Blogtag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-component-id:5322023-02-05T09:23:07ZNathan FosterMatchGrade bedding kits now available in Australiatag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000842023-02-05T09:23:07Z<p class="moz-quote-pre" wrap="">Hi all, just a heads up for our Australian customers - the Falcon turbo and Commy V8 might be gone but MatchGrade is back in the great southern land. <br />
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Both our bedding and stabilizer kits are now available to the peoples of that fine nation who discovered how to split the beer atom and produced numerous national heros including the outback adventurer Russel Coight. <br />
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Australia - where the bloody hell are you buried. <br />
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To purchase MatchGrade products, please visit our Australian distributor: <a href="https://trekpac.com.au/">https://trekpac.com.au/</a><br />
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<img align="baseline" alt="Ross bedding web" height="440" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Ross%20bedding%20web.jpg" title="Ross bedding web" width="640" /> <br />
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Nathan FosterWebinar this weekend.tag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000832021-12-18T12:24:01Z<p>Hi everyone, I hope this email finds you well during these challenging times. It has been a long time since my last post however I am happy to report that we are still at the coal face. This year has nevertheless presented us with some difficulties with regards to how we deliver our business. Following issues with the Paypal system, we had to retire this service which in turn has affected how we deliver some of our services. It is also worth noting that we are seeing some problems with some email services due to the subject matter (i.e. ballistics / rifles etc.). Emails sent from myself or the website, including order confirmations and download links, may go to the recipient’s spam folder as a result of increased internet security measures. Emails and download links can nevertheless easily be retrieved from the customers spam folder. It is simply a matter of being aware of mail handling. If you have ordered a product and do not for example immediately receive a download link, you will find the email within your spam folder.</p>
<h2>Free webinar this Sunday (Saturday Northern hemisphere)</h2>
<p>Time: 8am Sunday 19<sup>th</sup> December, Auckland NZ time. <b>(Eastern Standard Time: 2pm Saturday 18<sup>th</sup> December)</b></p>
<p>Web link: <a href="https://meet.jit.si/moderated/bb04162650a9ddac44d658dee40d249241abdc4bf0b33fe4ebff2bef623034bf">https://meet.jit.si/moderated/bb04162650a9ddac44d658dee40d249241abdc4bf0b33fe4ebff2bef623034bf</a></p>
<p>One thing I have been trying to work through is a way that we can all communicate in a more meaningful manner. As much as I have enjoyed the youtube podcasts, they were always one sided with the viewer only able to communicate within a text box which made it very hard for the viewer to provide context to questions. We looked into zoom conferencing but this is quite expensive and I was hoping to be able to offer seminars either free of charge or at a low cost to our viewers.<br />
<br />
I believe we have found a temporary solution via jitsi.org. This is free open-source software and users do not need to create an account to use this platform. We are going to trial Jitsi this weekend (see time above). Once at the url (given above), all you need to do is enter your first name or a nickname and press the join meeting button. You will of course have to make sure that your camera and microphone are turned on. The downside of this platform is that it has a limit of 100 people per session, therefore we will have to do this on a first come, first serve basis.</p>
<p>There will be no specific topic for this weekend’s webinar. If you can think of any questions you would like to ask me between now and the weekend, write them down. I am hoping that via video conferencing I can provide greater clarification to specific questions rather than get lost in generalizations. Although this is a free webinar, if you find the information useful and are in a position to help, a small donation thereafter would be appreciated.<br />
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Just keep in mind that there may be a few mistakes as I trial this. I am not the most tech savvy.</p>
<h2>Video Learning</h2>
<p>One positive aspect of the challenges mentioned at the beginning of this email is that we have been forced to look at better delivery systems for our products. Customers will be happy to know that our learning series videos are now hosted on our website as direct downloads. As these are downloadable products, we ask that you please do not share them. The funds from these video help to support our family along with ongoing research. Link to video series:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/Video+Learning.html">https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/Video+Learning.html</a><br />
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The video files are formatted to MP4 H264 and are generally very large (e.g. 3 to 5 GB), you may therefore wish to use a download manager. This software tool helps to ensure that your video will continue to download if you have a poor (or dropped) connection. A free open-source download manager can be found here:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.freedownloadmanager.org/download.htm">https://www.freedownloadmanager.org/download.htm</a></p>
<p>Following a purchase, you will immediately receive two automated emails. The first is your order confirmation. The second email contains a link to your download. <strong><span style="font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif">If you cannot see the download email, then it is most likely in your spam folder</span></strong>. If you do not receiver either email, then you have most likely entered an incorrect email address when placing your order.<br />
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<strong><span style="font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif">Note that you only have two days to download the file from the email link.</span></strong> The link will expire thereafter (for our security). If you fail to download your file as a result of either an incorrect email address or expiry, we will do our best to help (or provide a refund) however you must take some responsibility for your purchase by entering the correct details and downloading the file immediately.</p>
<p>Note also that some of the latest Apple computer video players are set by default to H265 video format. You will therefore need to make sure that the video player on your Apple device is set up to play H.264 codec videos.</p>
<p>To check that your player will play these videos, <a href="file:///D:/site/ballisticstudies/7mm%20Practical%20test%20video.mp4">click here</a> to download a test video.</p>
<p>Apple / Mac users may also want to try the free VLC media player:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.videolan.org/vlc/download-macosx.html">https://www.videolan.org/vlc/download-macosx.html</a></p>
<h2>Free videos (youtube)</h2>
<p>Steph goes hunting with a .257 Weatherby Magnum:</p>
<p><a href="https://youtu.be/mEpBtA7ccaI">https://youtu.be/mEpBtA7ccaI</a></p>
<p>Steph goes hunting with the 350 Legend:</p>
<p><a href="https://youtu.be/Um5otKaH2QI">https://youtu.be/Um5otKaH2QI</a></p>
<p>Excerpt from a talk I gave at a Manawatu Deerstalkers club night:</p>
<p><a href="https://youtu.be/Ikc_EjSD_S8">https://youtu.be/Ikc_EjSD_S8</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Well, that’s about it from us. I would like to take this opportunity to say thanks to each of you for supporting our business and family along with your very kind and supportive emails which brighten our days. I cannot thank you enough for such kind gestures. I do hope that you have been able to get away hunting this year, or at the very least taken time to relax in the wilderness or perhaps engage in practice shooting.</p>
<p>From our family to yours, we wish you all the best for this coming Christmas and the following new year.</p>
Nathan FosterNew videostag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000822021-07-05T11:23:55ZHi all, I hope this blog post finds you well. I just wanted to share a couple of videos. <br />
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The first video contains a few highlights from a talk I gave to the Manawatu regional branch of the New Zealand Deer Stalkers Association. Subjects covered: Fast killing, the rise in popularity of low powered cartridges, Berger bullets.<br />
<div class="media_embed" style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ikc_EjSD_S8" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<div>The second video features a book reading and Interview with regards to our most recent publication - The Door. The host, Andrew Carter, is a New Zealand producer who specializes in the filming of MMA and Kick boxing events within NZ and abroad.<br />
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iEMuHizblps" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
Effective Game Killing - Part 2tag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000812021-02-18T09:23:55ZHi all, just a quick catch up. Steph and I have been busy as usual, engaged in ongoing research and writing writing projects. Following the chaos last year, we decided that we really wanted to continue to knuckle down and stay focused without distraction. So while it may seem that we have been rather quiet, we have been at the coal face through Jan / Feb. Will disclose project details at a later date.<br />
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Norma have uploaded part two of my Effective Game killing article. Links to 1 & 2 below:<br />
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<a href="https://www.norma-ammunition.com/en-gb/norma-academy/dedicated-hunting/ammunition/effective-game-killing-part-2">https://www.norma-ammunition.com/en-gb/norma-academy/dedicated-hunting/ammunition/effective-game-killing-part-2</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.norma-ammunition.com/en-gb/norma-academy/dedicated-hunting/ammunition/effective-game-killing">https://www.norma-ammunition.com/en-gb/norma-academy/dedicated-hunting/ammunition/effective-game-killing</a><br />
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Latest Vimeo work here:<br />
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<a href="https://vimeo.com/channels/nathanfoster">https://vimeo.com/channels/nathanfoster</a><br />
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All the best, Nathan.Nathan FosterNovember 2020 - Nathan Fostertag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000802020-11-21T09:24:06Z<div class="plain_content">
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;"><span style="color:#000000;">Hi everyone, here we are are near the end of another year. </span></span></span></p>
<h2><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;"><span style="color:#000000;">Christmas orders</span></span></span></h2>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;"><span style="color:#000000;">First, a reminder that Christmas is not far away so those wishing to order paperback books may want to do so within the next week or so before the printers and post services get swamped (New Zealand buyers please note that we have stock here in NZ for domestic shipping). If you purchase ebooks there is no waiting, just follow the link you receive with your order confirmation, download your books and enjoy.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/Book+Bundles.html">https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/Book+Bundles.html</a></span><br />
</span></p>
<h2><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;"><span style="color:#000000;">.44 calibers added to the knowledge base (KB)</span></span></span></h2>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;"><span style="color:#000000;">I have finally had the time to sort through my .44 cal research. Yep, took me long enough but it is finally done. Articles include .44-40, 44 magnum and .444 Marlin. It’s great to have these finished and up for your enjoyment, I hope each of you find these articles useful.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/.44-40+Winchester+Center+Fire+WCF.html">https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/.44-40+Winchester+Center+Fire+WCF.html</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/.44+Remington+Magnum.html">https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/.44+Remington+Magnum.html</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/.444+Marlin.html">https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/.444+Marlin.html</a></span><br />
</span></p>
<h2><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;"><span style="color:#000000;">Norma work</span></span></span></h2>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;"><span style="color:#000000;">As most of you know by now, I have been working with Norma this year, writing educational material. The first project was an updated and highly in-depth version of my Effective Game Killing article. Norma has taken an incredibly brave approach with this article, allowing me to explain not only the strengths of their ammunition, but also limitations. This level of transparency is rare these days and shows the commitment that Norma have made to their customers. I am deeply honored to have this opportunity to be a part of this meaningful project. A second article will appear in the near future (shot placement). From next year, I believe I will be working as a consultant to Norma in one capacity or another.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.norma-ammunition.com/en-gb/norma-academy/dedicated-hunting/ammunition/effective-game-killing">https://www.norma-ammunition.com/en-gb/norma-academy/dedicated-hunting/ammunition/effective-game-killing</a></span><br />
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<h2><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;"><span style="color:#000000;">The Door</span></span></span></h2>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;"><span style="color:#000000;">If you want to know a little more about me, the Door is the book to read. The inexpensive ebook option also serves as a great way to donate to the site while getting more bang for your buck.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/thedoor.html">https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/thedoor.html</a></span></span></p>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;"><span style="color:#000000;">A review from the forums:</span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;"><span style="color:#000000;"><i>I just had a chance to pick this up and read it and wanted to add my recommendation to anyone on the fence about picking this book up! I didn't grab the book right when it came out, not because I didn't think Nathan and Steph's backstory wouldn't be interesting but because I personally can't stand nightclubs, clubbing, clubbers or anything to do with that scene so I thought I would put it on the backburner. Reading some of these positive reviews made me pick it up and I am sure glad I did. While I figured reading about your backstory would be interesting (and it was), I enjoyed the book a lot more than I expected. Even though I can't stand nightclubs at all, what I really found compelling was a couple of unexpected things; Nathan's growth from a young 'karate kid' into a true warrior, and also the very interesting insights into human character, especially the nature of violence.<br />
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In hindsight it makes sense to me that in our oh so cleaned up modern western societies, with no room for men to be warriors that being a doorman at a nightclub is one of the few places left for a man (or woman) to have that no BS laboratory for developing hand to hand combat skills, and into a warrior. For anyone even vaguely interested in hand to hand combat, martial arts or the warrior mindset I would say this book is a must read, ten bucks is hardly anything to pay for Nathan's insight into those topics.</i></span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;"><span style="color:#000000;"><i>Anyway, I am certainly glad I took the time to read this book and I encourage anybody on the fence thinking about it to go ahead and read it, I don't think you will be disappointed.<br />
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Great job Nathan and Steph, and God bless you and your family!</i></span></span></span></p>
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<h2><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;"><span style="color:#000000;">Emails</span></span></span></h2>
<span class="html_only"> </span>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;"><span style="color:#000000;">Over the last couple of years, I have had to back off my email in order to avoid being ground into a state of non-productivity. But as and when time has allowed, I have copied the occasional technical email exchange to a book draft titled Ask the expert. So far the book is up to about 200 pages of useful tips and tricks. I will keep plugging away at this but as suggested, this book is being written only when time allows.</span></span></span></p>
<span class="html_only"> </span>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;"><span style="color:#000000;">Another method I have been employing to deal with mail is Vimeo record. A supposedly simple platform for answering mail by video. One aspect that I like about this is that it allows me to really give you guys my undivided attention, it allows me to really connect with you in a way that email cannot convey. On the other hand, there are some limitations. Vimeo record was designed to help work flow but the method is only convenient if I use my laptop (low quality picture and sound). In order to record at a higher quality, I would need to set up a studio which kind of defeats the purpose. It’s also not so easy to have a one-way speaking conversation. I end up feeling that I am trying to fill my own gaps in thought with speech when I should be sitting quietly and thinking about possible contradictions that may be helpful to the person who has emailed me. Perhaps over time I will get better at this. In any case, after recording my waffle, the video is saved to Vimeo where it can be shared privately to the person who emailed me via a quick link. Videos suitable for sharing can also be saved to a channel which everyone can view on Vimeo. The channel can be set to free viewing or paid subscription as a means to get something back from the time and energy expenditure. At the moment, I have just a few videos uploaded which are set to free viewing. Will see how this goes over time and whether it actually serves as an effective delivery method.</span><br />
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<a href="https://vimeo.com/channels/nathanfoster">https://vimeo.com/channels/nathanfoster</a></span><br />
</span></p>
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<h2><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;"><span style="color:#000000;">End note</span></span></span></h2>
<span class="html_only"> </span>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;"><span style="color:#000000;">Well that’s about it for this year guys. It’s been a tough one for sure. If I can offer one piece of advice moving ahead, it is that the measure of one’s strength and power is perhaps equal to one’s capacity for gratitude and compassion. It is this I believe that separates us from those who prefer to shed personal responsibility and want to change others in order to make themselves happy. To that end, I wish each of you great strength and power. </span></span></span></p>
<span class="html_only"> </span>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;"><span style="color:#000000;">Merry Christmas everyone.<br />
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Nathan, Steph and Miss Riley. </span></span></span></p>
<span class="html_only"> </span></div>
Nathan FosterNorma Article - Nathan Fostertag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000792020-11-07T14:24:10ZHi guys, sorry I have been a bit absent just lately but its all been for a good cause. Here is what I have been up to:<br />
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<a href="https://www.norma-ammunition.com/en-gb/norma-academy/dedicated-hunting/ammunition/effective-game-killing">https://www.norma-ammunition.com/en-gb/norma-academy/dedicated-hunting/ammunition/effective-game-killing</a><br />
<br />
1. Some time ago I was contacted by the management of Norma Sweden. After kindly stating that they were big fans of my research, I was asked if I would like to write education educational material on behalf of Norma. Somewhat jaded by the current (BS) state of the industry in general, I sent a curt reply, clearly stating my thoughts about the new generation of manufacturers, fully expecting that I had just burned yet another bridge. To my surprise, Norma came back to me with open arms - We totally agree, so what do you want to write about? Well I replied, any educational material needs to be built on a solid platform. The fundamentals have to come first. What I would like to do, is update and rewrite my treatise on effective game killing, using Norma ammunition in my examples. But further to this, I am sick and tired of "miracle" bullets so I would like to show not only the strengths of your ammo, but also the limitations. Its high time we had dome transparency in this game and if you care about your customers, then you will allow me to take this angle. Send...<br />
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Again I received another kind and agreeable email. Norma management were just as tired of the modern marketing machine as myself. It was time to cut to the chase, to relight the fire, the passion, that 1960's sense of invention and wonder. And so with Norma's blessing, I wrote an updated and highly in depth version of Effective Game Killing. I hope this conveys my sincere respect toward Norma for their bravery in taking this route and serves as a truly useful educational tool. I hope also that it stands as a source of pride for Scandinavian hunters.<br />
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I will continue working for Norma in one capacity or another, whether writing or consulting. It is a great honor and I am taking this position most seriously. I know a lot of you are counting on me to keep the flame burning in this game.<br />
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2. I finally took some time to sit down and go over all of my .44 cal data! It is pretty much ready for uploading but I will need to compile the tables for the bottom of the article. When I say ready for uploading, my version of editing is to sit down, pull my notes apart, cross examine myself, retest various elements, put it all back together again and then wonder why there are now more squiggly red lines under the words of my edited document than when I first assembled the data several years ago. So it may just be that the article goes live with a few typos. The .44's will nevertheless contain a pile of information which I am sure you will all enjoy. If I am quick enough, it might also give our U.S readers a small distraction while they wait to see the outcome of their current election.<br />
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Well, thats about it for me. I will write another post / blog post once the .44's are live. All the best guys.<br />
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<a href="https://www.norma-ammunition.com/en-gb/norma-academy/dedicated-hunting/ammunition/effective-game-killing">https://www.norma-ammunition.com/en-gb/norma-academy/dedicated-hunting/ammunition/effective-game-killing</a><br />
Live stream with Nathan Foster - 3tag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000782020-09-17T09:24:01Z<p><span class="html_only">Hi All, just a quick post to say that we will be running another youtube live stream in NZ this Sunday at 8am (Saturday afternoon or evening for Northern hemisphere viewers).</span></p>
<p><span class="html_only">Please click on the following link to view the correct screening time and countdown clock for your region: <a href="https://youtu.be/tsNFAaSof3I%20">https://youtu.be/tsNFAaSof3I </a></span></p>
<p><span class="html_only">Note also that you will need to retain the link in order to log into the chat. Youtube will generally hide links to streams until they have been up for some 24 hours (Youtube security protocols). So again, please keep the above link if you wish to view the stream or join the chat.</span></p>
<p><span class="html_only">This week’s chat will be organic as usual. I will most likely start the stream with the first email or live chat question that peaks my interest or that which may be of use to others.</span></p>
<p><span class="html_only">Until then, all the best.<br />
<br />
Nathan.</span></p>
Nathan FosterThe Door - New Book By Nathan Fostertag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000772020-07-28T11:24:00Z<p>Hi All, today is a very special day for Steph and myself as we announce the release of a new book!</p>
<p>This has been a long time coming and I guess it will come as a surprise to many of you as I have not spoken about this book previously. Many of you have over the years, wanted to know more about myself at a personal level. The Door is my story, a biography of my journey. Please be aware that this is not a hunting book.</p>
