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The Kimber M8400 Advanced Tactical Rifle offers some features that are not seen in other rifles for military and law enforcement precision shooters, such as the non-rotating claw extractor, mechanical ejector (useful when spent cases can\u2019t be left lying on the ground) and thoughtfully modified A-5 stock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When the Advanced Tactical Kit is added, Kimber must be given credit for providing serious precision shooters with an integrated shooting system composed of top-quality components and backed by the reputation of a company occupying a preeminent position among American gunmakers. For those LE departments, military units or individuals seeking a complete tactical package, the Kimber M8400 Advanced Tactical is worth serious consideration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Kimber M8400 Advanced Tactical Rifle .308 Review","post_excerpt":"Enhanced features and capable of sub-MOA performance!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"kimber-m8400-advanced-tactical-rifle-308","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-11-16 18:16:51","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-16 23:16:51","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2008\/06\/21\/kimber-m8400-advanced-tactical-rifle-308\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":128884,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2019-03-25 07:21:15","post_date_gmt":"2019-03-25 11:21:15","post_content":"

\n\nSpecial Missions Units within the U.S. military are always looking outside the box for weapons, ammunition and gear. It\u2019s a constant battle for our most specialized forces to adapt to the requirements of their missions. Much of what\u2019s used today has come from their requests for equipment suited to their needs. In some cases, it comes from a request for information (RFI) and may even result in a formal contract. More often than not, it\u2019s on a smaller scale, even at the unit level. Most of these requests stay pretty compartmentalized. Others, like what would become the Precision Sniper Rifle (PSR), drive the industry into a frenzy. Often, something unique comes out of all that hoopla. One such item is the .300 Norma Magnum<\/a>, which was chosen as the Advanced Sniper Rifle Cartridge for special operations forces in 2016.\n\n[in_content post=\"203542\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\n

Magnum Force<\/h3>\nDuring the PSR process, when the .338 Norma Magnum was causing quite the stir, a friend of mine, Mike Brown of Mike\u2019s Gun Sales and Service, told me about a project Jimmy Sloan was working on. Jimmy was the creator of the .338 Norma Magnum, an improved cartridge optimized for the 300-grain Sierra MatchKing (SMK) bullet. Still of interest, it works very well in belt-fed and rotary machine guns.\n\nThe newer .300 Norma Magnum cartridge is based on the .338 Norma, with the same case necked down to accept the .30-caliber bullets. An experienced precision rifle builder, Mike was about as excited as he ever gets about a new caliber. Why? Mostly to take advantage of the ever-improving and long-standing stability of .30-caliber bullets.\n\nBerger and other manufacturers were making bullets with incredibly high ballistic coefficients (BCs) that could be pushed well over 3,000 fps without excessive chamber pressure. Fast .30-caliber rounds aren\u2019t new, but this one allowed shooters to simply switch out their .338 Norma or .338 Lapua barrels and use the same action, bolt and so on.\n

300 Norma Mag<\/h3>\nPreliminary ballistics testing showed that the .300 Norma Magnum equaled or bested the .338 out to 2,000 yards in every measure but energy on target. Using the Berger 230-grain hybrid boat-tail (HBT), it could even win that race with enough velocity. But, while it seemed excellent, there just wasn\u2019t enough ammo available at the time for me to jump on board. That changed when my contacts assured me it was going to be chosen as the Advanced Sniper Rifle Cartridge in 2016.\n\nIn short, the .300 Norma Magnum shoots flatter than the .338 Lapua with relatively light recoil, especially with 215-grain bullets. And while 24-inch barrels are the norm for this caliber, you can use shorter barrels with light bullets and still deliver at extreme distances. It works suppressed with .338- or .30-caliber suppressors rated for magnum pressures. Finally, and maybe most important, there are already .338 Lapua and .338 Norma semi-autos in service, and transitioning to the .300 Norma is relatively easy. Of course, this all sounds great, but I wanted to test a few of these platforms at serious ranges.\n

Four Test Guns<\/h3>\nI used four different guns with .300 Norma Magnum barrels\u2014three bolt actions and a semi-auto. First up was a Desert Tech (DT) SRS using a 25-inch, carbon-fiber-wrapped Proof Research barrel and a .338 suppressor. Additionally, the other bolt actions included a Barrett MRAD and a Victrix Armaments Scorpio with a 26-inch Benchmark barrel. The semi-auto was DRD Tactical\u2019s Kivaari.\n\nThe Victrix Scorpio is equipped with an incredibly efficient muzzle brake, and I added an American Precision Arms (APA) Fat Bastard to both the MRAD and Kivaari. Then I installed a Nightforce 5-25x56mm ATACR F1 scope using the TMR reticle on the Victrix and MRAD, the 7-35x56mm ATACR with a Horus T3 reticle on the DT SRS, and a Bushnell 4.5-30x50mm XRS II using a Horus H59 reticle on the Kivaari.\n\nAmmunition for the .300 Norma Magnum is still a tad scarce and expensive. Factory rounds using 230-grain HBT bullets are the most common. Norma makes excellent ammunition, but this load is just a tad slow. ABM\u2019s 215-grain HBTs are excellent but hard to get. Thankfully, DRD Tactical was kind enough to provide some ammo for testing. The rest were handloads using Berger 230-grain HBTs and Hornady 212-grain ELD-X and 225-grain ELD-M bullets in new Norma brass with Retumbo powder.\n

