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Run Guns On Your Website – Gun Rights News That Is

Team Sinclair Breaks Records With F-Class Nationals Wins

Sinclair Ammunition reloading Supplies

Butner, NC --(AmmoLand.com)- The entire crew at Sinclair International, the premier supplier of ammunition reloading supplies, precision reloading tools and shooting accessories are bursting with pride over the fantastic performance of Team Sinclair at the recent F-Class Nationals.

Shooting in the F-T/R (tactical rifle) class “Team Sinclair”; Brad Sauve, Jeff Rorer, Derek Rodgers, and Paul Phillips raised the bar by winning both the 600 and 1000 yard events while breaking their own National records at both distances!

With three of the four team members shooting their .308 rifles off of Sinclair F-Class Bipods, they totaled 784-40X at 600, and 774-20X at 1000 yards.

“These gentlemen really know how to shoot and it gives us a great deal of satisfaction that our Bipods were a part of their success,” said company President, Bill Gravatt.

Sinclair’s F-Class Bipod is specifically designed for the needs of F-Class shooters. It provides an extremely strong, stable, and comfortable platform for almost any rifle with a sling swivel stud. The F-Class Bipod adjusts from 5.5″ to 10.25″ with separate, no-notch, sliding height legs and a locking tilt feature.

About:
Sinclair International is the world’s premier supplier of high-quality reloading tools, components and accessories plus unique target shooting and hunting supplies. Stocking more than 10,000 items, the company supplies reloaders, shooters and hunters worldwide. To order, or for more information, call 800-717-8211 or visit sinclairintl.com and mention AMMOLAND.

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Team Sinclair Breaks Records With F-Class Nationals Wins

USA Shooting

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. –-(AmmoLand.com)- USA Shooting is pleased to announce that pistol shooter Keith Sanderson (San Antonio, Texas) and shotgun shooter Kim Rhode (El Monte, Calif.) have been selected as the 2009 USAS Athletes of the Year.

These athletes were chosen based on the USAS Athlete of the Year Nomination and Selection Procedure, which is a points system that rewards performance in major competitions.

Sanderson, a 2008 Olympian, earned the Male Athlete of the Year honor after an outstanding World Cup season in 2009, winning an unprecedented three medals on the ISSF World Cup circuit. Sanderson captured the gold at the Beijing World Cup, silver in Changwon, Korea and bronze at the World Cup Munich in the Men’s 25m Rapid Fire Pistol event. Sanderson also grabbed fifth place at the Milan World Cup. In addition, Sanderson finished in third place at the 2009 Rifle/Pistol Fall Selection Match at Fort Benning, Ga.

For the third consecutive year, four-time Olympian Rhode was selected as the USA Shooting Female Athlete of the Year. A four-time Olympic medalist, Rhode shot her way to two World Cup medals this year, claiming the silver in San Marino and the bronze in Munich in the Women’s Skeet event. Rhode was also the 2009 National Champion and finished in first place at the 2009 Shotgun Fall Selection Match, earning a spot on the 2010 World Shooting Championship team. Rhode also finished seventh at the 2009 Shotgun World Championships.

Sanderson and Rhode were selected as the overall USAS Athletes of the Year, but USAS also recognizes the Discipline Athletes of the Year, who earned the highest number of points in each discipline.

U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit (USAMU) member Michael McPhail (Darlington, Wis.) was the top male athlete for rifle, while Jamie Beyerle (Lebanon, Pa.) won the honor for women’s rifle for the fourth year in a row, and USAMU member Josh Richmond (Hillsgrove, Pa.) had the highest number of points for men’s shotgun. Sanderson is also the Male Athlete of the Year for pistol and Rhode is the Female the Athlete of the Year for the shotgun discipline. A female pistol shooter was not chosen this year as there were no female pistol shooters who met the minimum point requirement.

McPhail had an excellent year in the Men’s 50m Prone Rifle event, capturing two bronze medals on the World Cup circuit, as well as the silver medal at the World Cup Final. McPhail also finished in fifth place at the World Cup Changwon and was the 2009 National Champion in Men’s Prone.

Beyerle, a 2008 Olympian, won the 2009 World Cup Final bronze medal in Women’s 50m 3 Position Rifle. She finished fourth at the World Cup in Milan and was the 2009 National Champion. She also claimed second place at the Rifle/Pistol Fall Selection Match.

Richmond captured the gold medal in the Men’s Double Trap event at the 2009 World Cup in Munich, Germany. He took home the bronze at the San Marino World Cup and finished fifth at the World Cup in Minsk. Richmond was also the 2009 National Champion and finished fourth at the Shotgun World Championships. Most recently, Richmond won the 2009 Shotgun Fall Selection Match, claiming a spot on the 2010 World Shooting Championship team.

The overall athletes of the year will be submitted to the U.S. Olympic Committee for consideration for the 2009 USOC SportsMan and SportsWoman of the Year awards, which have been presented annually since 1974 to the top overall male and female athletes within the U.S. Olympic Family.

For more information on these athletes, please visit www.usashooting.org.

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USA Shooting Announces Keith Sanderson and Kim Rhode as 2009 Athletes of the Year

North Suburban Police Pistol League

Wisconsin Firearm Owners, Ranges, Clubs & Educators

Wisconsin --(AmmoLand.com)- The North Suburban Police Pistol League Inc, is a not-for-profit, law enforcement shooting club with over 225 law enforcement and civilian members from the Chicagoland and southern Wisconsin area.

The NSPPL is an affiliated club with the National Rifle Association, the Civilian Marksmanship Program, Illinois State Rifle Association, and WI-Force.

Many of the League’s members are certified through the National Rifle Association as Rifle & Pistol Coaches, Training Counselors, and Instructors. Through these members, the League also offers NRA Certified Instructor and Range Safety Officer training. They also have a Certified Utah Concealed Firearm Permit Instructor on staff.

Peter J. Kolovos, is the Secretary/Treasurer, and Director of Training for the NSPPL. Pete runs the day to day operation of the League. He has been involved with firearms and competitive shooting since the late 1960’s. Pete is a Benefactor Life Member of both the NRA and the ISRA. Pete is a Certified Police Firearms Instructor, a Police Sub-Machinegun instructor, a NRA Level 3 Pistol Coach, a Level 2 Rifle Coach, a Utah CFP Instructor, and an NRA Training Counselor. He has also been a member of the NSPPL Executive Board for the last ten years. Since that time Pete’s taken the organization from a mere 30 members and expanded the League and many of it’s programs to where it is today! One of the finest shooting clubs in the Midwest.

About:
Wi-FORCE promotes and protects the shooting sports, hunting, and the lawful ownership and use of firearms in Wisconsin. We coordinate match schedules of member clubs, sanction the state championship matches, monitor and recommend legislation, and provide training and educational programs for our members, competitors and Wisconsin shooters. Wi-FORCE supports the interaction and education of all individuals and groups interested in the shooting sports and the natural right of citizens to own arms. Visit: www.wi-force.org

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North Suburban Police Pistol League – WI-Force Gun Club of the Month

M1 Garand Rifle

Wisconsin Firearm Owners, Ranges, Clubs & Educators

Wisconsin --(AmmoLand.com)- The FORCE’s remaining M1 Garand Rifles are being offered to Individual and Club members of WI-FORCE in good standing.

Since Service Rifle shooting has almost exclusively gone to the AR-15 type rifles, and since the AR-15 is much more “user friendly” for Junior shooters, the M1 Garands are being sold to raise funds to purchase more AR-15 rifles for the Program.

The Garands have all been maintained in very good serviceable condition over the years and would be great additions to anyone’s collection.

For full details, see the next edition of the Hunter-Marksman or contact Arny Seitz (the designated agent for this program – Thanks Arny!) at seitbach@wi-net.com.

And, remember, this is a fundraiser for the Juniors, not just a gun purchase!

About:
Wi-FORCE promotes and protects the shooting sports, hunting, and the lawful ownership and use of firearms in Wisconsin. We coordinate match schedules of member clubs, sanction the state championship matches, monitor and recommend legislation, and provide training and educational programs for our members, competitors and Wisconsin shooters. Wi-FORCE supports the interaction and education of all individuals and groups interested in the shooting sports and the natural right of citizens to own arms. Visit: www.wi-force.org

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WRPA/Wi-FORCE Garands Rifles for Sale

Thor Global Defense Xm408 Sniper Rifle

THOR Global Defense Group

Fort Chaffee, Arkansas --(AmmoLand.com)- THOR Global Defense Group provided a demonstration of the THOR XM408 at Fort Chaffee, Arkansas’ annual sniper competition. The event brought together sniper teams from the Army, Air Force, Marine Corps and Navy to compete against one-another in a week-long event, which ended Friday November 13th.

THOR allowed the teams to test fire the THOR XM408 rifle for target engagement at varying distances. The THOR XM408, which was announced earlier this year, was developed as a collaborative effort between Bill Ritchie’s EDM Arms and THOR staff to create the ultimate in long range shooting systems.

Thor Global Defense Group Tests Thor Xm408 At Sniper Competition

The XM408 rifle is a CNC and EDM machined receiver and bolt with a fully adjustable stock, 30” chrome lined barrel, and 5 round magazine. This exceptional platform which is chambered in .408 CheyTac is capable of effectively engaging targets at distances previously thought impossible.

THOR Global Defense Group is a dynamic organization created to meet the increasing demand for advanced weapon platforms, security services, and training. THOR is able to handle all aspects of security effectively and professionally.

Thor Global Defense Group Tests Thor Xm408 At Sniper Competition

About:
THOR Global Defense Group offers security services, weapons & equipment, training and on-site ranges. Our security services vary from Risk Management to Executive Protection services, as well as consulting. We offer worldwide training for civilians, Law Enforcement and Military.

With THOR, you can purchase a weapon and become fully trained on it at our expansive facility. Please visit the THOR website at www.thorgdg.com.

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Thor Global Defense Group Tests Thor Xm408 Sniper Rifle

BEIJING -- In a driving snowstorm, Sgt. Vincent Hancock, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, prepares for a target during the World Cup Final in Men's skeet at the Beijing Olympic Range. Hancock, the current Olympic, World and National champion in Men's skeet, earned a silver medal and closed out a successful 2009 competitive season. (Photo courtesy of Marco Dalla Dea)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga.— -(AmmoLand.com)- Soldiers from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit began to close out yet another successful competitive season by winning multiple medals at a number of matches recently.

Sgt. Daniel Horner got things going on a right note by winning the U.S. Practical Shooting Association Multi-gun National Championship in Boulder City, Nev. for the second time. Horner completely dominated the competition, winning by more than 380 points and establishing himself as the standard bearer in the sport.

“I couldn’t have done it without the support of my team and the Army,” said Horner, a native of Suffolk, Va.. “This is the biggest match of the year for me. I plan to win it again next year.”

Across the Pacific Ocean, several Soldiers from the USAMU showed up at the World Cup Finals in Beijing with something to prove and left with more hardware for the USAMU trophy case.
Starting things off in the Men’s Rifle 50m prone match, Sgt. Michael McPhail earned his first medal in a World Cup event when he won the silver medal. McPhail missed out on the gold by .04 but was still extremely pleased with his performance.

BEIJING -- Sgt. Michael McPhail, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, shoots during the final round of the Men's 50m prone rifle event in the World Cup Finals at the Beijing Olympic Indoor Range. McPhail earned his first medal in a World Cup competition, placing in second place. (Photo by Marco Dalla Dea, ISSF)

In Men’s Double Trap, Spc. Jeff Holguin earned a bronze medal. Holguin placed fourth in the 2008 Olympics on the same range and was happy that the results were more positive this time around.

“It was great to be back on the Olympic Range of Beijing, and this time walking out with something in my hands,” he said.

Holguin’s USAMU teammate, Sgt. Vincent Hancock, also stood on the winner’s podium in China, winning a silver medal in Men’s skeet. Hancock withstood a driving snowstorm to earn the medal on the same range where he was crowned an Olympic champion in 2008.
Staff Sgt. Ryan Hadden, a two-time World Cup match winner in 2009, placed in fifth place overall in Men’s trap, also overcoming the falling snow to finish an outstanding season on the range.

A number of Soldiers performed extremely well at the 300-meter National Rifle Championships held at Pool Range.

Spc. Joseph Hein won a gold medal in the 3×40 match, outlasting McPhail by one target. McPhail also claimed a silver medal in the Men’s 3×20 match and just beat out Sgt. 1st Class Eric Uptagrafft, who took home the bronze.

In the women’s 3×20, Spc. Sherri Gallagher won the silver medal in the Women’s 3×20 event. Lt. Col. Rhonda Bright earned a bronze medal.

Only a few more events remain on the calendar for 2009, although the Soldiers continue their primary mission of training Soldiers in marksmanship proficiency, as well as attending numerous clinics around the country. The USAMU will soon begin preparations to host the 2010 Fort Benning Rifle and Pistol championships Feb. 3-5 and 10-12.