<p>The Door is a co-authored effort between Steph and myself. I wrote the initial draft to lay out the foundations but the story was often so dark that I could not fully relate this journey on my own. Thankfully, Steph also has an immense talent for writing. Although Steph had lived through many of these experiences with me, having read the draft, she sat down and interviewed me while taking notes, sometimes having to drag the memories from me. In this manner through Stephs co-authorship, we were able to put these experiences into print.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/thedoor.html">https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/thedoor.html</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/thedoor.html"><img align="bottom" alt="The Door front cover image WL" height="640" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/The%20Door%20front%20cover%20image%20WL.jpg" title="The Door front cover image WL" width="412" /></a></p>
Nathan FosterLive stream with Nathan Fostertag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000752020-07-21T11:29:17Z<p>Hi all, just a quick note to say that we will be conducting another Youtube live stream this week!</p>
<p>Note that you will need to save the following link in order to view the stream. That or click on the subscribe button on our Youtube channel. Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/eEnCMZJ8IhI" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/eEnCMZJ8IhI </a></p>
<p>The stream will commence at 8am on Saturday the 25<sup>th</sup> of July NZ time. For folk living in the northern hemisphere, this will be Friday afternoon or evening. The Youtube link will show you a count down based on your time zone.<br />
<br />
The content of this stream will be the same as our last stream (our first foray into this) of which there will be no set format and I will instead answer general hunting, firearm, reloading questions etc. based on the sidebar questions.</p>
<p>If you would like to see the first stream, please click here: <a href="https://youtu.be/-3955Euww6M" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/-3955Euww6M </a></p>
<p>Once again, Steph will be cherry picking through the comments and questions. I will try my best to say hi to each of you and answer your questions but as per the previous stream, there will be a limit to how many questions we can handle within the time frame.</p>
<p>All the best.</p>
<p>Other recent uploads:</p>
<p><b>Tech talk - Cartridge overall length versus magazine lengths</b></p>
<p><a href="https://youtu.be/qyrmBhaqXtM">https://youtu.be/qyrmBhaqXtM</a></p>
<p><b>7mm Practical 1073 yard practice</b></p>
<p><a href="https://youtu.be/MKWQ8HX0pDc">https://youtu.be/MKWQ8HX0pDc</a></p>
<p><b>Lee Enfield 7.62x54R rifle (45 minute video with gun chat at 38 minute mark)</b></p>
<p><a href="https://youtu.be/gJ-V4g69qgw">https://youtu.be/gJ-V4g69qgw</a></p>
<p><b>.308 Winchester hack rifle considerations</b></p>
<p><a href="https://youtu.be/-AHDiV4Gq5M">https://youtu.be/-AHDiV4Gq5M</a></p>
<p><b>Are analog (printed) drop charts effective?</b></p>
<p><a href="https://youtu.be/LuTCQmY3lZk">https://youtu.be/LuTCQmY3lZk</a></p>
Nathan FosterShooting book specials, today onlytag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000742019-12-03T10:24:20Z<p><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Hi all, this is a quick note to say that we have just now received a temporary discount from our printers.</span></span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Until midnight tonight, we will be running a 15% special on all paperback books and paperback + ebook combinations. This may not sound like much but when added to our existing 15% or 25% bundle deals, it equates to huge savings.</span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/Book%20Bundles?mv_pc=2827">Click here to view these discounts.</a></span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The 15% discount also applies to <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/smallarmswoundballistics?mv_pc=2828">Small Arms Wound Ballistics</a> but you will need to use the contact form to supply us with a covering request as per the instructions given on the <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/smallarmswoundballistics?mv_pc=2829">Small Arms shopping page.</a></span></span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Ladies,<br />
<br />
if you are buying for your husbands, please note that you can buy paperback / ebook combinations but that you will need to download the ebook files and then save the files to your documents folder on your computer. The files can then be passed over to hubby’s computer on Christmas day.<br />
<br />
The download link should arrive in your inbox within minutes of your purchase. If the download link is not in your inbox with your order confirmation, check your spam folder as it will be in there.<br />
<br />
The ebooks are Zip files so if you have an apple computer, you may need to make sure that your apple has unzipping software. </span></span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color:#000000;">Free unzipping software for ipad: </span><a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/winzip-1-zip-unzip-tool/id500637987"><span style="color:#000000;">https://apps.apple.com/us/app/winzip-1-zip-unzip-tool/id500637987</span></a></span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">If you wish to try downloading a test file, <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/Test%20Zip%20folder%20targets.zip">please Click here</a> to be directed to a download page from our site (the folder simply contains two PDF’s sighting in targets). If you do not automatically see the option to download zip file (if you see a blank page) when you click on the link, then you do not have zip file software.<br />
<br />
The prices on the bundles are possibly the lowest they will ever be so if you wish to purchase a collection for your husband or son, today is the day. </span></span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">All the best. </span></span></span></span><br />
</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img align="bottom" alt="Long Range Shooting Cover web" height="663" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Long%20range%20shooting/Long%20Range%20Shooting%20Cover%20web.jpg" title="Long Range Shooting Cover web" width="442" /></span></span></span></span></p>
Nathan FosterSmall Arms Wound Ballisticstag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000732019-09-30T13:24:32Z<h4>A Graphic Guide For Military, Police & Medical Personnel</h4>
<br />
A new book by Nathan Foster.<br />
<br />
<span style="color:#b22222;"><strong>Please note - This is a semi-restricted item. To purchase this book, buyers must supply a covering letter (email) stating their intention. This book is designed for government organizations but may also be purchased by individual soldiers, officers, medical staff or ex-service members. However as stated, buyers must apply by email before making a purchase. Once we have replied to you and confirmed your request, you can come back to this page and make your purchase.<br />
<br />
No email - no purchase!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/smallarmswoundballistics/book.html">To view or apply to purchase this book, please click here. </a></strong></span>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">Small Arms Wound Ballistics is a large (8.5 x 11 US Letter) hardback, case wrapped full color print book, 191 pages.<br />
<br />
<span style="line-height:normal">This book details the wounding effects with common eastern and western military cartridges, police issue cartridges and those commonly used to commit crimes. SAWB covers such subjects as wounds produced by the .22 Long rifle, effects of the 12 gauge loaded with buck or slugs, handgun wounding, all the way up to the effects of the .50 BMG. This book shows in graphic detail real world comparisons between such cartridges as the 9mm compared to the .45 ACP including barrier test results.</span><br />
<br />
SAWB was written as reference material for both the trainee and academic. It is a no BS book for cops, infantry soldiers, snipers, security contractors and medics. It casts away myths and gets to the point. And yes, its quite graphic, starting off with some fairly dramatic head shots and getting heavier from there. Above all, it's about getting to know your tools and learning what you are up against.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;"><img align="baseline" alt="SAWB Web large" height="640" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/SmallArms/SAWB%20Web%20large.jpg" title="SAWB Web large" width="467" /></p>
Nathan FosterMatchGrade rifle accuracy products available in North Americatag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000722019-09-16T11:24:31Z<p>Hello everyone, this is just a quick note to let customers know that MatchGrade products are now once again available in North America via Nechako Distributors.</p>
<p>Canadian hunter Paul and his wife Joanne have been long term friends of ours. Paul loves to work on rifles and had been using MatchGrade products for some years. Following our difficulties with NZ air courier services, Paul and Joanne recently purchased a large surface shipment from us.</p>
<p>Nechako Distributors are now shipping MatchGrade products to all North American customers.</p>
<p>Please be sure to visit the Nechako website and then add it to your favorites list for ease of future reference.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.nechakodistributorsinternational.com/">https://www.nechakodistributorsinternational.com/</a></p>
<p>All the best, Nathan.<br />
</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img align="baseline" alt="IMAG0602 wl" height="356" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Bedding%20compound/IMAG0602%20wl.jpg" title="IMAG0602 wl" width="640" /></p>
Foster Manson Reamerstag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000712019-05-10T14:25:32Z<h2>New for 2019 – Foster Manson Reamers (FMR)</h2>
<p>A series of enhanced performance reamers designed by David Manson and Nathan Foster, tested with the help and support of Grant Lovelock, co-owner of True-Flite NZ.</p>
<ul>
<li>.280 Remington FMR</li>
<li>.280 Remington Ackley Improved FMR</li>
<li>7mm Remington Magnum FMR</li>
<li>7mm Practical</li>
<li>.30-06 Springfield FMR</li>
<li>.30-06 Ackley Improved FMR</li>
<li>.300 Winchester Magnum FMR</li>
<li>And re-introducing the M-852 Match</li>
</ul>
<p>Optimized for universal usage including general hunting, long range hunting and match applications.</p>
<p>Although many of our cartridges appear to be tried and true, new projectile designs such as the Hornady ELD-X, ELD-M, A-TIP and the Sierra TMK have created a number of problems. Many of these new long for caliber bullets produce outstanding results both on target and game out to exceptional ranges. These new projectiles are cruise missiles capable of exceptional, jaw dropping performance. However, the new bullets designs have also created conflicts within existing magazine fed rifle designs.</p>
<p>In plain terms, many rifles (or more specifically the chambers) simply aren’t up to the tasks that we want to put them too. The bullets are continually evolving but rifle chambers have remained much the same. The OAL’s are too long for the rifle magazines while the throat leade angles can create finicky performance.</p>
<p>Those of you who work within the industry will know just what it is like when you have put all of your effort into a job, only to find that the customer’s rifle turns out to be extremely temperamental. Those of us who care about our customers can end up losing a lot of sleep and a lot of money over these jobs.</p>
<p>Through my research and with the tireless help of Dave Manson and Grant Lovelock (True-Flite barrels, New Zealand), I have been able to determine that a major proportion of these problems stem from the original chamber designs. A barrel maker can for example, waste a lot of time fretting over poor performing barrels when instead, the reamers have been the cause of issues. These issues effect both those who make the barrels and those who fit them. Many barrel makers, gunsmiths and end users simply do not understand the gravity of this, blaming for example the barrel maker when it is the decades old reamer design at fault. These issues have created a great deal of unnecessary stress and animosity between gunsmiths, clients and barrel makers for no other reason than a misalignment of technologies.</p>
<p>Dave Manson and I have set about correcting these issues via the creation of a small line of optimized reamers. I am eternally grateful to David Manson for his commitment to the shooting sports and for going the distance on this mind-numbing project. I am also immensely grateful to Grant Lovelock for supplying us with barrels, helping us greatly with the costs of testing.</p>
<p>The new reamers are in essence an overhaul of some now very old designs, enhancing their performance with modern long-range projectiles. Some tolerances have been maximized while others have been minimized but without reducing tolerances to the point of excessive pressures with +P type factory ammunition. The new reamers help to guide these long projectiles into the lands with minimal upset, resulting in optimum accuracy while at the same time complementing power generation.</p>
<p>Direct benefits include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Rifle manufacturers and barrel makers will find that these reamers compliment their barrels as opposed to having customers complain about a finicky barrel.</li>
<li>Gunsmiths will enjoy the same benefits of non-finicky long-range rifles. This means less time spent with either load development and / or potential customer complaints.</li>
<li>Hand loaders will find load development somewhat easier. For example, rather than the rifle being picky to the last .2 grains of powder and with groups ranging from 1.5 MOA down to .5 MOA (or simply poor accuracy), group spread across the load spectrum is more uniform.</li>
<li>Complimentary to both hand loading and factory ammunition use (no requirement to neck turn if the end user does not want to do this).</li>
<li>Optimum power and accuracy with modern long-range bullet designs.</li>
<li>Potential reduction of plasma-like copper fouling (depending on barrel / chamber finish work).</li>
<li>Room to chase throat wear without LR bullets sitting out into the case neck.</li>
</ul>
<p style="margin-left:18.0pt">Dave Manson and I set about this project to help rifle and barrel makers, smiths and end users. I very much hope that this helps bring people together, helping to build positive relationships between those who build the rifles and those who use them.</p>
<a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/Foster%20Manson%20Reamers%20%20FMR%202019.pdf">For more detailed information on these reamers, please click here to download the Manson Foster Reamer PDF</a>Nathan FosterDecember 2018 newslettertag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000702018-12-13T12:27:27Z<div class="content_main_panel">
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<p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="line-height: 19.97333335876465px;">Hi all, I hope this news letter finds you well. </span></span></span></p>
<p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="line-height: 19.97333335876465px;">This is just a brief news letter to let everyone know (especially wives) that we are near our deadline for Christmas book deliveries (postal services slowing down under heavy workloads). If you are wanting to buy a book set for a friend or partner for Christmas, please consider making this purchase within the next few days.</span></span></span></p>
<p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="line-height: 19.97333335876465px;">Note also that if you are concerned about delivery at this time, you might (again speaking to wives) like to consider the paperback + ebook version of the books. This will ensure that you have an immediate copy of the ebook files (zip folder – pdf, epub, mobi) which can be hidden away on a hard drive until Christmas day.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/Book+Bundles/The+Entire+Collection+-+25+Off/The+Entire+Collection+Paperback+Ebook-2/x_emc/25/emu/dls50@bellsouth.net.html" style="color: rgb(90, 101, 4); text-decoration: underline; font-size: 1em;">Please click here to shop for books (link to entire collection 25% discount).</a></span></span></span></p>
<p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="line-height: 19.97333335876465px;">What else has been happening? Well its been a challenging year for us. I was laid up ill for several months and am just now starting to rebuild some strength. This slowed down progress a great deal but we can now finally look at getting back on track with our projects for the coming year.</span></span></span></p>
<p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="line-height: 19.97333335876465px;">As some of you know, I have for the last year or so been working with Dave Manson towards optimizing some of our traditional cartridge / reamer designs. The goal has been to enhance potential with modern projectiles for which these cartridges were never designed. We are now getting closer to finalizing these designs which include the .280, .280 AI, 7mm Rem Mag, .30-06, .30-06 AI and .300 Win Mag. I won’t say too much more at this stage but would simply like to raise an awareness of the new reamers for those planning builds for 2019. The reamers are for your benefit, to make life easier on barrel makers, the smiths who fit the barrels and the guys who then have to shoot the rifles. Ease of accuracy, power, magazine lengths and throat longevity have each been taken into consideration. Please do not email me with questions about these at this stage. When we are ready, I will release a highly deta iled newsletter with exact specs, OAL’s and so forth.</span></span></span><br />
</p>
<p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:14px;"><img align="bottom" alt="Dave Ann WL" height="640" shrinktofit="true" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Dave%20Ann%20WL.JPG" title="Dave Ann WL" width="425" /></span></p>
<p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="line-height: 19.97333335876465px;"><em>Dave and Ann at SHOT, early in the morning before the crowds arrive. </em></span></span></span></p>
<p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:14px;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="line-height: 19.97333335876465px;">Note that we will be at SHOT in Las Vegas this coming January. David and Ann Manson have once again kindly offered to sponsor us at this event. The Manson booth is on the bottom floor and very easy to find. Simply walk in the main doors, set your gaze at about 2 O’clock and walk about 30 yards, you’ll see us there. </span></span><a href="http://shotshow.org/" style="color: rgb(90, 101, 4); text-decoration: underline; font-size: 1em;">https://shotshow.org</a></span></p>
<h3 style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: bold; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 12px; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(27, 28, 32); margin: 5px 0px; line-height: normal; text-decoration: underline;"><br />
<span style="font-size:14px;">Uploads:</span></h3>
<h2 style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: bold; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 12px; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(27, 28, 32); margin: 5px 0px; line-height: normal; text-decoration: underline;"> </h2>
<p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span style="font-size:14px;"><a href="http://huntingarete.com.au/episode-16-going-long/" style="color: rgb(90, 101, 4); text-decoration: underline; font-size: 1em;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="line-height: 17.1200008392334px;">http://huntingarete.com.au/episode-16-going-long/</span></span></a></span></p>
<p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="line-height: 19.97333335876465px;">Would you like to hear me waffle on for an hour or so? The following is a podcast with Dave Byrnes, owner of the website Hunting Arete (Australia), dedicated to creating a positive and supportive network for hunters.</span></span></span></p>
<h2 style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: bold; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 12px; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(27, 28, 32); margin: 5px 0px; line-height: normal; text-decoration: underline;"> </h2>
<span style="font-size:14px;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ydqYFfn4T14" style="color: rgb(90, 101, 4); text-decoration: underline; font-size: 1em;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ydqYFfn4T14</a></span>
<p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="line-height: 19.97333335876465px;">While assembling footage for our upcoming tutorial videos, we took a small section of footage and uploaded this to youtube, titled – Is it me, or is it my rifle? This is just a short video but highlights the importance of working through the basic variables. The rifle in question was a factory Remington M700 Long range Hunter chambered in 7mm Remington Magnum. The client had used the Accurizing book <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/Video+Learning/m700/x_emc/25/emu/dls50@bellsouth.net.html" style="color: rgb(90, 101, 4); text-decoration: underline; font-size: 1em;">(see also Remington M700 troubleshooting video)</a>to break the rifle in. Many of you will be interested to know that with regards to the bore, it required three throat lapping sessions to reduce fouling to a point where the rifle began to play ball. Following this, the client came to me for a tutorial with the goal of refining accuracy further. The youtube video is a small segment of this foo tage. Of the variables shown, please pay close attention to the issue of chamber tolerances versus brass tolerances, especially if you are using a suppressor which can cause carbon caking at the chamber. I would also like to remind each of you that concentricity needs to be considered a priority when working up accurate loads. If the bullet is not squarely aligned to the bore, accuracy will be poor. Those of you who wish to reach out long would do well to consider the likes of the Sinclair concentricity gauge as being at the top of your shopping list, above both dies and a press. </span></span></span><br />
</p>
<span style="font-size:14px;"> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1DOEg1zJaU" style="color: rgb(90, 101, 4); text-decoration: underline; font-size: 1em;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1DOEg1zJaU</a></span>
<p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="line-height: 19.97333335876465px;">This video shows the 180 grain Hornady ELD-M in action. I have refrained from uploading this to a public channel as the footage is quite graphic. Therefore, please use the link above to navigate your way to this footage. It can also be found within my online article- <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/7mm+Practical/x_emc/25/emu/dls50@bellsouth.net.html" style="color: rgb(90, 101, 4); text-decoration: underline; font-size: 1em;">The 7mm Practical.</a></span></span></span><br />
</p>
<h3 style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"> </h3>
<span style="font-size:14px;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAxO0EL1IzM" style="color: rgb(90, 101, 4); text-decoration: underline; font-size: 1em;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAxO0EL1IzM</a></span>
<p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="line-height: 19.97333335876465px;">Some old footage I recovered from a defunct camcorder. The quality and sound are terrible but those of you wanting to see a .375 RUM in action will enjoy it. In this video, I was testing the 300 grain Woodleigh PP. It was pushed far beyond its limits and if you look closely, you can see that there was a risk of over expansion (shallow penetration). Still, this load and others had to be tested. Once again, this is an unlisted video so you will need to use the link here to navigate to this video. </span></span></span></p>
<p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="line-height: 19.97333335876465px;">That’s about it for us. I hope each of you have a relaxing and enjoyable Christmas. Steph and I would like to extend a personal thanks to each of you for supporting us throughout 2018. We hope that you continue to find value in our research. </span></span></span></p>
<p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span style="font-size:14px;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="line-height: 19.97333335876465px;">Until next year, All the best. </span></span></span><br />
</p>
<p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="line-height: 19.97333335876465px;"><img align="bottom" alt="Porker pig for Riley web large" height="452" shrinktofit="true" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Porker%20pig%20for%20Riley%20web%20large.jpg" title="Porker pig for Riley web large" width="640" /></span></span></p>
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Nathan Foster7mm Practical dies back in stocktag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000692018-10-17T09:24:49ZHi all, just a very quick note to say that our 7mm Practical dies are back in stock and are available for worldwide purchase.<br />
<br />
Manson Reamers have also received their shipment (U.S customers).<br />
<br />
All the best.<br />
<br />
Nathan.<br />
<br />
<img align="bottom" alt="Practical dies WL" height="466" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Practical%20dies%20WL.JPG" title="Practical dies WL" width="640" /><br />
<br />
Below, initial load work for a 7mm Practical using the Lee dies, fire forming shots in the center.<br />
<br />
<img align="bottom" alt="7mm Practical initial load work WL" height="406" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/7mm%20Practical%20initial%20load%20work%20WL.jpg" title="7mm Practical initial load work WL" width="640" />Nathan FosterJune 2018 newslettertag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000682018-06-26T15:24:55Z<div class="plain_content">