Going The Distance<\/h3>\nI\u2019ll start by saying that all four rifles were extremely accurate at the range. At close to 3,100 fps, my 230-grain Berger HBT handload produced the best group at 100 yards\u2014just 0.5 inches\u2014with the Victrix Scorpio. At 300 yards, the Desert Tech SRS clustered my 212-grain ELD-X rounds into 0.7 inches. Barrett\u2019s MRAD seemed to prefer the 225-grain ELD-M load, producing a 10-inch, five-shot group at 1,308 yards. Overall, the accuracy was excellent across the board\u2014the only \u201cgroups\u201d that exceeded 1 MOA were at 2,000 yards.\n\nBut shooting these rifles at 100 yards was kind of a waste to be honest, so most testing started at 500 yards and stretched out to a mile, then 2,000 yards. Having used several rifles at a mile, I can state that this caliber excels at this range. All of the test loads performed well out to 1,500 yards, even the slower Norma load that came in a closer to 2,875 fps. Out of the 26-inch-barreled Victrix, my 230-grain HBT load did not go transonic until 1,900 yards. Even the 212-grain ELD-X load was consistent to a mile.\nMoving out to 2,000 yards, the extra velocity really helped. Hits were consistent with both the 215- and 230-grain Berger HBT bullets, with muzzle velocities between 3,000 and 3,050 fps. Suffice it to say that the .300 Norma Magnum works incredibly well at extreme distances.\n\nThe ammunition was also reliable in every gun, which might have been a prime consideration for the military. The fact that the .300 Norma Magnum runs in a semi-auto is a big plus, especially for Special Missions Units, and there are several proven .338 semi-autos today, requiring only a barrel change.\n\nIf you are looking for light recoil, use a brake. The APA Fat Bastard worked well in this regard. It was loud, but the rifles were controllable. It was easy to stay on target at 1,000 yards and beyond. I even had a couple moments where I was shooting at 1,000 yards and had two casings in the air. Shooting from prone, there is no need to come off the gun at all. You just press the trigger, watch, adjust, then press again. Using a suppressor on the DT SRS, the recoil was noticeably harsher but quiet. For field work, I would probably use a suppressor, but a brake for messing around on the range. Just make sure to double up on hearing protection.\n\nThe minimum velocity for this round should be 2,950 fps from a 24-inch barrel. Anything less than that and you are in .300 Winchester Magnum territory. I pushed the 230-grain Berger rounds to 3,150 fps from the 26-inch barrel with zero pressure signs and no bolt or extraction issues while maintaining sub-MOA accuracy to almost a mile. Barrett\u2019s MRAD held everything well under 1 MOA to 1,308 yards, pushing the Hornady 225-grain ELD-Ms to a tad over 3,000 fps. My sweet spot for the 212-grain ELD-Xs was 3,050 fps, which worked nicely despite reaching subsonic velocities at 2,000 yards, and this load produced the tightest group from the Barrett MRAD at that range. Handloaders can go faster, but staying close to 3,000 fps will get the most out of this caliber without scorching your barrel.\n\n[in_content post=\"203585\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\n

Bottom Line<\/h3>\nIt\u2019s a little too easy to bash military units for specifying less-than-common ammunition these days. It\u2019s low-hanging fruit. Remember the 6.8 SPC? But some guys always seem to think something else is better, or what they have is \u201cgood enough.\u201d That\u2019s easy to say from your desk as a keyboard commando. Real commandos\u2019 lives depend on these decisions, so I get it. They are not looking at the .300 Norma Magnum for their next big-game hunt or precision rifle match, and for them this round makes sense. It makes sense to me, too.\n\nThat being said, the .300 Norma Magnum is an excellent hunting round, especially if you handload. Further, it costs me around a dollar per round after the first investment in brass to load, and you can pay more for factory 6.5 Creedmoor rounds. Hornady\u2019s ELD-M and ELD-X bullets have been excellent, with equal or better BCs at a much lower cost. Also, you can use the .300 Norma Magnum in the field with a long action and get some serious range, even with a 24-inch barrel. In fact, that\u2019s my next project\u2014taking a purpose-built .300 Norma to Alaska.\n

Long-Range Fun<\/h3>\nMy only regret is not jumping on this caliber earlier. Further, this test was easily the most fun I\u2019ve had in a long time at ranges under 2,500 yards. Additionally, with the .300 Norma, it\u2019s almost easy to reach out to a mile using most top-tier scopes and a 30- or 40-MOA rail with no need to hold over. The recoil is moderate at the extremes and quite manageable with lower velocities. Also, with the right brake and a heavy rifle, it\u2019s downright pleasant to shoot.\n\nIn this case, U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) seems to have made the right decision. The .300 Norma Magnum may be the perfect choice for them, and a good one for you.\n\nThis article is from the March 2019 issue of Tactical-Life magazine. Grab your copy at OutdoorGroupStore.com<\/a>.<\/strong><\/em> For digital editions, visit <\/em><\/strong>Amazon<\/a>. <\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"Testing the New 300 Norma Mag Round Being Used by SOCOM","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"testing-new-300-norma-mag-socom","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:18:18","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:18:18","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2019\/03\/25\/testing-new-300-norma-mag-socom\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":129750,"post_author":"645","post_date":"2018-12-06 07:03:30","post_date_gmt":"2018-12-06 12:03:30","post_content":" \r\n\r\nI had the distinct honor of attending a long-range shooting<\/a> course taught by Accuracy 1st's Todd Hodnett. You may not know his name because, other than being the instructor in Magpul\u2019s Art of the Precision Rifle<\/em> DVD, he maintains a rather low profile.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"201026\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nBut make no mistake, his impact on the shooting world and our nation\u2019s soldiers looms large. Todd trains members from every branch of our military and counts numerous three-letter agencies as clients. In addition to training at his spectacular 30,000-acre facility in Canadian, Texas, Todd travels the globe training our military units and those of our allies. Accuracy 1st's Utah locations also offers numerous classes for civilians and military personnel alike.\r\n\r\nTodd also serves as a consultant for numerous manufacturers of rifles, ammunition, optics and accessories. He\u2019s developed several of the ballistic equations used by shooters around the world today, and he even helped Horus develop the H58, H59 and TReMoR reticles. The latter is a sophisticated reticle that speeds up your engagement time by including wind holds, moving target holds and ranging capabilities.\r\n

Back To School<\/h3>\r\nThe five-day class that I joined in Texas was comprised of eight special operations warfighters from three different groups. Our mornings were spent in the classroom, and we hit the range in the afternoons to shoot from 500 meters to over 2,000 meters. We shot both .308 and .300 Winchester Magnum rifles depending on the target distance. Todd\u2019s definition of \u201cclose range\u201d is 800 meters and in, and he\u2019s not having fun until he\u2019s shooting beyond 1,500 meters. And if you think .308s can\u2019t reach beyond 800 meters, you haven\u2019t met Todd. He and his students regularly take them out to a mile and beyond.\r\n\r\nTodd\u2019s course is centered around getting accurate hits on distant targets as quickly as possible. As such, his goal for the class is for participants to not memorize his lessons, but truly understand their concepts so they will know what elements are less important and which are vital, enabling them to determine what aspects require their attention in the field. Much of the class time was spent integrating the information from a Kestrel 5700 Elite Meter with Applied Ballistic software meter to create accurate ballistic solutions. The morning classroom sessions covered wind formulas, the TReMoR reticle, aerodynamic jump, truing, spindrift, density altitude, high-angle shooting, ammunition temperature and much more.\r\n

