Shooting Illustrated February 2012

Shooting Illustrated

Fairfax, VA --(Ammoland.com)- Shooting Illustrated’s February issue, on newsstands now, features the Springfield Armory XD(M) 5.25 pistol.

Designed with competitive shooters in mind, this largest XD(M) handgun features a cutout slide to reduce weight and provide for faster cycling, fully adjustable sights, a fiber-optic insert in the front sight post and the XD(M)’s legendary 20-round capacity.

Field Editor Bryce M. Towsley, a multiple-discipline competitive shooter himself, put the 9 mm version of the latest XD(M) offering through its paces, and it fit the bill for IDPA, USPSA, 3-gun and just about any action-pistol competition.

“I found the X(M) to be lively, responsive and easy to control,” Towsley wrote. “In doing a 2x2x2 speed drill, after some practice I could keep my split times for double-tapping the targets at about .27 second.”

Like all XD(M) pistols, the 5.25 ships with a host of accessories, including a polymer holster and a double mag pouch.

As Towsley concluded, “The XD(M) 5.25 is the largest pistol in Springfield Armory’s XD(M) line, and it may be the most versatile.”

Look for the February issue of Shooting Illustrated, The Definitive Source for the Modern Shooter, at a newsstand near you. You can also subscribe by calling (877) 223-3840.

For more information: visit www.ShootingIllustrated.com

Shooting Illustrated SHOT Show App

Shooting Illustrated

Fairfax, VA --(Ammoland.com)- With 60,000 people headed to Las Vegas - each eagerly awaiting a 10-mile hike per day to see everything new in firearms and related gear at SHOT Show 2012 - ShootingIllustrated.com has lightened their load by launching a version fully compatible with mobile devices.

All content, including the site’s extensive video library, can now be viewed with ease and comfort on your iPhone, Android, iPad, tablet computer, iPod or Blackberry.

“SHOT Show attendees can review everything our crack team of editors uncover at the event, instantly and conveniently on a mobile device,” said ShootingIllustrated.com Editor in Chief Guy J. Sagi.

“Visitors can simply determine the best destinations to hit first by viewing or photos, videos and reports, instead of resigning themselves to a traditional and laborious grid search down the crowded aisles.”

ShootingIllustrated.com is updated daily and features videos, articles and blogs tailored to the defensive-minded citizen.

For more information, visit ShootingIllustrated.com or call Editor in Chief Guy Sagi at (703) 267-1375. Look for Shooting Illustrated, The Definitive Source for the Modern Shooter, at a newsstand near you, or subscribe by calling (877) 223-3840.

Barrett MRAD Rifle

Barrett Firearms

Murfreesboro, TN --(Ammoland.com)- Barrett, a company world renown for providing high-end firearms, optics, ammunition and training, is honored once more with a Golden Bullseye Award from an NRA Publication.

In 2010, the Barrett Model 98B was named the American Rifleman, Rifle of the Year. Now for 2012, Shooting Illustrated honors the new Barrett MRAD bolt action .338 Lapua Magnum rifle with the same prestigious title.

Winners are chosen by a seven-member committee consisting of editors, graphic designers and veteran NRA Publications staff, representing more than a century of collective experience in shooting and hunting for the purpose of acknowledging the finest products available in shooting sports.

Barrett MRAD Multi-Role Adaptive Design Long-Range Rifle

To qualify for consideration for a Golden Bullseye Award, the MRAD met the following criteria:

• Recently introduced and available to consumers prior to the selection for the Golden Bullseye Awards
• Used/tested by a staff member or regular contributor to the magazine and/or affiliated media
• Reliable in the field, meeting or exceeding the evaluator’s expectations
• Innovative in design and function•Readily perceived as a value to the purchaser
• Styled in a manner befitting the shooting and hunting industry, and perhaps more importantly, its enthusiasts

“The Golden Bullseye Award honors our winners for bringing to market products remarkable in their utility to shooters and hunters,” said Joe H. Graham, Executive Director of NRA Publications. “The award is a symbol of excellence and innovation in firearms, accessories and related equipment.”