<h2><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;">TBR June 2018 Newsletter</span></span></h2>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:12px;">Well heck, it’s been a long time since my last blog post! I trust each of you are well, enjoying the summer if you are in the Northern hemisphere while we are layered up and hunkered down for winter in the south.</span></span></span></p>
<h2><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;">Bedding the Ruger M77</span></span></h2>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:12px;">We have finally launched our Ruger M77 video bedding tutorial. This is an extremely highly detailed video in the hope that by taking maximum footage, the user can play the video while concurrently working on his rifle. Along with this, I wanted to provide extra footage due to the fact that bedding is just one aspect of the M77. By addressing all of the factors covered in the video, the shooter is in a much better position to extract maximum performance from the M77 platform. These really are a neat little rifle once they have had a work over and I really hope that those of you who watch the video find it highly rewarding. The video is currently priced at U.S $10 and is hosted with Vimeo.com as a 3 Month online rental.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="html_only"><a href="https://vimeo.com/ondemand/beddingtherugerm77"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:12px;">https://vimeo.com/ondemand/beddingtherugerm77</span></span></a><br />
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="html_only"><a href="https://vimeo.com/ondemand/beddingtherugerm77"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:12px;"><img align="bottom" alt="Working with the Ruger M77 WL 1" height="446" src="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Working%20with%20the%20Ruger%20M77%20WL%201.jpg" title="Working with the Ruger M77 WL 1" width="640" /></span></span></a></span></p>
<h2><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;">Remington M700 troubleshooting</span></span></h2>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:12px;">Along with our M77 video, we have also launched a troubleshooting video for M700 owners (Subject rifle SPS Stainless 7mm Rem Mag). This was a completely organic video in which a customer sent us his rifle to rectify stubborn copper fouling. After bedding the rifle, the customer discovered that the rifle produced terrible groups due to the stubborn bore. This was a grand opportunity to study what can go wrong with the M700 rifle with regards to both DIY work and flaws within rifle production. To help give the video structure, I have used the chapters of the Accurizing book as reference steps for the video. This footage also works in conjunction with our free Remington bedding tutorials hosted on youtube.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:12px;">Those who have watched the M700 Troubleshooting draft have stated that this is one of the most helpful videos on DIY accurizing that they have ever watched. This video is perfectly suited to those just getting into the accuracy game as it covers the initial factory rifle set up, the barrel break in, followed by what to do when things go wrong – and a lot of things went wrong in this video which was absolute gold for learning. And best of all, it had a very happy ending.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="html_only"><a href="https://vimeo.com/ondemand/remington700"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:12px;">https://vimeo.com/ondemand/remington700</span></span></a><br />
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="html_only"><a href="https://vimeo.com/ondemand/remington700"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:12px;"><img align="bottom" alt="STAC mounted" height="425" src="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/STAC%20mounted.jpg" title="STAC mounted" width="640" /></span></span></a></span></p>
<h2><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;">Back to basics</span></span></h2>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:12px;">Recently I revived a rifle from my youth, my old Long Branch N0.4 Mk 1 Lee Enfield. This rifle was badly in need of a new barrel while at the same time, I was in need of an accurate test barrel in 7.62x54R - the ‘almost a short magnum’ which has served the Russian military for so long. My old Long Branch was at one time fairly accurate but it would always be somewhat of a gamble as to how truly accurate it could be with a new barrel. Sometimes you just have to take a punt.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:12px;">The new barrel was duly made and fitted by Grant Lovelock, co-owner of True-Flite barrels. To get the cartridges feeding, I had to lift the rear lips of the magazine just a touch and then sand the inner mag box just enough to ensure it was burr free. Following this, I jacked a round from the magazine towards the breach, at which point the fat case became hung up about a halfway into the chamber. With just the lightest filing on the feed rails, removing only about .5mm / 20 thou on each side, the cartridges fed nicely. After this, I gave the rifle a very basic bedding job. At the range, following the initial break in, the rifle shot at or just over MOA with Ordnance ammunition – Thanks Grant, you never cease to amaze me.</span></span><br />
</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:12px;"><img align="bottom" alt="Enfield WL" height="427" src="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Enfield%20WL.JPG" title="Enfield WL" width="640" /></span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:12px;">In the old days, we used to purchase .303 ammunition by the bandolier (from memory about 50 rounds). The Enfield was the rifle we utilized to learn marksmanship, how to hunt and for some of us, how to cull. But the days of cheap .303 ammo are long gone. Rebarreling the Enfield to the Russian potentially opens up ammo options. But alas, as I type these words, it is now becoming difficult to obtain Russian ammunition due to current global politics. Perhaps this will blow over in time. Failing this, perhaps we will one day have new options under the Hornady Black label. In any case, the Enfield Russian was a success, yielding 2560fps at the muzzle with 174gr FMJ ammunition.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:12px;">Having had so much fun bringing this old rifle back to life, prospective clients will be happy to know that I am on occasion adding this rifle to the mix during tutorials. Why? Because with its extremely poor ergonomic form (thanks to the high optic mounts), the short length of pull and brass butt plate, this rifle puts technique into perspective. If the rifle is held correctly, it’s recoil is easily tolerable. But if it not held correctly, lessons are literally hammered home via pain. It is a rifle which ends all arguments over technique. Either you can shoot it, or you cannot.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:12px;">During testing I have found that if the client adopts a solid method involving truly transferable skills, the client can switch from his rifle to this rifle and be dead on out at 600 to 700 yards without having to check the 100 yards zero for the Enfield. Such a rifle can also teach us what really matters when it comes to spending. For example, the factors of most importance have been an acceptable action, an excellent barrel, good epoxy bedding, suitable optics (in this case I utilized a Sightron scope) and solid technique. In contrast to this, a guy can spend a whole pile of money on tactical kit and still not achieve this outcome. This does not mean to say that I am into taking the cheapest budget plastic junk rifle you can find and expect expert results. Instead, its about putting the onus on ourselves to take the steps necessary to achieve excellent accuracy. As I have said time and again, you cannot buy the shot. Such an approach is never rewarding, lacking the flavor of success through self-discovery.</span></span><br />
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:12px;"><img align="bottom" alt="Barnaul mil ammo groups WL" height="480" src="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Barnaul%20mil%20ammo%20groups%20WL.jpg" title="Barnaul mil ammo groups WL" width="640" /></span></span></span></p>
<h2><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;">Bedding and Stabilizer kits – no longer shipping to international destinations</span></span></h2>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:12px;">On a sadder note and as of this blog, we are no longer shipping our kits to international destinations. The rules and regulations of international shipping along with additional costs have simply become too difficult for us to navigate. I would like to offer my sincere apologies to those of you who have come to rely on our bedding products. The books will continue to be available worldwide along with our instructional videos and 7mm Practical die kits (packaged simply as tooling dies). I have really enjoyed working with those of you who utilized skype as a buddy platform. It was a joy to see these projects come together. New Zealand customers, please note that the Bedding product pages will be down for a few days while we make the necessary changes to the website shipping options matrix. </span></span></span></p>
<h2><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;">7mm Practical Improved – Wildcat spam</span></span></h2>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:12px;">I never thought there could be such a thing as wildcat spam but there you go. Recently it was brought to my attention that somebody has created a reamer called the 7mm Practical Improved. Unlike my own cartridge, it is based on the shorter 7mm Rem Mag, but then shortened again before being improved, resulting in a rather low case capacity. Unfortunately, by using the name Practical (Impractical would have been better considering the case forming difficulties!) there is a potential for mix ups. Customers are therefore advised that in order to avoid confusion, please purchase your 7mm Practical reamers from David Manson reamers. These reamers are batched produced with no deviation within the design. The Manson Practical reamer is fully enhanced for both power, accuracy, and OAL’s versus mag lengths versus wear.</span></span></span></p>
<h2><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;">Fun with reamers</span></span></h2>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:12px;">Over the past so many months, I have been working with David Manson towards the creation of a group of reamers with enhanced accuracy potential (and in one instance enhanced power potential) for some of our standard cartridges. These cartridges are well known but based on my research are long overdue for an overhaul. It is my greatest hope that these reamers will help barrel makers, gunsmiths and shooters to achieve better results with modern projectile designs and in doing so, help ensure positive relationships between each of these groups of people. We still have a way to go with these designs and I will report with a fresh blog post as soon as the reamers are in production.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="html_only"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:12px;">Well, that’s about all for now. Both Steph and I wish you all the very best.</span></span></span></p>
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Nathan Foster7mm Practical Reloading Diestag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000672017-10-27T10:11:51Z<div class="content_main_panel _z_liveedit_wrapper">
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<p>For those of you who do not have time to read this post, a brief of the contents are as follows:</p>
<ul>
<li>7mm Practical dies are now available for purchase from our site.</li>
<li>50% discount on videos, limited time only.</li>
<li>I muddled my way through another podcast interview.</li>
<li>David Manson (Manson Precision Reamers) came for a hunt - and he knows how to shoot.</li>
<li>We went to the Sika Show (the NZ version of SHOT).</li>
</ul>
<h2>7mm Practical Dies</h2>
<p>Hi to all and my apologies for the recent chain of blog post emails. This post is for those who asked to be notified when we had our 7mm Practical die sets ready for sale. The dies are now finally ready in limited quantities on our website. <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/7mm%20Practical%20Reloading%20Dies?emc=&emu="><u>Please click here if you wish to be redirected to the die shopping page.</u></a></p>
<p>U.S readers are advised to source dies from Manson Reamers. Dies purchased from us will incur double shipping and import duties having traveled to New Zealand and back again so again, please utilize Manson Reamers to purchase your dies.</p>
<p>For those of you who are not yet familiar with the 7mm Practical, our online article can be found by <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/7mm%20Practical?emc=&emu="><u>clicking here</u></a>. For more detailed information on using the 7mm Practical at long ranges, please seek guidance within my book series <u><a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/Book%20Bundles/The%20Entire%20Collection%20-%2025%20Off?emc=&emu=">(click here to view full series)</a>.</u></p>
<p>Note that we only have a limited supply of dies as we test the waters for this. There is much we have to learn here so please be patient as we explore how we are to best meet customer needs.</p>
<h2>Discount on our video learning series</h2>
<p>As many of you are already aware, we are now offering video tutorials, ideal for those who need visual aids beyond what is shown in the books. Video rental is still very new to us. One of the more difficult aspects of this was trying to figure out a fair price for the standard 3 month rental. On the one hand, I am offering information not found elsewhere, sharing many years of experience. On the other hand, what difference does this make to a would-be buyer who does not know whether the videos will truly help - where is the proof? Does Nathan Foster really know what he is talking about? One thing I do know is that those who purchase the book series from hard earned income generally excel in their path while those who are given the books or have them on loan, tend to skim read and often flounder. Very interesting for sure. In any case, for this week, we would like to offer both the Ruger American Accuracy video and our Tikka set up video at a heavily discounted price (50% o ff) in the hope of generating further interest. If you have been sitting on the fence and are not sure about the entire Vimeo / video process, now is the time to give it a go. The funds from this help us to continue doing what we do. We would also appreciate any supportive comments in the Vimeo feedback tab if you have time to write something after watching the videos.<br />
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Links and codes (ends Oct 9):</p>
<p>1. The Ruger American - Accuracy and trouble shooting: <a href="https://vimeo.com/ondemand/rugeramerican">https://vimeo.com/ondemand/rugeramerican</a><br />
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Please use promo code: RUGERSAVE50<br />
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2. The Tikka rifle - How to set it up, break it in and shoot it straight: <a href="https://vimeo.com/ondemand/accuratetikka">https://vimeo.com/ondemand/accuratetikka</a></p>
<p>Please use Promo code: TIKKASAVE50<br />
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</p>
<h2>Podcast</h2>
<p>I managed to wade my way through another podcast interview. I am hoping that we will do this again soon as there are several subjects that I feel I could have answered better or in more detail (hind sight) so if the host is willing and if time allows, expect a part 2 at some stage in the future.</p>
<p>To listen to the interview, <u>click here</u> or cut and paste the following link:</p>
<p><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-36198543/episode-2-feat-nathan-foster-from-terminal-ballistics-research">https://soundcloud.com/user-36198543/episode-2-feat-nathan-foster-from-terminal-ballistics-research</a></p>
<p>To view this on Vimeo (free) with a slideshow, please <a href="https://vimeo.com/235818710"><u>click here</u></a> or cut and past the following link:</p>
<p><a href="https://vimeo.com/235818710">https://vimeo.com/235818710</a></p>
<h2>Hunting with David Manson</h2>
<p>Many of you will also be interested to hear that we had David and Ann Manson visit here this last week. David Manson took an interest in our work some time ago. Believing that we had something of value to offer the worldwide hunting community, David sponsored our trip to the SHOT show, kindly sharing his booth with Steph and I. Now finally we would have a chance to hunt together.</p>
<p>David has also for some time been interested in the 7mm Practical and has helped me to standardize the reamer design for batch production. While visiting New Zealand, Dave was very keen to have Grant Lovelock at True-Flite, build him one of our original style rifles featuring True-Flite’s spectacularly accurate 4 groove 9 twist barrel design.</p>
<p>With the rifle delivered to True-Flite for its reno, Dave, along with my hunting buddy Kelvin and I hit the hills. However, as my Kiwi readers will be well aware, the weather was hell to say the very least. Nevertheless, we got off to a great start and Dave was a very lucky man.</p>
<p>The first animal down was a feral cattle beast, taken with my beloved .375 RUM. However, before you conjure up any romantic images of this hunt, I must tell you that although I had hoped to hunt the bull in his native surroundings, he had been sneaking out each night onto regular farm land to steal cows and enjoy some farm fresh pasture. On this final day, he took it too far, thinking he might stay a while, certainly good for meat retrieval but not exactly a wilderness hunt. To the outside observer, the bull having left the thick bush he was living in and broken through the farm boundary fence, now looked like any bull in a farm paddock. The trick would be to take him down at the request of a neighboring land holder without having him completely tear down the boundary fence should he attempt to head back into the wilderness.</p>
<p>My favorite rig for scrub cattle is the .375 RUM loaded with either the 300 grain Woodleigh PP between 2950fps and 3000fps or a 270 grain Barnes TSX loaded to between 3100 and 3150fps. But for some time I had been using this rifle with another barrel and had only just refitted the .375 pipe, guessing that the bull would have to be dealt with but thinking I would have some time up my sleeves. I had only just finished making up some ‘soft loads’ to get started again, going around 2800fps, nice and easy on the shoulder without a brake, provided the rifle fits well. For you young guys who have yet to experience such things, yes - a 300 grain bullet at 2800fps can be easy on the shoulder if you combine a good rifle design of sufficient weight with good form. In any case, here we were with an unexpected feral visitor weighing a minimum 600kg (1300lb), 10 minutes notice, mild loads and no chance to stalk inside 150 yards. The impact velocity would be just below 2600fp s.</p>
<p>The bull was lightly quartering on, head towards us, no good for a neck shot, the land holder also wanted the head undamaged. The shoulder would do nicely. Dave lined up and took the shot, the bullet struck dead center of the shoulder, the bull jumped but did nothing more than face up again. We waited for a moment to see if he would collapse then Dave took yet another shot. He jumped again, then bolted a short way. It was about now that I started to curse. I was playing back up with the .358 Norma but again, I did not have the loads on hand that I would have preferred. Instead, I was loaded with the 225 grain Sierra just on 2900fps, a load that Steph likes to tote around once in a while. I had to do something so I zig zagged in, never making eye contact or making a direct approach. After some distance I was able to flank him. A quick glance let me know that he was hit well but the result was more like a broadhead shot when bow hunting due to the low impact velocity. I need ed this guy down now. At around 30 yards I could see his neck and so I dropped to one knee and pulled the trigger on him. The Gameking bullet (not designed for such things) just managed to reach the spine. Finally - he was down.<br />
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<p style="text-align: center;"><img align="bottom" alt="Less gory in sepia" height="416" shrinktofit="true" src="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Less%20gory%20in%20sepia.jpg" title="Less gory in sepia" width="640" /><br />
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<em>A little less gore in Sepia.</em></p>
<p>Following this first round of excitement, we finally managed to get into the hills to spend a couple of days with the 7mm Practical. But due to the weather, access to the back valleys was impossible and game opportunities few and far between. At one point I sunk thigh deep in mud while trying to find a pass through to the areas both Kelvin and I were so keen to explore. Yes, it gets that wet and muddy here. Still, Dave was a champion, taking the cold, wet spring weather and mud in his stride. Kelvin spent a great deal of time glassing for pigs… while also managing to describe my epic fails at track clearing with home made dynamite in the old days and how it was a miracle that I ever managed to father a daughter after one exciting episode. Not long after this, Kelvin spied a small mob of pigs way out in a basin from our ridgeline position. Dave managed to take a single well placed head shot on a porker pig at 670 yards, shooting the Practical over his day pack. The s ecret to his shooting technique was a portable Amish style tactical beard. He kept this in the side pouch of his day pack.<br />
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<p style="text-align: center;"><img align="bottom" alt="670 yard pig WL" height="427" shrinktofit="true" src="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/670%20yard%20pig%20WL.jpg" title="670 yard pig WL" width="640" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>A clean 670 yard shot with the Practical and 180gr ELD-M.</em></p>
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David also took a few feral goats which when hit with the Practical, went down so quickly that he thought he had missed.</p>
<p>“Are you sure I hit that, I think I missed”</p>
<p>“What do you mean missed - how dare you insult the Practical”</p>
<p>(Sarcastically) - “oh, so it completely vaporizes them into thin air”</p>
<p>“No, he’s down, he fell into the dead ground out of view… cheeky bastard”</p>
<p>It’s a funny thing, a difficult hunt with a good dose of mud, rain and cold really allows you to get to know a guy. You know what I am talking about, away from the internet, social masks and all of the fanfare. David Manson is simply a great guy to spend time with in the hills, a gentleman, down to earth. He guts his own kills, is serious about accuracy yet with a great sense of humor. He has endless energy and a contagious enthusiasm for all that he does. Both Kelvin and I very much enjoyed this time with him as did Riley (I had to tell both Dave and Riley off several times). David’s wife Ann is also a wonderful soul though not so keen on the knee-deep mud side of things. Fortunately, Steph and Ann worked out their own series of adventures which I am sure were just as exciting as our “hell I can’t stop shivering” experiences.<br />
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<p style="text-align: center;"><img align="bottom" alt="Dave and Kelvin WL" height="419" shrinktofit="true" src="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Dave%20and%20Kelvin%20WL.JPG" title="Dave and Kelvin WL" width="640" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Good friends. David Manson (left) with my regular hunting buddy Kelvin and my dog Sarge.</em><br />
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<h2>The Sika show.</h2>
<p>Following our time in the hills, we hit the road and went to the Sika show in Taupo. This was a great chance to meet up with readers and shoot the breeze. We did not have a booth (I remained a moving target) which allowed us to mingle in a more relaxed manner. The Sika show also rounded off David’s visit, where we met Grant Lovelock with the rebarreled 7mm Practical, the rifle finally coming together with the purchase of one of Clive Judd’s Precision Platforms stocks - the assembled rifle now very much a Kiwi build.<br />
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<p style="text-align: center;"><img align="bottom" alt="Grant Clive David" height="401" shrinktofit="true" src="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Grant%20Clive%20David.JPG" title="Grant Clive David" width="640" /><br />
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<em>Left to right, Grant Lovelock, Clive Judd, David Manson. </em></p>
<p>I suppose one could say that I am a bit of a black sheep within the industry, always was and probably will be forever more. Clive Judd is following an equally difficult path. I watched as customers came to the booth, held his stocks in the most awkward of manners and asked their many questions. At one point, I simply had to intervene. “Sir, what you think you want and what you need in order to achieve what you want are two completely different things. There are many gun and stock makers that will cater to what you want, but this man is making what you need, even if what he appears to be doing is quite different from the crowd.” And being the utterly terrible salesman that I am, I ended with, “perhaps you might want to go for a walk and think about this”.</p>
