ingenuity and hard work, and that 25 years later continues to expand its offerings of US-made, warranty-backed products to fill their customers’ needs. It all started back in 1995, when family patriarch John Rugh, frustrated with the available concealed-carry products on the market, took matters into his own hands. Clipdraw – a repositionable clip that you can attach directly to your belt or inside a pocket – was invented as an easier, more comfortable alternative to inside-thewaistband holsters. “One of the biggest complaints about a traditional IWB holster is that you cannot find a comfortable way to wear one!” says Chris Rugh, John’s son and now the company’s owner/operator. “With the Clipdraw, you completely

eliminate all the cumbersome bulkiness associated with a traditional holster. By cutting down the bulk and weight of your carry, you can wear whatever clothes you’d like, with or without a belt – with no ‘printing’ of the gun through your clothes.” Rugh adds, “Our products are popular with LEOs, military and licensed citizens. Women especially have been a growing portion of our customer base, as the Clipdraw allows

women to carry concealed even when wearing tight clothes.” The first Clipdraw was designed for the Model 1911, and the line was eventually expanded to include firearms from manufacturers such as Glock, Ruger, Smith & Wesson and Springfield, among many others.

The Clipdraw, designed as an alternative to bulky inside-the-waistband holsters, is a repositionable clip that you can attach directly to your belt or waistband.

americanshootingjournal.com 95

COMPANY SPOTLIGHT “We are constantly expanding our lineup of Clipdraw offerings as the firearms market bears,” explains Rugh. “We pride ourselves on following market trends and offering our products for the most popular guns that hit the market.” And if for some reason you don’t see your favorite firearm in their product lineup, they offer the Universal Clipdraw, designed to fit all semiautos and revolvers. “Our customers like the simplicity, yet 100-percent effectiveness of our products,” says Rugh. “Our Clipdraw is a straightforward concept and idea, which the product delivers on fully. If a potential customer likes the concept of minimalist concealed carry, our Clipdraw will deliver for them.”  Editor’s note: For more information, visit clipdraw.com. The Clipdraw can be mounted on either the left or right side, and is designed to be slim and secure for your comfort.

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

PIERCE CUSTOM TITANIUM ACTIONS The heart of your next custom rifle build

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COMPANY SPOTLIGHT

STAYS IN THE FIGHT, AND FOR THE LONG HAUL ‘When it comes to lubrication properties, Seal 1 stands alone.’ PHOTO BY SEAL 1

rom competitive shooters to hunters to military and law enforcement personnel, every gun owner knows that they need the right gun care products to keep their weapon working properly. Offering a full line of products, including lubricants, cleaners, anticorrosion, antiseize and more, Seal 1 specializes in environmentally friendly options that are all natural, nontoxic and safe for all gun owners. Dwight Settle, managing director at Seal 1, explains the origins of the company: “My business partner, Scott Lee, wanted to create a product that would actually clean, lubricate and protect your firearms and not kill you in the process. Scott has developed many products over the past 35-plus years in the gun industry for many different companies. I’m sure that you have heard of Bore Butter and Wonder Lube, just to name a few.” In August 1990, Lee started research and development on his new formula. After years of tweaking and testing, he was ready to bring it to market. Lee and Settle launched Seal 1, LLC on July 5, 2011, along with their winning formula, called Seal 1 CLP Plus. “Seal 1 CLP Plus is a ‘green engineered’ biobased, nontoxic, complete gun care product,” says Settle. “Our formula is proprietary and is not vegetable oil- or vegetable ester-based. It will not dry out or get gummy over time. With Seal 1 CLP Plus there is no need for having to use multiple products. It has submicron dry lubrication and protection characteristics and is very simple to

A cleaner, lubricant and protectant all in one, biobased Seal 1 CLP Plus is as easy to use as “wipe on, wipe off,” says the company’s managing director, Dwight Settle.

use. Just remember: wipe on, wipe off!” Seal 1 products do not incorporate any petroleum, which is part of the reason they work so well.

