" CENTERFIRE BENCHREST POSTING & SCORES "

Fortunately Erik and Rio are able to show up for the early start time of 5:30pm, so that we can get done before it’s too dark. As a treat for all, the shooting couple policed the grounds for wood, paper, and trash to burn, providing needed heat post match, and leaving a cleaner range. Unfortunately Colin & Doc didn’t have enough ammo to complete two relays, so that only left four shooters to participate in the second division. Dave Salzer is really getting better at loading for his wildcat 6 PPC rifle, and assembling accurate ammo. Our Centerfire/ “Varmint for Score “matches are as much as test of ammunition, as they are rifle accuracy, and marksmanship. Learning to turn case necks and fireform new brass is advanced techniques for any Handloader, and Dave’s assembling process is improving.

Dave has the rifle capable of accuracy, but learning to shoot “Free-Recoil” and reload ammo that fits it, comes with experience. Dave also suffered from the inability to see his groups forming on the target, during the second relay. However he still didn’t drop too many points as his total was 246-2X. Dave is also improving with his Savage in 223 Rem., as he came in 2^nd with a total of 242-2X at 200 yards with it. As stated earlier the challenge to Centerfire matches is both assembling ammo accurate enough to hold the 10 ring, and then being able to judge the wind to place the shots there. Most of this season I’ve been shooting against myself, and my previous scores, trying to improve. I’ve made some improvements, as I’ve shot 4 relays of 250 points, which means I didn’t drop any points, or shot “Clean.”

This is progression as last year I could only post multiple scores of 249. I keep searching for “Extreme Accuracy” without it you’ll never place all your shots in the 10 ring, no matter how well you read the wind. My average score for the season has also improved, and the next write up will include everyone’s season average score that shot 3 matches or more. When a shooter quits trying to improve their ability with ammo or equipment, then that’s where they’ll stop at. There will always be plateaus, in any sport, but practice with the wind, and tuning ammo will keep average scores and performance rising, even if you are only trying to beat yourself. I’m an advocate of always tinkering with ammo, equipment, and marksmanship will eventually pay off, otherwise I guarantee if you stop trying you’ll stop improving.

Rio Berggren prefers to only bring a Varmint/Benchrest class rifle, as do George Kimball & Mike Haskins. However the other didn’t compete, so to let everyone get in as much shooting as possible, Rio still shoots the 1^st relay by herself. However in the 2^nd relay for “Unlimited/Benchrest Rifles” she did well, against similar class rifles, with good X count (3 Xs) but Erik beat her by a few points. In spite of not being able to see Dave Salzer did well with his new 6 PPC that he bought from Mike Haskins. Dave loaded this ammo all by himself, and for his lack of experience did exceptional with both quality of ammo and marksmanship.

Hamilton Long joined us for one of his 1^st. VFS matches, with a 223 Rem. and low powered scope of 4-14X. For his 1^st showing Hamilton posted a 217-1X, and hasn’t had much chance to tune rifle or ammo. We hope he’ll join us for more centerfire matches next year, as he usually only shoots the prone position in Rimfire matches. Colin Spencer had ammo problems, and was unable to finish his last few record targets. Colin got a “DNF” or the acronym for Did Not Finish for being unable to complete the course of fire. It’s one of those train wrecks that can happen in spite of everything going well during the warm up relays.

Good Shooting!!!!!!!! Michael L. Kerwood

With this being the last “Varmint for Score Match” / Centerfire match of 2008, the seasons average scores can now be done. To qualify for a season average score a Shooter has to have competed in at least 3 relays of the same class. Those of you that competed and don’t see your name is why you may not have an average posted. I also assign a number of points for final place in that class, or relay. Just like NASCAR season races or Golf where they have the “Fed-Ex” point’s standings. A win is awarded 5 points, 2^nd place is worth 4 points, and 3rd. is worth 3 points, 4^th. Is good for 2 points and 5^th is worth 1 point. Some shooters may have a high average score, but that can be deceptive, if they only attend when conditions are less challenging. The Season points standing awards attendance, more than average score. That’s the way it should be recognized, as those who work & attend more should be rewarded more. That’s why next to someone’s name you’ll see how many matches they attended to earn those points. I know it’s tough to attend all the tournaments, but there are those who never fail to show, and it should be recognized, like the Berggren’s who seldom if ever miss a match. Dave Salzer is another who seldom misses an event. Mike Haskins couldn’t compete for medical reasons this year, but we certainly hope he’ll improve enough to compete next season. Based on the above point system here are the 2008 season average scores, and season points earned, along with the number of matches attended.

2008 VFS Average Scores, & Points “Hunter Class”

2008 VFS Average Score, & Points, Varmint /BR Class, 1^st Relay, (Those W/Varmint BR Rifle only)

Folks we had a total of 106 entries for our 10 tournaments, for an average of 10.6 shooters per match. That’s not too bad a turnout, as over 10 shooters a match shows a lot of interest in our Centerfire “Varmint for Score” matches. Not only did we have a higher turnout per match this year, but that was without Haskins as a competitor, who would have made an average of 1 more or 11.6 shooters per match. The VFS interest is growing as far as Shooters and equipment being invested in the sport. More shooters are buying and shooting two rifles, one for each class. Doc started two rifles, for each class, last year, and this year Dave Salzer made the plunge for two guns. Sometimes those of us who had 2 styles stuck with just one, but it’s nice to have the option if you’re in the mood. With growing attendance, and popularity, I’m looking forward to even more turnout next year. Those who attended last year have seen our average scores rise, and ultimately that makes us all winners.