<p>The market for rifles (or any product) must at some stage reach a peak, after which there is little room for innovation. At that point, you may find divergence away from the central concept or the epitome of the design. Different = new = sales. In some cases, the design of a rifle never even reaches its peak before it is changed. The product is not better, it is simply different. After this, other manufacturers see that they are losing sales to those manufacturers who have made something different and then suddenly, everybody is hell bent on this one direction in design - away from the optimal. And because everybody is doing it, the buyer believes that this direction must therefore be the right direction. This completely galvanizes the market and sets new norms.</p>
<p>Then along comes somebody like myself, the elephant in the room, attempting to teach the ‘optimal’. But within the context of the current market, this simply appears to be grossly alien. Such is the path that Clive has chosen and good on him for doing so. Speaking from experience, this is no easy thing. But every punch he takes in the ring will fuel that fire in his belly. Just keep on poking that tiger.</p>
<p>Well, enough bull dust from me.</p>
<p>All the best in your endeavors, and remember, if you are having problems with a gun but are sticking it out, then you are learning. We learn by doing and by making mistakes. The more mistakes we make, the more we learn. As people, we are at our happiest when we have overcome challenges. To be sure, there are tough days when we want to give up, but the feeling of triumph when we finally achieve a successful result is a truly great thing. You cannot buy the shot. Those that do will never experience that true feeling of success. In this game, the results of your happiness depend purely on your efforts.</p>
<p>Finally, I want to thank all of you who have been supporting us thus far. Your kindness is truly and fully appreciated. Steph and I are so very grateful to each and every one of you for helping us along. Without you, none of this would have been possible so thank you.</p>
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The Ruger American Rifle - Video Tutorialtag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000662017-09-15T13:23:55Z<span class="html_only">Hi everyone, just a quick heads up to say that our latest video is now live. <br />
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The subject matter for this video is the Ruger American, how to set it up and get it shooting straight along with approaches to overcoming accuracy problems.<br />
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The Ruger American has certainly become a very popular rifle and the internet is filled with rave reviews as to its great performance at an affordable price. However when accuracy issues arise, this rifle cannot be bedded using traditional approaches. This video is designed to help folk understand the Ruger American at a fundamental level and to learn how to find and overcome the variables that can create accuracy issues in order to get the very best out of this rifle.<br />
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This video is hosted with Vimeo, 3 month rental, U.S $15.00.<br />
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<a href="https://vimeo.com/ondemand/rugeramerican">https://vimeo.com/ondemand/rugeramerican</a><br />
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The Vimeo link can also be accessed via our shopping pages here:<br />
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<a href="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/Video+Learning/The+Ruger+American+Rifle.html">http://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/Video+Learning/The+Ruger+American+Rifle.html</a><br />
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Youtube trailer:<br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6lHLrTxzSg">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6lHLrTxzSg</a><br />
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Kiwi comedy version of Youtube trailer:<br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=laZzhBLthvY">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=laZzhBLthvY</a><br />
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Video run time is 1hr54m, covering all aspects of accuracy and trouble shooting including how to overcome bedding issues.<br />
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Please note: Those who are having accuracy issues with the Ruger American are advised to refer to this video rather than buying our bedding compound.<br />
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I very much hope this video helps those who have been struggling with these rifles.<br />
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All the best, Nathan.</span>
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="html_only"><img align="bottom" alt="Ruger American screenshot WL" height="414" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Ruger%20American%20screenshot%20WL.jpg" title="Ruger American screenshot WL" width="640" /></span></div>
Nathan FosterJuly blog 2017tag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000652017-07-04T18:24:00ZHi everyone, I have finally had time to write a decent blog. However, it is so long (and hopefully interesting) that I have made it into a pdf for reader convenience. If you wish to download this blog, you can do so by <a href="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/Terminal%20Ballistics%20Research%20July%202017%20Blog.pdf">clicking here.</a><br />
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For those who have been waiting on new Knowledge Base articles, you will be happy to know that we have uploaded the following:
<p><span style="line-height:normal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><a href="https://secure.zeald.com/ballisticstudies/Knowledgebase/9.3x57%20Mauser?mv_pc=3734"><span style="color:blue">9.3x57 Mauser</span></a></span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="line-height:normal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><a href="https://secure.zeald.com/ballisticstudies/Knowledgebase/9.3x62?mv_pc=3735"><span style="color:blue">9.3x62</span></a></span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="line-height:normal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><a href="https://secure.zeald.com/ballisticstudies/Knowledgebase/9.3x64%20Brenneke?mv_pc=3736"><span style="color:blue">9.3x64 Brenneke (and wildcats)</span></a></span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="line-height:normal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><a href="https://secure.zeald.com/ballisticstudies/Knowledgebase/9.3x66%20Sako?mv_pc=3737"><span style="color:blue">9.3x66 (stub article)</span></a></span></span></span></p>
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I have also been testing the new Precision Platforms Apex Hunter stock design (<a href="http://www.precision-platforms.com/">http://www.precision-platforms.com</a>) for some time now. This is an extremely well made stock as is shown in the following video. If you are in the market for a new stock, the Apex Hunter is now available for sale and is an extremely good design.<br />
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<div class="media_embed" style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/D50hQluX9hY" width="560"></iframe></div>
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Nathan FosterTikka Rifle- Video learning seriestag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000642017-05-02T12:23:57ZHi everyone, just a quick blog post to say that we have uploaded four more videos to the Tikka accuracy series.<br />
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The series now includes:<br />
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1. Set up, barrel break in and test shoot of factory rifle (this video) including vital aspects of technique in order to obtain accurate test results.<br />
2. Stabilizing the forend in preparation for bedding.<br />
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3. Making pillars uniquely suited to the T3 design in a DIY setting. Again in preparation for bedding.<br />
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4. Bedding - Stock and action prep through to the lay-up (action placed in mortice).<br />
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5. Bedding - Breaking the action out of its bedding, clean up and basic test shoot.<br />
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We have set these to three month rental so you should have plenty of time to digest and apply info.<br />
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Total run time for the four videos is around 4.5 hours.<br />
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Information in the videos is explained step by step in such a way that it can be utilized by smiths or DIY operators with limited tools.<br />
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We will see this rifle again when I use it for further tutorial work.<br />
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All the best, Nathan.<br />
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<a href="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/Video+Learning.html">http://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/Video+Learning.html</a><br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="finish WL" height="426" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/finish%20WL.jpg" title="finish WL" width="640" />Nathan FosterVideo Learning at TBRtag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000632017-03-06T15:22:12Z<h4><span itemprop="name">The Tikka Rifle- How to set it up, break it in and shoot straight.</span></h4>
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<strong>Introducing the Practical Guide- Video Series!</strong><br />
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Hi all, we have finally started our new video learning series and have kicked off with a very important how-to video based on the Tikka rifle. This information can also be applied to any of the modern light weight rifles with regards to the break in and shooting process, but in this instance we have provided specific and vital info for Tikka owners (also applies to the Sako A7).<br />
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Hosted on Vimeo via 30 day rental, this tutorial is packed full of useful information and shows the process as it happened so that you can watch the progress of this rifle and put these methods into practice.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/207020005" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe>
<p><a href="https://vimeo.com/207020005">The Tikka Rifle- How to set it up, break it in and shoot it straight.</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/user63552215">Nathan Foster</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.<br />
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<h4><strong><em><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">From Zero To Hero...</span></em></strong></h4>
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Learn how to take a Tikka rifle "out of the box" and obtain best possible accuracy in this simple yet crucial process.<br />
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Cutting through the rubbish taught by current shooting schools, this hands on how-to video is for both new and experienced shooters. The results speak for themselves.<br />
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Hosted by Nathan Foster, this video based on his popular book series covers the preliminary rifle set up, the barrel break in process and basic shooting technique, all filmed in live format.<br />
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These methods can be used with any rifle design with regards to the barrel break in process and test shooting, however this tutorial offers specific help for Tikka owners.<br />
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This video WILL teach you what you need to know in order to get the best out of your rifle.<br />
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Learn how to set up and shoot the Tikka- before you decide whether it needs bedding or 'only shoots with certain hand loads'.<br />
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Learn how to break in your rifle barrel based on its individual needs- not some generic process.<br />
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Learn the rules of light weight rifle shooting technique- before you break the rules.<br />
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<a href="https://vimeo.com/ondemand/accuratetikka">Click here for full video: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/accuratetikka</a></p>
Nathan FosterShot Show. What happens in Vegas...tag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000622017-01-26T16:05:42Z<p>This year, we attended SHOT for our first time thanks to the kind sponsorship of Dave Manson (Manson Reamers). To say that the event was overwhelming is an understatement. SHOT brought in 65,000 visitors, all crammed under the one roof over the space of four days. The event was so large that I only viewed around one third of the booths while trying to juggle time in our booth versus the time I needed to meet up with other specific booth holders.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Dave Ann Steph Riley WL" height="437" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Dave%20Ann%20Steph%20Riley%20WL.JPG" title="Dave Ann Steph Riley WL" width="640" /><br />
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<em>Our sponsors Dave and Ann Manson with Steph and Riley. Kids were not allowed at the event so Steph missed much of SHOT. </em><br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Cops wl" height="454" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Cops%20wl.jpg" title="Cops wl" width="640" /><br />
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<em>Tight security as we approached the event. </em></p>
<p>The general feel of the event was very positive, reaching a climax when the new U.S president was inaugurated to the cheers of attendees that could be heard throughout the convention center.</p>
<p>As many of you know, the subjects and methods I teach are at times at loggerheads with this industry so I was interested to see what kind of a response we would receive and I put a good deal of time into observation of general trends. In talking to attendees, I felt that many hunters / shooters are now beginning to see through some of the gimmicks of the industry. I met people who had been sucked into past rifle and bullet designs, had learned the hard way and wanted to move forwards. This was all good verification on the back of the release of my second edition cartridges book. I also loved the matter of fact style of communication from Texas visitors.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Our booth WL" height="433" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Our%20booth%20WL.JPG" title="Our booth WL" width="640" /><br />
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<em>Our booth with Manson reamers. UK gunsmith Mike Norris (multicam pack) and his wife stand to the side watching the foot traffic flow. </em></p>
<p>As time allowed, I was able to visit several booths of interest to me. To begin with, I met with Sierra Bullet staff who were immensely responsive to the research in my Long Range Cartridges book. I do very much hope to be able to contribute to the work Sierra are doing so that we as hunters can have the very best in bullet designs. I also met up with Dustin Worrell from DRT bullets, another bullet maker who I believe is doing great things. This company very much needs support from customers so that it can grow, expand (new bullet designs / calibers) and flourish long term. I was also able to meet with Hornady Staff members Mitch Middlestaed, Neil Emery (no relation to Dave) and Hornady’s senior ballistician Dave Emary. This was a highlight for me due to the fact that many years ago, though Dave may not remember, he helped me along during my initial learning phase. I could tell that being put on display for fans at SHOT was very hard on Dave (and others) yet he remained willing. When speaking of his past he stated - “I was such a nerd as a kid yet I was completely shit at maths. I just wanted to blow shit up. My father didn’t know what the hell to think”. But with great perseverance, Dave managed to overcome the many challenges of his trade and achieve mastery. It felt good to meet someone I was on the same page with. While speaking of one particular brand of rifle, I was about to mention my expected group sizes (out of the box) when Dave finished my sentence stating 2.5 MOA. This pleased me no end because I often hear of greatly exaggerated claims with this rifle out of the box. By the same token, I quite like these rifles, they simply need a good work over (bedding, trigger, lugs) before one can really get down to business. Again, Dave was on the same page, an everyday down to earth guy who has walked the walk. Dave also relayed some of his crazy experiences from earlier years when he did finally get a chance to 'blow shit up'. It was a very interesting chat.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Dave Emary WL" height="478" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Dave%20Emary%20WL.JPG" title="Dave Emary WL" width="640" /><br />
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<em>Myself and Dave Emary, senior ballistician for Hornady. </em></p>
<p>Later in the event I got to talk with folk from Cutting Edge and also Lehigh. In both instances it was interesting to see that these homogenous copper bullet makers have come to understand the need for a bullet that loses some weight and SD as a means to maximize energy transfer. A main factor has been the .300 Blackout which can be a hopeless hunting cartridge if used with the wrong bullet design. This has pushed many bullet makers towards a deeper understanding of terminal performance. Prior to this, I felt that too much emphasis was placed more on getting the bullet to reach its target and generally expand to create a 'nice looking' mushroom. I very much liked the fact that Lehigh utilize a wide meplat for maximum energy transfer across all of their bullet designs. This is about doing what is right rather than doing what is fashionable (e.g maximum BC).<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Cutting edge wl" height="478" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Cutting%20edge%20wl.JPG" title="Cutting edge wl" width="640" /><br />
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<em>Funky bullet designs from Cutting edge. Note the heavy notches and wide hollow points (including behind Raptor polymer tips).<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Cutting edge Laser" height="357" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Cutting%20edge%20Laser.JPG" title="Cutting edge Laser" width="640" /><br />
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Cutting Edge Laser. </em><br />
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Cutting Edge are also using wide meplats but with polymer tips to boost BC’s, the Raptor line is for general hunting, the Laser line for long ranges. Cutting Edge also produce an extreme range bullet, but I am dubious as to its killing prowess on lean bodied deer at very low velocities due to the very small meplat on this bullet deign. I really need to test all of these for myself (as opposed to studying gel blocks and photos) to make further comments. The one factor I loved about both companies is that when I asked if it would be possible to order enhanced designs, both companies offered me custom options provided bullets are ordered in a decent quantity to justify CNC set up time. In plain terms, a distributor can ask for an extra deep hollow point bullet design. I cannot really go into more detail within this space but those who have read my books will understand the potential of this and how any loss in SD / penetration can be overcome via other factors. Please remember this as it is there for the taking. If you are a distributor wanting something with an edge to it, you may wish to consider an extra deep HP design and you are most welcome to put my name on it as a Foster style optimum long range killing bullet.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Justin Evans Lehigh WL" height="480" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Justin%20Evans%20Lehigh%20WL.JPG" title="Justin Evans Lehigh WL" width="640" /><br />
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<em>Justin Evans from Lehigh defense. I am holding the latest Blackout bullet from Lehigh, showing performance at 1400fps.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Lehigh BLK" height="391" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Lehigh%20BLK.JPG" title="Lehigh BLK" width="640" /></em><br />
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<em>Close up of the Lehigh .300 Blackout bullet. The meplat is unashamedly large and deliberately weakened to maximize performance. It is no good being able to hit a live target if you can't kill it and to this end, the BC of a bullet must always be considered secondary regardless of what others may have you believe. </em></p>
<p>Further within the labyrinth of SHOT, I came across the NZ made Annealing Made Perfect case annealing machine <a href="http://www.ampannealing.com/">http://www.ampannealing.com/</a>. This really is an amazing little machine and it is no wonder that the manufacturer is fully booked with orders. I had been aware of this company for some time but it was not until SHOT that I was finally able to meet with Co-owner Matt Findlay.</p>
<p>I was also fortunate enough to meet Karl Lewis of Lewis Machine and Tool. The NZ army recently adopted LMT rifles as a replacement for the Steyr. LMT are a highly respected maker of reliable and accurate weaponry and it is very good to know that our soldiers are now being issued with this kit. While visiting, Karl could not help but show off the Compressor rifle, an extremely short AR-15 platform rifle coming in at just 24.5”. The system is such that our NZ rifles can be changed over to this configuration should various situations demand it. There was of course the duller side of SHOT which involved black rifles in just about every aisle. Many passers by complained to me that they were utterly sick of seeing hand guards and add-ons from booth to booth. Tactical bolt action rifles were also the rage. The hardest to find was a rifle that was neither welter weight with a piddly thin barrel or extremely heavy and cumbersome, such are the current extremes.</p>
<p>I also managed a visit to Bell & Carlson which proved fruitful. Those of you who are into bedding rifles for optimum accuracy will be glad to know that B&C are open to the idea of a floating lug in the B&C Tikka T3 stock if customers want it. This may however require you as readers to email B&C as a show of hands. Those of you who are into Tikka rifles may want to get onto this now while my conversations with B&C are still fresh. Howa shooters will be pleased to know that B&C now (finally) make a straight recoiling stock for the Howa action as a deviation from the basic Weatherby Vanguard stock shape. Per chance I bumped into the Weatherby stand and popped the question as to “when are you guys going to ditch your recoil increasing stock design” to which the salesman replied, “yeah, it kicks like hell but it’s our trademark look and we won’t be changing it any time soon”. I find this very odd considering that these companies blow vast amounts of money trying to find new ways to sell rifles, yet overlook the basics. Getting back to B&C - I really appreciated the no-bullshit response I got when I said that many rifles need epoxy bedding no matter how hard the stock maker tries for a perfect fit. I appreciated not being been given a pile of fantastical magical fit drivel.</p>
<p>Across at Shilen I discovered that this company are now making a rifle action (M700 clone) with a Savage type barrel nut, allowing end users to swap out barrels provided they have appropriate head spacing tools. This is certainly a clever way to deliver products to customers while at the same time, empowering the end user.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Accuracy International WL" height="452" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Accuracy%20International%20WL.JPG" title="Accuracy International WL" width="640" /><br />
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<em>There were many tactical rifles at SHOT as one might expect. Here we see the Accuracy International for fans of Lego. These are the latest weapon from AI after a successful run of the Bob the Builder "fits like a rough sawn 2x4" stock design. More shit to get your pack straps caught up in. The posters were pretty cool. </em></p>
<p>Away from the booth, I tried my best to gather information, study recovered bullets and photos provided by companies. I spoke to several other companies including a fast feedback session with Sightron and a quick trip to Leica. Within the booth, I sat with my own readers and peers, discussing all manner of subjects. None of this would have happened for us without the kindness of Dave and Ann Manson. <span id="discussion_post_body_13433">Dave is highly respected within the industry, has a quick wit and is as sharp as a tack. It was interesting to watch him as customers asked questions about reamer dimensions. Dave is the type to retain numbers in his head and could answer tech questions on the fly, whether the punter was asking about standard cartridge dimensions or potential wildcat creations. Dave also introduced Riley to Silly Putty which I had heard of but never seen. Talk about hours of entertainment for kids. Ann is yet another brave woman who makes such businesses happen. Like Steph, her work load over the years has been immense, yet she holds fast at the helm no matter the weather. </span><br />
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The event was extremely exhausting and with the poor quality of food in Las Vegas combined with thousands of punters in the one air conditioned space, one feels generally ill and in need of a bathroom at any given (most of the) time. At night, the foot traffic and taxi ques were of epic proportions, making for very long days. As I write this blog, I feel immensely ill and it is all I can do to type and distract myself from whatever has most recently ailed me.<br />