“Petroleum-based products actually increase the hard carbon build-up in firearms,” says Settle. When Seal 1 was in the latter part of its development stage they knew that their products had better lubrication properties in real world testing, but wanted to see what independent lab testing would show. Seal 1 CLP Plus was sent to an ASTM-certified lab to have the four-ball wear test completed. During this test four ball bearings are lubricated with the product and then rotated under load; the load and speed is increased until the balls actually weld themselves together. At this point the load and speed at failure are entered into a formula that calculates the score. Seal 1 CLP Plus stayed in the fight until the machinery’s maximum load and speed were reached, without failure. No score was given, just “no fail.” When it comes to lubrication properties, Seal 1 stands alone. The Seal 1 team takes pride in knowing their products are safe not just for the Earth but for those who inhabit it as well. “It’s a dangerous world out there and if we can help get your mind off of it while you spend a little time maintaining your firearms, why not?” jokes Settle. “Seriously, though, if we can help you have peace of mind while you, your kids, or grandkids are handling and cleaning your firearms, that brings a smile to our face.”  Editor’s note: For more information, visit seal1.net. americanshootingjournal.com 99

PEET DRYER

Great gift for Dad because Peet’s Original Dryer will make him think of you every day when he puts on his dry boots or shoes. No more wet clammy feet to start the day. You will love it too because the Original Dryer neutralizes odors caused by perspiration and bacteria. peetdryer.com

RE CAMP KITCHEN

The RE Camp Kitchen is the result of many years spent in the backcountry, where safety and well-being rely heavily on functional and durable equipment. The box is constructed of aircraft aluminum. The practical design makes it convenient to use for everything from a family lunch on the lawn to an extended stay in the backcountry. The wheeled “suitcase” mode allows you to choose your cooking spot without being tied to your vehicle. The Camp Kitchen may be purchased with all the extra kitchen items or just the boxes. With the RE Camp Kitchen, you really can start cooking in 10 minutes. robertsonenterprises.net

DANDY SAW

POCKET OX

The Dandy Saw – or “The Get Serious Saw,” as Durwood Hollis dubbed it many years ago – is still top in its class of aggressive bone/wood-cutting camp saws. There are four different sizes to match your need: the Mini Dandy, Half Dandy, Pack Dandy and the two-handled Dandy. Each saw comes with a scabbard and a lifetime warranty. robertsonenterprises.net

Finally, a hoist small enough and light enough that you will actually carry it. Yes, they cost as much as your favorite boots. But drag a moose out of the beaver muck or put your ATV back on its feet just once and you’ll see that it’s worth every dime. PocketOx.com

THE BUFFALO WOOL COMPANY

ARM CHAPS

Soft leather protective sleeves that contour to hands and arms. Comfortable and effective with adjustable airflow, making them cooler than long sleeves. See website to learn all the benefits and hundreds of uses. armchaps.com

A bison and wool comforter is a wonderful way to keep you warm this winter and many more to come. A 70/30 blend of bison and wool batting, 100-percent cotton ticking, and individually handtied and crafted here in the USA exclusively for The Buffalo Wool Company. thebuffalowoolco.com americanshootingjournal.com 101

ALFORD DESIGNS LIMITED, LLC

Introducing Alford Designs’ new personalized concealed carry tote. Beautiful rich leather and canvas make this a durable yet fashionable concealed carry bag. Makes a great gift! All of Alford Designs’ products are handcrafted and made in the USA. Check out their new line of other personalized accessories for both men and women on Etsy. etsy.com/shop/alforddesignsltd

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. taprackholsters.com

TRIPLE K MANUFACTURING

The classic walnut oil color Deluxe Shot Shell Carrier ammo case is designed to hold up to four boxes of shotgun shells. Made in USA with premium vegetable tanned leather, heavy nylon stitching and solid brass snap hardware. MSRP: $106. triplek.com

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 cross draw. Holsters are hand-molded to your model of gun to ensure a perfect fit every time. mernickleholsters.com

RUFFIANO INTERNATIONAL

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The Body Shield is a revolutionary new product that solves the problem of being poked and pinched when carrying concealed inside the waistband. Comfort has long been an issue with IWB; well, not anymore, thanks to Holster Partners’ Body Shield. This thin flexible leather shield provides a comfortable barrier of protection between you and your firearm. Simply attach the Body Shield to your existing holster with the hook-and-loop material (included), and voilà – no more irritating pokes and prods. There’s no reason carrying concealed shouldn’t be comfortable. And it can be, thanks to the Body Shield. holsterpartner.com 102

Ruffiano International, an authorized distributor, is proud to offer you The Original Dirty Harry Shoulder Holster! From the original company and made for every gun in the world. “The most comfortable I have ever tried for heavy guns,” says Elmer Keith, father of the .44 Magnum cartridge. Now go shoot! ruffianointernational.com