BEIJING -- Staff Sgt. Ryan Hadden, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, weathers the cold and impending snowstorm moments before the final round of the Men's Trap event at the 2009 World Cup finals. Hadden won two World Cup matches in 2009 and placed fifth to round out an extremely successful 2009. (Photo courtesy of Marco Dalla Dea)

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com .

Today is Friday, November 13, 2009 RSS feed

Cold Weather Camping

Friday, November 13th, 2009 at 2:35 pm – View Previous Posts

Cold Weather Camping

Bass Pro Shops

SPRINGFIELD, MO --(AmmoLand.com)- It’s hard for most people to overcome the notion that Camping is just a spring, summer or fall activity.

Cold weather and snow can add a few challenges but when properly prepared, winter campers can stay warm and comfy.

Summer tents can be winterized by adding a nylon fly that fits over the roof and sides to help keep heat in and protect against rain and snow. You can even put a smaller tent inside a bigger one for double-walled protection.

Outdoor World Radio’s Larry Whiteley

Place a non-porous ground sheet on the tent floor, then add individual foam sleeping pads under sleeping bags rated to minus 20 degrees.

Sources of added heat can be in the form of catalytic heaters or small, folding wood burning stoves.

Pick places close to home and the main road for your initial cold Camping experience.

Larry Whiteley is host of the award-winning Outdoor World® Radio

For more tips, log onto basspro.com

About Bass Pro Shops
Headquartered in Springfield, Missouri, Bass Pro Shops, also an international catalog and internet retailer, currently has 54 retail locations in 26 states and Canada visited by over 100 million people per year. In addition, Bass Pro Shops, also provides products and services for thousands of independent dealers world wide through its subsidiary company, American Rod & Gun. Bass Pro Shops gift cards can be purchased at over 10,000 retail outlets across America. For more information regarding Bass Pro Shops store locations, products or special events, please visit www.basspro.com. To request a free catalog call 1-800-BASS PRO.

More Shooting Sports News

USAMU Holds Action-Packed Junior Shooter Camp

Friday, November 13th, 2009 at 11:58 am

USAMU Holds Action-Packed Junior Shooter Camp
By Michael Molinaro
USAMU PAO

FORT BENNING, Ga. — Staff Sgt. Travis Tomasie, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, displays the correct way of transitioning a shooters body through a course of fire Nov. 7 at Krilling Range. Tomasie and the rest of the USAMU’s Action Shooting team held a camp for junior action pistol shooters from all over the country, as kids from California, Idaho, Arizona, and North Carolina, among others, descended on Fort Benning to learn from the best in the world and meet new friends. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. —-(AmmoLand.com)- Junior shooters from across the country descended on Fort Benning Nov. 6-8 as the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit’s Action Shooting team hosted a junior camp at Krilling Range.

With two national champions, a two-time international sniper champion and a previous attendee at the camp among the instructors, the opportunity to learn from the best was a chance 48 of the top up-and-comers in the growing sport of action shooting couldn’t pass up.

“I needed more training, and my Mom thought if I came here I would meet new friends and have a lot fun,” said nine-year-old Lee Wills, the camp’s youngest participant and a native of Gainesville, Va.. “She was really right.”

The kids were picked to attend the camp after a thorough selection process, said Sgt. 1st Class Aaron Hampton, the camp director. Each junior had to meet certain criteria such as being a ranked U.S. Practical Shooting Association competitor or able to show that you have a good deal of shooting experience.

“This isn’t a beginner’s class,” Hampton said. “By no means is it geared to teach you the fundamentals. Our goal is to help grow the sport.”

FORT BENNING, Ga. — Pvt. Shane Coley, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, instructs juniors on the proper techniques of reloading the weapon Nov. 7 at Krilling Range. Coley and the USAMU Action Shooting team held a junior camp for 48 juniors Nov. 6-8. Coley himself was an attendee just last year and joined the Army after his positive experience at the camp.

Once the juniors met the criteria, they had to submit an essay on what they wanted to gain from coming to the camp and also what the second amendment means to them. Many submissions included a fondness for the Army and desires to one day join the ranks.

“I wanted it to be something that was personal and heartfelt but also something that they’d have to spend a little bit of time to research and understand,” Hampton said. “If you have nine-year olds who can write you a two-page essay on the second amendment, they probably want to show up. It was designed to be a litmus test on how dedicated they were.”

The attendees had the opportunity to learn from the best. Sgt. Daniel Horner, who recently won the Multi-Gun National championship in Boulder City, Nev., worked with the juniors on drawing and accuracy. Sgt. 1st Class Robby Johnson, a two-time International Sniper Competition champion, gave a block of instruction on the introduction to the rifle. The attendees also learned movement techniques, transitions, and reloads.

“I was here last year and had lots of fun,” said Mark Saffery, a 13-year-old from Jacksonville, Fla. “I’ve been competing for three years now. This camp is the best part of the year. We get to learn something from every AMU mentor. They are so awesome and really great guys.”

FORT BENNING, Ga. — 13-year-old Justin Saffery of Jacksonville, Fla. makes his way through a course of fire while being followed by Sgt. 1st Class Robby Johnson of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit Nov. 8 at Krilling Range. The USAMU hosted a junior camp for 48 of the top action shooting youths in the nation, instructing them on a variety of techniques and concluding with a competitive match. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

Instructing them on reloads was a familiar face. Pvt. Shane Coley, the newest member of the USAMU, attended the camp in its inaugural year last fall. Before attending the camp, he had no plans on joining the Army. That all changed rather quickly.

“It helped me so much when I came here,” Coley remarked, who arrived at the USAMU after completing basic and advanced individual training a mere three weeks ago. “I got to meet a bunch of new people in the sport, but I also had great mentors and great teachers in the Soldiers on the team.

“I really wanted to prove to them that I could be here. After the world championships last year Sgt. 1st Class Hampton came up to me and we talked. And now I’m here. It is a little weird because a lot of these guys are my friends, but I have to set boundaries. I want to teach them and instruct them. This is a great camp and these kids realize how valuable it is.”

This is a tricky time of year for the Action Shooting team to hold the camp. Soldiers compete in their national championships in late October, and the Fort Benning Three-Gun challenge, which they host, is held the first weekend of December. But it’s a no-brainier for Hampton and his Soldiers to continue bringing the kids back to Krilling Range and keep growing the sport that they all cherish.

“I believe in two things: one, if you’re going to do something you need to go ahead and do it and, two, if you got momentum keep it going because it’s hard to get it started again,” he concluded.

FORT BENNING, Ga. — 13-year-old James Wall of Parma, Idaho fires on a target under the watchful eye of Sgt. Lee Dimaculangan, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit. Wall and 47 other children attended the USAMU Action Pistol junior camp Nov. 6-8 at Krilling Range, receiving instruction on reloads, transitioning, draw and accuracy, movement, and an introduction to the rifle. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com . The U.S. Practical Shooting Association is a nonprofit membership association affiliated with the International Practical Shooting Confederation, which is comprised of approximately 67 nations.

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USAMU Soldiers Pile Up Medals

“…When you make the decision to carry a gun for personal defense, you must also come to terms with this fact: Your firearm may someday end the life of another person….”

United States Concealed Carry Association

Jackson, Tennessee --(AmmoLand.com)- Recently, a friend of mine stated, “I bought a 357 revolver but I haven’t shot it in fifteen years.” He bought it for self-defense. How many people buy a handgun and stick it in a drawer? The gun is never cleaned. It is never shot. Some are never loaded. Yet, it is there to provide protection for its owner if needed.

Do you see something wrong with that picture?

Some people have the idea that if someone is breaking into their home, automobile, or place of business, they will retrieve the pistol and it will not only fire, but they will hit only what is threatening them. I am afraid most of us get our gun knowledge from Hollywood. That source is an inadequate teacher. In fact, such ignorance can get you killed.

How many folks buy an automobile and let it sit unused in their garage? How many purchase a car but refuse to learn how to drive? “Oh, I’ll learn to drive when I need to take someone to the hospital.” Sure you will.

If you are going to buy a firearm for personal protection, either to carry on your person or to keep at home, in your car, or business, take a handgun course. A good starting place is a class to obtain your carry permit. Once you have gained that permit, you need to take at least one advanced class. Is it expensive? Perhaps, but what price tag do you put on your life or that of your loved ones?

It has been proven that if you can stand and hit the bull’s-eye at seven or ten yards, you will lose about 65% or more proficiency when your life is threatened. If you have no prior training or target practice, you will hit something, but probably not the criminal. Remember, the bad guy isn’t concerned about where his bullets go, you should and must be. If your rounds go past the felon and hit an innocent person, you are legally responsible. You may be shot by the criminal and then sued by the innocent party.

You may think that you can buy a handgun and holster, strap it on and carry without some training. First, it isn’t always comfortable to carry a gun. Second, in the beginning you will think everyone knows you are carrying. It will take time to build confidence. Third, if you don’t have the practice of keeping your “cotton pickin’ finger off the trigger,” you may accidentally blow a hole through your holster and ruin a pair of trousers when reholstering! In a worse case scenario, you could shoot yourself in the leg. Fourth, it takes practice to throw back a shirt or coat, draw, get your sight picture and shoot in a life or death situation. That is why practice, practice, practice is needed. In a life threatening situation, you will revert to your least amount of training. If you have none, what would that be?

If you own a semi-automatic pistol, the dresser drawer or car glove box is not a good learning place. A semi-auto firearm may fire more rounds than a revolver and be easier to reload, but if the firearm’s weaknesses are not learned, it can become little more than a paper weight. When you load the magazine, make sure you load the cartridges in the correct direction. Yes, ignorance happens! When you insert the magazine into the handle of the pistol, make sure it “clicks” to show it is fully seated. If not, the first round fired will dislodge it and it will fall to the ground. If you are a novice under fire, you will be perplexed as to why your gun will not fire when the trigger is pulled the second time. You need to know what to do if your pistol jams and why it did. Many jams are caused by “limp-wristing.” You did not have a firm grip on the gun when firing. You need to practice reloading when the slide locks back after the last round is fired. All of these items are elementary if practiced. Without practice, it can mean the difference between a gun that functions and one that doesn’t. Which would you rather have?

I used to have a neighbor that was an agent in the FBI. The department decided to issue a new firearm. It was the Springfield 1911. After being issued the pistol, the local office went to the range and put 1,000 rounds through the gun each day for two days, just to learn how to use it. That is a good lesson to us. If you are going to purchase a pistol, I have one word for you–Practice! Your life may depend upon it!

Ray Hawk is a minister, a member of the NRA, IDPA, and the Tennessee Sports Foundation in Jackson, Tennessee. He is also the webmaster for the Tennessee Sports Foundation web site.

About:
United States Concealed Carry Association is The Most Comprehensive, Up-To-Date Resource for the Law-Abiding, Armed Citizen. Visit: www.usconcealedcarry.com

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I have a Gun but I Haven’t Shot It

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- Staff Sgt. Travis Tomasie, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, displays the correct way of transitioning a shooters body through a course of fire Nov. 7 at Krilling Range. Tomasie and the rest of the USAMU's Action Shooting team held a camp for junior action pistol shooters from all over the country, as kids from California, Idaho, Arizona, and North Carolina, among others, descended on Fort Benning to learn from the best in the world and meet new friends. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. —-(AmmoLand.com)- Junior shooters from across the country descended on Fort Benning Nov. 6-8 as the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit’s Action Shooting team hosted a junior camp at Krilling Range.

With two national champions, a two-time international sniper champion and a previous attendee at the camp among the instructors, the opportunity to learn from the best was a chance 48 of the top up-and-comers in the growing sport of action shooting couldn’t pass up.

“I needed more training, and my Mom thought if I came here I would meet new friends and have a lot fun,” said nine-year-old Lee Wills, the camp’s youngest participant and a native of Gainesville, Va.. “She was really right.”

The kids were picked to attend the camp after a thorough selection process, said Sgt. 1st Class Aaron Hampton, the camp director. Each junior had to meet certain criteria such as being a ranked U.S. Practical Shooting Association competitor or able to show that you have a good deal of shooting experience.

“This isn’t a beginner’s class,” Hampton said. “By no means is it geared to teach you the fundamentals. Our goal is to help grow the sport.”

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- Pvt. Shane Coley, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, instructs juniors on the proper techniques of reloading the weapon Nov. 7 at Krilling Range. Coley and the USAMU Action Shooting team held a junior camp for 48 juniors Nov. 6-8. Coley himself was an attendee just last year and joined the Army after his positive experience at the camp.

Once the juniors met the criteria, they had to submit an essay on what they wanted to gain from coming to the camp and also what the second amendment means to them. Many submissions included a fondness for the Army and desires to one day join the ranks.