The MRAD offers a more portable marksmanship solution capable beyond 1500 yards. Additionally, the MRAD is the Barrett submission for SOCOM’s Precision Sniper Rifle (PSR) Program in which the MRAD meets or exceeds all of the key thresholds proposed and has caught the attention of discerning clients who appreciate this rifle’s ultimate accuracy and operational enhancements. The MRAD follows in the tradition of the Barrett M107, where durability and ruggedness meet precision and accuracy.

Barrett will be presented with the Golden Bullseye Award for 2012’s Rifle of the Year at the 2012 NRA Annual Meeting and Exhibits in St. Louis, Missouri, on Friday, April 13th, 2012. In addition to the trophy, the Barrett MRAD will be featured in an editorial overview of the Golden Bulleye Awards in the April issue of American Rifleman and American Hunter and the May issue of Shooting Illustrated.

Barrett is a family owned and operated company specializing in .50 BMG rifles. Barrett manufactures rifles, ammunition, optics and other related accessories for civilian sport shooters, law enforcement agencies, the United States military and over 63 foreign allied militaries worldwide. For more information please go to barrett.net/press or contact the above listed.

Trick or Treat with www.ShootingIllustrated.com

Shooting Illustrated

Fairfax, VA --(Ammoland.com)- Scary costumes may be a Halloween tradition, but when a real bogeyman shows up at your house intent on doing you bodily harm under cover of darkness, it’s far from a treat.

Gain that nighttime tactical advantage during these haunting times by visiting ShootingIllustrated.com, where you’ll find a web-exclusive look at the proper use of weaponlights by Steve Adelmann, as well as video report from Gunsite on the basics of using a handheld flashlight in concert with your handgun.

After reading Ed Head’s look at the proper steps you and your family should take if your home is invaded and a comprehensive test of Crimson Trace’s Lightguard by Say Uncle’s Chance Ballew, you’ll realize a well-prepared citizen can own the night.

In the festive spirit of Halloween, however, Bryce Towsley’s hair-raising experience at Outbreak Omega 4 is also featured on the website. The veteran 3-gun shooter didn’t quite know what to expect at the zombie-slaying event, where gear used varied from AR-15s to special knives, swords, bats and even a chainsaw.

For more information, visit www.ShootingIllustrated.com.

SIG SAUER E2 P226 Pistol

SIG SAUER

EXETER, NH --(Ammoland.com)- SIG SAUER, Inc., the leading manufacturer of commercial, law enforcement and military firearms, is pleased to announce that the P226 E2 has been recognized as the Handgun of the Year and has received the Shooting Illustrated Golden Bullseye award at the NRA’s Annual Meeting in Pittsburgh.

“We are honored that the National Rifle Association felt the P226 E2 was worthy of a coveted Golden Bullseye,” said Ron Cohen, SIG SAUER President and Chief Executive Officer.

“This award recognizes excellence and innovation in the industry. I can think of no better description for the P226 E2, which combines the proven reliability of the Classic P series with the cutting edge ergonomic design.”

In his initial review of the P226 E2, Shooting Illustrated Handguns Editor Dick Williams said, “The E2 enhancements may look cool, but more importantly, the improvements are markedly evident in handling and shooting.”

The Enhanced Ergonomics P226 models all feature a newly designed, one-piece modular grip with improved texture and width reduction in overall circumference. The improved ergonomics provide a better fit over a wider range of hand sizes. The SIG SAUER innovative Short Reset Trigger (SRT) system provides a 60% reduction in trigger reset. E2 models also include a reduced reach trigger, providing a shorter reach for shooters with smaller hands.

Introduced in 2010 as a separate model, E2 enhancements are now standard on all new P226 and P229 models. The original two-piece grip is now available by special order.

• For more information about SIG SAUER products, please visit www.SIGSAUER.com.
• Become a fan of SIG SAUER on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SigSauerInc.