SKINNER SIGHTS

The Skinner Sights HTF bag allows your firepower to be “concealed in plain sight,” yet ready in case of an emergency. Holds up to a 40-inch long gun and two handguns. Room for three rifle and eight pistol magazines. Knife, flashlight and accessory pouches. Cordura construction with heavy-duty stitching. (Firearms and accessories in photo are not included. For illustrative purposes only.) skinnersights.com

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

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CALIFORNIA WILD SHEEP FOUNDATION

OCTOBER COUNTRY MUZZLELOADING

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 features products specifically designed and manufactured for cowboy action and black powder cartridge shooters. October Country has new products that include PowerBelt Bullets, Birchwood Casey, Uncle Mike’s, Ballistol, Hoppe’s, Cash Manufacturing, Hornady, Lyman and RCBS muzzleloading and black powder cartridge ball and bullet molds, as well as Lee Bullet Molds, to name a few. octobercountry.com

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American Shooting Journal // November 2020

PROLIX LUBRICANTS

Even Santa would love to see a bottle of PrOlix in his stocking this holiday season! There is no product on the market to date that works like PrOlix; just see their ad in this publication and learn more over at their website! Let PrOlix make it a joyful holiday! prolixlubricant.com

Make a difference for wild sheep and give a great gift of membership in the California Wild Sheep Foundation. You will join a group of enthusiastic conservationists dedicated to putting and keeping wild sheep on the mountains. Life membership: $500; Distinguished life membership: $1,500. cawsf.org

VLINE IND.

V-Line Ind. introduces the Brute quick-access security case. The Brute is the perfect solution for keeping handguns and valuables safe and out of reach of the wrong hands. It is constructed of rugged 10-gauge steel with an overlapping lid, making it virtually pry-proof when bolted down to a solid surface. The Brute is nicely finished in a durable tactical black powder coating. Features include heavy-duty 10-gauge all-steel construction; sleek custom anti-pry clamshell design; heavy 12-gauge handle with anti-pry lock protection; oversized solid-steel lock block and dead bolt; breakfree 360-degree rotation clutch knob; reliable quick access mechanical push button lock; and more. The Brute measures 12.5 by 9.5 by 3.6 inches, weighs 21 pounds, and is California DOJ approved. vlineind.com

WOODMAN’S PAL

A unique gift for any outdoorsman, your new Woodman’s Pal will become an instant family heirloom. Both the ash wood handle and the beautiful leather sheath are handmade and finished by Amish craftsmen. Each blade is individually handsharpened to ensure the machete cuts through everything. $175. Made in USA. woodmanspal.com

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BLUE WONDER GUN CARE PRODUCTS

Blue Wonder makes a comprehensive line of gun cleaning, lubrication and refinishing products designed specifically for firearms. bluewonderguncare.com

WEB STEEL BUILDINGS NORTHWEST

Web Steel Buildings Northwest is a Pacific Northwest manufacturer of pre-engineered steel-framed buildings. Their frame systems allow you to design just the right building for your needs. Folks are discovering the costcompetitive and environmental advantages of the preengineered steel buildings. Applications for residential, commercial and agricultural purposes are available. wsbnw.com 106

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Duck club members have access to several acres of private hunting area. Blinds are located in three main areas (and three smaller areas) within the property to help maximize hunting potential and minimize member contact. Sauvie Island Duck Club is located on a great flyway and is a mallard haven! The following memberships are available: Day, Week, and Season at a cost of $200, $750, and $2,000, respectively. Sauvie Island Duck Club is a private waterfowl hunting club located approximately 10 miles northwest of Portland, Oregon, along US Route 30. Call Ron at (503) 539-5396 or check out the website for more information. siduckclub.com

THE MICHLITCH COMPANY

The perfect spice and seasoning gift ideas for any professional or home chef. The Michlitch Company’s gift packs include freshly ground spices and handcrafted seasonings that showcase their signature blends and gourmet spice collections. MSRP: $19.98. This gift box contains: 5-ounce jar of Blackened Red Seasoning 5-ounce jar of Chili Chipotle Lime Seasoning 5.5-ounce jar of Chipotle Fire & Smoke Seasoning 5.4-ounce bottle of Fletcher’s Hot Sauce spokanespice.com

RANGESTORE.NET

Steel Target Paint is formulated for steel targets, covers quickly, and has a high paint-resin content with a pound of paint in the can. The colors allow match directors to color-code scenarios during competition stages. For long-distance shooting, these colors can be combined for optimum visibility. Range Box Sampler MSRP: $49.29. rangestore.net