“I wanted it to be something that was personal and heartfelt but also something that they’d have to spend a little bit of time to research and understand,” Hampton said. “If you have nine-year olds who can write you a two-page essay on the second amendment, they probably want to show up. It was designed to be a litmus test on how dedicated they were.”

The attendees had the opportunity to learn from the best. Sgt. Daniel Horner, who recently won the Multi-Gun National championship in Boulder City, Nev., worked with the juniors on drawing and accuracy. Sgt. 1st Class Robby Johnson, a two-time International Sniper Competition champion, gave a block of instruction on the introduction to the rifle. The attendees also learned movement techniques, transitions, and reloads.

“I was here last year and had lots of fun,” said Mark Saffery, a 13-year-old from Jacksonville, Fla. “I’ve been competing for three years now. This camp is the best part of the year. We get to learn something from every AMU mentor. They are so awesome and really great guys.”

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- 13-year-old Justin Saffery of Jacksonville, Fla. makes his way through a course of fire while being followed by Sgt. 1st Class Robby Johnson of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit Nov. 8 at Krilling Range. The USAMU hosted a junior camp for 48 of the top action shooting youths in the nation, instructing them on a variety of techniques and concluding with a competitive match. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

Instructing them on reloads was a familiar face. Pvt. Shane Coley, the newest member of the USAMU, attended the camp in its inaugural year last fall. Before attending the camp, he had no plans on joining the Army. That all changed rather quickly.

“It helped me so much when I came here,” Coley remarked, who arrived at the USAMU after completing basic and advanced individual training a mere three weeks ago. “I got to meet a bunch of new people in the sport, but I also had great mentors and great teachers in the Soldiers on the team.

“I really wanted to prove to them that I could be here. After the world championships last year Sgt. 1st Class Hampton came up to me and we talked. And now I’m here. It is a little weird because a lot of these guys are my friends, but I have to set boundaries. I want to teach them and instruct them. This is a great camp and these kids realize how valuable it is.”

This is a tricky time of year for the Action Shooting team to hold the camp. Soldiers compete in their national championships in late October, and the Fort Benning Three-Gun challenge, which they host, is held the first weekend of December. But it’s a no-brainier for Hampton and his Soldiers to continue bringing the kids back to Krilling Range and keep growing the sport that they all cherish.

“I believe in two things: one, if you’re going to do something you need to go ahead and do it and, two, if you got momentum keep it going because it’s hard to get it started again,” he concluded.

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- 13-year-old James Wall of Parma, Idaho fires on a target under the watchful eye of Sgt. Lee Dimaculangan, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit. Wall and 47 other children attended the USAMU Action Pistol junior camp Nov. 6-8 at Krilling Range, receiving instruction on reloads, transitioning, draw and accuracy, movement, and an introduction to the rifle. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com . The U.S. Practical Shooting Association is a nonprofit membership association affiliated with the International Practical Shooting Confederation, which is comprised of approximately 67 nations.

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USAMU Holds Action-Packed Junior Shooter Camp

InSight Technology

LONDONDERRY, NH --(AmmoLand.com)-Insight Technology, the world’s leading provider of tactical lasers, illuminators and thermal imaging equipment, has been named the title sponsor of the mcalifoonthly International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA) matches held in Southern California at the ISI Ranges in Piru. The 2010 matches will be called the Insight Technology IPDA Series and are open to all competitors.

“From the start our IDPA matches have grown in size pulling in shooters from around the state. With the generous support of Insight Technology we hope to break all previous participation records and provide our competitors with an exciting and challenging match structure that will bring even more shooters into the sport,” said Mike Dalton, ISI founder and match director for the series.

Starting in January, the Insight Technology IPDA Series will take place on the fourth Saturday of each month. Shooters will compete for top honors in the IDPA Stock Service Pistol, Enhanced Service Pistol, Stock Revolver, Enhanced Revolver, and Custom Defensive Pistol divisions.

In addition to sponsoring the Insight Technology IPDA Series, the ISI Ranges are also home to several other shooting disciplines including USPSA Practical Shooting, Glock Sport Shooting Foundation and the famed Steel Challenge World Speed Shooting Championships, making it the focal point of organized competition shooting in Southern California.

“We’re proud to partner with ISI Shootists as the title sponsor of their monthly IDPA matches,” said Paul Erhardt of Insight Technology. “Piru is widely recognized as one of the competition pistol shooting hubs in the United States and has a well deserved reputation for competition excellence dating back to the early days of the Southwest Pistol League. We look forward to working with ISI Shootists and this dynamic shooting community.”

For more information on IDPA and the Insight Technology IDPA Series please visit www.isishootists.com. For information on Insight Technology’s full line of tactical lasers, illuminators and thermal imaging equipment, visit www.InsightTechGear.com.

About:
Insight Technology: Insight Technology Incorporated is the leading developer and manufacturer of tactical laser aiming and illumination products, integrated sighting systems, and thermal imaging systems for use by consumers, law enforcement officers and military personnel. Founded in 1988, the company operates its state-of-the-art facility providing highly effective and innovative tactical devices for extreme environments, advancing the effectiveness of the warfighter and first responder. Internationally recognized as exceeding the quality standards of ISO 9001, Insight Technology is located in Londonderry, New Hampshire.

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Insight Technology Sponsors Southern California IDPA Shooting Series

Beretta USA

ACCOKEEK, MD --(AmmoLand.com)- Beretta congratulates Vincent Hancock on his
Silver Medal win with his DT10 shotgun at the 2009 ISSF World Skeet Final in Beijing China.

Hancock takes home his second consecutive Silver Medal in this event after being tied for first place as he headed into the final. At 122 targets each, Hancock took another 21 targets to finish the competition with a total of 143 hits.

Beijing is a good venue for Hancock who last year took home from there a Gold Medal in Men’s Skeet during the Summer Olympics. This year continues to be an impressive one for Hancock who also won a Gold Medal at the U.S. National Shotgun Championships in Colorado Springs, CO.

About:
Beretta established in 1526, is the oldest industrial dynasty in the world tracing its roots through 16 generations of continuous family ownership. Firearms bearing the Beretta name have been sold for almost 500 years. Beretta USA Corp. was founded in 1977 and supplies the standard sidearm to the U.S. Armed Forces. Today Beretta manufactures, distributes and markets a complete line of firearms, accessories and apparel. Beretta also owns and operates six retail Beretta Gallery stores worldwide. For additional information visit www.berettausa.com.

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Vincent Hancock Captures Silver Medal at ISSF World Cup Event With Beretta DT 10 Shotgun

Paralyzed Veterans of America-Outdoor Recreation Heritage Fund

Washington, DC—-(AmmoLand.com)-The Paralyzed Veterans of America-Outdoor Recreation Heritage Fund (PVA-ORHF) recently announced the launch of “100,000 Patriots”–their newest program to help injured veterans step outside again and enjoy hunting, shooting, and fishing.

“Operation ‘100,000 Patriots’,” explained Lt. Col. Lew Deal, USMC (ret), PVA-ORHF’s National Program Coordinator, “is an initiative to help our wounded warriors recover by creating opportunities for and involving them in hunting, shooting and fishing activities. PVA’s Outdoor Recreation Heritage Fund is focused on helping our injured vets get back to living as full a life as possible. We have seen time and time again that getting them out on a deer hunt or once again enjoying the site of clay birds breaking on the skeet range is great therapy.”

Those outdoor activities, however, don’t come without cost and Operation “100,000 Patriots” was created to encourage donations that will form a permanent endowment for the ORHF. “We are looking for 100,000 patriotic Americans who will say ‘Thank You!’ to our troops by donating just $20.00 each to help us build the fund and allow PVA to continue putting our deserving, injured military men and women in hunting blinds, in bass boats and on the shooting line.”

Donations can be made by clicking on www.pvaheritagefund.org or by sending check to PVA-ORHF, 801 Eighteenth Street, NW, Washington, DC 20006-3517.

Most of the outdoor opportunities for the rehabilitating veterans are donated by private individuals or clubs around the country but Deal explained there are more injured warriors than there are opportunities. “We have thousands of men and women who have returned from war with varying degrees of injuries—far more deserving veterans than available hunts or other trips. We have great need for more outdoor opportunities and for enough funds to cover the costs of a soldier’s participation.”

PVA (est. 1946) has proven these outdoor experiences help the vets find joy again and regain confidence in themselves and their abilities—a positive step toward being part again of main-stream life. The challenge for the ORHF is to provide more opportunities so more vets can be involved…and helped. Donations to Operation “100,000 Patriots” will do just that.

More information about Operation “100,000 Patriots” is available at www.pvaheritagefund.org. Those who can help by donating hunting trips or other opportunities can contact Lt. Col. Deal at Lew4vets@aol.com or PVA-ORHF National Marketing & PR Coordinator, Chris Chaffin at Chris@ChaffinCommunications.com; (321) 729-0280.

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Paralyzed Veterans of America-Outdoor Recreation Heritage Fund Launches ‘100,000 Patriots’

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ —-(AmmoLand.com)- The Arizona Game and Fish Department wants to continue to improve and expand public shooting ranges across the state by providing grant funding to qualified applicants involved in the development, improvement or maintenance of public shooting and archery ranges.

The department is accepting grant applications now through Jan. 15 by 5 p.m. (MST). Shooting clubs, sportsmen’s groups and government agencies operating public shooting ranges are encouraged to apply. Privately owned for-profit ranges are not eligible for this program.

“This program has been instrumental in the vitality of shooting ranges across the state,” said Game and Fish Shooting Ranges Administrator, Anthony Chavez. “It has afforded ranges the opportunity to expand safety barriers; add capabilities to include clay target shooting and archery shooting; improve ADA accessibility; as well as update and modernize these facilities.”

Examples of projects that could be eligible for funds include shooting range development and redevelopment, construction of noise abatement structures and safety berms, installation of shooting pads and stations, and construction or improvement of access roads and parking lots.

Grants are available through a competitive application process each year. The Arizona Game and Fish Commission determines how much money is available, but generally the total is about $100,000. The maximum grant award is $50,000 per project.

Application packets are available online at www.azgfd.gov/shootingsports (select “range development grants” link on the left side of the page), or contact Anthony Chavez, statewide shooting ranges administrator, at (623) 236-7395 or aechavez@azgfd.gov.

Chavez added, “Public shooting ranges are critical in the preservation of recreational and competitive shooting, they support hunter education and youth programs, and facilitate law enforcement training.”

The Arizona Game and Fish Department does not receive general funds from the State of Arizona. Most department funding results from user-pays user-benefits sources of funding including sales of hunting and fishing licenses, stamps and tags. The benefit for allocating revenue for this grant is it supports the department’s hunter education, hunter recruitment and shooting sports programs, and it promotes and provides Arizona residents with safe shooting areas – all important elements of the department’s mission.

Note: Shooting sports and hunting are rated among the safest forms of recreation. Some 40 million people of all ages safely participate in these activities. However, research shows there are nearly 48 million men and women who are interested in shooting sports and are simply waiting for an invitation. Grants of this kind will assist the department’s already successful shooting and hunter education programs.

About:
The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Deputy Director, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Deputy Director as listed above.

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Grants Available For Public Shooting Ranges In Arizona

EOTAC Shooting Sports Clinic at IDPA National Championship

EOTAC.com

WEST COLUMBIA, S.C.--(AmmoLand.com)- EOTAC, makers of the highest quality tactical and discreet garments available to operators, hosted a free Shooting Sports Clinic at the IDPA National Championship that was held at the United States Shooting Academy in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

The Clinic gave competitors that shot the IDPA National Championship the opportunity to reshoot stages from the match but with coaching from Team EOTAC members Tom Yost, Bob Vogel, Massad Ayoob, Dave Harrington, Tom Carpenter, and Mark Redl. This was the third and largest clinic hosted by EOTAC.

“For Team EOTAC, it’s a pleasure giving back to the shooting community through these Clinics. The Team members are getting as much out of these Clinics as the participants are. It’s great to see the smiles on their faces as the participants learn new techniques,” said Tom Yost, Captain of Team EOTAC.

“As Team EOTAC members compete in matches across the country, we will continue to offer these free clinics. They are our way of further supporting the shooting sports and helping fellow shooters improve their skills,” said Fernando Coelho, President of EOTAC.

About EOTAC
EOTAC taps decades of real world military, law enforcement, and private sector experience to produce the highest quality tactical and discreet garments available to operators today. Offering both traditional and next gen tactical clothing, EOTAC designs innovate without sacrificing utility or comfort. Leveraging outdoor industry experience and end user feedback, EOTAC continually refines the capabilities of its product line maintaining a high level of excellence in every garment offered.

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EOTAC Hosts Free Shooting Sports Clinic at IDPA National Championship

Tactical Division Field At USPSA Multi-Gun Nationals

U.S. Practical Shooting Association

BOULDER CITY, Nev. —-(AmmoLand.com)- Daniel Horner of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit left no doubt as to who is the top Multi-Gun shooter in the country as he crushed a field of nearly 85 shooters to win the Tactical Division title at the 2009 U.S. Practical Shooting Association’s (USPSA) Multi-Gun National Championships.