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: 2008 certified company with over 400 employees. For more information on SIG SAUER, any of its products, or the SIG SAUER Academy, log on to www.sigsauer.com.

ShootingIllustrated.com Celebrates Fat Tuesday in .50-Caliber Style

Shooting Illustrated

Fairfax, VA - -(Ammoland.com)- Laissez les bons temps rouler at ShootingIllustrated.com as it flashes tactical shooting’s biggest brass in celebration of Mardi Gras.

Look for videos of the big .50 BMG in action, photo galleries of .50-caliber ammunition, articles on shooting the behemoth and its half-inch handgun cousin and more.

No beads required, so come to the .50-caliber carnival ready to party.

ShootingIllustrated.com is updated daily featuring videos, articles and blogs catering to the defensive-minded citizen.

Exclusive articles from some of the best-known experts and bloggers on the Web make ShootingIllustrated.com the Internet’s definitive source for the modern shooter.

For more information, visit ShootingIllustrated.com or call Editor in Chief Guy Sagi at (703) 267-1375. Look for Shooting Illustrated, The Definitive Source for the Modern Shooter, at a newsstand near you, or subscribe by calling (877) 223-3840.

Max Michel's Shooting Tips at ShootingIllustrated.com

Shooting Illustrated

Fairfax, VA - -(Ammoland.com)- Learn how to shoot fast and accurately from one of the fastest pistol shooters in the world, exclusively at www.ShootingIllustrated.com.

Team SIG’s Max Michel gives Field Editor Bryce M. Towsley pointers on everything from proper stance and grip to fast draws and reloading techniques.

“If you’re looking to become a better shooter, there’s no one better to teach you than Max Michel,” said Shooting Illustrated Editor in Chief Guy Sagi.

“We sent Towsley to learn from Michel because Bryce is already an accomplished competitive shooter and gun writer, but even he was able to learn a tremendous amount from one of the best handgunners on the planet.”

Towsley’s article on Michel’s tips can be found online at www.shootingillustrated.com/5970/shooting-tips-from-max-michel/.

Also at ShootingIllustrated.com, see a gallery of more than 50 new guns introduced at the 2011 SHOT Show. A complete roundup, including specifications and prices, will be available in the April issue of Shooting Illustrated.

ShootingIllustrated.com is updated daily and features videos, articles and blogs catering to the defensive-minded citizen. Exclusive articles from some of the best-known experts and bloggers on the Web make ShootingIllustrated.com the Internet’s definitive source for the modern shooter.

For more information, visit ShootingIllustrated.com or call Editor in Chief Guy Sagi at (703) 267-1375.

Look for Shooting Illustrated, The Definitive Source for the Modern Shooter, at a newsstand near you, or subscribe by calling (877) 223-3840.

Shooting Illustrated

North Hollywood, CA --(Ammoland.com)- “Top Shot, Reloaded,” host Colby Donaldson provides his insights into last night’s episode, exclusively at www.ShootingIllustrated.com.

Donaldson’s behind-the-scenes coverage of History Channel’s hit show will appear every Wednesday for the duration of the show’s second season.

ShootingIllustrated.com will also run interviews with eliminated contestants and reviews of the firearms used on “Top Shot.”

An avid shooter, Donaldson spends his down time at his family ranch in Texas hunting and plinking with an AR-15 he built himself.

As a contestant on “Survivor,” Donaldson has a unique insight into the intrigue of a reality TV competition like “Top Shot.”

Top Shot Reloaded's Colby Donaldson

Donaldson’s look at the first episode of “Top Shot, Reloaded” can be found at www.ShootingIllustrated.com/5790/top-shot-episode-1-colbys-take/.

ShootingIllustrated.com is updated daily and features videos, articles and blogs catering to the defensive-minded citizen. Exclusive articles from some of the best-known experts and bloggers on the Web make ShootingIllustrated.com the Internet’s definitive source for the modern shooter.

For more information, visit ShootingIllustrated.com or call Editor in Chief Guy Sagi at (703) 267-1375. Look for Shooting Illustrated, The Definitive Source for the Modern Shooter, at a newsstand near you, or subscribe by calling (877) 232-3840.