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On the back side of SHOT we took a trip to a local Gun show (guns for sale). I have never seen so many Holland and Holland rifles under the one roof. The value of the rifles and shotguns within the show would perhaps been high enough to purchase a good portion of my home district. But of all of these, one rifle that interested me was an original Griffin & Howe .400 Whelen. The picture below says it all.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="400 Whelen WL" height="408" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/400%20Whelen%20WL.JPG" title="400 Whelen WL" width="640" /><br />
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<em>Griffin & Howe .400 Whelen on a k98 action. A rare gem. For those unfamiliar with this - this is what a rifle looks like without an extra 10lbs of railing and other crap attached to it - and yes, these can shoot just as accurately.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Holland WL" height="480" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Holland%20WL.JPG" title="Holland WL" width="640" /><br />
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H&H were well represented at the Las Vegas Gun Show. </em><br />
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We also visited the Gun Garage<span id="discussion_post_body_13433"> while waiting to check in to our next hotel after SHOT. We had a couple of hours to kill. The Gun Garage is a indoor gun range located just behind the Luxor hotel. We got busy with a Glock, an S&W M29 .44 Mag, an Uzi, an AK and an M4. But while I was busy trying to shoot a nice group with the .44 as far away as we could string out the target, a woman screamed out "50 cal" which was followed by a horrendous bone deep boom beside us. I don't know who the hell thinks its fun to fire a 50bmg at an indoor range with a rear gilled brake but there you go - only in Vegas. Following that, I backed off shooting until others were done playing with the 50. The Gun garage staff were very friendly and helpful but with a taste for rock music played at deafening levels, making any form of communication very difficult. I can see how this (and the .50) combined with the minimal lighting which managed to reflect more off our safety glasses than our sights would be highly distracting to the new shooter. Still, it was a chance to get away from the strip and I am sure most visitors would enjoy it. </span><br />
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<span id="discussion_post_body_13433">A few hours later it was time to check into the Luxor, we arrived liberally coated with and smelling of powder residues. The Gun Garage is to shooting what Burger King is to fine dining was Steph's description of the place. Having said this, it was in its own way a good proof research facility considering the volume of rounds fired each day (800-1000 rounds per gun per day). The guns were caked with carbon by 11am. The AK would not reassemble after we stripped it for inspection at my request, so heavy was the carbon fouling. After we finally got it back together, it carried on in its usual manner, rattling when fired and shooting all over the show as these do once the bores wear and when fired in bursts. The Rock River M4 was simply excellent, remaining accurate whether fired semi or full auto when combined with disciplined technique. The trigger on this rifle was standard and yet much better than other stock AR rifles I have come across with no creep. No doubt the barrels were stuffed on any given weapon at any given time considering the daily volume of fire, their lives extended only via the use of chrome lining. The Gun Garage has two full time armorers cleaning and checking weapons and replacing fatigued parts as needed. The armorers do their best to make sure the weapons are accurate and this was certainly the case when shooting the likes of the M4 and Smith and Wesson. <br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Only in Vegas 1" height="480" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Only%20in%20Vegas%201.JPG" title="Only in Vegas 1" width="640" /><br />
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<em>Only in Vegas...</em></span><br />
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Vegas is hard to put into words. The strip is bold and bright, the mega resorts being incredible to behold. It is sexy yet ugly, it can be fun, yet makes most folk ill. The people are wonderful, yet the businesses and franchises are ruthlessly mercenary. Away from the strip, life in the suburbs is more or less the same as it is in any western corner of the globe. Beyond the city, the Nevada mountains rise like fortresses, dwarfing the city in the basin below.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Mule riding WL" height="480" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Mule%20riding%20WL.JPG" title="Mule riding WL" width="630" /><br />
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<em>Stephs idea of a good time, mule riding with Cowboy Trails at red Rock canyon. </em></p>
<p>I hope that some of this information is useful to our readers. There were many more questions I would have liked to have asked while we were at the event however time simply did not allow.<br />
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I cannot thank Dave, Ann and the team at Manson reamers enough for their wonderful support. Dave has such a hard working and extremely loyal team. I would also like to extend my thanks to those of you who came to sit and shoot the breeze at the booth. Dave Manson had some extremely cool kit at our booth and the string of gunsmiths that came to say thanks for past orders and offer success stories was high praise for the team. Besides chamber reamers, the Accurizing kit has proven extremely popular along with the book (again sold through Manson Reamers)- A Complete Guide To Precision Rifle Barrel Fitting by John L Hinnant. To view the full catalogue, readers can click on this link: <a href="http://mansonreamers.com/catalog/">https://mansonreamers.com/catalog/</a><br />
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End users will appreciate the fully match accurate muzzle recrowning hand tool kit. Yes, a hand (or cordless drill) tool that can be used to recrown barrels (also mentioned in my Accurizing book) yet produce optimum accuracy. This is extremely well designed and immensely useful when dealing with all manner of rifles, especially modern factory rifles with crowning swath burrs (again see Accurizing book). To see the kit in use on youtube, please click on the following link: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Xpzv1Spsnk">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Xpzv1Spsnk</a><br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Manson booth" height="480" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Manson%20booth.JPG" title="Manson booth" width="640" /><br />
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<em>Rick, Dara, Ann and Scott (at rear) setting up the booth at the beginning of Shot.</em><br />
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All told this has been a wonderful experience for us (between dashes to the bathroom). Over time, I hope that we can put some of the products we saw into use and offer both our readers and the bullet makers some useful information.<br />
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Here I come to the end of my blog. I am sorry for myself that I do not have more to say as the action of typing is helping to prevent me slipping into a fully nauseated state. At least I have stopped trembling. Riley is dying to see the Tournament of Kings at the Excaliber, I do not know if I can brave another meal that Steph or I have not ourselves shot or killed. I tried the vegetarian route for a few days but this had equally dire results. It seems the only thing safe to eat here on the strip is coffee, though even the water will not agree with rural NZ folk. I am just glad it has to be boiled to make coffee. <br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="IMG 0812web large" height="480" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/IMG_0812web%20large.JPG" title="IMG 0812web large" width="640" /></p>
Nathan FosterSHOT Show Vegastag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000612016-12-19T15:57:47ZHello all, I hope this blog post finds you well. I am just writing this short note to let customers and industry peers know that we will be attending SHOT in Las Vegas, January 2017.<br />
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We would not have considered going to this event were it not for the kindness of Dave Manson from Manson Reamers. For the past (seems like forever) years we have been committed to research for the global hunting / shooting community. Dave in turn felt that it was time we came up for air and let folk meet the people behind the research. To this end, he sponsored our visit to SHOT. This is such a kind, warm and supportive gesture. <br />
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We will be in booth 2308 if anybody wishes to stop by for a chat.<br />
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I have little else to report for now. As usual, we have been very busy with cartridge and bullet research. It seems that we are either hunting or compiling data which I hope to be able to pass on in the near future. There are many new bullets on the market now and it has taken a great deal of time to investigate their full strengths and limitations. Although I have posted my initial impressions of some of these new bullet designs on our site, it has taken a great deal more field time to truly understand them. <br />
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The website is nearing its typical quarter million hits for thirty days as happens at this time of the year as readers far and wide utilize the online knowledge base. It is good to see this being put to use however this has also put a huge strain on our mail. I simply cannot do the field work and answer this volume of technical questions. Please understand that I am of better service to you if I am in the field gathering data and can then take time to compile and publish this data. As the saying goes, the needs of the many… Having said this, I will always endeavor to make myself available to each of you as and when I can. <br />
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All the best, Nathan.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="SHOT Vegas" height="242" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/SHOT_Vegas.jpg" title="SHOT Vegas" width="640" /><br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Manson Reamers" height="317" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Manson%20Reamers.jpg" title="Manson Reamers" width="640" /><br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Riley 77gr SMK WL" height="414" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Riley%2077gr%20SMK%20WL.JPG" title="Riley 77gr SMK WL" width="640" /><br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="IMG 0563WL" height="480" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/IMG_0563WL.JPG" title="IMG 0563WL" width="640" /><br />
.35 Whelen article now livetag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000602016-12-19T15:57:47ZJust a quick heads up for our readers, the .35 Whelen article is finally live!<br />
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<a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/.35+Whelen.html">Please click here to view.</a><br />
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Alternate link:<br />
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<a href="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/35+Whelen.html">http://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/35+Whelen.html</a><br />
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All the best, Nathan.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="35 Whelen pig WL" height="425" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/35%20Whelen%20pig%20WL.jpg" title="35 Whelen pig WL" width="640" />Nathan Foster.356 and .358 Winchester articles livetag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000592016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi everyone, just a quick heads up to say that my .356 and .358 Winchester is now live on the site.<br />
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All the best, Nathan.<br />
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<a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/.358+Winchester.html">http://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/.358+Winchester.html</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/.356+Winchester.html">http://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/.356+Winchester.html<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="big pig square" height="360" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/big%20pig%20square.jpg" title="big pig square" width="640" /></a><br />
Nathan FosterJune book specialtag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000582017-01-03T15:51:00Z<strong><em>Mid June book special - Hunting Rifles and Accurizing - sold for the first time together as a bundle for a limited time. Offer Ends Sunday 26<sup>th</sup>.</em></strong><br />
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<em>Please follow this link to view this special: <a href="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/Book+Bundles.html">http://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/Book+Bundles.html</a></em><br />
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<a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/Book+Bundles.html"><img align="bottom" alt="Rifles and Accurizing special offer" height="592" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Rifles%20and%20Accurizing%20special%20offer.jpg" title="Rifles and Accurizing special offer" width="586" /></a><br />
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This special offer differs from our normal bundles, <u>so please check to see which package is right for you. </u>We have noticed that all ‘dabblers and toe dippers’ have become diehard fans of the entire series, so please make sure that you have checked and double checked each package deal and selected the one that is right for you. Some of you may prefer to start with the currently discounted Tools bundle and then buy the currently discounted Skills bundle which will then give you the full collection. Others may prefer the fully discounted Entire Collection bundle. If you buy this bundle, you will need to purchase other titles separately or wait for a unique Cartridges / Reloading book deal, purchasing the shooting book as a final addition. That said, this package deal offers great savings.<br />
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This package deal is for those who have wanted to buy these two books together. It also makes for an excellent gift package. The rifles book teaches the reader the fundamentals while serving as a buyer beware (what rifles not to buy) while the Accurizing and Maintenance book teaches the reader how to make use of their (wisely) selected rifle in a DIY setting. It does not matter whether you shoot to 300 yards or want to shoot to and beyond 1000 yards; these books will help you make the right decisions while saving you money.<br />
<h2>Youtube stuff</h2>
Our latest uploads include:<br />
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Pig hunt and pork prep (5 minute vid specifically made after seeing poor meat handling):<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZrChxEGLL4">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZrChxEGLL4</a><br />
DRT bullet hunting / autopsies (12 minutes)<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qvge3tA5bXo">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qvge3tA5bX</a><br />
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Kapiti Lecture, part one of the epic saga:<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-_2RiJhltU">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-_2RiJhltU</a><br />
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Long range talk (9 minutes of your life you will never get back):<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvNXYj3eJEk">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvNXYj3eJEk</a><br />
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Radio interview from 2014 which is 'about us' (27 minutes. Some of you may have already heard this. I added a photo slide show for kicks):<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DY28_gX5vAs">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DY28_gX5vAs</a><br />
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Short fun vid for True-Flite to promote .358 caliber barrel making capabilities (1 minute):<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zc0bsmwUN84">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zc0bsmwUN84</a><br />
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All the best, Nathan.Nathan FosterEaster specialtag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000572016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi everyone, <strong>we need your help</strong>. And to kick things off, we are offering an Easter special:<br />
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<strong>Easter book special- 15% off the Practical Guide To Long Range Shooting </strong><br />
<strong>The best book you will ever read if you want to become a better hunter and long range shooter. </strong><br />
<strong>We need your help</strong><br />
<br />
These are our goals for this year:
<ul>
<li>Upload more cartridge research to the Knowledge base.</li>
<li>Purchase and test new bullet / cartridge designs.</li>
<li>Youtube uploads.</li>
<li>Continue to provide email support where possible.</li>
<li>Continue to fund the website and forums.</li>
</ul>
To be able to perform these activities we need your support. It took eight years to complete the first half of the knowledge base, pouring personal funds into making our research available to the public. We do not want to take another eight years to give you what you want! Instead, we would like to be able to put all of our efforts towards completing the Knowledge base. We cannot do this alone and this is a critical time for us. <u>In plain terms, decisions made now will affect the rest of our year.</u><br />
I am a great fan of the medium bores and to be honest, the Knowledge base is unbalanced without the addition of these cartridges - there is a great deal we wish to share with you.<br />
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If you have been thinking about buying any of the books or products, now is the time. If you have not already read the books and need a push, we can state in all honesty that the books will help you immensely while your purchase helps us to continue to provide our services. The books are easy to read and will get you on track. They are utilized by both amateurs and professionals.<br />
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If you already have the books, we would also be very grateful for any plugs via social media or whatever avenue you can think of. Please spread the word! The books are packed full of useful information that can save a shooter hundreds and often thousands of dollars long term.<br />
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If you are in a position to donate, we would be immensely grateful for this. I have been donating a good 1500 hours per year helping folk with their projects. Now we need your help. As stated, this is a critical time for us and all funds donated will be put towards the cause.<br />
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As an incentive, we will be offering the Practical Guide To Long Range Shooting with a 15% discount over Easter. This book is the clincher in the series, an ideal gift for a shooting buddy. Other discounts will remain over Easter including our Entire Collection 25% off deal along with the 10 and 15% reductions on bundles.<br />
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<strong>To view book deals, please visit:</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop.html">http://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop.html</a><br />
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<strong>To help us by making a donation, please visit this page:</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/product/x_sku/Donation.html">http://www.ballisticstudies.com/product/x_sku/Donation.html</a><br />
<br />
<strong>For those who have not seen my latest Youtube uploads, please visit my channel:</strong><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ3UtxnxSjYVpyKuN3HMIcQ">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ3UtxnxSjYVpyKuN3HMIcQ</a><br />
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Videos of interest include the Kapiti talks, bullet talk and long range shooting interview (and the stinging nettle video for those who have aching joints). The Kapiti talk in particular covers a variety of topics from bedding to suppressor usage through to shooting technique. Please spread the word.<br />
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Finally, I would like to say thank you to all for your ongoing support. As I mentioned earlier, you have made a difference in our lives. I very much hope that we have made an equally positive impact on your lives.<br />
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All the best, Steph and Nathan.<br />
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<strong>PS: A quick Review of the Sierra TMK:</strong><br />
Recently I have been testing Sierra’s Polymer tipped Matchking (don’t worry, I’ll be into the new ELD-X range soon enough). This is a relatively new high BC bullet design from Sierra boasting a massive hollow point behind its big green tip. As a quick summary - it works extremely well as a long range hunting projectile. The 168gr .308 in particular has been a great bullet. As a testimony to its performance I made up a batch of downloads for Riley (now 9) with a hefty load of Trail Boss and a magnum primer yielding 1650fps. I zeroed at 120 yards and the load shot fairly flat in between and beyond, again thanks to its very high BC. Riley was able to shoot accurately at the range (as if I would let her get away with anything less) and also use the load in the field to bag two feral goats. Both went down immediately (one shot at exactly 120 yards and the other around 30 yards). Wounding was thorough and penetration excellent. Recoil was near nonexistent for the wee lass yet the pay load was emphatic for close range work.<br />
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The 168gr TMK works equally well at full velocities and can tackle reasonable body weights at close ranges without issues. Wounds are devastating.<br />
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This is a very long projectile and takes up good deal of magazine space with a COAL of around 2.815” / 71.5mm working effectively. I you are looking for something a little different to try in your .308 or .30-06, give this a go.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img align="bottom" alt="2016-01-25 18-43-12 870WL" height="361" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/2016-01-25_18-43-12_870WL.jpg" title="2016-01-25 18-43-12 870WL" width="640" /></div>
Nathan FosterThe Practical Guide To Long Range Shooting is here!!tag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000562016-12-19T15:57:47Z<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/The+Practical+Guide+To+Long+Range+Shooting/The+Practical+Guide+To+Long+Range+Shooting+Paperback++Ebook.html"><img align="bottom" alt="Long Range Shooting Cover web" height="663" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Long%20range%20shooting/Long%20Range%20Shooting%20Cover%20web.jpg" title="Long Range Shooting Cover web" width="442" /></a></div>
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Hi everyone, the final book in our series is now here. If you have ever wondered what it is like to shoot with me, then here is your chance to learn through this step by step tutorial book.<br />
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Step out of the flock, learn how to shoot straight and learn how to shoot long.<br />
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The Practical Guide To Long range shooting starts with the very basics. And while some may see the basics as boring, if you will allow me (by following the methods), I will break your current methods, then rebuild your form so that you are a much better shooter all around. Once this has been achieved, we can then step out to long ranges and engage in more advanced topics. Having said this, the approach I have taken is the same as with all of what I do and teach – we find a simple approach.<br />
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This book is also a complete manual in that it includes chapters on hunting kit (back packing) and game field dressing. These are aspects that I felt were important as a means to avoid having a one dimensional approach to long range hunting and shooting.<br />
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This is perhaps the most controversial of the series as I turn everything upside down relative to the current status quo. If you are willing to work with me by following each step, we will break new ground together. We will reclaim what has been lost in a world where shooting skills have deteriorated and we will set new standards. I firmly believe that this book is and will be the standard reference for those who seek to be the best in precision shooting in years to come. But in truth, I also believe that there may be a difficult path ahead. Such is the way when a person decides not to follow the herd. And yet, results will speak for themselves.