Varmint for Score Match # 9

Cold Temperatures in the40`s, dropping to 37 degrees by finish time, was the setting for our 9^th

Fortunately there wasn’t much wind, to add to the cold, however the 6:30pm start time had us finishing close to dark. Dusk was approaching earlier by 3-4 minutes every day, this time of year in Alaska, and this match had us unable to see our bullet holes, no matter the optics used. The last 2 matches of the season we change our start time, and luckily this was the last Centerfire match, held at 200 yards, that begins at 6:30pm. Our last match of 2008 would have us beginning at 5:30pm, and the extra hour helps if we hustle to get done.

Not being able to see where the last round impacts on the target is a real disadvantage, especially if there’s any shifts in the wind currents, or going from target to target. I experienced some great groups, with five shots being a single hole. Upon approaching the target on foot, I then could see a ragged hole on the edge of the 10 ring, with a few of the 5 shots out. Since we aren’t scoring for group size that part of the hole out of the 10 ring is dropped points. In fact I had better accuracy, in the 2^nd relay for Varmint/Benchrest rifles, with smaller groups, but due to fading light I was even more clueless about where my shots impacted.

I utilized my Panda rifle chambered in 30 BR for the 2^nd relay, which offers better advantage in consistency, but I was unable to see any shots until I approached the target. The fading light had me drop more points, with an extra stable rifle, due to my inability to see through the scope. Most all of us suffered from the same problem, as reflected in lower than normal scores. The Leupold Competition Series scope on my Panda has a smaller objective lens, than my Hunter Class rifle, which sports a Nightforce. I swore to hang up the Panda for the last match (# 10) scheduled in two weeks, and stay with my Hunter Class Kodiak rifle in the 2^nd relay, as the Nightforce scope seems to have better clarity at dusk.

Doc Doyle and Dave Salzer also reported trouble in seeing their bullet impacts and, had lower than normal scores as well, in the 2^nd relay. Erik & Rio Berggren did quite well, with Erik edging out Doc in the 2^nd, Varmint Relay. Erik’s new 6.5 X 47 sports a Leupold 24 power scope, and I don’t know if he suffered from the same inability to see in the 2^nd. Relay, but he edged Doc out by 1 X count. Erik’s newly barreled rifle is performing quite well even as he’s still tuning it up completely.

Other than not being able to see our targets, we still had a lot of fun, as we had a new group of shooters join us. No one else showed up with only a Varmint/Benchrest rifle, so Rio shot the 1^st relay by herself. To keep everyone shooting as much as possible, those who only have a “Varmint/Benchrest” rifle, like George Kimball, and Mike Haskins and of course Rio, we’re not making them wait until the second relay to shoot. They’re welcome to shoot two relays if they want, with the second relay for Benchrest Rifles or “Unlimited” for everyone. Those of us who have invested in two rifles, one for each class, are going to shoot the Hunter class gun in the 1^st relay, and then if we want switch to our Varmint/Benchrest gun in the 2^nd. Relay.

Dillon Bean, Corey Brandall, and Stevie O’Brian were willing to pay $6.00 to learn. You have to respect them for trying, as they were ill equipped to shoot under conditions that reward only the best gear that’s been tuned to 200 yards accuracy. It also takes an amount of experience to deal with the wind, and discipline to hold the shot when the wind blows excessively. Dillion didn’t even have any optic sights on his M-1 Semi-Auto rifle, and was forced to utilize Peep sights as issued to our combat troops.

While Peep sights are great for Man-Sized targets in combat, they are a not precise enough to keep all the shots in a Quarter sized 10 ring with regularity. Still they were determined to have fun, and stay long enough to shoot the 1^st relay with us. Another new shooter was Jason Humphreys who had planned to attend days before the start of the match. After one match Jason was hooked as he competed in the rest of the matches left in 2008. Hopefully this winter Jason will get his rifles perfected, and he’ll become a regular Shooter in 2009.

Match # 8

Horizontal rain Sunday morning had most Shooters convinced that there wasn’t going to be any match held that evening, and the turnout was lower than usual for our 8^th. Centerfire match of 2008. It didn’t appear to be fun weather when the rain did stop, as it was still cold, cloudy, and fairly windy. The winds laid down to 15-20 mph, with the mercury in the low 50`s,by the time official start time rolled around. Two of the main differences between the Rimfire and Centerfire matches, are the Centerfire is held at 200 yards instead of 50, and 100 yards.

My performance was so sub-standard that I almost switched to my 30 BR rifle in the middle of the match. Finally on the last 2 of 5 record targets I changed to Berger 190 grain loads that had enough accuracy to at least come close to the 10 ring, so I stuck it out, using the same 308 rifle, but different ammo. The only accomplishment for the 1^st relay was for me to post my lowest total of the year with it being 5 % below an average score for me. At least I went back to my reliable 30 BR for the 2^nd relay, despite the winds, and redeemed myself some. The bottom line is that accuracy is more important than any “Ballistic Coefficient” advantage a heavier bullet may have.

