This event is presented as part of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ efforts to encourage hunting and shooting sports participation, with DNR funding support.
One of the newer rifle offerings available exclusively through Smith & Wesson’s law enforcement catalog is the M&P15T SBR. This short barrel rifle, chambered in 5.56mm NATO, is designed to be lightweight, rugged, and the best combination of function and form. Its 11.5-inch steel barrel has an Armornite® finish, 1:7-inch 6-groove twist, and is shielded within a 10.5-inch aluminum M-LOK® forend, creating an overall compact length of 31.5-inches. Upgraded features of this SBR platform include a B5 Systems SOPMOD stock and Type 23 pistol grip, ambidextrous Radian® Raptor-LTTM charging handle and safety selector, M-LOK sling attachment points, and Williams® Gun Sight Company metal folding sights.
With regard to performance, the M&P15T SBR utilizes a flat-face trigger, chromed firing pin, low-profile gas block, A2 flash hider, and a Magpul® 30+1 round capacity magazine to drive its elite operation capabilities. Engineered for a wide variety of professional applications, M&P15 rifles are duty proven, proudly made in the U.S.A., and are backed by Smith & Wesson’s limited lifetime service policy. Read more
Hornady Security offers users a rugged, tough, and versatile way to keep their valuables and handguns safe in the rock-solid TrekLite Lock Box XXL. With the rugged construction and security features offered by the TrekLite Lock Box XXL, users can store their handguns and valuables without worry wherever they find themselves.
The Hornady Security TrekLite Lock Box XXL provides users with a large, secure lock box that can travel alongside them wherever their life leads. It has a dual four-digit TSA-approved lock allowing them to program up to 10,000 different codes.
The TrekLite Lock Box XXL features advanced impact-resistant polycarbonate construction that will withstand the toughest elements. The polycarbonate material is further protected by a layer of non-slip rubber that encases the box. This allows impacts to be absorbed outside of the box before the energy is transmitted to the valuables on the inside. From negligent airport baggage handlers to accidental drops, the advanced, impact-resistant polycarbonate construction will protect its contents from harm. Read more
NEW FN OWNERS GET CASH BACK AND TRAINING WITH SUMMER SIZZLE REBATE For a Limited Time, Get Up to $100 Cash Back and Free Virtual Pistol Training on Purchases of New FN 509 Pistols
(McLean, VA) There is no better time than the present to be in the market for a new FN pistol. Whether you are a new user just getting started or an experienced buyer, there is something for everyone in FN’s Summer Sizzle Rebate. Now through September 30th, FN America, LLC is offering rebates valued up to $220 for purchases of new FN 509 pistols as a way to provide customers with the tools and resources needed to get on the range, carry or train with their new FN pistol. The FN 509 Summer Sizzle Rebate gives consumers cash back on 50 different pistols across the FN 509 line-up, along with three free hours of virtual pistol training classes from Sheepdog Response, featuring Tim Kennedy, that prepare students on everything from the basics of firearm safety to advanced tactics.
All qualifying purchases of FN 509 pistols are eligible to receive three virtual pistol training classes valued at $120.00 along with a consumer rebate of up to $100.00 depending on the model purchased. FN 509 Standard, optics-ready MRD model or MRD-LE qualify for a $75.00 consumer rebate while a purchase of an FN 509 Edge Series™ or Tactical model qualifies for $100.00 consumer rebate.
To offer these virtual training classes, FN has partnered with Sheepdog Response, a premier training organization that focuses on providing individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to respond effectively in high-stress situations. This exclusive pistol training bundle streams online and features firearms expert, and special forces operator, Tim Kennedy. It includes Virtual Pistol Training Courses 1, 2, and 3, covering the fundamentals of marksmanship, practical drills, techniques, equipment, and real-world defensive pistol tactics to advance personal protection training for both new and advanced users. Read more
CAMP PERRY, Ohio – Those searching for unique activities during the fall months should look to the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP), headquartered on the grounds of Camp Perry near Port Clinton. Dedicated to firearm safety and training for all, the CMP has designed a variety of competitive and learning opportunities available to the public that aren’t just for practical purposes – they’re also fun!