<div style="text-align: center;"><img align="bottom" alt="IMG 9794 septread WS" height="299" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Long%20range%20shooting/IMG_9794%20septread%20WS.jpg" title="IMG 9794 septread WS" width="448" /></div>
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Whether you are a civilian, police or military shooter this book can help you.<br />
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If you are a military instructor, this book is an invaluable resource. Why? Because there is a big difference between being a good shot and actually being able to recognize why Billy Bob is a good shot while Frank just ain’t cutting it. One of my core skills is the ability to recognize where folk go wrong when shooting. Further to this, tutors need to be aware of how they can inadvertently put students wrong.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img align="bottom" alt="Prone work WS" height="299" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Long%20range%20shooting/Prone%20work%20WS.jpg" title="Prone work WS" width="448" /></div>
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This book will teach you traditional shooting methods that are now for the most part a lost art. But further to this, I bring in my own experience such as that relayed in the chapter regarding recoil pad positioning. We will also look at modern methods and how and when these are best employed. This will help to make you a more rounded shooter with a key focus for this book being ‘transferable skills’.<br />
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Please note that on our shopping page, there is a link to download a PDF of the table of contents for The Practical Guide To Long Range Shooting. This will give you a good summary of the many subjects covered within the book.<br />
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This launch also sees the release of the 2nd edition of my book, the Practical Guide To Bolt Action Rifle Accurizing And Maintenance. This book has become immensely popular and is now loaded with even more information on how to get the very best out of your rifle. <br />
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All the best,<br />
Nathan.<br />
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<strong>Ebook pre-check:</strong><br />
If ordering the ebook, please make sure that you check for the incoming mail after your purchase with your ebook link and download the book within 24 hours. If the link does not work, check to make sure that your email service has not broken the link in half and separated it over two lines. If so, cust and paste the link back together and you will be good to go.<br />
If you are one of those crazy people who owns an ipad (dark side of the force), please check to make sure your system can handle “zip files”. In some instances, you may need a free program such as iunarchive lite to help extract compressed files. Google offers several work arounds should you come across any problems.Nathan FosterSalute to Steph on Mothers daytag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000552016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi all, I just wanted to salute our wonderful women on this mothers day- especially my wife Stephanie.<br />
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Without Steph, none of this site, the research, the book series, any of it- would have been possible. Steph has worked so hard- helping with field research, book keeping, order dispatches, answering calls and mail. But on top of all of this, she takes great pride in being a mum, raising our daughter as best she can, taking care of every need within the home.<br />
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So- thank you to Steph and thanks to all of the wonderful women in our lives.<br />
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Head shot porkers- thanks Steph, nice shooting and thanks for spending time with me this year in the field, helping make notes for book 5 of the series.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="2015-04-26 17-24-14 753WL" height="361" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Steph/2015-04-26_17-24-14_753WL.jpg" title="2015-04-26 17-24-14 753WL" width="640" /><br />
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Radiator needs replacing, all in a days work for the worlds best wife and mum.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="2015-05-09 14-17-45 967WL" height="361" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Steph/2015-05-09_14-17-45_967WL.jpg" title="2015-05-09 14-17-45 967WL" width="640" /><br />
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From sump oil to cooking oil in the same day. Our porker is now a Thai curry whipped up in no time- what a woman.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="2015-05-09 18-39-10 26WL" height="361" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Steph/2015-05-09_18-39-10_26WL.jpg" title="2015-05-09 18-39-10 26WL" width="640" /><br />
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Competing in the mud run- a hard core run through mud flats (in fancy dress).<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Steph mud run WL" height="390" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Steph/Steph%20mud%20run%20WL.jpg" title="Steph mud run WL" width="640" /><br />
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Then dressed to kill before we go out on a date.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="IMG 1915 WL" height="619" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Steph/IMG_1915%20WL.jpg" title="IMG 1915 WL" width="480" /><br />
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Taking Riley to dance practice.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Riley at tap lessons WL" height="442" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Steph/Riley%20at%20tap%20lessons%20WL.jpg" title="Riley at tap lessons WL" width="640" /><br />
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And so it goes on.<br />
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Thank you Steph for all that you do. Thanks to all of the mums who work so hard (and thank you to my own mum- you are an absolute champion).<br />
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And seeing as it is mothers day, I had better sign off and take these girls to brunch.<br />
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All the best everybody.Nathan FosterNathan visiting Reloaders Suppliestag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000542016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi all, just a heads up for Kiwis, I will be at Reloaders Supplies on the 10th (next Friday) for a meet and greet, book signing etc. Will be there from noon till knock off.<br />
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Not a great deal of other news at the moment sorry. Just working through the final book in the series on field work. Have started with the very basics of range work and technique, moving into field work, then how to make drop charts and use apps etc. Then into more advanced topics, building spin drift and compounded Coriolis into the picture (this is not such a big deal for southern hemisphere shooters but the further you go north in the northern hemisphere, the more each take effect as we push through the walls discussed in book 2). I will most likely finish with some long range hunting strategies of a universal nature.<br />
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This will be the book that brings everything together. Its not going to be a technical monotone. I want to get readers up to speed as though they were right beside me at the range. So this book has to cut through a lot of BS and drive home major points. It has to be more that "just another theory book". I really need to make a strong connection with readers and get past theory and into practice. As you can imagine, this is absorbing a great deal of my energy as I work hard to make this connection in print.<br />
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Anyway, if you want to drop by for a visit and shoot the breeze, come see me at Reloaders. Don't be shy. Funds from any spot book sales on the day will be spent at Reloaders so Steph and I can continue research.Nathan FosterThe Practical Guide To Reloadingtag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000532016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi all, I hope this email finds you and your families well.<br />
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The Practical Guide To Reloading is finally here! Yes, it took me long enough but writing books is certainly not a fast process.<br />
Being the fourth book in the series, The Practical Guide To Reloading ties in the other books of this series to help us achieve our goals of an accurate rifle. I decided to set about this book in such a way as to start with the very basics, then work through to advanced hand loading techniques. In this way, I hope that the book can be used by all shooters regardless of their experience levels.<br />
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But there is a bit of a twist to this. You see, I do not believe there is a clear distinction between basic hand loading operations and advanced procedures as far as extreme accuracy goes. To my mind, it is a process of problem solving as opposed to two different processes. Generally speaking, we do what works and there is a lot to be said for keeping things simple- especially for beginners. To this end, I have structured the book in a way that has possibly never before been utilized in the world of handloading. We start with good basic practices, observe accuracy, then work through steps to improve accuracy.<br />
For those who are just starting out, the book starts with a shopping list and what to look out for and / or avoid, then a breakdown of how each item works. The step by step methods I have outlined are useful in that the beginner can work up a load that will (if the rifle is up to the task) be comfortably accurate at close to moderate ranges without any great deal of fuss. When the reader is ready, further steps can be taken to improve accuracy.<br />
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Those who have prior handloading experience may wish to delve straight into advanced techniques from the outset. These sections of the book can utilized in an immediate manner however I would strongly urge experienced handloaders to take a walk back through the basics and investigate initial procedures. Sometimes it is the little things that count and when faced with accuracy issues, we need to remind ourselves that as with many things in life, the solution to a problem is often very simple. But to find that simple fix (which may be easier said than done), we may have to shift our perspective from the belief that we need advanced handloading techniques to more of a troubleshooting mindset which may include investigation of our most basic procedures. Basic procedures are in my experience, the crux of accuracy issues. I am sure this will make sense to you. <br />
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There are times when the goal of extreme accuracy seems overly frustrating. As mentioned, the solution to a problem may be simple, but finding it may be easier said than done. To this end, I have addressed the realities of problem solving. It can be very disconcerting when a book gives very basic instructions with the inference that within a few simple steps, you will have a tack driving rifle. The trouble with this attitude is that it can knock a hole in a person’s confidence when they are faced with a challenging rifle and it is taking more than 20 shots to get the rifle sorted like the book said. There are also times when we are faced with a dud rifle barrel and nothing is going to help. Through my other books, I have talked about the realities of rifle accuracy and the same goes here. I want you to feel supported, not inadequate. I want you to be able to keep going when the going gets tough.<br />
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I hope this helps paint a picture of the approach I have taken with this book. I have also included check lists at the rear of the book and as much other information as I felt was relevant towards helping you achieve your goals.<br />
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Aside from the book launch, Steph, Riley and I are well. Steph has been working alongside me in her usual manner. She does the work, I seem to get the attention which in reality can be quite unfair. We are to be very grateful for this woman who has quietly helped make all of this possible, whether working on a rifle of interest, at the load bench or in the field. I remember once, as Steph was climbing through terribly thick scrub with a carcass on her back, covered in sweat and blood, she turned to me grinning and said- “Last time I go shopping with you”. She is a hard shot for sure.<br />
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Miss Riley is well, she is eight years old now- about level with my arm pit. Bright, happy, sensitive to others needs and with a good sense of humor. Can’t ask for more than that huh. She has just started hunting small game with a .22. Riley is no tom boy but she lives a balanced life, tap dancing one day, shooting the next.<br />
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The site is very busy which is good but unfortunately our email load has been very high and in some instances, I have not been able to answer all of our mail- even though Steph and I still answer mail seven days per week. We also need to take some time out soon, such has been the toll of work. I therefore wish to convey my advanced apologies if I am unable to answer mail at certain times. The truth is, when we answer mail on Sunday’s or holidays for several hours at a time, we miss out on family time. So I would like to try and find some balance in this regard, without offending our customers.<br />
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I will start writing the final book of this series in February. The final book will cover field work including shooting technique, making drop charts and so forth. I have often thought that this book is the most critical in the book series and that we should have perhaps started with a book focused on shooting technique however the series will soon be complete and with all five books, readers should be well equipped with information to achieve excellent results. I will probably have to go slightly ‘drill sergeant’ in style with this book. However I understand that our readers very much like this clear cut approach when I have need to take it. The truth is, the final book will be very much like a personal tutorial with me- and I don’t like to send clients home without established skills. So I really need to drum information home.<br />
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Once the book series is finished, I will be primarily focused on completing the site knowledge base which is still missing almost a third of my gathered research.<br />
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All the best, Nathan.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="cover page Reloading" height="663" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/cover%20page%20Reloading.jpg" title="cover page Reloading" width="442" /><br />
Nathan FosterThe NZ Army came to towntag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000522017-01-26T16:11:35ZThe NZ Army came to little old Urenui for a visit this weekend. The lads did some great PR work here in Taranaki and let folk have a play with their kit. It was a great time for us and I hope the soldiers enjoyed themselves equally.<br />
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I got to have a play with the Lewis L129A1 rifle with its Leupold 3-18 FFP Mil Rad scope. hard to see in the picture but there is a peep site set at 30 degrees (just below my hand). The set up is not too dissimilar to the offset sights of the old Bren but in this instance, the rifle is tilted when using the peep (close range work). Note also the pump action door knocker carried by this strapping bloke.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="IMG 3880 WL" height="480" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/IMG_3880%20WL.jpg" title="IMG 3880 WL" width="640" /><br />
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Below- A last Hoorah for the Steyr, soon to be replaced with an M4 also made by Lewis Machine and Tool.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="IMG 3881 WL" height="480" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/IMG_3881%20WL.jpg" title="IMG 3881 WL" width="640" /><br />
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Riley was certainly not backwards in coming forwards. Again, great PR, taking time out to chat to a little girl (the kids loved the Mimi school visit). Note the new Ghostex digital camo. Still a few teething problems here with material fading far too quickly, the material and stitching both less than desirable. The rips, tears and thread bare material were obvious. Can't have our guys humping it in sub standard kit.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="IMG 3875 WL" height="449" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/IMG_3875%20WL.jpg" title="IMG 3875 WL" width="640" /><br />
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Close up of the Ghostex camo<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Ghostex WL" height="449" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Ghostex%20WL.jpg" title="Ghostex WL" width="640" /><br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="IMG 3958 WL" height="480" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/IMG_3958%20WL.jpg" title="IMG 3958 WL" width="640" /><br />
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Well, I better get back to work, books don't finish themselves.<br />
Nathan FosterRadio interview with Nathan and update.tag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000512016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi Guys, here is a link to a radio interview I did at the request of forum member:<br />
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<a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/thehuntingshow/2014/10/13/ep29--interview-with-nathan-from-terminal-ballistics-research">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/thehuntingshow/2014/10/13/ep29--interview-with-nathan-from-terminal-ballistics-research</a><br />
<br />
Am in the finishing stages of the next book (reloading)- editing, photos etc. This is a very busy time and it has become difficult for me to answer mail and forum posts with any depth sorry. We really need to get the book launched by December for Santa because I know you have all been good and deserve a visit from the jolly red man- so its all hands on deck at the moment.<br />
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<br />
Thanks guys.Nathan Foster.338-06 article livetag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000502016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi all- another one chalked off the list, the .338-06 A-Square is now uploaded to the knowledge base.<br />
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Not a lot else to report guys. Just trucking along. I hope you all enjoy the latest article. Will hopefully have the reloading book finished for Christmas.<br />
Nathan Foster338 Win Mag article now livetag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000492016-12-19T15:57:47ZHI all, just a quick note to let you all know that my .338 Win Mag article is now live. This article serves as the base article for the .338's with other .338 research to be uploaded in due course.<br />
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All the best.Nathan FosterThe Practical Guide To Bolt Action Rifle Accurizing And Maintenancetag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000482016-12-19T15:57:47Z<span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;">Hi Everyone, the third book of our series is finally here! The Practical Guide To Bolt Action Rifle Accurizing And Maintenance.<br />
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If you want to know how to make your rifle truly accurate and how to keep it that way, this is the book for you.<br />
<br />
To skip the rest of this news letter and purchase the Practical Guide To Bolt Action Rifle Accurizing and Maintenance, please click on the following link to visit the Terminal Ballistics Research shopping pages:<br />
<a href="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/The+Long+Range+Hunting+Series.html">http://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/The+Long+Range+Hunting+Series.html</a><br />
<br />
<img align="bottom" alt="Book 3 Cover email large" height="314" src="https://usrsecure.zeald.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Book%203%20Cover%20email%20large.jpg" title="Book 3 Cover email large" width="209" /><br />
<br />
As many of you already know, the book series has been based on my email queries. The questions come in each day from around the world, I observe the trends and from these trends I can see how I need to best place myself to help gun owners. Typical questions have been "which is the best rifle for my needs?" resulting in the first book and "which cartridge best suit my needs?" resulting in the second book. Long range hunting has also been a major trend which is why the books were tailored towards this subject. Having said this, long range shooting is to some degree an extension of precision shooting at ordinary ranges and as I wrote in the first book, as hunters, we should always seek to obtain a reliable and accurate rifle whether shooting at ordinary hunting ranges or long ranges. To this end the first book served as a basic yet critical guide to rifle accuracy. With this fundamental information, the shooter could then select a rifle or components with a full understanding of what he or she was getting into. I went over all of the traps and tricks of the industry, the book serving as a buyer beware.<br />
<br />
Having selected a rifle and with a solid grounding in the principles of rifle accuracy, we can then move onto the process of accurizing, leading to the third book in the series. In this third book the reader learns how to accurize a rifle based on my own processes in chronological order. The book is therefore broken down into steps, starting from the moment I receive a client rifle and first inspect it through to its final conclusion and ongoing maintenance. We go over the rifle from one end to the other, addressing each critical aspect, working towards a truly accurate and useful rifle.<br />
<br />
The book is written for end users and can be used by both gunsmiths and hobbyists alike. Key words in the book title are “A Practical Guide” which remains a constant throughout each chapter. It is time to get our hands dirty, working through the process of rifle accurizing step by step. I have tried to avoid theory as much as possible in order to maximize the how to elements of The Practical Guide to Bolt Action Rifle Accurizing and Maintenance.<br />
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Throughout my many years of researching rifles and cartridges, Steph and I have met so many wonderful people. When I write, I feel a great responsibility to help readers as best as I can. The methods taught in this book have served me very well as a complete process for many years now. As a side note, the mock bedding for preliminary testing section of the book came about as a result of the days when I used to offer guiding services rather than our accurizing and tutorial sessions. The clients would often arrive on a Friday afternoon wanting a weekend hunt. We would go to the rifle range so I could check the client’s rifle accuracy and zero - the shots here have always been challenging and clients need to be able to shoot well out to 300 yards at a minimum. Quite often, the rifle was not up to the task but with evening closing in and the client determined to use his rifle the next morning I would have perhaps two hours to address issues. Most of you will have seen those reality TV cooking shows where the participant gets an hour to cook some fancy feast. Well that was me, an hour or two to get a rifle up and running. As a result of performing such operations, I was able to develop a process for preliminary rifle testing. And so it goes on, many years of experience, the gradual implementation of processes resulting in a step by step set of procedures for preliminary testing - through to full accurizing procedures. I have also included our intensive dedicated barrel research from the last sixteen months, getting to the bottom of what makes an accurate rifle barrel and how end users can enhance performance to optimize results.<br />
I very much hope that you find this new book to be a valuable asset - a genuine keeper that will be of service to both current and future generations of shooters.<br />
<br />
All the best, Nathan.<br />
<br />
To purchase the Practical Guide To Bolt Action Rifle Accurizing and Maintenance, please click on the following link to visit the Terminal Ballistics Research shopping pages:<br />
<a href="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/The+Long+Range+Hunting+Series.html">http://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/The+Long+Range+Hunting+Series.html</a><br />
<br />
The Practical Guide To Bolt Action Rifle Accurizing and Maintenance</span> </span>
<h2><span class="html_only"><span style="font-size:12px;">Contents</span></span></h2>
<span class="html_only"> <span style="font-size:12px;">Introduction <br />
Part 1 - Preliminary inspection, rifle setup and testing. <br />
My kit list <br />
Step 1 - Inspect the bore. <br />
Step 2 - Inspect locking lugs (how to lap locking lugs). <br />
Step 3 - Disassemble rifle, inspect and adjust trigger. <br />
Thoughts on trigger tinkering <br />
Step 4- Check fit of action, magazine box and trigger in stock. <br />
Step 5 - Assemble rifle <br />
Mock bedding <br />
Glue it and screw it <br />
Glue and screw instructions for semi-permanent rifle set up <br />
Tikka T3 setup for testing and final field usage <br />
Torque settings<br />
Step 6 - Fit optics <br />
Step 7 - Test rifle, break in barrel<br />
Tools for breaking in a rifle barrel<br />
Preparation for test shooting <br />
Hand lapping <br />
Test fire <br />
Custom rifle set up <br />
Step 8 - Assess rifle accuracy <br />
Barrel stress and double grouping <br />
Fire lapping <br />
Action problems and flaws <br />
Further thoughts <br />
Rifle bedding with epoxy resin <br />
To pillar bed or not, that is the question<br />
Barrel knox bedding <br />
Rifle bedding <br />
MatchGrade Stock Stabilizer instructions<br />
Mixing instructions for Stock Stabilizer <br />
Clean up <br />
Job planning <br />
Stock preparation <br />
Dams <br />
Mixing and applying Stock Stabilizer compound <br />
Curing <br />
Finishing the job<br />
Some notes about our bedding compound <br />
MatchGrade Bedding Compound instructions <br />
Mixing instructions for MatchGrade Bedding Compound <br />
Clean up <br />
Mindset <br />
1. Stock preparation <br />
2. Barreled action preparation <br />
3. Stock preparation second phase <br />
4. Action preparation second phase <br />
5. Bringing it all together <br />
6. Curing <br />
7. Finishing the job <br />
Rework<br />
Extra tips for military bolt actions<br />
8. Bedded rifle re-assembly <br />
Part 2 - Ongoing rifle maintenance <br />
Step 1 - Bore preparation for field work <br />
Step 2 - Field care of the rifle <br />
Step 3 - cleaning the bore <br />
Thoughts on bore cleaners <br />
Bore cleaning method <br />
Step 4 - Bore polishing routine <br />
Step 5 - Storage. Rust prevention of the bore <br />
Stainless <br />
Chrome moly - regular usage <br />
Chrome Moly - long term storage <br />
Bolt maintenance <br />
Protection of exterior metal work <br />
Paint surface coatings <br />
Tape and paint <br />
Care of painted stocks, painted metal and plastics <br />
Wood and laminate stock care <br />
Rifle suppressor care <br />
Muzzle brake care <br />
Care of optics <br />
Conclusion <br />
Full bolt action rifle checklist: <br />
Yearly bolt action rifle strip down checks: <br />
Long term rifle storage: <br />
Semi and full automatic rifle care: <br />
Lever action rifle care: <br />
The seven basic rules of firearms safety (NZ Arms code) <br />
About Nathan Foster</span> </span>Nathan Foster.325 WSM research uploadedtag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000472016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi, just a quick not to say the .325WSM article is up. So ends the 8mm section, .338 data to come next.<br />
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All the best, Nathan.Nathan Foster8mm Remington Magnum research uploadedtag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000462016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi guys, just a quick note to say that my 8mm Remington Magnum data has been uploaded<br />
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Like a candle in the wind, there one minute, blown out the next. <br />
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Or was it?<br />
<br />
To me, the 8mm Remington Magnum is like the V8 muscle cars of old, a truly potent cartridge.<br />
<br />
The other day I bumped into a bloke with a Buick coupe with a 7 litre fully worked eight under the bonnet. I asked him if it was a bit of an animal to drive to which we grinned, revealing all. Not the best for parallel parking, a touch on the accelerator and it will plow through every parked car for a half mile. Likes to stop at traffic lights for a smoke. Not the best handling on tight corners in comparison to modern cars- but give it a chance on the open road and it'll throw you back into your seat and do the business. I can only imagine how far that would stretch the lips of our Hungarian Viszla- now that would be an ear to ear smile. This particular model Buick was not made for very long and is now a classic, just like the 8mm Rem Mag.<br />
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All the best guys, hope you have a great weekend.Nathan Foster8x68 S data uploadedtag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000452016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi all, just a quick heads up, 8x68 S data has been uploaded to the knowledge base.<br />
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Cheers, Nathan.Nathan FosterFree target downloadstag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000442016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi Guys, just a heads up, I have put my targets in the KB as free downloads. These are targets of my own design (very old now).<br />
<br />
I have never been happy with the typical target downloads I see online, they do not utilize black and white principles correctly. Have been meaning to do this for a very long time.<br />
<br />
Targets are located in the Rifle accuracy section of the KB. <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/Target+Downloads+free.html">Please click here to view page.</a><br />
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Cheers, Nathan.Nathan Foster7mm Practical article revisedtag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000432016-12-19T15:57:47ZNathan FosterWebsite upgradetag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000422016-12-19T15:57:47ZWell it had to happen eventually.<br />
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I am turning 40 this week, both myself and the site have had a birthday. Although the old website was very slick in its day, times have moved on and the graphic / photo enhancing black background has had to go so that we can all settle down and read the volumes of content that now appears on the site without eye strain.<br />
<br />
We also had to change navigation because the Knowledge base was getting so large that it was becoming difficult to navigate. You will now be presented with a menu consisting of the following fields / tabs: All, Rifle research, Cartridge Research, Wounding Research and Other. This has helped immensely to categorize the site into a more manageable data base.<br />
<br />
The site is now also responsive so that it changes size depending on the size of the screen you are using. There are now so many people reading the site on hand held devices that we had to move with the times and make the site readable on these platforms.<br />
<br />
The forums are a work in progress. We have been working towards a newest post first coding. It all takes time.<br />
<br />
I have also included a few revisions. The 7mm STW article is back up, the Ruger 10/22 bedding article has been updated. I uploaded my 8mm-06 research a couple of weeks back. I have also included a new tab / article in the KB which shows cartridges yet to be uploaded and what the deal is with these uploads etc.<br />
<br />
Guys, if you see any bugs, photos in the wrong places etc, please let me know. The site is such a monster now that it consumes hours days and weeks making such upgrades so we are bound to miss something.<br />
<br />
I really want to thank Zeald for helping us through this. The Zeald team came up with our new logo and delivery concepts. I think they did such a great job and I hope you are equally pleased with their workmanship.<br />
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I think that's about it for now. All the best.<br />
<br />
Nathan.
