Impromptu Practice - The BGM is at it again
Posted on May 23, 2008
Filed Under 3 Gun, AR15, Competition, Tactical Rifle | Leave a Comment
This Saturday May 24th the Bull Gana Tactical Weapons Team is having another practice at the Pleasant Grove FOP shooting range.
We will have stages setup compatible with tactical rifle as the primary purpose. We plan to incorporate a little bit of 3 gun competition into it. Some of the setups will be setup for shotguns and pistol as well.
We will have a couple swinging silhouette targets, a shooting house, steel plates, and standard silhouette targets. Hopefully we will add a couple other little things to give it a full scence. If you have some type of safe target or shooting house you would like to bring it. Also any PVC pipe, screen, roll plastic that can be turned into a blind, shooting house, prop that would be great. Bring it along and add to the true tactical reality would be fun. All are welcome to join us. Our ranges can be shot with pistol, shot gun, and especially rifle.
Come out to Pleasant Grove FOP Saturday around 10:30. We will be there rain or shine.
We hastily put together a map for you to follow along your journey. If you have questions or just want to drop us a line to expect you come on. If you are venturing to PGFOP you may want to take note of their phone number for directions 744-2600.
Black Gun Backlog
Posted on May 13, 2008
Filed Under AR15, DPMS, Tactical Rifle | Leave a Comment
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Several BGM Tactical members have been trying to custom order new rifles and have learned there is a backlog. It is nothing unusual for custom Black Guns to be on backorder for a month or 6 weeks. But, right now quotes are about 6 months. Six months isn’t so bad because it is in time for Christmas. The bad part is the rifle shooting season is over in lots of places due to the weather. Kind of disappointing but there is always next year.
Yes if you go to your local gun store there are AR-15’s on the rack. The delay is in the custom rifles, more specifically the .308 caliber. The customizations most of the members are asking for are just luxury upgrades as the standard setup is more than enough capable of rifle competition. Many of the upgrades have nothing to do with the actual function of the weapon. In fact many of the upgrades can be made on your basement work bench with a screwdriver. The customization that shouldn’t be done at home is what is taking so long.
We had a member contact DPMS directly to see if they could speed a .308 through and they said it was virtually impossible. So if you are in the market for AR15 rifle you may want to go with an off the rack rifle and have your gunsmith customize it for you.
Beware that if you want a custom rifle production is running abnormally behind schedule.
NOTE: The price of ammo has been increasing at about the same rate as fuel. So you may want to think about increasing your supply. If you know of another retailer with good prices feel free to comment and let everyone know. Able Ammo seems to have a great selection and competetive pricing.
Shooting Practice Follow-UP
Posted on May 5, 2008
Filed Under Tactical Rifle, practice | Leave a Comment
Saturdays practice went well. We didn’t start until mid-day due to the weather. After we got setup we had several people trickle in throughout the day and shot for several hours. We had several different stage setups.
For the shooting practice we used some new steel targets that we learned from. We had made some hanging steel targets made of a mild steel. We learned that the steel we used in the targets was not hard or tough enough. The standard full metal jacket .223 caliber ammo we were using was creating major impressions and mis-shaping the steel plates almost to the point of total penetration. We used the plates during warm-up until a ricochet tapped a shooter on the shoulder. We immediately called a cease-fire and analyzed the steel plates. We took down the steel plates and are now going back to the drawing board.
The next steel targets need to be made from a thicker and harder steel. Perhaps something as hard as military armor plating. Due to the heavy weight, high cost, and lack of portability steel plates maybe have to put on hold. The hanging steel plate design may need some type of light material to hang down to the steel plate. Perhaps something like rubber from an old conveyor belt may be a good solution. A design idea maybe something like the ones listed in this forum will be in our design plans.
We don’t have a practice scheduled before our next competition on May 31st at Steel City Shooting Sports Association in Hoover.
Shooting Pactice this weekend
Posted on May 1, 2008
Filed Under 3 Gun, DPMS, New Guns, Tactical Rifle | Leave a Comment
Don’t forget this weekend at 10:30 the Bull Gang Tactical Rifle team is meeting at 10:30am for shooting practice.