My 2^nd score was 6 % better than my 1^st attempt with my 308 Winchester, as was my placement improved as well. The winds didn’t affect Erik Berggren’s score, as he turned in close to an average total for himself. Dave Salzer was also little affected by the gusty winds. Hind sight is 20-20, and I believe that I should have stuck with my familiar 30BR, and held off for the winds to the best of my ability, instead of trying to capture an advantage with the 308. Obviously I need to tune my Handloads better with the 308,and not get caught in the middle of the match with mediocre ammo. The turbulent winds were enough for me to break my winning streak of 250 point scores of not dropping any points. I had a 4 match streak, in the 2^nd relay for Varmint/Benchrest rifles, of shooting 250 points, which indicates no shots outside the 10 ring.

Considering the weather I was happy to have dropped only 4 points, with the 30 BR.

Place	Name	Score	Rifle/Gunsmith	Scope	Cartridge
1^st.	E. Berggren	238-4X	Remington/Kelbly`s	Leupold 4-14x	6.5 X 47
2^nd.	M. Kerwood	232-3X	Kodiak/Kelbly`s	Nightforce 12-42x	308 Win.
3^rd.	D. Salzer	229-0X	Savage	Weaver 36x	223 Rem.

Place	Name	Score	Rifle/Gunsmith	Scope	Cartridge
1^st.	M. Kerwood	246-5X	Kodiak/Kebly`s	Nightforce 12-42x	30 BR
2^nd.	E. Berggren	236-2X	Remington/Kelbly`s	Leupold 4-14x	6.5 X 47
3^rd.	D. Salzer	194-0X	40X BR/Holland	Sightron 36x	6 PPC

Varmint for Score Match # 7

The weather forecast called for lots of wind and rain as the back drop for our 7^th

,But luckily it was a wrong prediction as the reverse was true. The wind died down towards evening, and the clouds parted to let occasional sunshine through. It turned out to be a perfect setting for our shooting competition, with the only complaint being the return of biting bugs. The calm winds favored the smaller 22 caliber rifles, which produce little recoil, but smaller bullets are more easily pushed from intended targets by any air currents

On calm days the only advantage to larger diameter bullets is a bigger hole, which may touch a higher scoring ring. I have yet to witness more than 7 or 8 bullseye`s, with a 22 caliber cartridge, even when they shoot a clean score of 250 points. The dot in the center of the “Ten Ring” is only 1/8 of an inch in diameter, and placed at 200 yards, and it has to be touched by the bullet to score a “Bull’s-eye”. Now you know what a feat it is to score a “X” or Bull’s-eye, with a bullet that is less than ¼ inch in diameter.

Despite the fact that 22 caliber bullets are less wind resistant, they remain very popular with a large number of shooters. Lighter recoil and cheaper cost of components to handload are two attractive features of 22 caliber cartridges along with a wide selection of bullets to choose from. Half of the competitors for our 7^th centerfire match were using 22 caliber cartridges in one relay or another. On the rare occasions when we have almost calm winds, the 22 calibers are the perfect choice, but it’s hard to predict when we’re going to have those conditions. 22`s are especially hard for the Novice or less experienced shooter to master, as they require better skill at reading the wind drift, when it does blow hard. I used to shoot a Remington 223, built by Darrell Holland, and labeled a “General Purpose Varmint Rifle” or GPVR acronym that’s extremely accurate, and forgiving of the Handloads used to feed it.

However I only use it now to loan to new Shooters who express an interest in getting started in our competitions. The problem with loaning out this rifle is the accuracy it delivers against me, especially if I make any mistakes, and the Shooter using it does exactly as I instruct them to, or they have their own experience in marksmanship. I’ll set the GPVR rifle up to “Track in the Bags”, so that the cross hairs return to the same point of aim after recoil, and that consistency will last for about the 1^st relay at least. The low recoil makes it a pleasure to shoot, and the Ladies I’ve loaned it to listen better to instructions, than most Men I’ve loaned it to. Such was the case with Sarah Gustaveson, as I loaned her the GPVR rifle for our 7^th. Match of the season. Sarah has developed some experience and skill attending our Rimfire matches, and was eager to try the Centerfire matches.

Sarah dry fired the rifle during practice, and then used live ammo also to dial the rifle in exactly where she wanted for the official part of the match. Sarah’s experience and acute listening to instruction, led her to a win, in the calm conditions of the 1^st. relay, with the GPVR rifle. Sarah let only one shot out of the 10 ring, for the first relay, for a score of 249 points. This score ties or betters a lot of Veteran Competitors who have been shooting a lot longer than Sarah. Rio Berggren also used the same rifle to post a personal best score, and win the first relay when using it. I had 2 unexplained flyers into the 9 ring during the same relay that left me 1 point behind Sarah. No doubt the calm winds helped Sarah, as she only had to focus only on keeping the crosshairs centered on the dot in the 10 ring. The Ladies who’ve used this rifle have done very well with it, as most of the time I loan the rifle out to them they’ve used it to edge me out in the final score.