<div style="text-align: center;"><img align="bottom" alt="The three of us web small" height="298" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/The%20three%20of%20us%20web%20small.jpg" title="The three of us web small" width="448" /></div>
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Nathan FosterMerry Christmastag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000412016-12-19T15:57:47ZMerry Christmas everyone. It is now Christmas afternoon in NZ, being a day ahead of the U.S, Canada and the UK etc.<br />
<br />
Just wanted to wish you all the best before I collapse into trifle coma (Stephs old man and his sherry).<br />
<br />
Riley asked nana to "knit her a Ninger (Ninja) suit" for Christmas. An obliging nana made sure Riley had something under the tree so we have been watching our groins and shins all morning. Santa did his bit too after a letter of plea, a glass of milk and two cookies were placed on the kitchen table last night. Steph got me an Lenser head torch, best gift ever. I managed to find some books she had an eye on and girly things.<br />
<br />
OK, better hit the couch before I pass out in front of the laptop (too much food). Riley wants to watch Star Wars (she loves the series and action figures). I think she has been reading footrot flats too much though, I caught her saying "get in behind ya mongrel" to her R2D2.<br />
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All the best everyone. I will be having a break from the laptop over the next few days but will cast an eye over the site from time to time.Nathan Foster8x57 Mauser research uploadedtag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000402016-12-19T15:57:47ZIts aliiiive! <br />
<br />
Everything you wanted to know, some things you probably didn't want to know and there things I still don't know. Go on then, get your fix, <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/8x57JS+Mauser.html">click here....</a><br />
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All the best, Nathan.<br />
Nathan FosterSite updates, whats happening on the site.tag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000392016-12-19T15:57:47ZJust a quick apology, I have been attempting to edit my 8x57 research for uploading but the volume of emails and calls from around the world over the last two days has been difficult to deal with. Currently taking 9 hours to get through email per day. Hoping for a quiet patch ahead so we can get this article live. Thanks to everyone for their patience. We just hit 110,000 new readers for 30 days so if I am off my game a bit with email responses, you'll know why.<br />
<br />
Note to South African oaks. I have reset the shopping page so that the currency will appear in U.S dollars, not Rand. Seems that paypal cannot make the Rand conversion.Nathan Foster7.62x39 research uploadedtag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000382016-12-19T15:57:47Z7.62x39 (M43) research uploaded to the Knowledge Base last night.<br />
<br />
Will set to work on formatting my 8x57 research for uploading over the next few days.<br />
<br />
Thanks to all of you who have purchased the new book and thank you so much for all of the wonderful feedback.<br />
<br />
Nathan.Nathan FosterThe Practical Guide To Long Range Hunting Cartridgestag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000372016-12-19T15:57:47Z<span class="html_only">After many months of writing, it is now done, 415 pages of research, each bullet repeat tested in the field, my research scrutinized by veterinarian surgeons, industry peers, wives (Stephanie) and children (Riley). To say I put my all into this book is an understatement, it was truly an immense undertaking. Thanks so much to everyone for your patience and support during this period. I know many of you have been hoping the book would be ready before Christmas and we worked hard to make sure this would happen.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/error404.html"><img align="bottom" alt="Waterfall advert" height="214" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Waterfall%20advert.jpg" title="Waterfall advert" width="563" /></a><br />
<br />
For several years now, I have received two types of email on a daily basis. The first question is which is the right rifle for me? The second question is which is the right cartridge? The first book dealt with the accurate rifle, both from the perspective of the long range shooter through to hunters simply needing a basic buyer beware guide when shopping for accurate factory rifles to be used out to traditional hunting ranges. <br />
<br />
This second book deals with long range hunting cartridge selection which as suggested, is something I am asked about on a daily basis. This is a very important book because I firmly believe that there has been a huge gap in education regarding optimum long range hunting cartridge performance. In many instances, both hunters and bullet manufactures are misinformed and do not understand what is required to achieve goals. Many times, the wrong tools are used for long range hunting. This book seeks to remedy these problems.<br />
<br />
I have structured the Practical Guide to Long Range Hunting cartridges in the same manner as the first book. I have started with the fundamentals of game killing- but from the perspective of the long range hunter (also encountering close range shots). This section is not politically correct in any way as after the study of anatomy, I explore worst case scenarios in as much depth as ideal shot placement.<br />
<br />
The second section of the book is a study of projectile design. I wanted to get right down to the finer details of the long range hunting bullet in this section, exploring manufacturers, manufacturing techniques and ways in which the end user can perform preliminary testing as well as bullet modifications.<br />
<br />
The third section is the area that many readers will want to get straight into- how to select a long range hunting cartridge. The system I have used here is based on a selection method I developed over the years to help clients worldwide. This method takes individual circumstances into consideration rather than a one size fits all approach. It is a system that has no room for silly intellectual debate- just plain common sense based on research. I have also utilized tables to help consolidate information in order to make it as user friendly as possible. This section gives the reader the confidence to make a decision without thinking "maybe I should have done X". There is nothing worse than second guessing yourself after a purchase. Furthermore, having used these methods to help clients in the past, I think the greatest benefit has been that clients are not only confident in their decisions- but are truly happy with their final cartridge choice and the results achieved in the field.<br />
<br />
The fourth section of the book is the cartridge section. I have written this in a somewhat organic manner rather than the matter of fact manner used on the website. However, cartridge information is relayed in a set format with fully conclusive pro con summary tables. In many instance I have included my own load notes where I have felt they were most needed- along with a strong safety warning at the beginning of the book! But by being able to write in an organic manner within the format of the text, it has allowed me to talk on a more one on one manner with you, as I would normally talk to clients (a bit like O'Connor's old classic- The Hunting Rifle). I felt this was much more preferable than a monotonous text book. I have also included notes regarding how to approach close range shots with each of our long range cartridges, what to expect, whether to dual load etc. Along with this, I have explored dual purpose rifles (bush or woods through to long range) and portability so that the book is not so exclusively geared towards long range hunting that it would appear we might melt should we come within reach of a twig or fern. This information also ties in with the first book so that we have a full body of well rounded information.<br />
<br />
Like the first book, I have tried to keep our feet firmly on the ground, cutting through any hype or myths. You can use this book as your personal BS detector as you did with the first book.<br />
<br />
I hope you all enjoy the book and if I do not hear from you over the coming weeks, Steph and I would like to take the opportunity now to wish you a merry Christmas. Our readers and visitors have been an incredibly warm and wonderful group of people. You have all touched Steph and I in truly meaningful ways and you need to know just how important and how wonderful you really are.</span>Nathan FosterWebsitetag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000362016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi everyone, hope you are all well.<br />
<br />
<span class="html_only">Steph and I have been very busy, I have been writing my next book while Steph has been working on website upkeep. Riley often helps too by playing secretary; she has been wielding a clip board lately, our seven year old supervisor.<br />
<br />
The website currently has over 300,000 readers at the moment with 45,500 new readers coming on board each month. Unfortunately however, we are in a situation where we are finding that the donations to run the website are few and far between, normally around 5 people per month. The trouble is, we are struggling to keep the website going. Normally we can carry the burden. But the truth is; we need help over the next couple of weeks if possible. The financial burden is currently very stressful. I wouldn't send this email out otherwise. The last thing I want to do is harass the very people I care so much about.<br />
<br />
There are a few ways to go about helping out. A donation can be made by going here:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/About+Us/Donate.html">http://www.ballisticstudies.com/About+Us/Donate.html</a><br />
<br />
Another way to help us is to purchase books or kits through the website.<br />
<a href="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/index.html">http://www.ballisticstudies.com/index.html</a><br />
<br />
Those small number of you who have already donated, thank you so very much, you have really helped us and we are immensely grateful. Please do not donate again at this time, it is unfair.<br />
<br />
OK, enough said. Keep out of mischief and don't forget to keep your camera's handy when you are out hunting. <strong>I will also be looking for long range brag photos for the next book</strong>, so if you want to have your mug shot made famous, send us your photos and details of the shot (and don't forget to smile!).<br />
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Take care, Nathan.</span><br />
Nathan FosterBedding tips and trickstag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000352016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi guys, just a note to say that I have uploaded another bedding video with tips and tricks. The video can be found in the rifle bedding tutorial (Knowledge base) or on my youtube channel (Nathan Foster).<br />
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All the best.Stephanie FosterWound data base updatedtag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000342016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi Guys, I have updated the wound data base and re-cataloged some of the data. Will continue to update with fresh data over the next week. If anyone has autopsy photo's they want to share, please send them along.<br />
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Nathan has also updated the bedding tutorial recently with extra tricks and tips.Nathan FosterMatrix bullet testingtag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000332016-12-19T15:57:47ZJust getting into testing now guys...
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/h7lkaRRihUs?list=UUQ3UtxnxSjYVpyKuN3HMIcQ" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Google chrome hack popuptag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000322016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi Guys, a few readers have emailed me to say that when they are visiting the site, they are seeing a popup for google chrome. We have looked into this and discovered the following. The hack/popup is not on our website. Instead, google has hacked Internet Explorer in an aggressive marketing move (like any of us would want to follow a damned popup). <br />
<br />
So, if you are seeing popups, it is occurring in your browser, not on the TBR site. One way around this is to download firefox as your browser. If you wish to stay with Internet Explorer, hopefully this stupidity will pass in time. Google Chrome is an excellent platform but as I have said, its not like anyone will want to use this as a browser after seeing it as a popup.<br />
<br />
Our IT team have informed me that the popup does not lead to a malicious site or software- if any of you happen to accidentally click the popup link.<br />
<br />
My thanks to the IT team at Zeald for their research skills.<br />
<br />
OK, better hit the rifle range.Nathan Foster7.62x54R Article addedtag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000312016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi guys, the 7.62x54R article/research is now uploaded.Nathan FosterArticles addedtag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000302016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi Guys, just a quick one to report latest articles added:<br />
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1. 7.7 Japanese article uploaded to knowledge base.<br />
<br />
2. True-Flite barrel Rockwell hardness tests and comparisons. These can be found at the bottom of the knowledge base menu- very interesting reading. The folk at True-Flite have worked very hard to produce optimum quality rifle barrels and it is great to see this reflected in independent tests.Nathan FosterThe Practical Guide to Long Range Hunting Rifles is Here!tag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000292016-12-19T15:57:47Z<p>
<img align="right" alt="Cover page" height="255" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/items/Cover%20page.jpg" style="margin-right: 20px; margin-bottom: 8px; margin-left: 20px; " title="Cover page" width="170" />Everything you need to know about the long range rifle can be found within this book.</p>
<p>
Every day I receive emails from around the world asking how do I go about achieving an optimum long range rifle - well here are the answers. This book answers all of your questions regarding how to set about either buying or building an accurate long range rifle.</p>
<p>
For the past three months I have been very busy writing like crazy. I decided a few months back to write a series of books on long range hunting to answer the hundreds of emails I receive every week about long range hunting. The first book in the series is ‘The Practical Guide to Long Range Hunting Rifles’.</p>
<p>
I took the approach of firstly teaching the reader fundamental rifle design principles and from there, we set about putting it all together. This is the ultimate consumer guide. By understanding the rifle in detail, the reader can then look at any given potential long range rifle and recognize the strengths and limitations of the rifle, what to expect, how to apply fixes, and how to exploit the full potential of the rifle. Furthermore; the book is formatted in such a way that the reader can study a topic in detail or simply refer to bullet point summaries to get a quick overview.</p>
<p>
Every essential aspect is covered, from achieving the perfect fit for low recoil, achieving your ideal carry weight, budget through to high end platforms, light sporting rifles through to tactical platforms.</p>
<p>
Most of you already know I put my all into helping hunters around the world. The TBR website is a testimony to this. I have applied the same level of effort and concern with this book. With the book I am also able to take subjects to a deeper level, sharing information that I have been hesitant to share in the past in order to preserve my trade. These are the ace cards of my skill set that I usually only share on a one on one basis with clients and customers. </p>
<p>
In this book and throughout the long range series of books, everything I have to offer is going to be laid on the table, and every detail will be shared. And as usual, I will take the no BS approach that you have all come to expect from me.</p>
<p>
The Practical Guide to Long Range Hunting Rifles is available as an ebook (epub, mobi/kindle & pdf) and paperback print copy. We have also put together a fantastic package which features both the ebook and the paperback print copy as a package. You can click here to find out more details about the book.</p>
<p>
So there it is, book one of an ongoing series. As we move through the series, your skill set will increase exponentially in all of the fields of long range hunting and shooting. You all know me, I wouldn’t have it any other way.</p>
Nathan FosterOctober Updatetag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000282016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi everyone, hope you are all doing well.<br />
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Just a note to say that I will no longer be running the bedding compound contests. Many of our photo donators were non gunsmithing hobbyists so I have brought the monthly draw to a close. I may start a fresh contest in the future, will keep you all informed about that.<br />
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Please keep your photo's coming in, I greatly appreciate the input and a chance to meet you all.<br />
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I guess you will be wondering what I have been up to. For the last few months I have been flat out tricking up rifles for clients. I have some testing to do for NZ Outdoor Magazine involving the new .375" 350gr Matchking (BC.805) and 7mm 140gr HPBT Gameking bullets. I am currently running the 350 grainer at around 2690fps out of my .375 RUM, though the projectile is realistically designed for the .375 Snipe Tac. <br />
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I have also been very busy writing for the website and will soon introduce a new ebook as part of an ebook series. The first ebook of this series deals with understanding the fundamentals of the long range rifle. It serves as a platform to help those new to long range shooting understand the long range rifle. In essence, it covers the questions I receive by email on a daily basis; Which rifle should I buy, factory versus custom, Why X action is better than Y action, what type of barrel should I buy. Within the pages, I will share my experience with you which is much more useful than opinion. A how to guide, a buyer beware, a basic course in rifle engineering principles for beginners and experienced shooters alike. <br />
<br />
My plan is to alternate between uploading my cartridge research and ebook writing. So hopefully you will see an ebook, then a fresh cartridge on the Knowledge base, then an ebook and so forth.<br />
<br />
All the best.latest updates and articles for the Knowledge Basetag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000272016-12-19T15:57:47ZThe .30 calibers are finally finished and uploaded and I am now into the .311/.312" calibers. Onwards and upwards. I have kicked things off uploading my .303 British research which can be found on the left hand menu of the KB. The pictorial wound data base is also steadily gaining momentum. You'll find photo's of a lot of popular cartridge combinations in use here. Again, the wounding data base can be found on the left hand side menu. After clicking on the data base link, if you go down the side menu again, options will appear regarding calibers, broken down into pages, each having a range of photos and descriptions. This is where we can get right into the details, really have a close look at bullet performance, no mucking around with gelatine or wet news paper.<br />
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It is raining cats and dogs here, it has been for a while and the weather looks like it is going to stay wet and muddy for at least the next week. Typical NZ spring weather, OK for bedding rifles, no good for testing client rifles at the moment so if you have a rifle here, please be patient.<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Riley web" height="640" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Riley%20web.jpg" title="Riley web" width="472" />Nathan FosterBedding compound prize draw Julytag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000262016-12-19T15:57:47ZThe winner for last months autopsy photo entries goes to Milos in the Czech Republic. Thanks Milos for your photos and descriptions. Its now nearly mid August, we have a couple of entries so far so the chances of a win are 1 in two, thats pretty good odds. Guys, if you want in, please get busy with your rifles and cameras!<br />
The August winner will be announced early September.Nathan FosterBedding compound prize draw Junetag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000252016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi all, hope you are enjoying the site. Unfortunately we did not have a winner for May but a lot of photos eventually came in, giving me a June draw winner. This months bedding kit was won by another Canadian hunter, thanks Pat for the very interesting pictures, its not every day folk get to see the 160 grain semi point Partition used in the .270 WSM. <br />
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There are now quite a few new updates in the wounding data base. To help download speeds, I have divided the data into sub pages (example-.30 caliber page 1, 30 caliber page 2) otherwise viewing would be very slow for some readers while a single page loads a pile of photos.<br />
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A quick favor to ask of NZ readers, I am still looking for a donkey 4x4, an old Nissan Safari or landcruiser LWB, either road registered or farm registered. If anyone hears of anything, I would greatly appreciate it.<br />
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All the best, Nathan.Nathan FosterBedding compound prize draw Apriltag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000242016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi all, this months kit winner is Brian Cornish for his well documented Red deer autopsy photos donated to the <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/Wound+Database.html">pictorial Wound data base</a>. Thankyou Brian for taking the time to take these photos and for being willing to share them.<br />
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Please keep the photo's coming guys, the odds of winning next months kit are far better that than the Lottery!Nathan FosterPrize draw for March photo contesttag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000232016-12-19T15:57:47ZHello all. This months winner of our photo competition is Adam Faulkner from British Columbia Canada. Adam took a great deal of time taking photos for the data base in the .243 and .30 calibers. I am immensely grateful for this input. Adam has won a free MatchGrade bedding kit.<br />
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So here we go again. In New Zealand, the roar/rut is upon us. Please keep your autopsy photo's coming for next months draw.<br />
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Cheers, Nathan.<br />
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Nathan FosterFree bedding compoundtag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000222016-12-19T15:57:47ZSend in your autopsy photo’s and be in to win a free MatchGrade bedding kit.<br />
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I am currently looking to build up the pictorial wound data base section of the website with donated photos of all calibers as used on medium to large game. The winner will be announced on approximately the 20<sup>th</sup> of each month.<br />