Shooting Event update
Posted on April 27, 2008
Filed Under 3 Gun, Tactical Rifle | Leave a Comment
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Don’t forget that this upcoming Saturday (May 3rd, 2008) we will be having a practice with multiple stages. The time has still not been determined. It most likely will be around 10:30 at the FOP range in Pleasant Grove.
The plan is to setup stages for both tactical rifle only and 3 Gun.
You can see all of our upcoming events on our main website.
What is a 3 gun match?
Posted on April 18, 2008
Filed Under 3 Gun, Competition | Leave a Comment
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A couple people have asked what three gun competitions are all about. So here is an attempt to explain.
3 Gun matches are practical shooting exercises with three weapons. Typically, the weapons are shotgun, pistol, and rifles. All three weapons are used in simulated problems or stages. We like to think of the scenarios (problems) as old western type situations similar to saloon style shootout movies.
Regardless of the shooting scenario… Matches are typically similar to the following video.
Great shooter, right?
In addition to the video, we found a long winded webpage that talks about competitions and rules. The Readers Digest version is below. You can read the whole page, here.
Rifle
Must be a center fire rifle. For most rifle stages an AR15 .223 is the preferred weapon of choice. Other variations used are:
- Ruger Mini-14 (in .223)
- M1 Carbine (in .30 carbine)
- SKS, AK-47 (in 7.62×39)
- Marlin CAMP-9 Carbine (in 9mm)
- M1A .308 Caliber
Shotgun
Must be between 20 gauge (smallest gauge allowed) and 12 gauge (largest allowed). Pump action or semi-automatic are the standard. Most people use semi-automatic shotguns because of the quickness of reload time.
Pistol
9mm or above center fire pistol.
This is a long list but is what you will need for your 3 gun exercise. Parts of this have been reworded but this is essentially a copy and past from the authors webpage. Before you get into the middle of this a couple notes. Every match you go to has different rules. If it is going to be your first match reach out to the match director and talk with them about what you are going to need. Tell them that this is your first 3 gun match and they will be very excited to share their sport with you. Here is a high level list of necessities.
Your First Match Needs
When you come out to your first match, you will need to bring along a minimum contingent of equipment. Don’t go overboard initially. Your first match equipment should include:
Rifle:
- If you have a rifle that qualifies for competition, bring it. If not, bring enough .223 ammunition and you may be able to borrow one.
- A rifle case (soft or hard). When you first arrive at our range, your rifle must be encased
- At least 3 30-round magazines, or the equivalent in lower capacity magazines. Our rifle stages can require as many as 60 rounds. If you need to take any extra shots, you’re into a third magazine. You probably want to carry at least one spare in case you have a problem during the run — it’s easier to just drop the magazine and stick in a new one
- Some way to carry around your extra magazines. Various types of inexpensive magazine pouches are available from a number of sources, although you may be able to just stick it in your belt or pocket for your first match, but you may have to go prone and get up again
- At least 100 rounds of ammunition. If you need extra shots, better have enough ammunition. If you have a “range malfunction” during your run and need to “reshoot”, you’d better have enough ammunition to reshoot the entire course. There’s no point in cutting too close on the amount of ammunition you bring, you can always use the excess at the next match.
Shotgun
- If you have a shotgun that qualifies for competition, bring it. If not, bring enough 12 gauge ammunition and you may be able to borrow one.
- A shotgun case (soft or hard). When you first arrive at our range, your shotgun must be encased!
- At least 50 rounds of lead shot, size #4 or smaller (i.e., #6, #7 1/2, #8, etc.). In addition, we sometimes require slugs on certain stages. Some way to carry extra rounds during the running of the course. This could include holders that attach to your belt; a pouch (like a “fanny pack”) that goes around your waist; special shotgun ammunition belts with elastic loops to hold individual rounds, which goes around your waist or is worn as a bandoleer over one shoulder, etc.