Horner dominated the match by winning nine of the 12 stages and posting a final score of 2280.2351, more than 356 match points ahead of his nearest challenger, second place shooter Glenn Shelby of Aztec, N.M.

“The Army Marksmanship Unit is known for making champions and Daniel’s dominating win at this year’s Nationals proves that the AMU is still in the championship business, and business is good,” said Dave Thomas, executive director for USPSA.

USPSA Multi-Gun Nationals Trophies

Rounding out the top five in the Tactical division were Shelby in second with 1923.2727 and two stages wins.

In third place was Team SureFire’s Barry Dueck of Fountain Valley, Calif. shooting a final score of 1877.0010. Horner’s AMU teammate, Robby Johnson, took fourth with 1851.7744 points a one stage win, and Jared Milinazzo claimed fifth with 1834.0690.

The Multi-Gun National Championships were held October 22-25 at the Boulder Rifle and Pistol Club in Boulder City, Nevada and drew 135 top shooters from around the country to test their skills in a shooting format that utilizes the rifle, shotgun and pistol.

About USPSA:
The United States Practical Shooting Association is a non-profit membership association and the governing body for the sport of Practical Shooting in America. USPSA has over 18,000 members and more than 350 affiliated clubs which host weekly matches throughout the country providing recreational shooters with the opportunity to test and refine their shooting skills in a safe, competitive environment. USPSA is also the US Region of the International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC), which is comprised of approximately 67 nations. For more information, visit www.uspsa.org.

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AMU’s Horner Crushes Tactical Division Field At USPSA Multi-Gun Nationals

AlpenOptics.com

Alabama --(AmmoLand.com)- This November and December, 14 wounded warriors will enjoy excellent deer hunting in Alabama thanks to the Semper Fi Community Task Force and outdoor companies such as Alpen Optics.

Alpen Optics, which has developed top quality binoculars, spotting scopes, rifle scopes and accessories, will show their appreciation for these heroes by donating waterproof monoculars to each hunter.

“The small, but bright monoculars are ideal for spotting game and are lightweight and easy to carry,” said Vickie Gardner, Alpen Optics’ vice president of stuff.

In addition, Alpen has provided hats, key chain lights and more for the gift bags that will be presented to the Marines and soldiers participating in the hunts.

Hunters will be guided by expert deer guides on premier private property. In addition, they will use blinds designed for those with special needs.

“We want these very special heroes to know how much their fellow citizens appreciate what they have done for their country and to know we have not forgotten them,” said J. Wayne Fears, outdoor writer and Wounded Warrior planning committee member.

“There is a peace to be found when hunting with good friends, and we hope to help these wounded warriors find that peace, and the healing that comes with being in the outdoors.”

To learn more about Alpen Optics visit their website at www.alpenoutdoor.com or www.alpenOptics.com, or by calling 877-987-8370.

For more information about the Wounded Warrior Project, visit their website at www.woundedwarriorproject.org

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Alpen Optics Supports Wounded Warrior Hunt

Troy Industries

West Springfield, MA --(AmmoLand.com)- Troy Industries, Inc. proudly sponsored the 2009 North American Sniper Summit held in Devens and Harvard, MA October 3-5.

The event, organized by Crosshairs, Inc. featured a daylong symposium along with two-days of live fire and competition. To see a slideshow video of this event, visit www.troyind.com/news_snipersummit.html .

“This was a great opportunity for us to support some very dedicated and highly trained men and women who put their lives on the line every day,” said Anthony Fyden, Marketing Group Manager at Troy Industries. “We’re proud to be a part of this event.”

Crosshairs Inc. has trained Law Enforcement snipers from every area of the country since 1990 in traditional class environments. Courses are designed to impart an intensive and realistic education. Additionally, the goal is to instill the confidence necessary to perform as highly effective and efficient professional law enforcement sniper/observers.

The North American Sniper Summit is an annual event that incorporates expert speakers, information sharing, networking and live fire training. Troy Industries, Inc. served as the primary sponsor and representatives showcased products such Folding BattleSights, Rails and chassis systems. For more information, visit www.crosshairs.org.

“We sincerely appreciate the sponsorship,” said Ed Gross of Crosshairs, Inc. “It allowed us to take the Summit to a higher level of professionalism.”

About Troy Industries, Inc.
Founded in 2003, Troy Industries is a leading United States Government contractor specializing in the design and manufacture of innovative, top-quality small arms components & accessories and complete weapons upgrades. All Troy products are American made and designed to perform flawlessly under intense battle conditions.

Troy Industries designs small arms accessories and full weapon upgrades, specializing in performance upgrades for the AR15, M14, M16, M4 and other rifle and carbine&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.brownells.com%2F' rel='nofollow' target='_blank'>carbine platforms. Troy’s flagship product is its legendary Folding BattleSights, which set the industry standard for durability and accuracy in the back-up iron sight category. In addition Troy also offers full tactical upgrade kits for the M14, Sig-556, M7A1, Mini-14, FN Scar and other weapons. Other Troy products include slings, adapters, rails, flash suppressers and muzzle breaks – all designed to meet Troy’s Battle Ready standard.

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Troy Industries Supports North American Sniper Summit

USA Shooting

BEIJING, China –-(AmmoLand.com)- Vincent Hancock (Eatonton, Ga.) won the silver medal in Men’s Skeet at the ISSF World Cup Final for the second consecutive year. Ryan Hadden (Pendleton, Ore) finished in fifth place in the Men’s Trap event.

Hancock, the 2008 Olympic gold medalist and 2009 World Champion, was tied for first place with Georgios Achilleos of Cyprus at 122 out of 125 targets going into today’s final. Hancock hit 21 targets in the final and landed in second place, taking home the silver with a total of 143 hits.

The 2008 Olympic Bronze medalist, Anthony Terras of France, stepped back on the podium in Beijing, winning the Men’s Skeet final, which was held on the same range as the 2008 Olympic Games. Terras, who started the final in third place with 121 hits, came back to claim the gold after shooting 24 targets in the final to finish with an overall score of 145 hits.

Achilleos ended the final with 20 hits, and a total score of 142 targets, tying 2008 Olympic silver medalist Tore Brovold of Norway. The two athletes went into a shoot-off, which was won by Achilleos, who secured the bronze by eight hits to Brovold’s seven.

In the Men’s Trap event, USAMU member Hadden, a double gold medalist on the 2009 World Cup circuit, entered the final in sixth place after firing 109 out of 125 targets. Hadden hit 15 out of 25 targets in the final to finish in fifth place with a total of 125 hits.

Two-time Olympic champion Michael Diamond of Australia won the Men’s Trap competition, securing the third World Cup Final title of his career with a total score of 134 hits (117+17). Massimo Fabbrizi of Italy claimed the silver with 133 hits (117+16), while his teammate, Giovanni Pellielo, the 2008 Olympic silver medalist and winner of last year’s ISSF World Cup Final in Minsk, hit 12 targets out of 25 in the final, missing nine in a row, and landed in third place with a total score of 130 hits (118+12).

Sixty of the top shooters from 22 different countries qualified to take part in this year’s ISSF World Cup Final for Shotgun. These athletes qualified based on individual performances in the ISSF World Cup circuit throughout the year.

For complete World Cup Final results, please visit ISSF’s website at www.issf-sports.org.

Winchester Ammunition is a Proud Sponsor of the USA Shooting Shotgun Team:
Winchester® Ammunition has been the exclusive ammunition sponsor and supplier of the USA Shooting Shotgun Team since 1999. Members of the 2008 shotgun team brought home four medals from Beijing using Winchester AA International Target loads. Winchester is an industry leader in advancing and supporting conservation, hunter education and our country’s proud shooting sports heritage. For more information about Winchester and its complete line of products, visit www.winchester.com.

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Vincent Hancock Takes Home World Cup Final Silver in Men’s Skeet

USA Shooting

BEIJING, China –-(AmmoLand.com)- Jeff Holguin (Yorba Linda, Calif.), a 2008 Olympian and 2009 World Championship silver medalist, earned the bronze medal in Men’s Double Trap at the ISSF World Cup Final for Shotgun in Beijing today.

Shooting on the same range where he finished in fourth place at the 2008 Olympic Games, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit (USAMU) member Holguin was tied for first place at 144 targets with Chinese shooters Mo Jiunjie and 2008 Olympic bronze medallist Hu Binyuan going into today’s final.

Holguin and Binyuan each shot 42 out of 50 targets in the final and ended the match tied at 186 hits. In the shoot-off for the silver medal, Holguin, who shot first, missed a target on his second pair, winning bronze with a total score of 186+3 targets and leaving Hu Binyuan the silver medal with 186+4 hits.

“If I had made it to the second spot in the shoot-off, I would probably have had a better chance,” commented Holguin after the match. “It’s great to be back on the Olympic Range of Beijing, and this time walking out with something in my hands.”

Jiunjie, who at 21-years-old was today’s youngest finalist, won the Men’s Double Trap event, claiming his first ISSF World Cup Final gold medal with a total score of 189 targets (144+45).

Sixty of the top shooters from 22 different countries qualified to take part in this year’s ISSF World Cup Final for Shotgun. These athletes qualified based on individual performances in the ISSF World Cup circuit throughout the year.

Competition continues on Sunday with U.S. shooters Kim Rhode (El Monte, Calif.), a four-time Olympic medalist and 2009 World Cup Munich bronze and World Cup San Marino silver medallist, along with 2009 World Cup Minsk silver medalist, Caitlin Connor (Winnfield, La.), competing in the Women’s Skeet Final. Competition will conclude on Monday with the Men’s Trap and Skeet Finals. Ryan Hadden (Pendleton, Ore), a double gold medalist on the 2009 World Cup circuit, will be competing in the Men’s Trap event in his first ever World Cup Final. Vincent Hancock (Eatonton, Ga.), the 2008 Olympic gold medalist and 2009 World Champion, will be vying for his first World Cup Final title in Men’s Skeet.

For complete World Cup Final results, please visit ISSF’s website at www.issf-sports.org.

Winchester Ammunition is a Proud Sponsor of the USA Shooting Shotgun Team:
Winchester® Ammunition has been the exclusive ammunition sponsor and supplier of the USA Shooting Shotgun Team since 1999. Members of the 2008 shotgun team brought home four medals from Beijing using Winchester AA International Target loads. Winchester is an industry leader in advancing and supporting conservation, hunter education and our country’s proud shooting sports heritage. For more information about Winchester and its complete line of products, visit www.winchester.com.

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Jeff Holguin Wins Bronze at Shotgun World Cup Final

USA Shooting

BEIJING, China –-(AmmoLand.com)- Caitlin Connor (Winnfield, La.) had the highest finish for the U.S. after shooting in difficult weather conditions at the 2009 ISSF World Cup Final in Beijing today when she took fourth place in the Women’s Skeet event.

Shooting in intense snowfall, Connor, the 2009 World Cup Minsk silver medalist, entered the final tied for third place at 69 out of 75 targets with two other shooters. In the final, Connor hit 20 out of 25 targets and ended the match tied for third place at 89 targets with Russian shooter Svetlana Demina. In the shoot-off for the bronze, Demina hit her target to secure the bronze, while Connor missed and finished just off the podium in fourth place.

Christine Wenzel of Germany, the 2008 Olympic bronze medalist and reigning World Champion, won today’s match after a shoot-off with Italy’s Katiuscia Spada. Wenzel finished the match with 90+2 hits after shooting 21 targets in the final, which was the highest final score of the day. Spada placed second winning the silver with 90+0 hits.

Kim Rhode (El Monte, Calif.), a four-time Olympic medalist and 2009 World Cup Munich bronze and World Cup San Marino silver medalist, finished the day in eighth place with a match score of 66 targets.

Competition will conclude on Monday with the Men’s Skeet and Trap Finals. Vincent Hancock (Eatonton, Ga.), the 2008 Olympic gold medalist and 2009 World Champion, is currently holding third place in Men’s Skeet after today’s qualification with 73 out of 75 targets. Ryan Hadden (Pendleton, Ore), a double gold medalist on the 2009 World Cup circuit, is sitting in fifth place in Men’s Trap with 67 out of 75 targets.

For complete World Cup Final results, please visit ISSF’s website at www.issf-sports.org.

Winchester Ammunition is a Proud Sponsor of the USA Shooting Shotgun Team:
Winchester® Ammunition has been the exclusive ammunition sponsor and supplier of the USA Shooting Shotgun Team since 1999. Members of the 2008 shotgun team brought home four medals from Beijing using Winchester AA International Target loads. Winchester is an industry leader in advancing and supporting conservation, hunter education and our country’s proud shooting sports heritage. For more information about Winchester and its complete line of products, visit www.winchester.com.