Common Mistakes<\/h3>\r\nTodd stated that the most common error that he sees is shooters not adjusting their formulas to account for different ammunition temperatures. Gunpowder is temperature sensitive, and some powders are more sensitive than others. A cartridge at 90 degrees will fly faster than one at 20 degrees. A change in velocity will affect the point of impact, especially at long distances. To account for this change, velocity should be measured at a minimum of three temperature points, such as 20, 50 and 80 degrees. The more points, the better. The temperature points should be adjusted higher or lower based on your particular climate. If the sandbox, for example, ammo can reach 150 degrees when stored in a Conex container. So, it\u2019s important to have this data so your Kestrel can calculate the proper ballistic formula. Todd recommends using an inexpensive temperature gun for reading your ammo\u2019s temperature.\r\n

Required Gear<\/h3>\r\nI brought a few things to the class, including a LaRue Tactical 7.62mm PredatOBR rifle with a 16-inch barrel and capped with LaRue\u2019s TranQuilo M308 suppressor. The PredatOBR is designed to be easily disassembled in the field and clandestinely transported in a very small case. LaRue offers a heavy cloth rollup bag and a metal tool box for the ultimate stealth. The PredatOBR can then be quickly reassembled with minimal point-of-impact shifts.\r\n\r\nThe TranQuilo is completely CNC-machined from a combination of 17-4 PH stainless steel and Incoloy A-286. This suppressor also features a captive locking ring to securely hold it to one of LaRue\u2019s flash suppressors, and the design helps minimize blowback toward the shooter\u2019s face.\r\n\r\nFor aiming, I installed a Nightforce 7-35x56mm ATACR scope, and I used Black Hills\u2019 178-grain ELD-X rounds for ammo. Black Hills ammunition has always grouped extremely well for me, and the standard deviation of the lot that I brought to the class was just 12. Highly accurate rifles and consistent ammunition are critical for precision shooting.\r\n

Zeroing In<\/h3>\r\nDay one\u2019s range session started with zeroing our rifles, then truing our Kestrel meters for our specific ammo\u2019s performance. We finished the day on the open range by engaging targets from 411 to 1,217 meters.\r\n\r\nTruing is a concept developed by Todd that customizes the G1 and G7 drag curves to the user\u2019s exact bullet performance. Without this, these drag curves are just estimates that do not exactly conform to the shooter\u2019s ballistics. Furthermore, they tend to be unreliable once the bullet enters transonic and subsonic phases. Additionally, ballistic coefficients provided from manufactures are not always correct, and readings from consumer-grade chronographs can be inaccurate. Truing fixes all of these issues and turns a predictive<\/em> ballistic algorithm into an actual<\/em> algorithm for the shooter\u2019s specific weapon system.\r\n\r\nThe truing process is accomplished by shooting at targets located at both supersonic and subsonic distances and comparing the actual results to the predicted results displayed on the Kestrel. The velocity is adjusted in the Kestrel to match that actual shooting results.\r\n\r\nAs an alternative to using G1 and G7 drag curves, Applied Ballistics offers free custom drag curves that Brian Litz created by shooting and tracking each bullet at supersonic, transonic and subsonic speeds. The custom curves can be downloaded to the free Applied Ballistics app and transferred to the Kestrel by Bluetooth or cable. Using the custom curve for the 178-grain Hornady ELD-X bullet in my Black Hills ammo, I had hits at both supersonic and subsonic distances, proving that the Applied Ballistics custom drag curves perfectly matched my ammo.\r\n

Reading Wind<\/h3>\r\nThe second afternoon was spent on the wind course, where shooters take positions on a plateau that offers 285 degrees of shooting. This means that your wind gusts from nearly every direction. The terrain varies, too, greatly testing your skills, as topography can dramatically effect wind speed and throw off your readings.\r\n\r\nTodd describes a \u201cno-wind day\u201d as one with 12- to 14-mph winds. We were blessed with much more than that throughout the week. Most days had 10- to 20-mph winds, and the last day had the highest wind speeds at 24 mph with gusts to 35. We shot in those winds all week and still made our hits!\r\n\r\nThe Kestrel meters offer wind speed readings, but only at the shooter\u2019s location. You must \u201cread\u201d the wind downrange by noting the movement of vegetation, for example. The wind can shift both in intensity and direction all along the way to the target. Wind 90 degrees to the target from either side is considered \u201cfull value,\u201d and this requires using the Kestrel\u2019s full wind correction.\r\n

Making Wind Corrections<\/h3>\r\nCorrections for wind from any other direction, with tail or headwind components, are typically smaller. You can multiply the cosine of the wind direction by the wind speed to calculate the correction, or enter the direction of wind into the Kestrel for a corrected reading. Either way, you still have to read the wind and terrain downrange and adjust according. Long-range shooting is both an art and a science. The science portion is well known, and tools like the Kestrel make that portion easy. Also, reading wind is the art, and its only achievable by practice and experience.\r\n\r\nAccuracy 1st\u2019s wind course is one of the primary reasons that many soldiers return time and time again. The course offers wind speeds and terrain variations not found on most military ranges. Training in these conditions is what helps make snipers effective in locations around the world.\r\n

Teeing Off<\/h3>\r\nOn the third day, we hit Accuracy 1st\u2019s \u201cgolf course,\u201d which has 18 targets spread along 16 different locations. Shooting distances range from 230 to 800 meters. In each position, we set up our equipment, ranged the target using the mil markings on our reticles, calculated wind corrections and fired. We had three shots to hit each target. Once done, we packed up our gear, jumped in our vehicles, drove to the next spot and repeated the process. We had to hit 15 of the targets from prone. We kneeled to hit two 240-meter targets and stood to hit one 200-meter target.\r\n\r\nThe PredatOBR isn\u2019t light, especially with a scope, suppressor, bipod and ammo. I had never shot such a heavy gun from a free-standing position before, so I had difficulty holding it steady with the winds blowing me around. The technique that worked best for me was to hold the rifle high and slowly lower it. I fired when the reticle hit its mark. The last two days of the class featured shooting from a few different locations and repeating the wind and golf courses.\r\n\r\nThe class was intense, challenging and lots of fun. Moreover, there is nothing like hearing the ping<\/em> of a round hitting a distant steel target. If you enjoy precision shooting and are looking to test your skills and learn from the best, there\u2019s no better than Accuracy 1st.\r\n\r\nFor more information, visit accuracy1st.com<\/a>.\r\n