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Conditions of entry are that the photos supplied are freely given to TBR with the permission that these pictures may be also used in any future published works (such as books or magazines). <br />
Overseas winners will have to pay postage on kits. Cost of air mail postage to Australia is NZ $12.00, postage cost via air mail to the rest of the world is NZ $33.00. As always, once you receive your kit, you will have my full follow up support to help you along through your project.<br />
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Please send your autopsy photo’s along with a description to Nathan@ballisticstudies.com<br />
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<a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop.html">For more information on MatchGrade bedding compound, click here</a><br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="Adam 7mm Practical Howa WBY for web" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Adam%207mm%20Practical%20Howa%20WBY%20for%20web.jpg" title="Adam 7mm Practical Howa WBY for web" />Nathan FosterFebruary 2012 updatetag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000212016-12-19T15:57:47ZHello all, I hope this blog finds you well.<br />
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Those of you who have been following the TBR blog will know that I was taken late ill last year. I am still recovering from this, progress is steady, just one step at a time. I have tentatively started gun work again within a limited capacity and will slowly start the hunts again as my hill fitness returns. Actually I am going to hit the hills this weekend as my first return foray. I want to take this opportunity to thank readers, clients and friends for your support during this period, it has really helped Steph and I through.<br />
<br />
OK, so whats new. I have managed to upload a few more cartridge articles to the knowledge base these past weeks. I was also approached by NZ Outddoor Magazine to write for them in December and the first article is out now in the Feb issue, a primer on long range hunting. Past clients will easily recognise the tone and direction of the wheat versus chaff (hunting kit) article, new readers I hope will find it a useful resource. Between doing this work and the knowledge base, my inbox has been very busy from the tens of thousands of readers we now have visiting each month from around the world. I have to admit, some days it has been a bit of a struggle to answer technical questions at a rate of one technical query coming in every 15-20 minutes. But you know, I enjoy it, I like to hear what you are all doing, I enjoy meeting you all, friendships made, so many great people and the feedback is valuable as it solidifies the knowledge base. Just remember to keep those digital camera's handy and to collect autopsy photos, they are a very helpful resource.<br />
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As for the rifles, oh my gosh. Things aren't going too well out there guys so be careful when buying. Many manufacturers, whether European or U.S are taking some serious short cuts with action designs, trigger designs and barrel quality. Things aren't the same as they were a few years ago so be prepared. If your rifle is not up to task and where a warranty is absent, the rifle may very well need a trip to your local smith for re-working. Be patient and as always, I will do my best to help you all out.<br />
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Our little Riley is coming up 6 years old soon, she is a tall girl and thanks to the scope that has been taped on her plastic M92 lever action since she was 4, she can now steady the cross hairs on a target in a natural way. So, its about time I got her an air rifle, possibly open sights and a scope so that she can learn both. But it won't be long before she will be ready for a .22 either. For the Kiwi's out there reading this, if any of you have such a rifle you want to part with, please let me know. If I obtain a full length stocked rifle, I will be cutting the stock down to suit but it would be good to utilize a hand-me-down from another youth that has outgrown their air rifle or .22 (the old Toz!). I am also on the look out for a cheap farm wagon (farm registration- will need lights and indicators going but no WOF), an old donk like a 4 door long wheel base Landcruiser or Safari/Patrol or perhaps a double cab 4x4. If anyone knows of anything sitting in a shed somewhere, please give me a call on 06-7523552 or email me at nathan@ballisticstudies.com.<br />
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OK, thats about it for me. Again, thank you all for your support, I am really pleased everybody is enjoying the knowledge base, won't be long and we will finally be finished with the .30's and into the larger bores.<br />
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Cheers, Nathan.<br />
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Rocky Mountain Bullets- Terminal Performancetag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000192016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi Everyone, just a quick update to inform readers of the latest article, a field study of Rocky Mountain .338 caliber frangible long range hunting bullets. <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/Rocky+Mountain+Bullet+Test+Fire.html">Please click here to be directed to the article</a>. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank George Costello, owner of Rocky Mountain bullets, for putting his product on the line and allowing me to perform these tests.<br />
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One final reminder to Auckland (New Zealand) viewers, I will be in Auckland at Reloaders Supplies on the 10th of August (two weeks time) for an evening tutorial, discussing the fundamentals of long range hunting. Guy's, this service is for you, helping you get off to a good start towards long term enjoyment of your sport. Please make the most of it, I will be cramming in a great deal of information so don't expect to be bored.<br />
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Cheers, Nathan.Nathan FosterBedding tutorial videos now onlinetag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000172016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi everyone, I have finally got some instructional footage online, bedding a Remington Sendero 7mm Rem Mag with MatchGrade bedding compound. <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/MatchGrade+Bedding+Compound+Instructions.html">Please click here to see these videos.</a><br />
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For those of you who have already seen the clips, the results of test shooting can be viewed below. Unfortunately I never had a fine day for test shooting, howling winds buffeting me at the bench everyday. suffice to say, the client has an accurate rifle.<br />
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<img align="baseline" alt="Bob Penters Sendero for blog.jpg" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Bob%20Penters%20Sendero%20for%20blog.jpg" /><br />
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We are still hacking away at the website, editing articles to be gradually uploaded into the knowledge base. The next two from myself will be the 7.5 Swiss and the mighty .30-06. Steph has decided to work backwards towards me so from her, you will soon be seeing some of the big bores.<br />
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keep out of mischief.<br />
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Thanks, Nathan.Nathan FosterTBR, Marching Ontag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000162016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi everyone, I hope this blog finds you well. <br />
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The TBR knowledge base has now been live for one month and I would like to say thanks to all of you who have sent in emails of support. The one aspect of these emails that I am thrilled with, is that experienced hunters from around the world are able to correlate results. This was so very important to me, that hunters could read about a cartridge, take that information into the field and be able to duplicate the results described in the knowledge base. I am very pleased that highly experienced hunters have been able to read the knowledge base and find themselves nodding quietly, thinking back about a bullet that 'did exactly that'.<br />
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OK, for those of you wanting to know how we are progressing with the uploading of the knowledge base, the .300 Savage was uploaded today. Tomorrow (Friday 18th Feb) I will start the arduous task of getting the .308 Winchester ready for uploading. This is a very big article so please be patient, it will most likely take me a few days to work through it- we can't skimp on this most famous and very useful cartridge of our time!<br />
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I have now also established our online pictorial <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/Wound+Database.html">Wound data base</a> which is something I have been wanting to do for many years. So, you now have homework to do. keep those digital camera's handy and after harvesting your game, take plenty of autopsy pics, I would be very grateful for these. More details can be found at the <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/Wound+Database.html">Wound data base main page</a>.<br />
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Lastly, for New Zealand readers, please keep an eye out for the Feb/March issue of NZ guns and Hunting magazine. This issue will have an article by writer Jule's O'rouke who meets a red neck (me), visits our research facility (farm) and undergoes a long range tutorial (is drilled the old fashioned way). I had a great time hunting with Jules (hope you are reading this Mr O'Rouke) with the hunt culminating in an intermediate long range yet somewhat difficult shot (very small target). One day we will have to get owner/editor Peter Maxwell down as I hear he likes his wild pork!<br />
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I will also be in Auckland in June for an evening tutorial sponsored by Reloaders Supplies. During this event (held at Reloaders Supplies), I will be speaking on the fundamentals of long range hunting, discussing both equipment and technique. I want to emphasize something while on this topic, Long range hunting isn't just for young 'gadget' oriented shooters. Many older hunters can take full advantage of still hunting/sniping as it is a heck of a lot easier on the joints than walking up and down the hills all day. I find long range hunting is of great advantage to my clients over the age of 60 and particularly for guys in their 70's, suffice to say, this is a sport/hobby for all ages and walks of life. So, if you are wanting to get into long range hunting, come along for an informative evening. Exact dates will be posted in due course.<br />
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Cheers, Nathan.<br />
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<a href="http://www.reloaders.co.nz/index.php?route=common/home"><img align="baseline" alt="Reloaders logo.jpg" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Reloaders%20logo.jpg" /></a><br />
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Nathan FosterTBR's Hunting cartridge knowledge base now onlinetag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000152016-12-19T15:57:47ZHello all.<br />
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Many of you will have noticed that the TBR website has undergone significant changes over the last week, the most exiting aspect being the introduction of the TBR cartridge knowledge base. We have gone through a major shift in goals and methods of delivery over the last few weeks and for those of you who are wondering why the book "Hunting cartridges of the World" has been put aside in favor of an online knowledge base, I will do my best to to describe why.<br />
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Having spent years in the research phase followed by several years writing the proposed HCOW book (my initial draft was near illiterate!), I have been steadily working through the final edit, along with the ballistics tables and cartridge drawings. With the recession still having an effect on our non-commodity business, it was becoming too difficult to write/edit while trying to balance short term needs. <br />
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I have been aware of Google's Adsense advertising programme for sometime and its potential as a source of income while writing. I very much wanted to avoid this route, essentially giving away every trick in my bag for free in the hope that pay per click advertising would provide income. Nevertheless, a decision had to be made and a few weeks ago, I made the call. We are now also providing a <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Services/Help+us+with+a+donation.html">donations form</a>. If you find the information in the knowledge base useful and are in a position to donate, it would very much help us carry on and make the entire knowledge base a reality.<br />
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Some of you will also note that on the home page that we have changed the direction and delivery of the business from being a potential consultant to the big players to simply "this is who we are and what we do". We have always strived to remain transparent as a business and TBR is essentially laid bare at this point.<br />
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At the bottom of each of the cartridge texts, you will notice a 'discuss this' sentence which is hyperlinked to our new forums. When a new post is made, an email is automatically sent to my personal email address. So, for anybody wondering whether or not I will answer or see questions via the forums, I will be receiving your posts instantly and will be able to answer them fairly quickly- unless I am away guiding!<br />
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Ok, I hope you all enjoy the knowledge base and find it helpful. I will have the .30 calibers up online as soon as I can and then we can have a look at the medium and big bores which are a whole bunch of fun and add a completely different dimension to the research. I know that many of you have been waiting for the release of HCOW in hard copy and are still hoping to see a hard copy, regardless of whether it is freely available online. If all goes well, I hope to one day be able to produce a hard copy for those who prefer it.<br />
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Nathan.<br />
Nathan FosterCamo paint- The British Sniper methodtag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000142016-12-19T15:57:47ZHi all, I have finally had a chance to give my .308 Tactical a much needed overhaul. My Sightron S111 6-24x50 finally arrived so the 4-12 Leupold with its target turrets were removed from the Practical and mounted on the .308. I gave the Sightron a good test to check that the turret calibration was true to MOA and as usual for this brand, the Sightron was right on the money.<br />
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I have had a few camo painted rifles arrive on my bench this year and to be honest, the paint on some of these rifles has caused problems where it has run into the bedding (these rifles were bedded before I received them). Paint flaking and chipping during re-bedding was also a concern. For those contemplating a camo paint job to protect blued steel (or even a precious wood stock), the British sniper method is simply awesome. By using common wound dressing/ ligament binding cloth tape (many will be familiar with the elastoplast brand), the tape can be applied to the rifle, then painted with heavy coats of flat enamel paint.<br />
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Earlier this year, my wife did a test piece by binding my hunting knife handle in tape and painting it. The coating was heavy but the cloth ensures the paint cannot flake. The adhesive side of the tape offers tremendous rust protection while the paint locks the tape in place, an almost fibreglass like matrix. The knife handle stood up well to mud and blood through the winter and was relatively easy to clean. I also peeled back the tape after the trial period and the knife handle was perfectly preserved underneath. Following this, I gave the .308 Tactical the British Sniper tape and paint treatment. The finish is great, the metal is protected and can eventually be removed by simply peeling back the tape.<br />
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<img align="baseline" alt="Camo_700_308_Tactical.jpg" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Camo_700_308_Tactical.jpg" />Nathan FosterThe third 7mm Practicaltag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000132016-12-19T15:57:47ZWell, the third Practical has been completed for a South Island hunter. The rifle, a Sako Finnbear is set up with the 168gr VLD at 3220fps, duplicating my own rifle.<br />
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<img align="baseline" alt="Finnbear_600.jpg" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Finnbear_600.jpg" /><br />
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<img align="baseline" alt="Finnbear_bedding_1.jpg" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/Finnbear_bedding_1.jpg" /><br />
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<img align="baseline" alt="groups_x700_from_Sako_Practical_2.jpg" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/groups_x700_from_Sako_Practical_2.jpg" /><br />
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Below is the final load, the barrel now fully run in, producing outstanding accuracy...<br />
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<img align="baseline" alt="77_grain_load_x700_1.jpg" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/77_grain_load_x700_1.jpg" /><br />
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Nathan FosterHello and welcometag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000122016-12-19T15:57:47Z<br />
Hello all and welcome to the new TBR website! Please take your time to have a look around and enjoy the new features, especially the <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Resources/Discussion+Forums.html">forums</a> section- be sure to stop and post a hello.<br />
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I have put two new articles on the site, <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/7mm+Practical.html">The 7mm Practical</a> is about a wildcat magnum cartridge I designed while the article <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/Hold+that+Forend.html">Hold that forend!</a> focuses on a subject that has been very much on my mind for some time.<br />
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I would like to send out a huge thankyou to the team at Zeald.com for making all of this possible, especially their innovative user CP which now allows me to update articles and content regularly- no more notepad ++ and trying to convert documents to computer language! (anyone recall manually loading the Comodore 64).Nathan Fosterhttps://www.ballisticstudies.com/About+Us.htmlNew Products - MatchGrade Bedding Productstag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000062016-12-19T15:57:47Z<img align="right" alt="logo.jpg" height="184" src="http://www.ballisticstudies.com/site/ballisticstudies/images/logo.jpg" style="margin-left: 15px;" width="383" />MatchGrade Bedding Products are a new range of products that have been specifically designed, developed and tested by Terminal Ballistics Research in conjunction with a leading New Zealand polymer resin manufacturer.<br />
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For optimum accuracy, a rifle should always be bedded at the action and beginning of the barrel. Along with bedding, the barrel should always be free floated (not touching the stock forend). Nevertheless, regardless of efforts to free float the barrel, plastic rifle stocks often suffer forend flexing. In some instances, flexing will cause direct pressure against the rifle barrel, in other cases, the stress is indirect. In either case, these stresses upset barrel harmonics with a drastically negative effect on rifle accuracy.<br />
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See the following links for more information:
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/MatchGrade+Bedding+Products.html">Matchgrade Bedding Products</a></li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/MatchGrade+Synthetic+Stock+Stabilizer+instructions.html">Matchgrade Synthetic Stock Stabiliser Instructions</a></li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/MatchGrade+Bedding+Compound+Instructions.html">How to Bed a Riflle with MatchGrade Bedding Compound</a></li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/What+is+rifle+bedding.html">Article - What is Rifle Bedding?</a></li>
</ul>Nathan Fosterhttps://www.ballisticstudies.com/About+Us.htmlNew Article - What is Rifle Bedding?tag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000022016-12-19T15:57:47ZTo go with the release of our new <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/shop/MatchGrade+Bedding+Products.html">MatchGrade Bedding Products</a>, I have published a new article - What is Rifle Bedding?<br />
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Rifle bedding is fundamental to rifle accuracy. The term bedding refers to the fit and stability of a barreled action within the rifle stock. If the fit and stability of the metal work in relationship to the stock is poor, the rifle will be in-accurate. Bedding a rifle with a polymer resin is the optimum method of obtaining a correct fit, long term stock stability and optimum rifle accuracy.<br />
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<a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/What+is+rifle+bedding.html">To find out more about rifle bedding, you can read the full article here.</a>Nathan Fosterhttps://www.ballisticstudies.com/About+Us.htmlNew Article - The Effects Of The Meplat On Terminal Ballisticstag:zeald.com,2010-1-1:ballisticstudies:blog-entry-id:000082016-12-19T15:57:47ZThe word meplat is a term used in ballistics terminology that has survived from a bygone era. The word itself is a french noun which means 'the flat of' and in ballistics it refers to the tip of a projectile. Meplat is not an adjective, it does not describe the shape of the tip or diameter in any way. Our current term could easily have been 'tip' or 'point' or even 'Fred' but instead, ballistic engineers of the world use the word meplat. The French were very much at the cutting edge of ballistics during the 19th century and the word meplat has survived out of an unconcious respect for these eary pioneers. The term mostly likely stems from the days when all conical projectiles had flat points. The front was therefore called the flat and the rear dubbed the heel. Nevertheless, do not be confused, the word meplat simply means 'tip' in today's terms.<br />
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As most will guess, the shape of the meplat (tip) has a great effect on external ballistics (how the projectile flys through the air). The shape can also have an effect on terminal ballistics and performance with regard to projectile energy transfer on game, projectile expansion and stress to the projectile during this rapid change in medium. <a href="https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/The+Effects+Of+The+Meplat+On+Terminal+Ballistics.html">To find out all about what sort of effect the meplat has on a projectile, you can read the full article here.</a>