The GPVR is very capable, and has shot a “Clean Score” of no dropped points, and isn’t very temperamental about when it’s going to shoot well. The blustery conditions we’re often faced with are the only reason I’ve switched over to a 30 BR cartridge. However the placid conditions for our 7^th match didn’t give my 30 BR any advantage. However I used my Panda Varmint/Benchrest rifle in 30 BR to shoot my consecutive, 4^th. “Clean” score of 250 points in the 2^nd relay. Until this year, a Clean score of 250 points, had only been accomplished twice in the preceding years. I still felt very lucky to have done this 4 times in a row, the 1^st 2 times was with my Kodiak, and the last 2 times was with my Panda. Both rifles are chambered in 30BR, which I’m still learning to tune to achieve maximum results.

Erik Berggren got to shoot his newly barreled 6.5 X 47 cartridge a try for the 1^st time, and helped him also post a new personal best score of 240 points in the 2^nd. relay. Erik is in the beginning stages of tuning his handloads for this rifle, but the 240 points shows a lot of promise for the future of this gun.

Doc Doyle showed up with his Panda rifle in a new stock called the “Kelbly`s Klub”, which will help the rifle track better than the old “MBR” that is was set in before. Tracking is important, as it’s the rifles ability to return to the same point of aim after recoil of the shot is fired. A properly set up gun will go back to the same spot on the target, when looking through the scopes crosshairs. After the rifle slides rearward from recoil of the shot, it should only take a slight forward movement of the shoulder to move the rifle forward to the stop, and have the crosshairs pointing at exactly the same spot. Doc had trouble getting behind the old MBR stock just right, and reports that the Kelbly`s Klub does a lot better job tracking, and enables him to get behind the rifle better. With Doc using his Panda in the

Varmint/Benchrest relay, along with Dave Salzer using his 40X-BR, I’ve opted to join them with my Panda of like design. George Kimball, Mike Haskins, Dave Salzer Doc Doyle, and I have all invested in a Second, Heavy Varmint/Benchrest, rifle to maximize the 2^nd. relay for Varmint/Benchrest Rifles. Erik has had his Remington 40X-BR, in 222 Remington for years before we began our centerfire matches, and it’s the only rifle Rio utilizes for both relays. I’m excited about so many folks spending the extra money to have both types of rifles, but it’s the “Heavy Varmint” Benchrest rifle that I enjoy shooting more.

The “Free Recoil Style” of shooting that produces the smallest groups, and the search never ends in the quest for better accuracy. If you can produce a small group, then the next step is to duplicate it 4 more times, in the center of the remaining record targets. The quest for better and more consistent accuracy is my passionate pursuit, and I believe it is for most of our regular shooters to one degree or another. How else could you account for the rise in our average scores, and close place finishes?

Varmint for Score Match # 6

Calm winds and partly cloudy skies benefitted biting bugs, and Shooters scores

The swarms of insects were the worst to date, with the competitors wishing for enough breezes to keep the bugs away. Aerosol cans of repellant were on every shooting bench, with some shooters opting to wear mosquito netting around their heads. I’ve never witnessed calmer conditions than we had that day. The close proximity to the ocean usually creates some kind of “Sea Breeze”, but it wasn’t happening for our 6^th. VFS match of the summer. The calm winds are a big help to the 22 caliber shooters, as it levels the field, due to the larger calibers not having the advantage in bucking the wind drift. However I think everyone would have liked to have anything help keep the blood thirsty bugs from biting, even if it meant reading the wind flow.

Dave Salzer got to shoot his new Savage rifle in 223 Remington caliber, however the grease preservative installed from the factory, caused some problems. After a thorough rinsing with lighter fluid the trigger settled down, and Dave posted a respectable 93% total score. Dave also used a new rifle for the Varmint/Benchrest class in the second relay. Dave bought Haskin’s 40X-BR that’s chambered in 6PPC, although it’s used by Haskin’s, it’s a new rifle for Dave. Part of the bargain between them involved Haskin’s loading and coaching Dave’s use of the gun until he gets familiar with it and it’s style of shooting. Apparently it worked out very well as Dave shot his way into 2^nd place in the 2^nd relay for the Benchrest rifles. The calm winds also helped Erik Berggren shoot a personal best of 93 ½ % score with his Savage that is also a 223 Remington caliber. I managed to post a record amount of Bullseyes with 16 X`s, however I dropped one shot into the “9” Ring, which kept me from a new course record score. In the 2^nd. relay, for Varmint/Benchrest rifles, I was lucky enough to keep all 25 shots in the 10 ring, for a record 250-12X , with my Panda rifle. We’ve changed the rules to allow those with “Varmint/Benchrest rifles to shoot in the 1^st relay, and Rio Berggren shot her 40X-BR for a great score of 237-2X. Doc Doyle switched the barrel on his Kodiak Hunter class rifle to a 30X47 caliber, but he only had enough brass to shoot in the first relay. Doc`s 30X47 cartridge uses a heavier bullet than his normal 30BR round, so when the winds do pick up the bullet will drift less. Doc`s 30X47 shot great groups, but they weren’t quite centered around the 10 ring. Still Doc managed to shot his way to second place in the only relay he shot.