Accuracy 1st's Todd Hodnett: Favorite Gear<\/h3>\r\n

LaRue Tactical<\/h3>\r\nTodd considers LaRue Tactical\u2019s rifles to be the best gas guns he has shot, and he owns 20 for his school. He said, \u201cI only need two guns, my LaRue .260 and my .300 Norma bolt gun.\u201d\r\n\r\nLaRue Tactical offers rifles in 5.56mm, .260 Remington, 6.5 Grendel and 7.62mm. Additionally, barrels are available in 14.5, 16.1, 18 and 20 inches. LaRue also offers receivers and other components as well other those from other manufacturers. With an expert machinist\u2019s background, Mark LaRue has figured out what components require tight tolerances to be accurate and what tolerances should be loosened for high reliability.\r\n\r\nWhen it comes to scope mounts, Todd has been using LaRue\u2019s for 14 years. None of his scopes have ever lost their zero after being removed and then reinstalled. There\u2019s no better testimony than that! LaRue offers quick-detach mounts for numerous optics, including scopes and night-vision devices. LaRue mounts feature precision-machined bar-stock aluminum and hardcoat anodizinb for durability. (larue.com<\/a>)\r\n

Nightforce ATACR<\/h3>\r\nHaving shot tons of different scopes, Todd\u2019s favorite is the Nightforce 7-35x56mm ATACR. He was originally concerned that it provided too much magnification, and therefore the eye box would be too small. However, his concerns were quickly dispelled on the range. He can zoom in easily when he needs high magnification and zoom back out when he doesn\u2019t. He considers the parallax adjustment the best he has seen, and the scope is his choice for all long-range shooting. It\u2019s available with either MOA or mil ZeroStop turrets, and Nightforce offers four illuminated reticles, including Todd\u2019s TReMoR3. (nightforceoptics.com<\/a>)\r\n

Kestrel 5700<\/h3>\r\nTodd states that the Kestrel 5700 meter with Applied Ballistics is one of the best tools he has seen for long-range shooting. It combines the best ballistic engine in the world with custom drag models. He, Brian Litz and Kestrel continually work to upgrade it to make it better and faster. The 5700 offers customizable range cards, muzzle velocity calibration and truing, and multi-target storage and viewing. Additionally, its wireless system allows you to access the Applied Ballistics library and works with iOS and Android devices to build and manage gun profiles. (kestrelmeters.com<\/a>)\r\n

Leica Rangemaster 1600-R<\/h3>\r\nTodd uses Leica rangefinders all the time because of their size, quality and affordability. The Leica Rangemaster is compact, easily fits in a pocket and can be used with one hand.\u00a0Leica maintains a reputation for quality lenses, and the rangefinders offer brilliant, razor-sharp images, edge to edge.\u00a0Featuring 7X magnification, the 1600-R ranges out to 1,600 yards. (leicasportsoptics.com<\/a>)\r\n

TOP 3 TIPS From Accuracy 1st's Todd Hodnett<\/h3>\r\n
    \r\n \t
  1. Create a routine to follow for each shot. This could start by getting your wind call while you are still standing, checking your turrets as a habit, seeing the target in your scope, getting square to it with your body and then \u201cloading\u201d your bipod slightly. This creates a natural point of aim and helps with recoil management. Controlling recoil is vital so you can get your rifle back on target quickly to see your hits.<\/li>\r\n \t
  2. Use a bubble level and check it on each shot. It is critical to be level, and I watch shooter after shooter not leveling their gun, creating slight misses. For example, canting 2.5 degrees can mean a 0.05-mil shift for every 100 meters, and 5 degrees equals 0.1 mils for every 100 meters. Small errors pile up quickly at long distances.<\/li>\r\n \t
  3. Use the scope shadow to ensure your eye is in the middle of the scope, even while setting up your cheekweld, as this will help in centering your eye for each shot. This helps with parallax issues. Buy the best scope you can afford. You will enjoy your time on the range more and get more out of your rifle.<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nThis article is from the November\/December issue of Tactical-Life magazine. Grab your copy at OutdoorGroupStore.com<\/a>.","post_title":"Accuracy 1st's Todd Hodnett Shares Long-Range Shooting Secrets","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"accuracy-1sts-todd-hodnett","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-10-31 22:56:54","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-01 02:56:54","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2018\/12\/06\/accuracy-1sts-todd-hodnett\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":130268,"post_author":"645","post_date":"2018-10-03 08:59:28","post_date_gmt":"2018-10-03 12:59:28","post_content":"The Department of Defense has announced that the\u00a0United States Special Operations Command (SOCOM) has chosen the Nightforce ATACR to be its\u00a0Squad-Variable Powered Scope.\n\n[in_content post=\"198717\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\n

    SOCOM Opts for Nightforce ATACR<\/h2>\nSOCOM chose the Nightforce ATACR\u00a01-8x24 F1 riflescope to replace its current scope<\/a> system on M4 rifles. Part of the the reason the ATACR was chosen because of its ability to go quickly from close quarters to long-range combat.\n\n\"The S-VPS is a low-profile, wide-field-of-view, passive scope for near-range engagements out to and beyond the maximum effective range of the weapon system, for small arms employed by special operations forces,\" said the DoD in the announcement<\/a>.\n\nThe ATACR features ED glass, bright daylight illumination, an intelligent reticle and low-profile adjustments. Additionally, its\u00a0field of view at 1X is equivalent to open sights, but with much more precision.\n\nNightforce optimized the first focal plane reticle for low-power rifle use. Additionally, the center dot and segmented circle are visible, even under the brightest conditions. This provides fast target\u00a0acquisition regardless of lighting for close quarters combat. However, its\u00a0integrated Power Throw Lever allows the scope to quickly zoom out to 8X for longer engagements. It also comes with\u00a0low-profile turrets and\u00a0true .1 Mil-Radian adjustment.\n\n\u201cThe Nightforce MIL-SPEC ATACR 1-8x24 F1 is\u00a0 an over-engineered, military-grade scope built with the military\u2019s extreme endurance in mind,\u201d said Bill Bracken, Nightforce MIL-GOV-LE Senior Program Manager,. \u201cIt offers numerous mission-critical features including a large eyebox for rapid engagement, a Power Throw Lever for rapid magnification adjustments and the shortest length in its class to maximize rail space\u201d\n