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SEAL 1

TANNERITE TARGETS

Tannerite Targets are the original patented reactive rifle target shot indicators! Buy online and save with coupon code: ONTARGET. tannerite.com

Kit includes: one 4-ounce container of CLP Plus Paste; one 4-ounce container of CLP Plus Liquid; one four-pack of presaturated EZ-Cloth; one 12-inch-by-12-inch microfiber cloth; one double-ended nylon utility brush; and two 6-inch hardwood cotton swabs. seal1.net

INVICTASAFE

InvictaSafe offers all of the benefits of a traditional firearm safe while allowing you to display your firearm “safely” like a work of art. Constructed with 14-gauge steel and ½-inch ballistic glass, it protects your valuable firearm from unauthorized access or theft. Order now and save $200. Just use code CHRISTMAS when you order from InvictaSafe’s website. invictasafe.com

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DICKINSON ARMS

New Ranger Series single-shot shotguns from Dickinson Arms combine classic good looks, craftsmanship, excellent shooting performance and remarkable value. There is a full family of models for adults and youth, as well as a short-barreled, folding Survival model – at retail prices ranging from $144-$164 MSRP. dickinsonarms.com

GARY REEDER CUSTOM GUNS

When you are looking for full-custom guns, look no further than Gary Reeder Custom Guns. They have been building full-custom guns since 1987 and currently have almost 70 series of full-custom revolvers, custom 1911s, custom lever guns, custom single shots and a lot more. These include the very popular Black Widow, one of their most popular series since 1987. For more info, call (928) 527-4100. reedercustomguns.com

AMERICAN DERRINGER

THE BEST OF THE WEST

The Best of the West Mountain Scout rifle is perfect for backcountry, rugged-terrain hunters. BOTW started with the strong but lightweight BOTW Mountain Hunter carbon fiber stock that has a slim, compact profile, then kept the weight super low by pairing that stock with a 22-inch carbon fiber barrel and titanium action. Chambered in 6.5 PRC, it tips the scale at only 6.8 pounds with a Huskemaw BD 4-16x42 scope! thebestofthewest.net

ADCO SALES

ADCO has been known for years for a number of competition, hunting and tactical reflex sights known often as red dot sights – Alpha Dot, E-Dot and Mirage, to name a few. ADCO is also famous for the Super Thumb Magazine loaders that hundreds of thousands swear by to assist in reloading pistol magazines. Now ADCO is providing the Best Arms brand and Aselkon lines of shotgun. Unsurpassed quality at reasonable prices. For decades, ADCO has been a name that can be depended upon. adcosales.com

CZUSA

A true Micro-Mauser action, the CZ 527 American is a controlled-round-feed bolt action designed for small centerfire chamberings. From .17 Hornet and .223 up to 7.62x39 and 6.5 Grendel, this handy little rifle is equipped with a stellar single set trigger and legendary cold hammer-forged barrel, making it the ultimate small-caliber hunting and plinking platform. cz-usa.com/product/cz-527-american 110

American Shooting Journal // November 2020

American Derringer is proud to specialize in the highest-quality derringer firearms. All of their guns are completely made here in the USA by highly experienced craftspeople. The derringer has long stood as the ultimate full-power concealable firearm. Available in every caliber, from .22 to .45-70/.410, and in every imaginable style, an American Derringer offers a small size and weight with a big bore and the safety of a singleaction-only firearm. The derringer can be easily carried in a purse or pocket without special clothing. American Derringer also offers a special line of customized derringers to reflect your personal preferences and needs. amderringer.com

HIPOINT FIREARMS

Hi-Point Firearms provides Americanmade affordable firearms with a noquestions-asked lifetime warranty. hi-pointfirearms.com

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SAFETY HARBOR FIREARMS INC.