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Caitlin Connor Finishes Fourth in Skeet at World Cup Final

John L. May - Sales Director - Wilson Combat

Wilson Combat

Berryville, AR - -(AmmoLand.com)-Well the IDPA Nationals is in the books and it was a great match. I spent the week on the Wilson Combat expo bay letting everyone who wanted, the opportunity to shoot some of our guns. The Bill Wilson Carry Pistol was a hit with all who gave it a try, and not a single person passed on the chance to shoot a Classic.

The UT15 I took along got a fair number of rounds through it, especially from all the foreign shooters that made their way to the match. Seems they get few opportunities to shoot an AR15 and did not pass the chance to press the trigger a few times.

We also sponsored a shot gun side match, it was a big hit. Everyone that wanted to participate had the opportunity to shoot a short course that required a reload shooting steel poppers. Three while moving, reload at cover and three from the barricade. John Morris took first place, followed by Glenn Shelby second, and Steve Dutch in third. Congratulations guys and to all that gave it a try, thanks for stopping by and visiting with us.

This month we will be highlighting one of our new 6.8 rifles. Take a close look at the 6.8, it gives you a whole new level of versatility for the AR15 platform. Bill has spent untold hours researching and field testing the capabilities of the 6.8SPC and has found it not only to be a tack driver, but a formidable hunting round.

Give it a look and let us know how we can help you to enjoy this real expansion of the AR platform. Along those same lines we are spotlighting the .22 Conversion Units for the AR. Our unit already has all the bells and whistles that you demand in your AR, but will save you big bucks on the range. It includes all of our latest upgrades on the standard unit. Better look close they will go fast.

We have been hard at work developing new AR accessories for you. Go take a look at the Rifle Accessory Page and you will not believe how many new products that we have added. Good news is that there are more to come. Keep an eye of both the Eblast and the Down Range for announcements of new additions to our already complete line of custom firearm accessories.

This month’s pistol spotlight will be my favorite, the CQB. The Wilson Combat Close Quarters Battle is the one that all others are judged by. Take a look at the custom options that are available for any of our pistols and you will be amazed. Give us a call and one of our customer service representatives will help you build your CQB exactly the way you want it. The options are so numerous I would not even attempt to put them in this article. There are some great photos of some of them on the website and we can certainly help you decide which of them best fits your needs.

This week I received a call from a gentleman who had just returned from one of those sandy regions where we seem to have too many of our finest located at any given time. I get tons of calls every week and while most are great calls from customers that want to take a minute out of their day to let me know what our products have meant to them, this one was a real treat for me.

This particular fellow called to tell me how having his CQB with him not only provided him piece of mind, but actually made it possible to return home to his family. We talked for quite a while and he relayed stories to me of how the others that were in his group were envious of his pistol, and even how he discovered that the Wilson Combat 47D has become international currency, know world wide as the best and accepted as trading material for all that you may need.

Through the entire conversation his theme never changed, skill and luck will get you through, but having his CQB that he knew would work every time made it possible to focus on the job at hand and gave him the ability to come back home.

To all of you in harm’s way, stay safe.

About:
Founded in 1977, Wilson Combat has grown to include more than 50 employees – no one else in the custom gun business has as many professionals, as many years of experience, or as much history with hand-crafting custom guns as we do. Here’s an idea of the type and number of years experience you will find at Wilson Combat:

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IDPA & The Wilson Combat Close Quarters Battle

Secure Firearm Products

Carl Junction, Missouri --(AmmoLand.com)- Secure Firearm Products shooting team members Karl Piper, Warren Piper and Tiffany Piper dominated the Cowley Cup, held Sept. 19-20, 2009, at the Whangarei Pistol Club in New Zealand.

Karl Piper of New Zealand claimed High Master winner overall with a score of 1918 and 167X. His daughter, 15-year-old Tiffany Piper, earned Master Grade winner with a score of 1913 and 142X while Karl’s son Warren Piper took second place Master Grade with a score of 1896 and 142X.

Tiffany also become the 2009 New Zealand Open Ladies champion and junior Master Grade 1st place winner while her brother Warren finished 5th overall.

Tiffany and Warren joined the Secure Firearm Products shooting team in 2008 while Karl became a member this year.

Not only is family important to Dave Surgi and his brother, who operate family-owned business Secure Firearm Products, so is passing along their love of the shooting sports.

“It is all about sponsoring the juniors, because they are our future here in the United States and in other countries,” said Dave Surgi, president of Secure Firearms Products.

The Cowley Cup, which began in 1994, attracts between 30 and 50 shooters every year to the Whangarei Pistol Club in New Zealand. The Cup offers shoots for a different grade each year including NRA Matches, High Master, Master, Expert, Sharpshooter and Marksman, allowing every shooter who participates a chance to compete regardless of ability.

Review 2009 Cowley Cup results at this link:
www.sportsground.co.nz/files/Site/102/12/Pdf/090922183721EPFCZSOI.pdf

Secure Firearm Products Shooting Team members include:
Mark Itzstein, Ryan McQuilty, Karl Piper, Warren Piper, David Surgi, Paul Surgi and Sydney Surgi. Junior members are Tiffany Piper, Aaron Surgi, Louis Surgi and Theresa Surgi. The Secure Team is represented in the United States, New Zealand and Australia. The team competes in the following shooting disciplines: NRA Action Pistol, ICORE, USPSA, IPSC and Steel Challenge.

About Secure Firearm Products
Secure Firearm Products is a family owned and operated business. The Surgi family has been in the manufacturing business for over 60 years, and has developed and manufactured a high quality line of products for shooting sports enthusiasts and professionals since 2001. Their product line includes high security firearms cases, wall vaults and shooting target systems.

For more information about Secure Firearms Products visit www.securefirearmproducts.com

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Secure Firearm Products Shooting Team Dominates Cowley Cup

Hornady Ammunition

Grand Island, NE --(AmmoLand.com)- Two world class shooters teamed up recently in Gillette, Wyoming to win the International Tactical Rifleman’s Championship for their sixth career win. Team Hornady shooters Bennie Cooley and Michael Voigt competed amongst 27 other teams comprised of Special Forces, law enforcement and military personnel over three days to win the ultimate tactical shooting championship.

The event challenges each two man team with various shooting scenarios involving pistol targets to 50 years, carbine targets to 500 yards, and precision rifle targets to 1,000 yards. Strategy and communication are paramount between the team partners. One partner ranges and calls shots as the shooter contends with shifting winds and mirage while trying to neutralize hidden targets masked by unforgiving terrain with the least amount of rounds fired.

Bennie Cooley said, “Michael and I specifically shot Hornady ammunition over the three days of competition because we were dealing with all sorts of weather conditions and the ammo performed flawlessly. I used the 6.5mm 140 grain A-MAX bullet handloaded for my JP Rifle and 9mm 115 grain Critical Defense round for my pistol and the 223 Remington 40 grain V-MAX for my carbine and as expected the ammunition proved why Hornady is the best out there.”

Steve Johnson, Hornady Marketing Communications Manager, said “Bennie and Michael’s win really drives home the fact that when our ammunition is truly put to the test in field conditions by two of the best shooters in the world, it’s a combination that’s unbeatable.”

For further information regarding our products visit the Hornady website. www.hornady.com

About:
Founded in 1949, Hornady Manufacturing Company is a family-owned business headquartered in Grand Island, Nebraska. Proudly manufacturing products that are “Made in the USA” by over 300 employees, Hornady Manufacturing has become a world leader in bullet, ammunition, reloading tool and accessory design and manufacture.

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Team Hornady Shooters Take Top Honors at International Tactical Rifleman’s Championship

West Virginia DNR

SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. --(AmmoLand.com)- The fall hunting seasons are upon us, and now is a great time for hunters to sight in their firearms to be sure they are on target when they go afield, according to Paul Johansen, Assistant Chief of Game Management of the Wildlife Resources Section of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR).

“Early fall is a pleasant time to visit a shooting range, and public shooting ranges are normally less crowded during this time of year,” said Johansen. “I encourage adults to use this time to introduce our youth to the enjoyment of shooting, and to use this opportunity to instruct youngsters in the methods of safe gun handling.”

The proper sighting in of a firearm involves the use of a safe shooting range, a solid shooting support and a few basic shooting techniques. A shooting range should have a safe backstop and be at least 500 feet from any residence or place where people gather. DNR maintains many public shooting ranges statewide and these facilities are excellent places to sight in a firearm. The location of these ranges can be found on the DNR Web site at www.wvdnr.gov.

Sighting in Techniques
While sighting in a firearm, the firearm should be solidly supported on a sturdy shooting bench using sandbags or a commercial shooting rest. Always place the fore stock of the firearm, not the barrel, on the support. Stock and sight mounting screws should be checked for proper tightness. Be sure that the ammunition is the correct caliber for the firearm and sight in with the ammunition that will be used for hunting. Several different brands and types of ammunition may need to be tested to determine the one best suited for a particular firearm.

Always wear proper eye and ear protection when shooting and be sure other persons nearby are also wearing this protection. Try to time your sighting in sessions so the sun is not shining directly into your face or onto your sights. A sandbag placed between the rear of the stock and your shoulder will greatly reduce felt recoil of heavy recoiling firearms. Assume a comfortable shooting position so your muscles are relaxed. Position the firearm’s sights on the target by adjusting the support so the support holds the firearm on target and little or no effort on your part is required.

Relax, take a deep breath, slowly let the breath out and then smoothly pull the trigger with the pad of the shooting finger when the sights are properly aligned on the target. Be careful not to use the joint area of the shooting finger and do not jerk the trigger in anticipation of the firearm firing. After firing the shot, follow through smoothly and relax before looking at the target or firing another shot.

Fire a three or five shot group, determine the center of the group, and make sight changes if necessary. Follow the firearm or scope manufacturer’s instructions to make the necessary sight adjustments. Fire several more groups, allowing the barrel to cool between groups, to determine if the firearm is properly sighted in. When you are confident that the firearm is properly sighted in, practice shooting several groups from the various unsupported field shooting positions (standing, kneeling, sitting, prone) that likely will be used when hunting.

“Going afield with a properly sighted in firearm will enhance your enjoyment of hunting in the Mountain State,” Johansen concluded.

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Sighting In Your Firearm

Hornady Ammunition

Grand Island, NE --(AmmoLand.com)- Seasoned professional shooter Carl Bernosky recently became a member of Team Hornady.

Carl brings a unique skill set to the table; as both a world class High Power shooter, action pistol competitor and custom gunsmith he is truly one of the most well rounded shooters out there.

When Carl was asked what attracted him to the company, Carl said “I’ve always admired Hornady as a family owned business and the family attitude that is pervasive in their business carries over into the competitive shooting world. I use their 6.5 Creedmoor ammunition for High Power competitions and in my AR platform rifles I use their V-MAX and A-MAX bullets which I handload. Additionally, I use Hornady products when developing loads for my custom rifles that I build because of the products quality and consistency.”

“We are very excited to have Carl on Team Hornady; there are very few competitive shooters who have as broad and encompassing talent as Carl. We look forward to great things to come from this partnership.” said Steve Johnson, Hornady Marketing Communications Manager.

Founded in 1949, Hornady Manufacturing Company is a family owned business headquartered in Grand Island, Nebraska. Proudly manufacturing products that are “Made in the USA”, by over 300 employees, Hornady Manufacturing has become a world leader in bullet, ammunition, reloading tool and accessory design and manufacture.

For further information regarding our products visit the Hornady website. www.hornady.com

About:
Founded in 1949, Hornady Manufacturing Company is a family-owned business headquartered in Grand Island, Nebraska. Proudly manufacturing products that are “Made in the USA” by over 300 employees, Hornady Manufacturing has become a world leader in bullet, ammunition, reloading tool and accessory design and manufacture.

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Carl Bernosky Joins Team Hornady Premier Circle of Shooters

SIG SAUER

Exeter, NH –-(AmmoLand.com)- Team SIG Champion Shooter, Max Michel, has had a very successful 2009 season. This year marks Michel’s debut with “Team SIG” and as the new SIG SAUER Manager of Competitive Shooting Activities. As the Team Captain, Michel has won seven titles and one second place throughout the 2009 season.

This year Michel broke the NRA Speed Shoot-Off Event Record with the fastest time in Bianchi Cup history of 1.70 seconds. He also participated in the man-on-man steel shoot-off event with other top shooters at the IPSC tournament, as well as competed in two separate championship tournaments in different states within two days.

Max Michel, Jr., Signs on with SIG SAUER, Inc

In 2009, Michel has won titles in the following tournaments:

• Area 6 Title in 2009 USPSA Championship
• 2009 NRA Bianchi Cup Pro-Am Shooting Event, Overall High Score
• Level IV sanctioned 2009 IPSC Pan American Championship, Gold Medal
• Area 1 National Championship, 1st place Overall in Limited-10 Division
• Steel Challenge World Speed Championships, Open Division 3rd Time Champion
• USPSA Practical Shooting Association Handgun National, 100% Match Winner in Open / Production Class 5th Time Champion
• 2009 Infinity Area 4 Championship

Michel finished a very close second place in the Area 5 National Championship, located in Dorr, Michigan, in the Limited-10 Division against the current National Champion.