All of us took advantage of the calm winds to post higher than normal scores, and experience is helping us all raise the total average scores. As the season progresses we are all getting more experienced, and what would have been a winning score in May, is now only enough for 3^rd or 4^th. place.

Kodiak Alaska

Morning fog gave way to low overcast skies for our 5th evening Centerfire match of 2008. The forecast called for isolated showers, which was a prophecy come true at the end of our 2^nd relay. At least the rain waited until we’d completed most of the firing, but continued as we scrambled to pack away our gear. The wind driving the showers wasn’t too bad; however it was prevalent enough that a fair amount of windage was required to keep the shots centered in the 10 ring. If your shooting plan was waiting for lulls in the wind to shoot, then you weren’t going to finish the match in the 40 minute time interval. The predominant condition was 6-8 mph breezes from 2:00, with enough pauses, and gusts to catch shooters off guard. Fortunately the wind laid down for our 2^nd relay, for Varmint/Benchrest rifles, towards dark, as is usually the case.

Several regulars were absent for one reason or another, while two of our regulars were trying new calibers. Colin Spencer had a new “Tika” brand rifle chambered in 223 Remington, but needed to sight it in before the match began, to ensure his impact was somewhere on the target. Doc Doyle had changed his Kodiak rifle barrel to a “30 X 47” caliber that’s a favorite choice for most Hunter class shooters. The 30X47 has a larger case capacity than the 30 BR cartridges Doc has been using, along with a slightly heavier bullet. In sanctioned I.B.S. matches the 30X47 is about the minimum case size to be used in the “Hunter Class”, while the Varmint class has no minimum case size. If we enforced this rule in our Hunter Class rifles it would eliminate most of the guns used, like the 222 Remington, and popular 223 Remington, along with the 30BR. Doc has had great success with his 30 BR, but always likes to try something new, and the 30X47 throws a heavier bullet that’s handy on windier days. Both rifles performed well, once we were able to get them printing on paper at 200 yards, and Doc was fireforming brass while shooting the record target. Doc`s 30X47 was only one point behind my 308 Winchester rifle when the smoke cleared, showing that his new selection has a lot of promise. Unfortunately both shooters with new calibers lacked enough ammo to shoot in the 2^nd relay, despite a desire to do so.

George Kimball showed up with his Heavy Varmint Class 222 Remington, to shoot in the Benchrest/Varmint relay held later in the evening. George is very experienced in reading the wind, and a real challenger, especially if the wind is very co-operative. As luck would have it there was some wind to contend with, as I had to really pay attention, even with my 308 Winchester in the first relay. Erik, Rio, and Colin were all shooting 22 caliber bullets, that are at a slight disadvantage against the 30 calibers that Doc, and I shoot. Erik was using some heavier 69 grain bullets in his Savage Predator, that tend to deflect less than the 52 grain bullets the others shot. Erik had a very good showing with consistent scores of 231 points in both relays, which are right at 92 % for keeping his rounds in the ten rings. I took advantage of the lighter winds for the second relay and used my 30 BR, that’s more sensitive to the currents at Salonie Creek, than my 308 Winchester. It worked out to switch over to the more accurate 30BR when the winds laid down, as I was able to duplicate another “Clean” score of 250 points from 2 weeks earlier. It’s very taxing to keep focused for all 25 record rounds, especially with the Hunter style Kodiak rifle I used, but more rewarding than shooting a “Free Recoil” style Varmint gun. George also capitalized on the predictable winds and scored a high personal best score of 245-7X showing his experience did account for reading the wind.

Rookie Shooter, Dave Salzer is rumored to have purchased a “Heavy Varmint” rifle chambered in 6PPC from Mike Haskins. The rifle is a Remington 40-XBR like the one Rio Berggren is using, except that this rifle weighs a couple pounds more. The 6PPC cartridge is the hands down favorite in current Benchrest “Group” matches, and de-thronged the reigning King of Benchrest cartridges, the 222 Remington, about 35 years ago. The 222 Remington uses a 22 caliber bullet usually weighing about 52 grains, while the 6 PPC utilizes a 65-68 grain bullet that’s 243 caliber. Both bullets are equal at 100 yards distance, but the heavier 6mm ( 243 diameter) has a slight advantage at the 200yard line, in bucking the wind. Haskins and I are thrilled to welcome Dave to the arena of “Ultimate Accuracy” in using a heavy varmint rifle for the 2^nd relay. While Haskins and I prefer the Varmint style Rifles, most folks use a Hunter Class type gun or “Tactical Rifle” for dual purposes of hunting or casual target shooting. Tactical rifles have their use in stalking, and sniping the local Terrorist Rabbit population that Kodiak is famous for. Hunting rifles can also serve for hunting our local Sitka Blacktail Deer or Elk population on Afognak Island. Any regular shooting done at 200 yards will make you a better Marksman, no matter which kind of quarry you pursue, or try to hit. Many are the time that setting up for our matches at 200 yards that we find new targets posted, with no bullet holes in them. This is the result of Hunters stapling a target up at 200 yards and shooting at it, with no luck, and then going home, being too lazy to retrieve his target. This sluggish Hunter will think nothing of trying to hit a deer sized target at a similar distance while hunting, with the same resulting miss. Handloading is also about knowledge, and shooting with us will help with that as well. Dave is about to start on the “Quest for Ultimate Accuracy” in buying Haskins 6 PPC, as it’s a discipline that never stops looking for smaller group sizes. Many of the things we take for granted in shooting and handloading were pioneered by Benchrest Shooters, such as; “Neck Sizing Only” “Correct Brass Preparation” “Efficiency of Short Squat Powder columns” when it comes to Cartridge design. Head spacing off the shoulder versus using a belt at the case web.