TOP SHOT is produced for HISTORY by Pilgrim Films & Television. Executive Producers for HISTORY is Paul Cabana. Craig Piligian is Executive Producer for Pilgrim Films & Television.

Bushmaster Adaptive Combat Rifles (ACR)

Bushmaster Firearms

Windham, ME – -(Ammoland.com)- Bushmaster ACR has been selected to receive the NRA’s 2011 Golden Bullseye Award for “Rifle of the Year” by Shooting Illustrated magazine.

The NRA Publications Golden Bullseye Awards acknowledge the finest products available in the shooting sports. The Golden Bullseye Award will be presented to Bushmaster during the 2011 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in April 2011

The new Bushmaster ACR redefines the term “modular” with the extraordinary ability to change calibers, barrel lengths and stock configurations in minutes – without the use of tools.

The first of its kind, and the only rifle you need to master the infinite number of extreme scenarios you’ll face in the worlds of law enforcement and personal defense.

Truly the most versatile and adaptive rifle ever conceived, it was born of a collaborative effort between Bushmaster, Magpul and Remington to create the ultimate military combat weapons system.

The ACR offers the ability to change calibers in minutes by swapping the bolt head, barrel and magazine. Barrels, stocks, and accessories can also be changed, without tools, at the user level allowing the ACR to go from a close-quarters battle platform to a designated marksman platform. The ACR gives the operator all of the options needed, while utilizing a superbly reliable gas piston operating system, a non-reciprocating charging handle and intuitive, ambidextrous controls on a platform that is a natural fit for any operator.

By combining dedicated, multi-brand research and development; relentless iterations of torture testing; and the most advanced materials available in the market today with Bushmaster’s uncompromising commitment to quality construction – the result is the ultimate, fully-modular, combat-adaptable Bushmaster ACR.

For more information the Bushmaster ACR, please visit http://www.bushmaster.com/acr/#/intro

About Bushmaster Firearms International, LLC
Bushmaster Firearms International, LLC (BFI) is the leading supplier of AR15/M16 type rifles in the United States for Law Enforcement, security and private consumer use. Headquartered in Windham, Maine, BFI supplies aluminum and advanced carbon fiber-based rifle platforms in calibers ranging from 5.56mm/223 to 50BMG. These and associated accessories manufactured by BFI meet the tactical rifle needs of US customers as well as Military, Law Enforcement and Security clients from over 50 countries worldwide. Visit our web site at www.bushmaster.com.

Shooting Illustrated August Issue - The Definitive Source for The Modern Shooter

Shooting Illustrated

Fairfax, VA - -(AmmoLand.com)- First responders have long viewed tourniquets as a last resort, but lessons learned during the Global War on Terror are changing that attitude—shooters who want to be prepared if disaster strikes at the range need to take notice.

“Range Medicine,” an article written by Paul Markel that appears in the August issue of Shooting Illustrated, explains, “The U.S. Army conducted a three-year study of tourniquet use in the field. After examining hundreds of cases, the Army did not find one instance where a tourniquet was the cause for amputation.”

“The section on the use of modern, purpose-built tourniquets is generating quite a bit of controversy,” said Shooting Illustrated Editor in Chief Guy J. Sagi. “In my dozen years of rescue work I never even thought about applying one, but Markel’s response to readers—citing the branches of the military now routinely teaching and recommending the use of a tourniquet to save our fighting men and women—is pretty compelling evidence.”

“I can put more oxygen into your lungs,” the decorated former Marine wrote. “I’ll blow it in. But, I can’t give you more blood.” Markel knows the subject well, thanks to his involvement in the Tactical Combat Casualty Care program for expeditionary troops preparing to deploy.

He is also a full-time small arms and tactics instructor for the U.S. Military and former Ohio law enforcement officer.

Look for the August issue of Shooting Illustrated, The Definitive Source for The Modern Shooter, at a newsstand near you, or subscribe by calling (877) 223-3840 or visiting www.ShootingIllustrated.com.