To follow Max Michel and Team SIG, click on www.sigsauer.com/TeamSig/MaxMichel.aspx.
Follow Max Michel on Twitter at twitter.com/Max_Michel.
For more information on SIG SAUER, or any of its products, visit www.sigsauer.com.

About Max Michel:
Max Michel first gained prominence in the competitive shooting arena with five USPSA® National Championships beginning in 2004 and three World Speed Shooting Championships in 2005, 2007 and 2009. Max has completed nearly 30 USPSA Area Championships and, as a representative of the United States, Max has competed in the last three International Practical Shooting Confederation® (IPSC) World Shoots, returning home with team gold medals. Max was a top recruit for the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit (USAMU) from 1999 to 2009 and has been an active Army shooter and trainer. Max was also the Military Coach of the Action Pistol Team. Max Michel is currently the SIG SAUER Manager of Competitive Shooting Activities.

About SIG SAUER, Inc.
SIG SAUER, Inc. is the largest member of a worldwide business group of firearms manufacturers that includes J.P. Sauer & Sohn and Blaser GmbH in Germany and Swiss Arms AG in Switzerland. This global network of companies gives SIG SAUER a world-class firearms knowledge base, unparalleled design expertise, and extensive manufacturing capacity, enabling the company to respond quickly and effectively to changing market conditions and the needs of its military, law enforcement, and commercial markets worldwide. SIG SAUER is an ISO 9001: 2000 certified company with over 400 employees. For more information on SIG SAUER or any of its products, or the SIG SAUER Academy, log on to www.sigsauer.com.

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Team SIG’s Max Michel Wraps Up 2009 Shooting Tournaments

Hornady Ammunition

Grand Island, NE --(AmmoLand.com)- The first annual Adams Arms Ozark 3-Gun Championship, held September 25 – 27, 2009 in Kaiser, Missouri brought out 100 plus shooters, with Tate Moots winning the Heavy Metal Class. Winning all eight stages, shot on natural open terrain was quite a challenge as Mother Nature’s unpredictability presented various lighting conditions along with wet and muddy loose gravel for competitors to struggle with.

Moots, a member of Team Hornady for over three years selected Hornady 45 Auto 230 grain XTP ammo in his STI 1911 and 308 155 grain TAP FPD in his DPMS LR-308. Always looking for new shooting adventures, Tate also competes in Sniper Matches using Hornady 6.5 Creedmoor 140 A-MAX ammunition.

After winning the Heavy Metal Class, Tate said, “Hornady ammunition never fails me. In 3-Gun competitions, it’s critical for me to be able to rely on my equipment running. Hornady ammo always does just what it’s suppose to, it always performs.”

“The heavy metal class requires an extra level of focus due to increased recoil and iron sighted rifles, it’s critical that the ammunition performs flawlessly, guys like Tate make it look easy, and we’ll keep doing our best to make them look good.” said Steve Johnson, Hornady Marketing Communications Manager.

Founded in 1949, Hornady Manufacturing Company is a family owned business headquartered in Grand Island, Nebraska. Proudly manufacturing products that are “Made in the USA”, by over 300 employees, Hornady Manufacturing has become a world leader in bullet, ammunition, reloading tool and accessory design and manufacture.

For further information regarding our products visit the Hornady website.

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Team Hornady Shooter Tate Moots Wins 3-Gun Event

U.S. Practical Shooting Association

BOULDER CITY, Nev. —-(AmmoLand.com)- In a back and forth battle, Michael Voigt of Chino, Calif. held off defending national champion Jerry Miculek of Princeton, La. to win the Open title at the 2009 U.S. Practical Shooting Association’s (USPSA) Multi-Gun National Championships held October 22-25 at the Boulder Rifle and Pistol Club in Boulder City, Nevada.

Miculek of Team Smith & Wesson took the early lead winning the first stage but immediately fell behind Team STI’s Voigt on the second stage where Voigt topped all shooters. Miculek regained the lead on the third stage but once again fell to second as Voigt won the fourth stage.

On the fifth stage Miculek retook the lead and this time held on to it through the next two despite Voigt’s winning stage seven. However, Voigt’s win on the seventh set him up to retake the lead on stage eight.

Miculek quickly bounced back taking the lead on stage nine and holding it through the next on the strength of a stage 10 win.

But it was the 11th stage that turned the match in Voigt’s favor when he won the stage claiming all 200 match points. Miculek, who enjoyed a slim 16 point lead upon entering stage 11, walked off more than 80 points behind Voigt having only scored 103 points.

Miculek finished strong by winning the 12th and final stage of the match but it was not enough to overtake Voigt who dropped just five points and remained over 75 points ahead of the 2008 champion with a final score of 2178.2303.

When it was said and done, Miculek and Voigt had exchanged the lead seven times in one of the closest head-to-head match-ups in recent Multi-Gun competition.

“This was one of the most exciting matches in Multi-Gun competition with two true champions battling their way through each and every stage. While Michael enjoyed a comfortable lead on the final stage to claim this year’s championship, I’m sure he’d be the first to tell you that there is no easy path to victory as long as Jerry is standing in the way,” said Dave Thomas, executive director for USPSA.

Rounding out the top five in the Open division match were JoJo Vidanes of Norco, Calif. in third with a score of 2066.6811. Finishing fourth with 2021.1368 was Taran Butler of Simi Valley, Calif. and in fifth was Tony Holmes with a final score of 1808.9131.

The Multi-Gun National Championships drew 135 top shooters from around the country to test their skills in a shooting format that utilizes the rifle, shotgun and pistol.

About USPSA:
The United States Practical Shooting Association is a non-profit membership association and the governing body for the sport of Practical Shooting in America. USPSA has over 18,000 members and more than 350 affiliated clubs which host weekly matches throughout the country providing recreational shooters with the opportunity to test and refine their shooting skills in a safe, competitive environment. USPSA is also the US Region of the International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC), which is comprised of approximately 67 nations. For more information, visit www.uspsa.org.

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Voigt Battles Through Miculek to Multi-Gun Open Title

USA Shooting

WUXI, China –-(AmmoLand.com)- For the third year in a row, two-time Olympic medalist Matt Emmons (Browns Mills, N.J.), claimed the gold medal in the Men’s 50m 3 Position Rifle event at the ISSF Rifle/Pistol World Cup Final.

Emmons won today’s match and was a fan favorite among the Chinese spectators, as he took home the gold with a total score of 1277.3 points (1177+100.3), climbing from third place by shooting the second highest final score and securing the win with an excellent 10.8 on his last shot. While he was moving up the scoreboard to win the match, the Chinese fans rallied their support for Emmons and cheered for him as he climbed into first place.

“I realized they were cheering for me. That’s awesome. It’s an emotion I cannot describe,” said Emmons after the match. “USA and China are often rivals in these Olympic competitions, but this audience made me feel like I was at home.”

Emmons came back to win the gold today after a disappointing tenth place finish in yesterday’s 50m Prone Rifle event.

“I am thrilled about this victory,” he added. “I changed my sightings after the Prone event, and I was quite confident as I walked into the finals hall today. It has been a great day.”

This is the fifth World Cup Final win for Emmons since 2002.

Today’s leader going into the final, Han Jinseop of Korea, finished in second place behind Emmons, grabbing the silver with 1274.6 points (1180+94.6). Norwegian shooter Ole Magnus Bakken grabbed the bronze with a total score of 1270.0 (1180+90.0).

Eighty-five athletes from around the world gathered in Wuxi, China October 26-28 to compete for a World Cup Final title. These athletes qualified for the 2009 World Cup Final based on individual performances in the ISSF World Cup circuit throughout the year. Competition at the 2009 ISSF World Cup Final for shotgun will begin on October 31 in Beijing, China and will run through November 2.

For complete World Cup Final results, please visit ISSF’s website at www.issf-sports.org.

ELEY is a Proud Sponsor of the USA Shooting Rifle and Pistol Teams:
ELEY Limited, manufacturer of the world’s most consistently accurate rimfire ammunition, has been the Official Sponsor and Official Supplier of .22 rimfire ammunition of the USA Shooting rifle and pistol teams since 2000. For more information on ELEY and their products, please visit http://www.eley.co.uk/.

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Matt Emmons Captures World Cup Final Gold in Men’s 3P Shooting Event

National Rifle Association

FAIRFAX, VIRGINIA --(AmmoLand.com)- The National Rifle Association is sponsoring a free shoot for interested U.S. military veterans at its headquarters range in Fairfax, Virginia, on Tuesday, November 10. Space is limited. In order to attend, please e-mail Sylvia Schneider at nrarangeadmin@nrahq.org.

The event is scheduled from 6 to 9 p.m. and includes a casual dinner. Firearms and ammo will be provided. Military personnel and veterans will be asked to take a short range test if they have not shot at the NRA’s range prior to the event.

The program features an exclusive display from the NRA National Firearms Museum. Senior curators Phil Schreier and Doug Wicklund will be available to answer questions.

“The NRA is always looking for new ways to show our brave servicemen and women we care, and this event combines the best of both our National Firearms Museum and our NRA Headquarters Range,” NRA Executive Director and retired Marine Kayne Robinson said. “We also extend a special ‘thank you’ to our friends in the industry who have offered their time and support.”

The event is free of change thanks to generous donations from Brownells; Winchester; Paralyzed Veterans of America; the NRA Range; National Firearms Museum; NRA Competitive Shooting; NRA Field Operations; NRA Law Enforcement Division; NRA Membership Division; Chick-Fil-A; Northwest Territorial Mint; and NRA Board Member Joseph DeBergalis.

Sponsorship packages are still available, and donations of attendance prizes are welcomed.

The National Rifle Association’s indoor firing range is open to the public during the following hours: Mondays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Wednesdays 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Thursdays 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Fridays 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturdays 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sundays 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more range information, call 703-267-1402 or e-mail nrarangeadmin@nrahq.org.

About:
Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America’s oldest civil rights and sportsmen’s group. Four million members strong, NRA continues its mission to uphold Second Amendment rights and to advocate enforcement of existing laws against violent offenders to reduce crime. The Association remains the nation’s leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the military.

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NRA To Honor Veterans at NRA Range with Free Shoot

Virginia Citizens Defense League

Virginia - Gun owners should always be careful to ask the right questions of potential firearms buyers when selling guns privately so as to avoid illegally selling to a felon or someone from out of state.

For those who might like to ask more detailed questions about possible sale disqualifications.

You can download your own copy of the form here. ATF Form 4473

Here is what the ATF Form 4473 asks buyers:

• Are you the actual buyer of the firearm(s?
• Are you a fugitive from justice?
• Are you an unlawful user of, or addicted to, marijuana, or any depressant, stimulant, or narcotic drug, or any other controlled substance?
• Are you a nonimmigrant alien?
• Have you been discharged from the Armed Forces under dishonorable conditions?
• Have you ever been adjudicated mentally defective (which includes having been adjudicated incompetent to manage your own affairs) or have you ever been committed to a mental institution?
• Are you an alien illegally in the United States?
• Are you under indictment or information in any court for a felony, or any other crime, for which the judge could imprison you for more than one year?
• Have you been convicted in any court of a felony, or any other crime, for which the judge could have imprisoned you for more than one year, even if you received a shorter sentence including probation?
• Are you subject to a court order restraining you from harassing, stalking, or threatening your child or an intimate partner or child of such partner.
• Have you been convicted in any court of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence?
• Have you ever renounced your United States citizenship?

About:
Virginia Citizens Defense League, Inc. (VCDL). VCDL is an all-volunteer, non-partisan grassroots organization dedicated to defending the human rights of all Virginians. The Right to Keep and Bear Arms is a fundamental human right.

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Ask The Right Questions When Selling Guns Privately

FORT BENNING, Ga.--Staff Sgt. Armando Ayala, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, gives instructions to members of the Fort Benning Junior Rifle Club at Pool Indoor Range. Ayala and his teammates run the program, providing instruction and guidance that the juniors carry with them into the future. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga.—-(AmmoLand.com)- After spending all day in school, learning about math and social studies, most children can’t wait to get home and start playing with their friends. Two days a week, however, some kids from the area descend on Fort Benning to continue their education from the best in the business with an eye to towards their future.

The Fort Benning Junior Rifle club, started in the 1970s, was formed to help junior shooters raise their level in competitive shooting and assist them in getting recognized by college coaches. It is organized and run by members of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit’s International Rifle team, whose roster includes Olympians and national champions.

“The kids are extremely motivated,” said Staff Sgt. Armando Ayala, the club’s head coach. “These shooters are exposed to the USAMU work ethic and our accomplishments, and it really motivates them.”