    Nightforce ATACR 1-8x24 F1 Specs<\/h4>\n

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The choice of a medium-heavy barrel rather than a heavier profile gave the gun better balance and facilitated field carry and it did not seem to diminish accuracy. The sharpness of the view through the Leupold Mark IV compensated a bit for the 10x maximum magnification. About all I\u2019d suggest would be the option of a threaded muzzle for suppressor attachment and use of bottom metal allowing the use of detachable magazines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Kimber M8400 Advanced Tactical Rifle offers some features that are not seen in other rifles for military and law enforcement precision shooters, such as the non-rotating claw extractor, mechanical ejector (useful when spent cases can\u2019t be left lying on the ground) and thoughtfully modified A-5 stock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When the Advanced Tactical Kit is added, Kimber must be given credit for providing serious precision shooters with an integrated shooting system composed of top-quality components and backed by the reputation of a company occupying a preeminent position among American gunmakers. For those LE departments, military units or individuals seeking a complete tactical package, the Kimber M8400 Advanced Tactical is worth serious consideration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Kimber M8400 Advanced Tactical Rifle .308 Review","post_excerpt":"Enhanced features and capable of sub-MOA performance!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"kimber-m8400-advanced-tactical-rifle-308","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-11-16 18:16:51","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-16 23:16:51","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2008\/06\/21\/kimber-m8400-advanced-tactical-rifle-308\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":128884,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2019-03-25 07:21:15","post_date_gmt":"2019-03-25 11:21:15","post_content":"

\n\nSpecial Missions Units within the U.S. military are always looking outside the box for weapons, ammunition and gear. It\u2019s a constant battle for our most specialized forces to adapt to the requirements of their missions. Much of what\u2019s used today has come from their requests for equipment suited to their needs. In some cases, it comes from a request for information (RFI) and may even result in a formal contract. More often than not, it\u2019s on a smaller scale, even at the unit level. Most of these requests stay pretty compartmentalized. Others, like what would become the Precision Sniper Rifle (PSR), drive the industry into a frenzy. Often, something unique comes out of all that hoopla. One such item is the .300 Norma Magnum<\/a>, which was chosen as the Advanced Sniper Rifle Cartridge for special operations forces in 2016.\n\n[in_content post=\"203542\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\n

Magnum Force<\/h3>\nDuring the PSR process, when the .338 Norma Magnum was causing quite the stir, a friend of mine, Mike Brown of Mike\u2019s Gun Sales and Service, told me about a project Jimmy Sloan was working on. Jimmy was the creator of the .338 Norma Magnum, an improved cartridge optimized for the 300-grain Sierra MatchKing (SMK) bullet. Still of interest, it works very well in belt-fed and rotary machine guns.\n\nThe newer .300 Norma Magnum cartridge is based on the .338 Norma, with the same case necked down to accept the .30-caliber bullets. An experienced precision rifle builder, Mike was about as excited as he ever gets about a new caliber. Why? Mostly to take advantage of the ever-improving and long-standing stability of .30-caliber bullets.\n\nBerger and other manufacturers were making bullets with incredibly high ballistic coefficients (BCs) that could be pushed well over 3,000 fps without excessive chamber pressure. Fast .30-caliber rounds aren\u2019t new, but this one allowed shooters to simply switch out their .338 Norma or .338 Lapua barrels and use the same action, bolt and so on.\n

300 Norma Mag<\/h3>\nPreliminary ballistics testing showed that the .300 Norma Magnum equaled or bested the .338 out to 2,000 yards in every measure but energy on target. Using the Berger 230-grain hybrid boat-tail (HBT), it could even win that race with enough velocity. But, while it seemed excellent, there just wasn\u2019t enough ammo available at the time for me to jump on board. That changed when my contacts assured me it was going to be chosen as the Advanced Sniper Rifle Cartridge in 2016.\n\nIn short, the .300 Norma Magnum shoots flatter than the .338 Lapua with relatively light recoil, especially with 215-grain bullets. And while 24-inch barrels are the norm for this caliber, you can use shorter barrels with light bullets and still deliver at extreme distances. It works suppressed with .338- or .30-caliber suppressors rated for magnum pressures. Finally, and maybe most important, there are already .338 Lapua and .338 Norma semi-autos in service, and transitioning to the .300 Norma is relatively easy. Of course, this all sounds great, but I wanted to test a few of these platforms at serious ranges.\n

Four Test Guns<\/h3>\nI used four different guns with .300 Norma Magnum barrels\u2014three bolt actions and a semi-auto. First up was a Desert Tech (DT) SRS using a 25-inch, carbon-fiber-wrapped Proof Research barrel and a .338 suppressor. Additionally, the other bolt actions included a Barrett MRAD and a Victrix Armaments Scorpio with a 26-inch Benchmark barrel. The semi-auto was DRD Tactical\u2019s Kivaari.\n\nThe Victrix Scorpio is equipped with an incredibly efficient muzzle brake, and I added an American Precision Arms (APA) Fat Bastard to both the MRAD and Kivaari. Then I installed a Nightforce 5-25x56mm ATACR F1 scope using the TMR reticle on the Victrix and MRAD, the 7-35x56mm ATACR with a Horus T3 reticle on the DT SRS, and a Bushnell 4.5-30x50mm XRS II using a Horus H59 reticle on the Kivaari.\n\nAmmunition for the .300 Norma Magnum is still a tad scarce and expensive. Factory rounds using 230-grain HBT bullets are the most common. Norma makes excellent ammunition, but this load is just a tad slow. ABM\u2019s 215-grain HBTs are excellent but hard to get. Thankfully, DRD Tactical was kind enough to provide some ammo for testing. The rest were handloads using Berger 230-grain HBTs and Hornady 212-grain ELD-X and 225-grain ELD-M bullets in new Norma brass with Retumbo powder.\n