Shooting Illustrated July Issue

Shooting Illustrated

Fairfax, VA - -(AmmoLand.com)- The July issue of Shooting Illustrated, which arrives on newsstands today, features the much-awaited Bushmaster Adaptive Combat Rifle (ACR) on its cover and an exhaustive review of the gun by former SOF sniper Steve Adelmann.

“I found if I reinstalled the barrel to the exact same ratchet position, POI shift was 1/2 inch at 100 yards,” he wrote about the innovative carbine’s barrel-changing mechanism.

“I’ve seen other polymer-catch folding stocks that ‘break’ into the folded position unintentionally, but the ACR I tested did not have the problem,” noted Adelmann.

It took him 7 seconds to convert the non-reciprocating charging handle to a lefty-friendly position, and of the three types of ammunition tested, one produced a .6-inch, five-shot group at 100 yards.

“Rifle Editor Steve Adelmann’s combat experience gives him an unusual perspective in testing the ACR,” Shooting Illustrated Editor in Chief Guy J. Sagi said. “As for which ammunition produced a .6-inch group at 100 yards, you’ll have to pick up the magazine to find out.”

Look for Shooting Illustrated, The Definitive Source for The Modern Shooter, at a newsstand near you, or subscribe by calling (877) 223-3840 or visiting www.ShootingIllustrated.com.

NRA Veterans Day Video In Observance Of Veterans Day

Guns & Hunting by Shooting Illustrated

Fairfax, VA - -(AmmoLand.com)- GunsAndHunting.com, the website of the NRA’s only monthly newsstand magazine, Shooting Illustrated, is featuring a special video in observance of Veterans Day.

With vivid images by NRA Publications Associate Photographer Hannele Lahti and narration by NRA Secretary Maj. Jim Land, the slideshow presents the Tomb of the Unknowns at sunrise and the sentinels who protect it 24 hours-a-day.

“Major Land’s commanding voice throughout the slideshow brings the debt we owe to those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for freedom into sharp focus,” said Shooting Illustrated’s Managing Editor Adam Heggenstaller.

To view the video, click the image above or visit

www.gunsandhunting.com/Unknown_tomb_video.html.

For more information, visit GunsandHunting.com Look for Shooting Illustrated, The Definitive Source for the Modern Shooter, at a newsstand near you, or subscribe by calling (877) 232-3840.

Guns & Hunting by Shooting Illustrated

Fairfax, VA - -(AmmoLand.com)- There are more than a few new AR-15 owners, and for those just getting started in shooting or more accustomed to bolt-action rifles, take-down for cleaning can be a challenge. Luckily a new web-based video on GunsAndHunting.com walks owners through the process, step-by-step-after Shooting Illustrated Assistant Editor Bob Boyd completes the disassembly with the help of a little electronic wizardry in 10.5 seconds.

“It features the kind of still photography that guides shooters through the process, in a video format,” said Guy J. Sagi, editor in chief of Shooting Illustrated. “It’s short, informative and produced with the same lively approach we employ in the magazine. And it’s free. Just visit GunsAndHunting.com to watch the video.”

For more information, visit GunsAndHunting.com or call Sagi at (703) 267-1375. Look for Shooting Illustrated, The Definitive Source for the Modern Shooter, at a newsstand near you, or subscribe by calling (877) 232-3840.

Shooting Illustrated

Shooting Illustrated - -(TheShootingWire.com)- Their July issue features a comprehensive look at the advantages and disadvantages of today’s most popular AR-15 sling styles. Former Special Forces operator Steve Adelmann’s experience shows as he sheds light on the tactical challenges addressed by different styles of slings, which ones lend themselves to offhand shooting, where others fall short, materials and much more.

“If you have a new AR and are thinking about giving it a good sling, you need to pick up this month’s issue,” said Shooting Illustrated Editor in Chief Guy J. Sagi. “Adelmann’s article gives you solid details on which styles work best for particular applications and he even goes into the types of buckles you should not consider.”