Pistol
- Your handgun: A semi-automatic pistol in at least 9mm (no .380 or smaller)
- A holster that attaches to your belt, completely covers the trigger area of your handgun, and keeps the muzzle of the holstered handgun pointed downward in to a “zone” that is within 1 meter of the wearer. Inexpensive nylon holsters are fine, but if it has a snap closure, you must snap it closed to start your run.
- At least four magazines. It is not unusual for a stage to require one to three mandatory magazine changes. A single stage may require 35-40 rounds, so even without mandatory changes, you may use three or more magazines in the execution of a stage.
- Pouches or other way to hold your spare magazines at your belt. Again, inexpensive nylon holders are available at most gunshops and even some discount stores
- At least 100 rounds of ammunition. If you need extra shots, better have enough ammunition. If you have a “range malfunction” during your run and need to “reshoot”, you’d better have enough ammunition to reshoot the entire course. There’s no point in cutting too close on the amount of ammunition you bring, you can always use the excess at the next match.
Other:
- Eye and ear protection. To shoot a 3-Gun match you must wear safety or shooting glasses and some type of ear protection (plugs or muffs). Your regular sunglasses will not qualify as safety glasses, except for certain models that are designed as sports safety glasses as well.
- Clothing that is suitable for the season and provides adequate freedom of movement without being too loose, causing catches on props. If the weather forecast includes moisture, you might want to bring some foul-weather gear (rainsuit, poncho, etc.).
- Knee and/or elbow pads, especially if you are sensitive in those areas. You can count on having to go to kneeling and prone positions during every match. If some padding will prevent injury when you get too enthusiastic, consider bringing some.
- Water and food. Especially during the summer, dehydration is a constant problem. Normally soft drinks and water are for sale, but it is usually easier if you bring some yourself and have it with you. A light snack can help keep your energy up as well.
Hopefully this helps explain a little more about 3 gun competitions. If you have questions, suggestions, or just want to say hello put in your comments.
New Ruger LCP
Posted on April 13, 2008
Filed Under Kel Tec, New Guns, Pistols, Ruger | 3 Comments
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Ruger a few months back launched a new gun, the LCP. The new pistol is similar to the Kel Tec in size. It is a .380 caliber auto and meant for everyday carry. Beacuse of its size it is a lot more practical than that of the same caliber from periods before. It is the only competitor to the Kel-Tec. Jeff Quinn of gunblast.com put together a side-by-side comparison.
| Kel-Tec P3AT | Ruger LCP | |
| Weight | 7.2 Oz | 9.42 Oz |
| Frame Width | 0.798″ | 0.790″ |
| Barrel Length | 2.745″ | 2.796″ |
| Slide Width | 0.748″ | 0.741″ |
| Overall Length | 5.14″ | 5.172″ |
| Overall Height | 3.576″ | 3.612″ |
| Cartridge Capacity | 6+1 | 6+1 |
If you notice the Ruger is a few onces heavier and may be due to the so called beefier feel of the weapon. The Ruger is listed at about $50 more than the Kel-Tec the MSRP for the Ruger is $330. The Kel-Tec has been in development longer and many of the bugs worked out. For now the Kel-Tec is probably the best option. With the large R&D department and the Ruger name the LCP will quickly work out the kinks and make up the difference. The Ruger is now available but still remains as hard to get as the Kel-Tec.
If you are looking to purchase or would like to hold one in person talk to our friends at Simmons Sporting Goods. A quick note on Simmons they are having big sales right now in the off hunting season. Check them out especially for the great deals on Smith & Wesson
See the video for a quick look at the new Ruger LCP.
Stun Gun Permits
Posted on April 9, 2008
Filed Under Alabama, Law, Permits | 2 Comments
According to an Associated Press article at AL.com a bill requiring stun gun permits, or often called Tasers, is being considered. The proposed fee for the permit is $1 and the fate of the Legistlative Bill will be decided at a later date.
Bill would require a permit in Alabama to carry a stun gun
The Associated Press - April 09, 2008
MONTGOMERY — A bill under consideration by the Alabama Legislature would require a person to have a permit to carry a concealed stun gun or electroshock weapon on his or her person or in a car.
The permits would be the same as those currently issued by county sheriffs for carrying a concealed firearm and would cost $1.