A lot of what’s used in Hunting & Tactical rifles has been copied or developed from Benchrest matches. The winner in “Group” matches is those with the smallest aggregate or average of a number of 5 shot groups. With that goal in mind there’s never any score that’s “Good Enough” like score matches where not dropping any points or “X`s” is the objective. In score matches, any accuracy that can hold the “X” ring is good enough to be competitive, so the quest for improvement stops when that’s achieved. Haskins and I are glad to see Dave join us in this style of shooting, It’s been a slow but growing fraternity of us, with Haskins to buy the 1^st 6PPC and then I, and then George, and then Doc got Heavy Varmint rifles,. It won’t be long to bring Dave up to speed on Fireforming brass and turning case necks that custom fit his chamber for maximum accuracy, and points. Part of the purchase agreement included Haskins coaching Dave with setting up the rifle in the bags, and getting it to “Track” back and forth during recoil, and forward return to the aiming point. “Table Manners” are a term that’s used to properly set up the : Front Rest, Rear Bag, and rifle so that the shooter has to only push the gun forward after the shot, so that the cross hairs return exactly to the spot on the target that you aim for previously.

The Shooter only touches the trigger on a Varmint rifle, and lets the front rest, and rear bag do all the work. This method of shooting is called “Free Recoil” as the competitor contacts the weapon in a minimum of points, and it Freely Recoils rearward. Setting the gun up to do this takes experience and some basic knowledge of what is correct, and what’s not. It’s easy to sit behind a rifle with a proper “Set Up” and be amazed at how the scope reticle returns to the same spot after each shot is fired. It takes some getting used to while shooting, but once mastered you develop what’s referred to as “Table Manners” that keeps this technique of shooting consistent. Dave will get lots of great coaching from Haskins, as Haskins is a local master at this, method of shooting and now has the rifle capable of small groups inside the ten ring at 200 yards.

Although the argument can be made that this style of shooting isn’t practical in the real world of hunting or sniping, but target shooting only, and that’s true to some extent. Consistency is the key to any style of marksmanship, whether you agree with it or not. The Hunter class rifles must be held tightly, as the Free Recoil style won’t work. The gratification comes after the 5 shot groups is a small ragged hole, hopefully centered in the Ten Ring. Yes, I many times use my Hunter class gun that requires unfailing concentration in many contact points of grip, pressure, and focus, and trusting belief in handloaded ammunition, all while reading the wind and holding off for it, or not. While this discipline of marksmanship doesn’t always appeal to everyone, as the headline across our web-page reads

“Happiness is one hole for 5 shots”, and that sums it up, no matter how you shoot your rifle. The matches are scored on results, not on your technique.

Varmint for Score Match # 4

Once again dark grey skies threatened rain for our 4^th centerfire match of 2008. However despite a wet forecast, we enjoyed a record number of shooters for this event. A total of 16 entries paid to test their skill in the two different divisions that separate rifles. The first relay is reserved usually for “Hunter Class” rifles that have narrower forends and a magazine. The second relay is for more accurate “Varmint/Benchrest” rifles, that don’t have a hole in the bottom of the action, and wider forends, that are more stable on the front rest. Savage company is one of the most advanced manufactures presently with out of the box “F” class rifles that are close to Benchrest configuration, and ready for competition right out of the box.

Although the shooters using “Hunter Class” rifles are at a disadvantage against Varmint/Benchrest guns, most just want to shoot and enter the second relay knowing the scores are usually higher in the second chance, and the winds calm down close to dark. The second relay came into being when Haskins sold his Remington Police model, and only had a Bat action 6 PPC to shoot. Most of the 3-4 of us who owned real accurate Benchrest rifles, opted not to use them in our centerfire matches as we were afraid of intimidating new shooters who would show up to shoot their Hunter class rifles, and feel at a disadvantage.

George Kimball, Mike Haskins, and I decided to leave the Benchrest rifles at home, and shoot repeating rifles in just one relay. After the sale of Haskins Remington Police, we opened up a second division for Haskins remaining 6 PPC rifle, which allowed“Unlimited” rifles to participate. This was the chance that Haskins and I had hoped for, as we’d liked to see a growing number of “Benchrest Shooters” to compete against, instead of just George, Haskins and I shooting against each other. Doc Doyle was the next one to bring the competition to a new level when he exchanged his AR-15, for a Hunter Class, Kodiak rifle, in 30 BR. Although my 223 Remington is an accurate rifle, it couldn’t buck the wind like Doc`s 30 BR, and the larger caliber hole helps touch the tightly packed scoring rings of higher value. In return Doc learned from us the significance of wider forends and single shot actions, and Doc built a Panda, Heavy Varmint, Benchrest rifle. With Rookie Dave Salzer attending our matches, he’s become addicted to accuracy, and is acquiring equipment for both divisions. Rumor has it he’s ordered a new Savage rifle in 223 Remington, to be more competitive in the Hunter Rifle class.