The NRA publishes five other monthly magazines: American Rifleman, the 122-year-old flagship publication; American Hunter, the world’s largest all-hunting magazine; America’s 1st Freedom, a news magazine dedicated to Second Amendment issues; NRA InSights for its Junior members; and Shooting Sports USA, devoted to competitive shooting. NRA Publications currently produces three weekly television shows, American Rifleman Television, American Hunter Television and American Guardian Television.

Look for Shooting Illustrated, The Definitive Source for The Modern Shooter, at a newsstand near you, or subscribe by calling (877) 223-3840 or visiting www.ShootingIllustrated.com.

Barrett Model 98B Long-Range Precision Rifle

Murfreesboro, TN – -(ShootingWire.com)-  Chambered in .338 Lapua Mag., Barrett’s new 98Bravo, is “…a rifle capable of achieving legendary .50 BMG accuracy at 1,000 yards in a size palatable to most anyone,” writes Associate Editor Ed Friedman in the April issue of Shooting Illustrated. “You’re rapidly running out of excuses not to own a Barrett,”

Barrett 98 Bravo Long-Range Precision Rifle

The new rifle, which graces the front cover of the magazine, produced sub-MOA accuracy in gusts of 16 to 21 mph, has a 27-inch fluted barrel and the bolt is encased in an unusual polymer guide-protecting it from the elements and minimizing fouling from dirt and dust. Unlike most bolt-action rifles, it was also designed to be modular. “The 98Bravo was designed from the ground up to be easily adaptable to different needs,” Chris Barrett explained to Friedman.

Look for Shooting Illustrated, The Definitive Source for The Modern Shooter, at a newsstand near you, or subscribe by calling (877) 232-3840 or visiting www.GunsandHunting.com.

Shooting Illustrated

Shooting Illustrated – -(OutdoorWire.com)- Your life may someday depend on the gun you’ve chosen for self-defense, but the ammunition’s equally important role deserves just as much attention-if not more. The March issue of Shooting Illustrated, The Definitive Source for the Modern Shooter, includes a close look at the design characteristics and terminal performance of today’s self-defense ammunition to help you pick the optimal load for personal protection.

“To select the best defensive handgun ammunition for your needs, you must go further than a ‘one size fits all’ approach,” writes Steve Adelmann. “Evaluate the likely environments in which you may need to use the ammo and adjust your selection to meet them accordingly.”

Along with Adelmann’s instruction, “Get a Load” provides a guide that highlights the features of 12 top self-defense loads. Taking a look could save you time and money during your next trip to the gun shop.

Look for Shooting Illustrated, the National Rifle Association’s award-winning monthly, at a newsstand near you or subscribe by calling (877) 232-3840 or visiting www.ShootingIllustrated.com.

GunsandHunting.com

GunsandHunting.com - -(OutDoorWire.com)- J.R. Absher, noted hunting, conservation and shooting sports writer, has joined the staff of Shooting Illustrated’s GunsandHunting.com. Absher’s writing career spans more than 30 years and includes stints as a newspaper reporter, photographer, editor, political consultant and public relations director.

Absher’s “Weekly Slug” column, which is updated every Friday, covers many of those news items critical to shooters and hunters that are largely ignored by the mainstream media. “I’m excited about being part of the growing GunsandHunting.com site,” Absher said. “One of the main advantages to the Internet is the ability to educate sportsmen about pending issues that could affect the future of their sport, without waiting for the presses to roll.”

“When it comes to uncovering the truth, and reporting it fairly, I can’t think of anyone better than Absher,” said Shooting Illustrated Editor in Chief Guy J. Sagi. “His column adds greatly to GunsandHunting.com’s versatile mix, which is updated regularly and offers the kind of information modern shooters demand.”

For more information, visit GunsandHunting.com or call Sagi at (703) 267-1375. Look for Shooting Illustrated, The Definitive Source for the Modern Shooter, at a newsstand near you, or subscribe by calling (877) 232-3840.