Going The Distance<\/h3>\nI\u2019ll start by saying that all four rifles were extremely accurate at the range. At close to 3,100 fps, my 230-grain Berger HBT handload produced the best group at 100 yards\u2014just 0.5 inches\u2014with the Victrix Scorpio. At 300 yards, the Desert Tech SRS clustered my 212-grain ELD-X rounds into 0.7 inches. Barrett\u2019s MRAD seemed to prefer the 225-grain ELD-M load, producing a 10-inch, five-shot group at 1,308 yards. Overall, the accuracy was excellent across the board\u2014the only \u201cgroups\u201d that exceeded 1 MOA were at 2,000 yards.\n\nBut shooting these rifles at 100 yards was kind of a waste to be honest, so most testing started at 500 yards and stretched out to a mile, then 2,000 yards. Having used several rifles at a mile, I can state that this caliber excels at this range. All of the test loads performed well out to 1,500 yards, even the slower Norma load that came in a closer to 2,875 fps. Out of the 26-inch-barreled Victrix, my 230-grain HBT load did not go transonic until 1,900 yards. Even the 212-grain ELD-X load was consistent to a mile.\nMoving out to 2,000 yards, the extra velocity really helped. Hits were consistent with both the 215- and 230-grain Berger HBT bullets, with muzzle velocities between 3,000 and 3,050 fps. Suffice it to say that the .300 Norma Magnum works incredibly well at extreme distances.\n\nThe ammunition was also reliable in every gun, which might have been a prime consideration for the military. The fact that the .300 Norma Magnum runs in a semi-auto is a big plus, especially for Special Missions Units, and there are several proven .338 semi-autos today, requiring only a barrel change.\n\nIf you are looking for light recoil, use a brake. The APA Fat Bastard worked well in this regard. It was loud, but the rifles were controllable. It was easy to stay on target at 1,000 yards and beyond. I even had a couple moments where I was shooting at 1,000 yards and had two casings in the air. Shooting from prone, there is no need to come off the gun at all. You just press the trigger, watch, adjust, then press again. Using a suppressor on the DT SRS, the recoil was noticeably harsher but quiet. For field work, I would probably use a suppressor, but a brake for messing around on the range. Just make sure to double up on hearing protection.\n\nThe minimum velocity for this round should be 2,950 fps from a 24-inch barrel. Anything less than that and you are in .300 Winchester Magnum territory. I pushed the 230-grain Berger rounds to 3,150 fps from the 26-inch barrel with zero pressure signs and no bolt or extraction issues while maintaining sub-MOA accuracy to almost a mile. Barrett\u2019s MRAD held everything well under 1 MOA to 1,308 yards, pushing the Hornady 225-grain ELD-Ms to a tad over 3,000 fps. My sweet spot for the 212-grain ELD-Xs was 3,050 fps, which worked nicely despite reaching subsonic velocities at 2,000 yards, and this load produced the tightest group from the Barrett MRAD at that range. Handloaders can go faster, but staying close to 3,000 fps will get the most out of this caliber without scorching your barrel.\n\n[in_content post=\"203585\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\n

Bottom Line<\/h3>\nIt\u2019s a little too easy to bash military units for specifying less-than-common ammunition these days. It\u2019s low-hanging fruit. Remember the 6.8 SPC? But some guys always seem to think something else is better, or what they have is \u201cgood enough.\u201d That\u2019s easy to say from your desk as a keyboard commando. Real commandos\u2019 lives depend on these decisions, so I get it. They are not looking at the .300 Norma Magnum for their next big-game hunt or precision rifle match, and for them this round makes sense. It makes sense to me, too.\n\nThat being said, the .300 Norma Magnum is an excellent hunting round, especially if you handload. Further, it costs me around a dollar per round after the first investment in brass to load, and you can pay more for factory 6.5 Creedmoor rounds. Hornady\u2019s ELD-M and ELD-X bullets have been excellent, with equal or better BCs at a much lower cost. Also, you can use the .300 Norma Magnum in the field with a long action and get some serious range, even with a 24-inch barrel. In fact, that\u2019s my next project\u2014taking a purpose-built .300 Norma to Alaska.\n

Long-Range Fun<\/h3>\nMy only regret is not jumping on this caliber earlier. Further, this test was easily the most fun I\u2019ve had in a long time at ranges under 2,500 yards. Additionally, with the .300 Norma, it\u2019s almost easy to reach out to a mile using most top-tier scopes and a 30- or 40-MOA rail with no need to hold over. The recoil is moderate at the extremes and quite manageable with lower velocities. Also, with the right brake and a heavy rifle, it\u2019s downright pleasant to shoot.\n\nIn this case, U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) seems to have made the right decision. The .300 Norma Magnum may be the perfect choice for them, and a good one for you.\n\nThis article is from the March 2019 issue of Tactical-Life magazine. Grab your copy at OutdoorGroupStore.com<\/a>.<\/strong><\/em> For digital editions, visit <\/em><\/strong>Amazon<\/a>. <\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"Testing the New 300 Norma Mag Round Being Used by SOCOM","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"testing-new-300-norma-mag-socom","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:18:18","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:18:18","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2019\/03\/25\/testing-new-300-norma-mag-socom\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":129750,"post_author":"645","post_date":"2018-12-06 07:03:30","post_date_gmt":"2018-12-06 12:03:30","post_content":" \r\n\r\nI had the distinct honor of attending a long-range shooting<\/a> course taught by Accuracy 1st's Todd Hodnett. You may not know his name because, other than being the instructor in Magpul\u2019s Art of the Precision Rifle<\/em> DVD, he maintains a rather low profile.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"201026\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nBut make no mistake, his impact on the shooting world and our nation\u2019s soldiers looms large. Todd trains members from every branch of our military and counts numerous three-letter agencies as clients. In addition to training at his spectacular 30,000-acre facility in Canadian, Texas, Todd travels the globe training our military units and those of our allies. Accuracy 1st's Utah locations also offers numerous classes for civilians and military personnel alike.\r\n\r\nTodd also serves as a consultant for numerous manufacturers of rifles, ammunition, optics and accessories. He\u2019s developed several of the ballistic equations used by shooters around the world today, and he even helped Horus develop the H58, H59 and TReMoR reticles. The latter is a sophisticated reticle that speeds up your engagement time by including wind holds, moving target holds and ranging capabilities.\r\n

Back To School<\/h3>\r\nThe five-day class that I joined in Texas was comprised of eight special operations warfighters from three different groups. Our mornings were spent in the classroom, and we hit the range in the afternoons to shoot from 500 meters to over 2,000 meters. We shot both .308 and .300 Winchester Magnum rifles depending on the target distance. Todd\u2019s definition of \u201cclose range\u201d is 800 meters and in, and he\u2019s not having fun until he\u2019s shooting beyond 1,500 meters. And if you think .308s can\u2019t reach beyond 800 meters, you haven\u2019t met Todd. He and his students regularly take them out to a mile and beyond.\r\n\r\nTodd\u2019s course is centered around getting accurate hits on distant targets as quickly as possible. As such, his goal for the class is for participants to not memorize his lessons, but truly understand their concepts so they will know what elements are less important and which are vital, enabling them to determine what aspects require their attention in the field. Much of the class time was spent integrating the information from a Kestrel 5700 Elite Meter with Applied Ballistic software meter to create accurate ballistic solutions. The morning classroom sessions covered wind formulas, the TReMoR reticle, aerodynamic jump, truing, spindrift, density altitude, high-angle shooting, ammunition temperature and much more.\r\n