Indoor Air Gun Range and Olympic Displays:
The Gary Anderson CMP Competition Center, located on Camp Perry, is the perfect location for visitors of any age to explore. Open to the public each week, the facility houses an indoor 80-point electronic air gun range formatted for the use of both air rifles and air pistols. The air guns are propelled by compressed air, expelling virtually no kick back and little sound, making them ideal for young and old participants alike. Guests may bring their own air guns (as long as they are .177 cal. with muzzle velocities of 600 fps or less) or rent from the CMP. Outside of the range, the building offers several displays of Olympic memorabilia from the career of two-time gold medalist, Gary Anderson, as well as other amenities. The facility may also be rented for parties, group building sessions and more! Visit https://thecmp.org/ranges/cmp-competition-centers/ for more information. Read more
TALLADEGA, Ala. – Reserve your spot now at the Civilian Marksmanship Program’s (CMP) Premier Shooting Expo! The tradeshow event, open to the public as well as to retailers, is set for Oct. 18, 2023, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the CMP Talladega Marksmanship Park in Alabama.
The Premier Shooting Expo will feature an assortment of vendor booths, food trucks and more extended throughout the rifle, pistol, shotgun and archery areas of the 500-acre Talladega facility. Consumers will have the chance to walk the grounds and engage in various interactive displays – free to test out products in a hands-on environment.
If you’re thinking of stopping out, don’t miss CMP’s discounted tickets and giveaways! Those who purchase a ticket before Sept. 1 ($75) and after Sept. 1 ($100) will receive a free range pass ($90 value) as well as a certificate for $200 off a pair of Hunters HD Gold glasses!
On the other side of the booth, participating vendors will not only have the opportunity to personally showcase their products to guests but will also be able to broaden their outreach through the numerous media outlets in attendance throughout the day!
Both marksmanship and non-marksmanship vendors are welcome and encouraged to attend the Expo. Vendor setup will be held Oct. 17 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Businesses currently on the attendance list include GLOCK, Creedmoor, Crosman Corp, Volquartsen Firearms, SDS Imports and many more. Read more
Charter Member Professional Outdoor Media Association (POMA)
Back in the ‘70s, I became familiar with an expert in the art of handgun hunting, Bob Milek. His skills intrigued me to the point that I purchased the ultimate handgun designed for hunting or target shooting: the Thompson/Center Contender single-shot pistol. Its interchangeable barrel configuration allows the firearm to be converted from the most diminutive rimfire cartridges to dangerous game calibers typically found only in big-game rifles. Although the pistol is no longer produced, they are still widely available.
Below: I shoot the Custom Contender with 500-grain Hornady round nose.
Although the Contender was designed for the hunter, Michigan initially excluded single-shot pistols from use afield in Zone III – the Southern zone. Imagine the thinking, or lack thereof, behind the ban. I couldn’t understand our lawmakers’ logic, but a year later they came to their senses and made them legal with straight-wall cartridges similar to today’s laws for long guns in Zone III. Over the years, I’ve used pistols to take everything from small game to whitetail deer with various calibers from .22 long rifle to sledgehammer-like .45/70 caliber custom loads.
T/C Contender in .45/70 Custom JDJ Barrel and EOTech Optic
Here is the law relative to hunting with pistols in Michigan: A conventional (smokeless powder) handgun must be .35-caliber or larger and loaded with straight-walled cartridges and may be single- or multiple-shot but cannot exceed a maximum capacity of nine rounds in the barrel and magazine combined. Note that this rule differs from that of rifles in Zone III in that there are no cartridge case length restrictions.
If you decide to test your skills afield with a pistol, here are some tips to get the job done.
* Eye and ear protection is highly recommended. Electronic ear muffs are a good option.
* Hunting from a tree stand or raised platform is legal with pistols. To steady shots, treestand safety rails make for good shooting rests. Make sure there is padding on the rail; any hard surface rest is to be avoided.
* If hunting from an enclosed shooting blind, use of sandbags or a bipod is recommended.
* If still hunting, look for trees as rests when pausing, using your off hand for support. Another option is to employ commercial shooting sticks, but some folks fashion their own to save money.