FORT BENNING, Ga.--Spc. David Sprecher, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, monitors a group of young boys as they take part in a practice session at the Fort Benning Junior Rifle Club at Pool Indoor Range. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

There are 52 kids in the club this year, Ayala said, which is almost double the number of shooters from last year. There are two training sessions a week during the school year with a break during the winter holidays. Besides Ayala, who attends every training session, two of his teammates rotate from week-to-week, allowing the students a chance to work with the entire IR team.

“We teach shooters from beginners all the way to advance levels,” he remarked. “We essentially take them from never shooting to the U.S. National junior team-level.”

The biggest reward for the juniors is that they have been able to take the skills and lessons learned as members of the club and translate that into success geared toward their futures, Ayala remarked. The West Point Academy has tapped into the program and recruited future officers through the academy’s shooting team, and many former and future members made the military their career choice after being tutored within the military environment.

FORT BENNING, Ga.--Spc. David Sprecher, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, answers questions from Mackenzy Crawford (right), 14, Columbus, Ga. as Glenn Fausti (left), 13, Columbus, fires his rifle at Pool Indoor Range. The two youngsters are among 52 kids who make up the Fort Benning Junior Rifle Club, instructed by members of the USAMU International Rifle team. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

Coaches from Columbus State, University of Kentucky, Memphis University, Texas Christian University, Nebraska and others have scouted the club’s members and brought scholarship offers with them.

“This is a ton of fun,” said Mackenzy Crawford, 14, of Columbus. “I started shooting when I was six and wanted to join the school’s rifle team, so I needed to get practice and coaching here.”

Crawford said he has improved tremendously in a short amount of time. He has gotten a lot more comfortable in his stance and has learned how to sight his target more properly. This is his first year in the club.

The club members compete in a number of matches year-round. The biggest matches are sanctioned by USA Shooting, including the national championships and spring and fall selection matches for juniors. They also travel to Camp Perry, Ohio each summer to compete in the Smallbore National Championships and compete in regional postal and invitational matches.

“To see our juniors develop into motivated young citizens and accomplish great things is very rewarding,” Ayala said. “I know what they learn here they carry into all aspects of their lives because the examples set for them affect their lives. What we do here really inspires and motivates young people.”

FORT BENNING, Ga.--Staff Sgt. Armando Ayala, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, shows the proper positioning to Breanna Kasl, a member of the Fort Benning Junior Rifle Club, at Pool Indoor Range. Kasl hopes to attend the West Point Academy after high school and compete on its shooting team. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com . The U.S. Practical Shooting Association is a nonprofit membership association affiliated with the International Practical Shooting Confederation, which is comprised of approximately 67 nations.

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Junior Shooters Learn From The USAMU’s Best

Hornady Ammunition

Grand Island, NE --(AmmoLand.com)- If seventh heaven is a state of perfect happiness, then Max Michel, world professional shooter and member of Team Hornady, experienced that after winning the Open Division of the United States Practical Shooting Association Area 4 Championship for the seventh time.

Competing in the 2009 Infinity Area 4 Championships, organized by the North Texas Practical Shooters and held at the Double Tap Ranch in Wichita Falls, Texas, Max won his division with a winning score of 1491.0745.

After the match, Max said “my shooting schedule this past year has taken me all over the country where weather conditions and temperatures have varied at times. Knowing I can count on the performance and consistency of Hornady 9mm 124 grain XTP projectiles gives me the level of confidence that I need.

There was a lot of effort put into designing these stages which required me to visualize a technical strategy in how I was going to run and attack each stage in a timely manner.”

Steve Johnson, Hornady Marketing Communications Manager commented, “Max’s winning performances this past year reinforce why having 100% reliable ammunition is essential to shooting a clean match.

We’re looking forward to the remainder of Max’s competitive schedule to bring home more wins for Team Hornady.”

About:
Founded in 1949, Hornady Manufacturing Company is a family owned business headquartered in Grand Island, Nebraska. Proudly manufacturing products that are “Made in the USA”, by over 300 employees, Hornady Manufacturing has become a world leader in bullet, ammunition, reloading tool and accessory design and manufacture.

For further information regarding our products visit the Hornady website at Hornady.com

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Max Michel Wins USPSA Area 4 Shooting Championship

Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks

GLEN ELDER, KS —-(AmmoLand.com)- On Saturday, Nov. 7, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks will conduct an event designed to lure more youth and novice hunters into the field.

The Glen Elder Youth Shooting Challenge will begin at 1 p.m. and run through 4:30 p.m. at the Glen Elder Wildlife Area Office, just south of the US. Highway 24 and Kansas Highway 128 junction, approximately 1 mile west of Glen Elder.

Although designed for youth and beginners, everyone is welcome to participate regardless of age or experience.

Shotshells and targets will be provided. Shooters may use their own shotguns but youth model shotguns will be available for those who don’t have a shotgun.

Young hunters and their mentors participating in the youth pheasant and quail hunting season, Nov. 7-8, are encouraged to participate, and adults who bring youth may shoot, too.

Young hunters lucky enough to bag a rooster that morning before the trap shoot may enter the long tail feather contest to win prizes.

Prizes will also be awarded for the biggest quail by weight. Bring the birds (pheasant tail and spur or entire quail) any time from 1 p.m. to 4 pm. Prizes will be awarded at 4:10 pm.

For more information, phone 785-545-3345

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Free Trap Shooting At Glen Elder, KS

Smith & Wesson

SPRINGFIELD, Mass –-(AmmoLand.com)-Smith & Wesson Corp., announced today that Team Smith & Wesson members earned high honors in multiple divisions after competing in consecutive United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA) National Championships during the month of September. As part of the Back-to-Back Handgun Nationals sponsored by Smith & Wesson, team members competed and excelled in the USPSA Production, Revolver and Limited-10 Nationals. Leading the way for Team Smith & Wesson was Annette Aysen, who earned the Ladies Revolver National Championship title.

USPSA Production Match

Held at the Desert Sportsmen in Las Vegas Nevada, the USPSA Production match featured 16 unique stages of fire designed to test each competitor’s skill with a handgun. During the four-day match, Team Smith & Wesson members claimed four spots in the Top 16 and earned top honors in four classes. Earning awards for Team Smith & Wesson was Revolver Champion Jerry Miculek who was named High Senior; Phil Strader who placed 3rd Overall; B.J. Norris who placed 8th Overall and 1st in Master Class; Mike Seeklander who placed 11th Overall and 2nd in Master Class and David Olhasso who finished 13th Overall.

In the Women’s Division, Smith & Wesson team members achieved two spots in the Top 5. Team Captain Julie Golob placed an impressive 2nd Lady while fellow teammate Carrie Jamrogowicz earned the 5th Lady spot. Both women competed with the Smith & Wesson M&P9 Pro Series pistol in the event.

Throughout the match, the Smith & Wesson Military & Police (M&P) pistol had a strong showing with 25% of the Top 16 competitors using firearms from the M&P line during the competition. This year’s USPSA Production Nationals marks the first time an M&P pistol has been used by a competitor placing in the Top 3 Overall, an accomplishment delivered by Team Smith & Wesson member Phil Strader.

USPSA Limited-10 Nationals

During the Limited-10 Nationals, which were held immediately after the USPSA Production match, Team Smith & Wesson members once again stood atop the leader board. Team Smith & Wesson put three shooters in the Top 20 with BJ Norris placing 5th Overall and 1st Unclassified; Mike Seeklander earning 8th Overall and 2nd in the Master Class; and Tony Phan claiming the 20th Overall spot. In the Women’s Division, Julie Golob had another strong showing placing 2nd Lady Overall using a Smith & Wesson M&P9 Pro Series pistol while Kay Miculek earned 4th Lady Overall shooting a Smith & Wesson Pro Series 1911.

In the Revolver Division, Smith & Wesson extended its domination when Annette Aysen was named the Ladies Revolver National Champion. Shooting a Smith & Wesson Model 625, Aysen was able to claim her fourth national title for the season and her third consecutive USPSA Ladies Revolver National Title. Three other members of Team Smith & Wesson earned high honors in the Revolver Division with Jerry Miculek, David Olhasso and Elliot Aysen placing 2nd, 3rd and 8th Overall respectively.

“The 2009 season has been a very productive year for Team Smith & Wesson,” said Tom Kelly, Vice President of Marketing for Smith & Wesson. “With 20 members competing in a variety of different disciplines and divisions, each has performed admirably and has fully demonstrated the ability of the Smith & Wesson product line in numerous matches around the globe. With only a few more events scheduled for this year, I would like to congratulate each member for their hard work and dedication throughout the season. Every member of our team has been a true champion and has done a tremendous job representing our company and our product line.”

About Smith & Wesson
Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation, a global leader in safety, security, protection and sport, is parent company to Smith & Wesson Corp., one of the world’s largest manufacturers of quality firearms and firearm safety/security products and parent company to Universal Safety Response, a full-service perimeter security integrator, barrier manufacturer and installer, as well as parent company to Thompson/Center Arms Company, Inc., a premier designer and manufacturer of premium hunting rifles, black powder rifles, interchangeable firearms systems and accessories under the Thompson/Center brand. Smith & Wesson licenses shooter protection, knives, apparel, and other accessory lines. Smith & Wesson is based in Springfield, Massachusetts with manufacturing facilities in Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire and Tennessee. The Smith & Wesson Academy is America’s longest running firearms training facility for law enforcement, military and security professionals. For more information on Smith & Wesson, call (800) 331-0852 or log on to www.smith-wesson.com. For more information on Universal Safety Response, log on to www.usrgrab.com. For more information on Thompson/Center Arms, log on to www.tcarms.com.

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Team Smith & Wesson Earns High Honors In USPSA Handgun Nationals

Smith & Wesson

SPRINGFIELD, Mass –-(AmmoLand.com)- Smith & Wesson Corp., announced today that Team Smith & Wesson earned three national titles and posted high scores in each of the five divisions during the 2009 International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA) National Championship held at the United States Shooting Academy (USSA) in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Competing in the Enhanced Service Revolver Division, Team Smith & Wesson Shooter Jerry Miculek added yet another national title to his prestigious career while fellow teammate and this year’s Match Director Curt Nichols earned his fourth consecutive national title in the Stock Service Revolver Division. Rounding out the top finishes by Team Smith & Wesson was Mike Seeklander, Chief Operating Officer of USSA, who earned the High Military Veteran award competing in the Enhanced Service Pistol (ESP) Division.

The 2009 Annual IDPA Nationals featured 17 stages of fire with over 350 participants competing for divisional titles. Designed to challenge the speed and accuracy of each shooter, the stages of fire tested each competitor on a variety of defensive shooting skills including drawing from concealment, shooting on the move and engaging a variety of stationary and moving targets. Competing with a Smith & Wesson Model 625, Miculek earned top scores in 14 of the 17 stages to win the national title by over 88 seconds. In the Stock Service Revolver (SSR) Division, Curt Nichols out scored 23 other competitors using a Smith & Wesson Model 67, en route to his fourth consecutive SSR national title. Winner of the High Military Veteran Title, Mike Seeklander, used his M&P9 Pro Series pistol to place 2nd Master and 3rd Overall in the ESP Division.

“Participating in this year’s match both as a competitor and Match Director, certainly brought on some new challenges that I had never experienced,” said Curt Nichols, Team Smith & Wesson member. “The match itself took over three months of preparation as we included more stages, a higher round count per stage and more shooters than ever before. With such an elaborate design, it was a personal challenge to stay mentally focused on my shooting while contending with all of the logistics that go into hosting a match of this proportion.”

During the planning stages, Nichols and his staff worked hard to develop what he portrayed as a ‘shooter’s match.’ The stages of fire were designed to be accuracy intensive and utilized a variety of different props such as the nine different stages of fire that involved shooting around, in and out of stationary vehicles. After the match Nichols received numerous compliments from competitors who portrayed the match as one of the most challenging yet fun IDPA Nationals to date.

After the conclusion of the match, Nichols spoke highly of the USSA facility, dedicated staff of over 70 individuals, plus the Smith & Wesson revolver that allowed him to retain the SSR title.

“A match of this caliber would not have been possible without such a dedicated staff and tremendous facility like the USSA,” added Nichols. “I’m extremely pleased with the outcome. I also have to say that my performance in the match as a competitor would not have been possible without a quality firearm. Never once did I worry about the accuracy or reliability of my Smith & Wesson revolver as this particular platform has allowed me to excel in competitive shooting and has served me dutifully in my 22 years of law enforcement.”

Throughout the three-day event, additional members of Team Smith & Wesson delivered solid performances that placed them in the Top 3 of each of the divisions. In the Custom Defense Pistol Division, David Olhasso placed 2nd in Master Class and 3rd overall using an M&P45 pistol. In the Stock Service Pistol (SSP) Division, Gordon Carrell finished an impressive 1st Place in Master Class and 2nd Overall shooting an M&P9 Pro Series pistol, while teammate Phil Strader, who joined Team Smith & Wesson earlier this year, placed 2nd Master and 3rd Overall in the SSP Division. Also competing in the SSR Division was Team Smith & Wesson member Craig Buckland who finished 3rd Overall and 2nd in the Master Class. Team Captain Julie Golob earned 2nd Overall in the Women’s Division.