GALLERYOFGUNS.COM

Search GalleryofGuns.com, find your gun and buy it from your local dealer. It’s just that easy. GalleryofGuns.com allows consumers to buy from a huge selection of firearms from the firearms industry’s top manufacturers. Over-and-under shotguns, combination guns, varmint rifles, handguns – you name it, GalleryofGuns. com has it. galleryofguns.com

SHF manufactures the SHTF50 .50 BMG upper conversion for the AR-15, along with the Kompact Entry Stock line of pistol braces and stocks for the AR-15; Sig MPX/MCX; Stribog SP9A1, 2 & 3; CZ Scorpion; and MP5/MP5k. For quality and innovation, look to Safety Harbor Firearms. safetyharborfirearms.com

UNDERWOOD AMMUNITION

LITTLE CROW GUNWORKS

SHELL SHOCK TECHNOLOGIES

If you loved Shell Shock’s lightweight 9mm cases, wait until you try their new calibers coming soon, including 5.56x45mm, .300 BLK, .380 ACP, .40 S&W and others. Lighter than brass, more powder capacity, greater consistency between rounds, and can be picked up with a magnet. Satisfies global military mandates to reduce ammunition weight and increase performance. All Shell Shock’s cases are proudly made in the USA. Shell Shock ... Shoot it, Love it! shellshocktech.com

What do you get the rifle shooter who has everything? Little Crow Gunworks would suggest the Original World’s Finest Trimmer. With nationwide ammo shortages, the WFT speeds up the most tedious part of reloading: trimming cases. The WFT attached to your hand-drill can trim up to 600 cases per hour with match-worthy precision. There are 200-plus calibers available, from .17 Hornet to .50 BMG. Check out the website for a complete selection of precision reloading and gunsmith tools. littlecrowgunworks.com

From Illinois-based Underwood Ammunition, the Xtreme Defender (EXD) is based on the wildly popular Xtreme Penetrator product line. The Xtreme Defender ammunition features an optimized nose flute, along with the weight and velocity necessary to achieve the FBI-standard 18 inches of penetration. With a permanent wound cavity described as “enormous,” the Xtreme Defender’s solid copper body ensures no adverse effects occurring to the projectile itself, despite encountering common law enforcement and personal defense obstacles such as wallboard, sheetrock, sheet metal and automotive glass. underwoodammo.com

BLACK HILLS AMMUNITION

Dual Performance is available in 5.56mm with a 62-grain projectile at 3,000 feet per second from a 20-inch barrel and a .308 152-grain version at 2,800 fps from a 24-inch barrel. The performance of these rounds will set new standards and the accuracy ensures terminal capability is delivered with precision. black-hills.com

PMA TOOL

BARNAUL AMMUNITION

Barnaul Ammunition is ammunition for the budget-conscious shooter. It’s Russian ammunition made with premium quality, at an affordable price. barnaulammo.com 112

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Give the gift of accuracy this Christmas. The PMA Model A Neck Turner is the simplest, most comfortable neck turning tool available. PMA Tool is your first call in rifle accuracy. Go to their website to see all the tools and gear available to get the highest level of accuracy from your rifles. pmatool.com

STOCKY’S STOCKS

Stocky’s new NextGen Carbon Fiber Stocks will weigh about 1 pound less than a comparable fiberglass stock, but with even more accuracy potential thanks to the lightweight Composite Accublock. They are available in three popular models – a vertical-grip sporter (VG2); a varmint/tactical (M50, pictured in Urban Viper Camo); and a new 24-ounce sporting version. stockysstocks.com

GENTRY CUSTOM LLC

KICKEEZ

Kick-Eez sells a wide selection of American-made rifle recoil pads and shooting supplies made of Sorbothane, which provides shock absorption and reduces recoil effectively and quickly. kickeezproducts.com

TIMBER CREEK OUTDOORS

Timber Creek Outdoors’ self-healing JAX target is perfect for endless range fun. The JAX target will tumble after a hit to a new location to improve target acquisition while having fun. All Timber Creek products are proudly made in Springfield, Oregon, and come with a lifetime warranty. MSRP: $9.99. timbercreekoutdoorsinc.com

Gentry Custom is known for the Quiet Muzzle Brake, which will make for a user-friendly rifle. The Quiet Muzzle Brake reduces recoil and muzzle jump so you can get that second shot off if needed, without the large increase of noise to the shooter. Many of the factory rifles have been threaded for a muzzle brake. Gentry Custom offers 5/8 x 24 threads and many others. Call them today and they can provide the proper Quiet Muzzle Brake for your rifle. Gentry Custom also offers a three-position safety for the Remington family of rifles and the Mauser 98. gentrycustom.com