Although most everyone has made upgrades to keep their scores climbing, those without the necessary gear need only to ask for help, as money is tight for all of us .Practice, competitive experience, and experimenting with handloads, are cheap ways to improve point totals. Those that have shown motivation, and dedication to the sport, have been loaned my rifles, my front rest, rear bags and handloaded ammo to the extent that I’ve been outscored by my own equipment. If you need something, just ask, as we’re all trying to have fun and learn about improving accuracy, and willing to share what we have. This benefits all of us, and keeps the numbers up in attendance. Larry Johnson, Colin Spencer, and recently Rio Berggren have all had the chance to shoot my factory chambered 223 Remington, with Rio beating me, and setting her personal best score.

It also provides the opportunity to use equipment before laying out hard earned money, and finding that it didn’t work as expected. What started as one relay has grown into two chances to shoot, all because Haskins had a conscience about beating the rest of the field with his 6 PPC. George, Haskins Doc, and I are all tickled that we might actually have an opportunity to have real “Benchrest” matches with the addition of Dave Salzer getting a rifle capable of shooting five shots into a ragged hole. Of course the local merchants ought to be tickled as well, as the equipment needed to shoot matches (Both Rimfire & Centerfire) help the local economy, and club treasury. However it’s not an equipment race, with money buying the points. I started shooting a 223 Remington with a factory chamber that had 4,000 rounds through the barrel, and was at least the 8^th. owner of it. By relentless experimentation, of handloads, I was able to produce enough accuracy, to win a few matches, including the 1^st “Clean” total score that didn’t drop any points. A rifle shouldn’t be classified by how much it cost, or by how accurate it is, it’s a matter of design. Many rifles have untapped accuracy potential hidden inside ,it’s a matter of handling it correctly when fired, reading the wind, and getting the most out of handloads. These are things that cost very little, but all add up to higher scores. Some calibers have advantage over others, in resisting wind deflection, or larger holes on the paper, and depending on wind conditions it’s easy to forecast who may have the benefit or gain in points. Doc Doyle was a great example of this, when he switched over to his 30 BR from his AR-15 in 25 WSSM. Now Doc`s invested in another 30 BR Panda for the separate class. Lots of us have invested a lot of money and time to climb higher in the point totals, and coupled with experience, it’s raised the bar in the total scores.

Raising the bar was definitely in question for our 4^th. match of 2008,as the was to be the 1^st competition of the season for Haskins. Mike has been absent due to a back injury, and didn’t want to chance aggravating it by shooting. Although Haskins recovery has stagnated, his Doctor thought it would be good physiologically to get out of the house and get his mind off his injury. The prevailing calm winds that day favored his 6PPC, which is the usual winner in those shooting conditions. However both Doc Doyle and I had left our Heavy Varmint/Benchrest rifles at home, being lazy with having to switch over front bags, and pack two rifles to the range. Rio Berggren was also favored to do well in both relays as the placid winds would favor her with my 223 in the 1^st relay, and Erik’s 222remington 40X-BR. The calm promised higher scores for all, with the wind reading being less of a factor.

We enjoyed the company of one new shooter with the appearance of Mike Grey, who brought out a Remington Police Model, in 308 Win. Mike had a little trouble with the first relay, but shot the second relay with a huge increase in points. In his second try Mike Grey had a 75 % success rate in hitting the 10 ring at 200 yards, which is a great showing for a new shooter. Dan Eubanks showed up for his second match, and in the 1^st relay had a 50 % improvement from his last match. Like I tell folks in their 1^st Match “This is the worst score you’ll ever turn in, it only gets better from here”. The first match is when most of us are highest on the learning curve. Speaking of highs, I was lucky enough to post a new course record in the second relay when everyone was allowed to pull out the stops and use anything they wanted as far as rifles go. I opted to leave the “Free Recoil” shooting Panda at home, and instead try to hold my Kodiak Hunter Class rifle consistently for 25 shots. Luck was a factor as Haskins dropped one point, and that gave me the edge. I was able to stay focused for 25 shots, with a total of 250 points. Haskins held the previous course record of 250-5X, from June 17^th 2007.

There have only been 2 times before when no points were dropped from the total score, and Haskins had the one score with the highest “X” count. There have been lots of 249 scores, but it’s hard to maintain the needed concentration to keep all the bullets in the 10 ring, along with ammo that’s flawless. Doc had an extremely high “X” count with 10 X`s total, as it’s the only second time to have double digits in the X count. The record for X`s is currently 15, but single digits is the normal count. The scores are so close that Doc and I tied for the 1^st relay, with Rio coming in a close second in the Hunter Class. Greg, Erik, and Dave were also close in total points in the 1^st relay with just 3 points separating them. Just by competing we all learn, and prosper, if not from other’s mistakes, then from our own.