The bill sponsored by Rep. Steve Hurst of Munford was debated in a public hearing Wednesday before the House Judiciary Committee. Committee chairman Rep. Marcel Black of Tuscumbia said the panel would vote on the measure at a later meeting.
Hurst said the devices can be used as weapons and requiring permits would help prevent them from being misused.
"I don’t want them to get in the wrong hands. I would hate to see children or teenagers having TASER parties and shooting each other," Hurst said.
The stun guns are often used by law enforcement officers as a way of controlling an unruly person without using deadly force.
Bullet Serialization possibility in Alabama?
Posted on April 9, 2008
Filed Under Action Alerts, Alabama, Law, NSSF | 2 Comments
A few days back an interesting e-mail went from the National Shooting Sports Foundation. The contents of the e-mail were for action items. This is from the content of the page which can be found here:
Alert: Bullet serialization bill introduced in Alabama
Bill Status: Referred to Alabama State Senate Judiciary Committee Action:
Contact committee members and representativesBullet Serialization Threat in Alabama
Legislation (SB 541) that would mandate, as early as 2009, bullet serialization — the process by which each individual round of ammunition is identified and marked with a laser-engraved serial number — has been referred to the Alabama State Senate Judiciary Committee. The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), the trade association of the firearms and ammunition industry, has made clear that serializing ammunition on a mass production basis is not feasible from a practical standpoint and any legislation mandating such action could rightfully be considered a de facto ban on ammunition.
NSSF is encouraging all sportsmen, hunters and firearms enthusiasts to contact members of the Judiciary Committee immediately, urging them to strongly oppose this would-be ammunition ban.
You may also contact your own state representative, urging him or her to voice their opposition to any bills that would mandate bullet serialization.
"If manufacturers had to comply with bullet serialization, NSSF estimates that it would take almost four weeks to manufacture what is currently produced in a single day," said NSSF Senior Vice President and General Counsel Lawrence G. Keane. "This massive reduction in ammunition would translate into substantially lower sales and profitability, and ultimately force major ammunition manufacturers to abandon the market. In turn, there would be a severe shortage of serialized ammunition and all consumers, including federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, would be faced with substantial price increases. Ammunition will go from costing pennies to several dollars per cartridge."
The domestic small arms ammunition industry, utilizing modern manufacturing processes and distribution practices, produces between 10 and 12 billion ammunition cartridges a year at already low-profit margins. The three largest domestic manufacturers (who collectively account for the vast majority of the market) produce an estimated 20 million rounds of ammunition in a single day. Ammunition manufacturers could not serialize their product without hundreds of millions of dollars in capital investment to build the new factories that would be needed in order to meet the requirements of bullet serialization. At the same time, hundreds of millions of dollars of existing plants and equipment, and decades of manufacturing (cost-saving) efficiencies, would be rendered obsolete.
"Bullet Serialization is dangerous and not practical," continued Keane. "As legislation that would mandate bullet serialization not only threatens law-abiding gun owners but our industry’s ability to supply the nation’s law enforcement officers and military with high-quality ammunition, we encourage all citizens of Alabama to contact members of the Senate Judiciary Committee and urge them to oppose this bill."
To find out more on the action and other information vist the National Shooting Sports Foundation.
Welcome
Posted on April 8, 2008
Filed Under Welcome | Leave a Comment
Welcome to the new Bull Gang Tactical Weapons team blog. This site is constantly under consturction and developed in part time unscheduled hours.
This blog is an area that we hope you will find useful. From time to time we will post information about tactical shooting information events and other useful information. Since are team incorporates so many people and differeing opinions we are going to try and limit opinions and only share the facts. So often teams and clubs publish an opinion that does not reflect that of all of its memebers. So to counteract that we aren’t going to share opinions at all. We won’t publish political information or align ourselves as a club politically. Though if you do happen to stop by and visit us I am sure you will find someone with an opinion.
The Bull Gang Tatical Weapons team is going to stick to the basics. We hope you enjoy.
If you know of something that you would like to see here on our blog or site send as a message using our contact form.
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