“On behalf of Smith & Wesson, I would like to congratulate all of the members of Team Smith & Wesson who participated in this year’s match,” said Tom Kelly, Vice President of Marketing for Smith & Wesson. “Once again, Team Smith & Wesson members continued their dominancy in the Revolver Divisions, showcasing both their talent and ability of the Smith & Wesson revolver line. In addition, our team excelled in every single division placing in the top three spots, a feat that demonstrates their diverse skill set and proficiency with a wide variety of firearms.”

About Smith & Wesson
Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation, a global leader in safety, security, protection and sport, is parent company to Smith & Wesson Corp., one of the world’s largest manufacturers of quality firearms and firearm safety/security products and parent company to Universal Safety Response, a full-service perimeter security integrator, barrier manufacturer and installer, as well as parent company to Thompson/Center Arms Company, Inc., a premier designer and manufacturer of premium hunting rifles, black powder rifles, interchangeable firearms systems and accessories under the Thompson/Center brand. Smith & Wesson licenses shooter protection, knives, apparel, and other accessory lines. Smith & Wesson is based in Springfield, Massachusetts with manufacturing facilities in Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire and Tennessee. The Smith & Wesson Academy is America’s longest running firearms training facility for law enforcement, military and security professionals. For more information on Smith & Wesson, call (800) 331-0852 or log on to www.smith-wesson.com. For more information on Universal Safety Response, log on to www.usrgrab.com. For more information on Thompson/Center Arms, log on to www.tcarms.com.

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Team Smith & Wesson Captures Three National Titles at IDPA National Championship

Secure Firearm Products

Carl Junction, Mo. --(AmmoLand.com)- Secure Firearm Products shooting team member Mark Itzstein captured 2nd Place in Open Revolver at the Third Annual ICORE Cup, held Oct. 9-11 in Byram, Missisippi this past weekend.

Itzstein posted a total time score of 141.44 behind Jerry Miculek’s score of 123.81. Last year, Itzstein won 1st Place Open Revolver and Overall 1st Place Winner at the ICORE Cup, hosted by the Mississippi Revolver Association.

Secure Firearm Team Member Mark Itzstein

Itzstein started shooting in 1999 and quickly established his presence in the shooting world. A native Australian, he joined the Secure Firearm Products Shooting Team in 2007, a year after relocating to the United States.

Victories to his credit include winning multiple Asia Pacific Masters Games medals as well as becoming a two-time winner of Australian International Confederation of Revolver Enthusiasts (ICORE) Nationals. In addition, Itzstein’s impressive career has included regularly placing in the top at the International Revolver Championships, winning multiple ICORE regional and state title matches in the U.S. and Australia and earning numerous top three finishes at the Steel Challenge in Open Revolver.

ICORE promotes action competition shooting with revolvers and combines elements of the Bianchi Cup, IPSC and the Steel Challenge into demanding competition exclusively for revolvers.

Click on this link to review 2009 ICORE Cup results: http://msrevolver.com/icorecup/2009ICORECupFinalScores.pdf

Secure Firearm Products Shooting Team members include:
Mark Itzstein, Ryan McQuilty, Karl Piper, Warren Piper, David Surgi, Paul Surgi and Sydney Surgi. Junior members are Tiffany Piper, Aaron Surgi, Theresa Surgi and Louis Surgi. The Secure Team is represented in the United States, New Zealand and Australia. The team competes in the following shooting disciplines: NRA Action Pistol, ICORE, USPSA, IPSC and Steel Challenge.

About Secure Firearm Products
Secure Firearm Products is a family owned and operated business. The Surgi family has been in the manufacturing business for over 60 years, and has developed and manufactured a high quality line of products for shooting sports enthusiasts and professionals since 2001. Their product line includes high security firearms cases, wall vaults and shooting target systems.

For more information about Secure Firearms Products visit their website at www.securefirearmproducts.com or call (417) 649-7277.

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Mark Itzstein Captures 2nd at ICORE Cup

FORT BENNING, Ga.--Sgt. Calvin Roberts, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, instructs a Soldier during a squad designated marksman class Oct. 7 at Easley Range. The USAMU instructs thousands of Soldiers each year to raise the combat readiness throughout the Army. The unit is led by its NCOs, who make up for more than 80% of the unit's personnel. (Photo by Mike Badger)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. —-(AmmoLand.com)- Noncommissioned officers are the standard keepers for the military and provide a valuable service in training, leading, mentoring and caring for Soldiers. Nowhere is that more true than at the United States Army Marksmanship Unit, the “Home of Champions,” whose NCOs train, lead and mentor more than just their own Soldiers—they do so for the entire Army and an entire nation.

The USAMU, formed in 1956 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness in the Army, is a unit made up of 91 Soldiers; 74 of those are NCOs and only two officers are assigned to the unit.

“I have had the privilege of serving in the special operations community for my entire Army career and the parallels of those units and the USAMU are remarkable,” said Sgt. Maj. Martin Barreras, the USAMU senior enlisted advisor. “The NCOs in the USAMU take enormous pride in being the backbone of the unit and taking on duties normally associated with officers. They handle the scheduling and execution of training, the writing and implementation of doctrine, the professional development of their Soldiers, the establishment and management of their budgets and facilities—to name but a few of their responsibilities.”

NCOs from the USAMU instruct more than 3,000 Soldiers each year— drill sergeants, trainers, and NCOs who take those lessons learned to train thousands upon thousands of new and deploying Soldiers. USAMU NCOs teach candidates in the Reserve Officer Training Corps, enabling future leaders to be proficient in basic rifle marksmanship before they enter the active Army.

“This Unit represents the heart and soul of marksmanship within the United States Army and the NCOs that make up the unit are dedicated in improving the combat effectiveness through our marksmanship training,” said Sgt. 1st Class Charles Coffey.

FORT BENNING, Ga.--Staff Sgt. Armando Ayala, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, shows the proper positioning Oct. 1 at Pool Indoor Range to a member of the Fort Benning Junior Rifle Club. USAMU NCOs hold clinics, conduct schools, and train more than 3,000 Soldiers on the proper techniques of marksmanship every year. Out of 91 assigned personnel to the USAMU, 74 are NCOs. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

USAMU NCOs conduct the annual small-arms firing school at Camp Perry, Ohio every summer, instructing more than a thousand novice shooters on the fundamentals of marksmanship. They hold junior clinics nearly every month of the year throughout the U.S. and their dedication, professionalism and expertise instill positive impressions of the Army that may help prospective candidates in their decision to enter the Army.

“Our NCOs understand the complexities of their mission which consists of not only competing or training, but assisting with accessions support wherever they go and in whatever they are doing,” Barreras said. “They are well versed and knowledgeable with regard to their role as ambassadors for the Army to everyone who sees them and understand that they are the Army to many people.”

NCOs are accomplished military professionals who have combined civilian and military education opportunities to become an exemplary model of “Army-strong” leadership. The NCOs at the USAMU thrive under the pressure of having to compete for an international title in China one day and the next ensure that a Soldier from the National Guard preparing to deploy in harm’s way is groomed for proficiency in marksmanship.

“I believe that the NCOs in this unit understand that this is first a volunteer unit and second you must also be selected according to your performance level or ability to perform under pressure, no matter the discipline that you are a part of,” said Coffey. “With the two things above in mind, all of us know that it a distinct privilege to serve in the unit and we put our hearts into doing the best that we can at all we do.”

SAN ANTONIO--U.S. Army Marksmanship Soldiers Sgt. 1st Class Janet Sokolowski and Sgt. 1st Class Mike Moore pose with students from Bogalusa, La. High School Oct. 11. The USAMU held a clinic for junior shooters in San Antonio Oct. 9-11, one of hundreds the NCOs from the USAMU conduct annually throughout the country.

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com . The U.S. Practical Shooting Association is a nonprofit membership association affiliated with the International Practical Shooting Confederation, which is comprised of approximately 67 nations.

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NCOs The Reason USAMU is the Home of Champions

InSight Technology

LONDONDERRY, NH --(AmmoLand.com)- Insight Technology, the world’s leading provider of tactical lasers, illuminators and thermal imaging equipment, will be the title sponsor of the evening portion of the Day-Night-Day match being held December 12-13 at The Range in Oxford, N.C.

The Day-Night-Day match is comprised of three separate events and competitors compete in one, two or all three events. The Insight Technology Night Championship will be held on the evening of Saturday, December 12 and limited to 80 shooters.

“We’re excited to be the premier sponsor of the Insight Technology Night Championship – the night portion of the match. For more than 20 years Insight has been making products to help the warfighter, law enforcement officer and responsible citizen dominate the darkness, and now we add the competition shooter to that list,” said Paul Erhardt of Insight Technology.

During the Insight Technology Night Championship competitors will negotiate six challenging courses of fire under the low light conditions of the winter evening sky. Insight products will be incorporated into the match giving competitors the opportunity to test the equipment under the stressful conditions of real world scenarios.

“Our night match is one of the few true low light outdoor matches in the country making it a big draw for serious handgun competitors, bringing in shooters from the IDPA, USPSA and ICORE disciplines. The night match is approaching its 20th anniversary and we’re proud to have Insight Technology joining as our title sponsor. We expect this year’s match to be the best ever,” said Scott Ruby, sponsor coordinator for the Day-Night-Day match.

The Range is widely regarded in the competition community for the quality of its matches and challenging course designs. It is also home to the Carolina Cup, one of the three major matches on the IDPA circuit.

More than 18,000 rounds will be put downrange across all three matches as competitors compete for titles in two divisions – Weapon Mounted Lights or Handheld Lights.

For more information on the Insight Technology Night Championship and the Day-Night-Day matches please visit www.the-range.com. For information on Insight Technology’s full line of tactical lasers, illuminators and thermal imaging equipment, visit www.InsightTechGear.com.

About Insight Technology:
Insight Technology Incorporated is the leading developer and manufacturer of tactical laser aiming and illumination products, integrated sighting systems, and thermal imaging systems for use by consumers, law enforcement officers and military personnel. Founded in 1988, the company operates its state-of-the-art facility providing highly effective and innovative tactical devices for extreme environments, advancing the effectiveness of the warfighter and first responder. Internationally recognized as exceeding the quality standards of ISO 9001, Insight Technology is located in Londonderry, New Hampshire.

Insight Tech-Gear…Dominate the Darkness.

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Insight Technology Sponsors Night Match at Day-Night-Day

U.S. Practical Shooting Association

WICHITA FALLS, Texas —-(AmmoLand.com)- By just a narrow margin of 26 match points, Jim Bodkin managed to edge out Tony Phan in the Limited-10 division to take the Infinity USPSA Area 4 Championship. This is the second year in a row Bodkin has won the title.

Bodkin started the match behind Phan who took an early lead and held on through five stages, winning two of them. But it was on the fifth stage that Bodkin began to turn things around by winning the stage and gaining 26 points on Phan. On the next stage Bodkin picked up another 21 points and pulled ahead.

Bodkin went on to win two more stages and remain in the lead through the rest of the match despite Phan’s winning three more stages.

“The battle between Jim and Tony was classic USPSA shooting with each keeping the other honest until the final stage,” said Michael Voigt, president of U.S. Practical Shooting Association. “Nothing is a given in this sport and Tony made Jim earn every bit of this year’s championship.”

Rounding out the top five in the Limited-10 division were David Elderton in third with 1347.2359 points and Russ Shaver and Aristotle Bartolome in fourth and fifth posting scores of 1293.7561 and 1171.5474 respectively.

The match, which was sponsored by Texas-based firearms maker Infinity Firearms, drew more than 235 top shooters from around the country competing for the Production, Open, Limited, Limited-10, Single Stack and Revolver division regional titles.

Area 4 is one of the eight USPSA shooting regions in the country and is made up of Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas.

The sport of Practical Shooting was formally established in 1976 but traces its roots back to the 1950’s and the quick draw “leather slap” competitions that grew out of America’s love affair with the TV westerns of that era. Today the sport represents the upper echelon of the shooting sports with many of its top shooters actively training law enforcement and military units on shooting techniques and equipment developed in competition.

About USPSA:
The United States Practical Shooting Association is a non-profit membership association and the governing body for the sport of Practical Shooting in America. USPSA has nearly 18,000 members and more than 350 affiliated clubs which host weekly matches throughout the country providing recreational shooters with the opportunity to test and refine their shooting skills in a safe, competitive environment. USPSA is also the US Region of the International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC), which is comprised of approximately 67 nations. For more information, visit www.uspsa.org.

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Bodkin Edges Out Phan To Repeat As Area 4 L-10 Pistol Shooting Champ