Common Mistakes<\/h3>\r\nTodd stated that the most common error that he sees is shooters not adjusting their formulas to account for different ammunition temperatures. Gunpowder is temperature sensitive, and some powders are more sensitive than others. A cartridge at 90 degrees will fly faster than one at 20 degrees. A change in velocity will affect the point of impact, especially at long distances. To account for this change, velocity should be measured at a minimum of three temperature points, such as 20, 50 and 80 degrees. The more points, the better. The temperature points should be adjusted higher or lower based on your particular climate. If the sandbox, for example, ammo can reach 150 degrees when stored in a Conex container. So, it\u2019s important to have this data so your Kestrel can calculate the proper ballistic formula. Todd recommends using an inexpensive temperature gun for reading your ammo\u2019s temperature.\r\n

Required Gear<\/h3>\r\nI brought a few things to the class, including a LaRue Tactical 7.62mm PredatOBR rifle with a 16-inch barrel and capped with LaRue\u2019s TranQuilo M308 suppressor. The PredatOBR is designed to be easily disassembled in the field and clandestinely transported in a very small case. LaRue offers a heavy cloth rollup bag and a metal tool box for the ultimate stealth. The PredatOBR can then be quickly reassembled with minimal point-of-impact shifts.\r\n\r\nThe TranQuilo is completely CNC-machined from a combination of 17-4 PH stainless steel and Incoloy A-286. This suppressor also features a captive locking ring to securely hold it to one of LaRue\u2019s flash suppressors, and the design helps minimize blowback toward the shooter\u2019s face.\r\n\r\nFor aiming, I installed a Nightforce 7-35x56mm ATACR scope, and I used Black Hills\u2019 178-grain ELD-X rounds for ammo. Black Hills ammunition has always grouped extremely well for me, and the standard deviation of the lot that I brought to the class was just 12. Highly accurate rifles and consistent ammunition are critical for precision shooting.\r\n

Zeroing In<\/h3>\r\nDay one\u2019s range session started with zeroing our rifles, then truing our Kestrel meters for our specific ammo\u2019s performance. We finished the day on the open range by engaging targets from 411 to 1,217 meters.\r\n\r\nTruing is a concept developed by Todd that customizes the G1 and G7 drag curves to the user\u2019s exact bullet performance. Without this, these drag curves are just estimates that do not exactly conform to the shooter\u2019s ballistics. Furthermore, they tend to be unreliable once the bullet enters transonic and subsonic phases. Additionally, ballistic coefficients provided from manufactures are not always correct, and readings from consumer-grade chronographs can be inaccurate. Truing fixes all of these issues and turns a predictive<\/em> ballistic algorithm into an actual<\/em> algorithm for the shooter\u2019s specific weapon system.\r\n\r\nThe truing process is accomplished by shooting at targets located at both supersonic and subsonic distances and comparing the actual results to the predicted results displayed on the Kestrel. The velocity is adjusted in the Kestrel to match that actual shooting results.\r\n\r\nAs an alternative to using G1 and G7 drag curves, Applied Ballistics offers free custom drag curves that Brian Litz created by shooting and tracking each bullet at supersonic, transonic and subsonic speeds. The custom curves can be downloaded to the free Applied Ballistics app and transferred to the Kestrel by Bluetooth or cable. Using the custom curve for the 178-grain Hornady ELD-X bullet in my Black Hills ammo, I had hits at both supersonic and subsonic distances, proving that the Applied Ballistics custom drag curves perfectly matched my ammo.\r\n

Reading Wind<\/h3>\r\nThe second afternoon was spent on the wind course, where shooters take positions on a plateau that offers 285 degrees of shooting. This means that your wind gusts from nearly every direction. The terrain varies, too, greatly testing your skills, as topography can dramatically effect wind speed and throw off your readings.\r\n\r\nTodd describes a \u201cno-wind day\u201d as one with 12- to 14-mph winds. We were blessed with much more than that throughout the week. Most days had 10- to 20-mph winds, and the last day had the highest wind speeds at 24 mph with gusts to 35. We shot in those winds all week and still made our hits!\r\n\r\nThe Kestrel meters offer wind speed readings, but only at the shooter\u2019s location. You must \u201cread\u201d the wind downrange by noting the movement of vegetation, for example. The wind can shift both in intensity and direction all along the way to the target. Wind 90 degrees to the target from either side is considered \u201cfull value,\u201d and this requires using the Kestrel\u2019s full wind correction.\r\n

Making Wind Corrections<\/h3>\r\nCorrections for wind from any other direction, with tail or headwind components, are typically smaller. You can multiply the cosine of the wind direction by the wind speed to calculate the correction, or enter the direction of wind into the Kestrel for a corrected reading. Either way, you still have to read the wind and terrain downrange and adjust according. Long-range shooting is both an art and a science. The science portion is well known, and tools like the Kestrel make that portion easy. Also, reading wind is the art, and its only achievable by practice and experience.\r\n\r\nAccuracy 1st\u2019s wind course is one of the primary reasons that many soldiers return time and time again. The course offers wind speeds and terrain variations not found on most military ranges. Training in these conditions is what helps make snipers effective in locations around the world.\r\n

Teeing Off<\/h3>\r\nOn the third day, we hit Accuracy 1st\u2019s \u201cgolf course,\u201d which has 18 targets spread along 16 different locations. Shooting distances range from 230 to 800 meters. In each position, we set up our equipment, ranged the target using the mil markings on our reticles, calculated wind corrections and fired. We had three shots to hit each target. Once done, we packed up our gear, jumped in our vehicles, drove to the next spot and repeated the process. We had to hit 15 of the targets from prone. We kneeled to hit two 240-meter targets and stood to hit one 200-meter target.\r\n\r\nThe PredatOBR isn\u2019t light, especially with a scope, suppressor, bipod and ammo. I had never shot such a heavy gun from a free-standing position before, so I had difficulty holding it steady with the winds blowing me around. The technique that worked best for me was to hold the rifle high and slowly lower it. I fired when the reticle hit its mark. The last two days of the class featured shooting from a few different locations and repeating the wind and golf courses.\r\n\r\nThe class was intense, challenging and lots of fun. Moreover, there is nothing like hearing the ping<\/em> of a round hitting a distant steel target. If you enjoy precision shooting and are looking to test your skills and learn from the best, there\u2019s no better than Accuracy 1st.\r\n\r\nFor more information, visit accuracy1st.com<\/a>.\r\n