* Unless one hunts in confined areas where shots are within 50 yards or less, having a scoped handgun will increase accuracy. Typically, long-eye relief scopes are used, but limit the magnification to a maximum of 6 power or less. Anything greater can cause a hunter to fumble with locating targets in the heat of the moment.
* Consider red dot optics without any magnifying lens for quick target acquisition. Aimpoint and EOTech optics are some of the finest on the market and are worth a look, although pricey.
T/C Contender with EOTech Optic
* Holsters are a must to keep both hands free to climb or otherwise traverse the landscape.
In summary, handgun hunting can be rewarding for those seeking a challenge. However, the 9 out of 10 rule always applies: You must be able to keep shots within a conservative bull’s eye of 6 inches in diameter 9 out of 10 shots. If you can’t, get closer to the target until you meet the critical, self-imposed ethical standards.
The innovative SnapSafe® Trunk Safe II offers the ultimate storage solution for a variety of tools, firearms, equipment, documents, and more. The SnapSafe Trunk Safe II remains the unrivaled solution for theft protection in any car trunk, RV, or home. This exceptional safe ensures the utmost security for valuable possessions.
The SnapSafe Trunk Safe II boasts a heavy-duty 13-gauge steel exterior, reinforced by a rugged six-gauge door equipped with eight interior locking lugs. This formidable construction guarantees unparalleled strength and resilience, creating a fortified barrier against unauthorized access and potential theft.
This remarkable safe ensures seamless operation without compromising performance and is engineered with internal hinges and premium gas shocks. Users can effortlessly access stored items with smooth precision as the door glides open with ease, reflecting the superior craftsmanship of the SnapSafe Trunk Safe II. Read more
OVERLAND PARK, Kan. –– Bushnell®, an industry leader in performance optics, is now shipping new laser rangefinder models right in time for deer season: the Bone Collector 1000 and Bone Collector 1800.
Designed in conjunction with Bone Collector’s Michael Waddell, Nick Mundt and Travis “T-Bone” Turner to meet their specifications and rigorous hunting demands, the newly available rangefinders feature everything hardcore hunters would expect and more. The new Bone Collector 1000 and 1800 rangefinders feature a sharp and bold new look while building off Bushnell’s 25 years of rangefinder legacy.
“Bushnell knocked it out of the park on these,” said Waddell. “We worked closely with the Bushnell team to make sure these latest and greatest Bone Collector rangefinders kept all the best features the crew loves from previous models, but also longer ranges and new tools like Applied Ballistics.”
The Bone Collector 1000 features a fully multi-coated, all-glass optical system that’s 2x brighter than other laser rangefinders for dim conditions at dawn and dusk. The rangefinder allows for quick measurements with the fast-focus eyepiece and Scan Mode, plus ARC technology and long distance ranging to 1,000 yards with +/- 1-yard accuracy. The 1000 series model is also standard with a one-button design for easy operation along with a new, ergonomic housing for added stability and comfort.
The Bone Collector 1800 builds on the features of the 1000 by not only extending its ranging capability (1,800 yards with +/- 1-yard accuracy) but also including a built-in Applied Ballistics Ultralight engine. The onboard ballistic software offers shooting solutions out to 800 yards and is easy to setup through the Bushnell Ballistic App powered by Bluetooth capabilities. The Bone Collector 1800 also features Brush and Bullseye modes for the most accurate readings possible. Read more
PHOENIX, Ariz. – If you missed this year’s Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) Western Games and Highpower Matches in the spring, here’s your second chance to attend!
The CMP will be returning to the Ben Avery Shooting Facility Oct. 10-15, 2023, for the Western Fall Classic – a condensed version of the Western CMP Games, CMP Pistol & CMP Highpower (HP) Rifle Matches. Despite the shorter schedule, the event will still offer a wide variety of events for rifle and pistol competitors alike.
The Western Fall Classic will feature three days of popular CMP Games competitions like the Garand/Springfield/Vintage & Modern Military Matches, a Carbine Match, a Rimfire Sporter Match and the Vintage Sniper Match for rifle along with the CMP Match Pistol 2700, EIC Service Pistol, EIC Service Revolver, EIC .22 Rimfire Pistol, Military & Police Service Pistol and As-Issued Pistol matches. Read more