VELOCITY PRECISION

Like all Velocity Precision products, their Recoil-less Bolt Carrier is designed with accuracy and performance in mind. Their unique patent-pending design is stronger than other low-mass bolt carriers and is one of the lightest bolt carriers on the market. The Recoil-less Bolt Carrier significantly reduces your rifle’s recoil impulse for faster follow-up shots and its Nano Diamond Nickel coating makes it extremely wear-resistant, easy to clean and uncompromisingly durable. This unique coating creates a very slick surface that reduces the probability of failures due to a lack of lubrication, reduces typical wear and tear on expensive parts, and truly makes shooting your AR-15 much more fun. The real value when it comes to lightweight bolt carriers comes when it’s paired with an adjustable gas block, which is why Velocity Precision offers both in a bundled product package. Reducing the rifle’s returning gas, together with the reduced weight of the bolt carrier is what reduces the recoil and muzzle rise to nearly zero. Without both you’re really only going halfway! velocitytriggers.com

KYNSHOT

Kynshot’s Tactical Shotgun Recoil Buffer features the latest advances in recoil management, reducing felt recoil and muzzle rise by 90 percent, giving the shooter reduced target acquisition time. Their buffer tames a shotgun’s recoil, allowing every shooter the opportunity to enjoy shooting a shotgun. Available in both adjustable and non-adjustable damping. kyntec.com/product/rb5100-kynshot-tacticalshotgun-recoil-buffer-9/

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WHITE OAK ARMAMENT

Available in 12.6-inch and 14.6-inch lengths, the White Oak TR Series M-Lok Handguard is octagonal with full-length top Picatinny rail and M-Lok sides and bottom. The rail is anodized aluminum and the barrel nut and screws are black nitride finished. Installation is simple and requires a strap wrench or optional tool. whiteoakarmament.com/1tr-handguard.html

CDNN SPORTS

1911 Complete 70 Series slide with internals and sights. Marked “Model of 1911.” Carbon steel with matte black finish. Regent Mfg. Slide is made from CNC-machined bar stock with a low-cut ejection port. Accepts virtually all aftermarket parts made for M1911-style pistols. Includes the following parts installed: firing pin, firing pin stop, extractor, serrated ramp front sight and fixed notch rear sight. Bonus parts: blue steel barrel bushing, standard recoil spring, recoil spring plug, recoil spring guide. cdnnsports.com

DEAD FOOT ARMS

The SCW 2.5 Tailhook is by far the most compact PDW-style pistol brace that the industry has ever seen, with a collapsed length of 2.5 inches. While compact, it is still very versatile, allowing for button-free brace deployment and five length-of-pull settings. deadfootarms.com

LUTHAR

The Widebody Palm Handguard builds on the same triangular profile as Luth-AR’s innovative Palm Handguard with a new Widebody profile that conforms to the palm of your hand, and provides a wide, flat surface to lay on a shooting bag or other support. Perfect for hunters, precision or 3-gun competitors, the 15-inch length features M-Lok slots along the upper-side flat, and three rows of slots on the bottom flat. The Widebody Palm Handguard is made from 6061-T6 aluminum extrusion that is hard coat anodized black, and includes a barrel nut made from alloy steel with a Melonite finish. Other features include four clamp screws; two vertical set screws, to control linear movement; and thread lock for simple and quick installation. Priced affordably, dealer, quantity and OEM pricing is available upon request. luth-ar.com

NOWLIN ARMS

Proven reputation. Eight world championships and 22 national titles, all won by competitors using Nowlin. Today, you can elevate your own 1911 to this level of performance, with Nowlin’s ECM Match Grade barrels. Made from 416 rifle-quality bar stock, with ultrasmooth ECM rifling, 40 RC hardness, and an 8 RMS bore finish, Nowlin 1911 barrels deliver maximum accuracy. Nowlin’s unique precut barrel locking lug design ensures precise engagement, while centering the firing pin on the primer. Under 1 inch at 25 yards and under 1½ inches at 50 yards in the company’s barrel testing fixture. nowlinarms.com

UNIQUEARs

A*B ARMS

The A*B Arms Urban Sniper Stock X is designed and engineered for hunters, law enforcement and private security. The Urban Sniper Stock X is a stronger, more compact, lightweight ergonomic precision rifle buttstock that can be used on any weapons system that utilizes a Mil-Spec buffer tube. abarms.com

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The Screaming Eagle was built specifically to embody trailblazers, patriots, fighters and the tenacity of the American spirit. This rifle showcases true American craftsmanship with all components made in the United States, and assembly in McCall, Idaho. Chambered in .223 Wylde, this rifle features a 16-inch stainless barrel and custom Cerakote finish. unique-ars.com/shop/complete-rifles/limited-edition-uar-rifles/screaming-eagle/

Custom Rifle Actions www.defiancemachine.com 406-756-2727

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