“Varmint for Score”
Match # 3 June 29^th
2008 Kodiak Alaska
Damp grey skies, and light on shore winds, looked like rain for our 3^rd.
                       Centerfire match of 2008.
Despite the ominous clouds, we enjoyed a high turnout of folks willing to chance rainy weather. Regular shooters, like Mike Haskins, and George Kimball didn’t make the match, but some new shooters helped make up the large attendance numbers. Sure enough after everything was set up, and official firing began, we experienced some light rain. However it didn’t dampen anybody’s fun and we all had a great time.
            This was Greg Metes first chance to complete a match, since he experienced rifle trouble at our opening match of 2008. Greg was only able to complete 3 of 5 targets in match # 1, but was scoring 90% scores for the targets he completed. Even with only 3 targets scored, it was still enough points to keep from finishing last place. At the end of match # 3, Greg had shot well better than 91%, which left him in the middle of the pack for placement. Greg’s score of 231 points for a completely stock Savage rifle is impressive score, even on a national level.
Dan Eubanks and Hamilton Long were new shooters to our centerfire matches. Both new shooters did very well for their first time. Dave Salzer completed his 2^nd. Centerfire match, as he has been plagued with equipment problems also. Dave made enormous gains in his total score, as he’s learned a lot in just a few matches. Most new shooters turn in their worst score on their first attempt to shoot competition. After that they learn enough about: Gun Handling, Reloading, and Wind Reading to make big jumps in total scores. Having a good time and learning to shoot better is the goal of our competitions we’re all pretty high on the learning curve, but everyone is raising the average total points Just attending a few shoots is all it takes to witness vast improvements.
None of us claim to be experts, or perfect, however by exchanging information, and ideas, along with using different equipment, and weapons we progress to where our local club scores aren’t far below national averages. Greg Mete is a great example of this with his total of 231 with an unmodified Savage Factory rifle. If you look up “I.B.S” Factory class scores at 200 yards, Greg’s sum total is competitive at regional levels. Those who compete the most have the closest scores at the top, with 1-2 points, or the “X” counts determining the winner. As part of raising the Bar, I was happy to set a new course record in the “X” count. The 1/8” dot that needs to be touched at 200 yards makes it a formidable task to earn a X.
In looking back on our old scores, no one has reached over 9 X`s at a time. I surprised my self, and took advantage of mild winds, to post a score with 15 X`s after the points total. However I can’t stand complete prosperity and had to drop one point, so that my complete score wasn’t a course record point wise. Mike Haskins and myself, have both shot “Clean Scores” where we didn’t drop any points, but no one has ever had more than 9 “X”`s after their point total. I was lucky enough to pull this off shooting my Hunter Class, Kodiak in 30BR against Varmint/Benchrest Rifles, in the 2^nd relay. Dave Salzer surprised all of us with his 90% total of 225 points. This was accomplished with a new CZ model rifle in 308 Win. This is a rifle Dave is still learning to tune his Handloads for, and is far from its full potential.
            So far we’ve accomplished my goal of trying to get local shooters involved, and learning to shoot better, with the weapons they have at home. While doing this we’re also raising much needed money for the club also. Hopefully some day we’ll come up with enough money to cover the firing line at Salonie Creek range, and won’t have to cancel matches due to weather.

Good Shooting!!!!!!!!!! Michael Kerwood
Hunter Class Scores “VFS” Match # 3 June 29^th. `2008 Kodiak
Place
Name
Score
Rifle/Gunsmith
Scope
Caliber
1^st.
M. Kerwood
247-9X
Kodiak/Kelbly`s
Nightforce 12-42x
30BR
2^nd.
D. Doyle
246-1X
Kodiak/Mayer
Nightforce 12-42x
30BR
3^rd.
R. Berggren
243-2X
GPVR/Holland
Leupold 36x
223 Rem.
4^th.
G. Mete
231-0X
Savage 112
Weaver 16x
30-06
5^th.
D. Salzer
225-0X
CZ
Weaver 36x
308 Win.
6^th.
E. Berggren
216-0X
Savage Predator
Leupold 4-14x
223 Rem.
7^th.
H. Long
199-0X
AR-15
Unknown
223 Rem.
8^th.
D. Eubanks
98-0X
Colt AR-15
Leupold 3-9x
223Rem.
Varmint/Benchrest “VFS” Match # 3 June 29^th `08 Kodiak
Place
Name
Score
Rifle/Gunsmith
Scope
Caliber
1^st.
M. Kerwood
249-15X
Kodiak/Kelbly`s
Nightforce 12-42x
30 BR
2^nd.
D. Doyle
235-0X
Kodiak/Mayer
Nightforce 12-42x
30 BR
3^rd.
R. Berggren
232-2X
Rem. 40 XBR
Leupold 24x
222 Rem.
4^th.
E. Berggren
214-0X
Savage Predator
Nikon 4-14x
223 Rem.
5^th.
D. Salzer
174-2X
AR-15
Weaver 36x
223 Rem.
6^th.
D. Eubanks
83-0X
Colt AR-15
Leupold 3-9x
223 Rem.

Good Shooting!!!!!!!! Michael L. Kerwood