Accuracy 1st's Todd Hodnett: Favorite Gear<\/h3>\r\n

LaRue Tactical<\/h3>\r\nTodd considers LaRue Tactical\u2019s rifles to be the best gas guns he has shot, and he owns 20 for his school. He said, \u201cI only need two guns, my LaRue .260 and my .300 Norma bolt gun.\u201d\r\n\r\nLaRue Tactical offers rifles in 5.56mm, .260 Remington, 6.5 Grendel and 7.62mm. Additionally, barrels are available in 14.5, 16.1, 18 and 20 inches. LaRue also offers receivers and other components as well other those from other manufacturers. With an expert machinist\u2019s background, Mark LaRue has figured out what components require tight tolerances to be accurate and what tolerances should be loosened for high reliability.\r\n\r\nWhen it comes to scope mounts, Todd has been using LaRue\u2019s for 14 years. None of his scopes have ever lost their zero after being removed and then reinstalled. There\u2019s no better testimony than that! LaRue offers quick-detach mounts for numerous optics, including scopes and night-vision devices. LaRue mounts feature precision-machined bar-stock aluminum and hardcoat anodizinb for durability. (larue.com<\/a>)\r\n

Nightforce ATACR<\/h3>\r\nHaving shot tons of different scopes, Todd\u2019s favorite is the Nightforce 7-35x56mm ATACR. He was originally concerned that it provided too much magnification, and therefore the eye box would be too small. However, his concerns were quickly dispelled on the range. He can zoom in easily when he needs high magnification and zoom back out when he doesn\u2019t. He considers the parallax adjustment the best he has seen, and the scope is his choice for all long-range shooting. It\u2019s available with either MOA or mil ZeroStop turrets, and Nightforce offers four illuminated reticles, including Todd\u2019s TReMoR3. (nightforceoptics.com<\/a>)\r\n

Kestrel 5700<\/h3>\r\nTodd states that the Kestrel 5700 meter with Applied Ballistics is one of the best tools he has seen for long-range shooting. It combines the best ballistic engine in the world with custom drag models. He, Brian Litz and Kestrel continually work to upgrade it to make it better and faster. The 5700 offers customizable range cards, muzzle velocity calibration and truing, and multi-target storage and viewing. Additionally, its wireless system allows you to access the Applied Ballistics library and works with iOS and Android devices to build and manage gun profiles. (kestrelmeters.com<\/a>)\r\n

Leica Rangemaster 1600-R<\/h3>\r\nTodd uses Leica rangefinders all the time because of their size, quality and affordability. The Leica Rangemaster is compact, easily fits in a pocket and can be used with one hand.\u00a0Leica maintains a reputation for quality lenses, and the rangefinders offer brilliant, razor-sharp images, edge to edge.\u00a0Featuring 7X magnification, the 1600-R ranges out to 1,600 yards. (leicasportsoptics.com<\/a>)\r\n

TOP 3 TIPS From Accuracy 1st's Todd Hodnett<\/h3>\r\n
    \r\n \t
  1. Create a routine to follow for each shot. This could start by getting your wind call while you are still standing, checking your turrets as a habit, seeing the target in your scope, getting square to it with your body and then \u201cloading\u201d your bipod slightly. This creates a natural point of aim and helps with recoil management. Controlling recoil is vital so you can get your rifle back on target quickly to see your hits.<\/li>\r\n \t
  2. Use a bubble level and check it on each shot. It is critical to be level, and I watch shooter after shooter not leveling their gun, creating slight misses. For example, canting 2.5 degrees can mean a 0.05-mil shift for every 100 meters, and 5 degrees equals 0.1 mils for every 100 meters. Small errors pile up quickly at long distances.<\/li>\r\n \t
  3. Use the scope shadow to ensure your eye is in the middle of the scope, even while setting up your cheekweld, as this will help in centering your eye for each shot. This helps with parallax issues. Buy the best scope you can afford. You will enjoy your time on the range more and get more out of your rifle.<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nThis article is from the November\/December issue of Tactical-Life magazine. Grab your copy at OutdoorGroupStore.com<\/a>.","post_title":"Accuracy 1st's Todd Hodnett Shares Long-Range Shooting Secrets","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"accuracy-1sts-todd-hodnett","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-10-31 22:56:54","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-01 02:56:54","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2018\/12\/06\/accuracy-1sts-todd-hodnett\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":130268,"post_author":"645","post_date":"2018-10-03 08:59:28","post_date_gmt":"2018-10-03 12:59:28","post_content":"The Department of Defense has announced that the\u00a0United States Special Operations Command (SOCOM) has chosen the Nightforce ATACR to be its\u00a0Squad-Variable Powered Scope.\n\n[in_content post=\"198717\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\n

    SOCOM Opts for Nightforce ATACR<\/h2>\nSOCOM chose the Nightforce ATACR\u00a01-8x24 F1 riflescope to replace its current scope<\/a> system on M4 rifles. Part of the the reason the ATACR was chosen because of its ability to go quickly from close quarters to long-range combat.\n\n\"The S-VPS is a low-profile, wide-field-of-view, passive scope for near-range engagements out to and beyond the maximum effective range of the weapon system, for small arms employed by special operations forces,\" said the DoD in the announcement<\/a>.\n\nThe ATACR features ED glass, bright daylight illumination, an intelligent reticle and low-profile adjustments. Additionally, its\u00a0field of view at 1X is equivalent to open sights, but with much more precision.\n\nNightforce optimized the first focal plane reticle for low-power rifle use. Additionally, the center dot and segmented circle are visible, even under the brightest conditions. This provides fast target\u00a0acquisition regardless of lighting for close quarters combat. However, its\u00a0integrated Power Throw Lever allows the scope to quickly zoom out to 8X for longer engagements. It also comes with\u00a0low-profile turrets and\u00a0true .1 Mil-Radian adjustment.\n\n\u201cThe Nightforce MIL-SPEC ATACR 1-8x24 F1 is\u00a0 an over-engineered, military-grade scope built with the military\u2019s extreme endurance in mind,\u201d said Bill Bracken, Nightforce MIL-GOV-LE Senior Program Manager,. \u201cIt offers numerous mission-critical features including a large eyebox for rapid engagement, a Power Throw Lever for rapid magnification adjustments and the shortest length in its class to maximize rail space\u201d\n

    Nightforce ATACR 1-8x24 F1 Specs<\/h4>\n