I competed in two long-range competitions over the past couple weeks. Let me tell ya, this stuff is addicting. I’ve learned more in these competitions than I’ve taken away from lone range sessions. I’m going to detail a couple gear options that really helped me compete.
First, let’s get the initial question answered. I did not do well at the Hornady NRL Hunter Challenge in Price, Utah and surprisingly well at the Mid-Prone Match at Saorsa Acres near Bogalusa, LA.
NRL Hunter matches are my kind of heaven. The blend of hunting and long-range precision play right into my shooting passion. Hornady and Leupold invited me to take part in competing in the skills division. The skills division allows participants to receive help from the RO or fellow teammates. This is super helpful for new competitors that are unsure of how the NRL Hunter competitions work.
Participating in long-range shooting competitions demands precision, skill, and top-notch equipment. Each component of your gear plays a critical role in achieving success. Recently, I had the opportunity to compete in a long-range match using a carefully selected array of gear that significantly enhanced my performance. Look, honest talk. This game is not a poor man’s endeavor. There is some financial investment that goes along with participating like many of our hobbies.
Here's a breakdown of the essential items that contributed to my success: the Two Vets Tripod, Hornady 108 gr. ELD-M ammo, Leupold Mark 4 HD scope, Armageddon Gear Schmedium bag, and Leupold BX-4 Range HD Binos.
These are standard issue at PRS and NRL Hunter matches. I decided to pick one up before competing since I knew it was time to level up. I went with the Recon V2 LS Inverted option. Two Vets does give some more options, but this seemed to be a solid, do-all model.
A sturdy shooting platform is indispensable for long-range accuracy, and the Two Vets Tripod delivered exceptional stability and versatility. Designed for rugged terrain, its robust construction provided a steady base, minimizing movement and ensuring a consistent aim. The adjustable legs allowed me to adapt to various shooting positions and uneven ground, while the ball head offered smooth, precise adjustments. This tripod was crucial for maintaining a rock-solid shooting stance, significantly improving my accuracy at extended distances.
Ammo selection is pivotal in long-range shooting, and the Hornady 108 gr. ELD-M (Extremely Low Drag-Match) ammo exceeded expectations. Known for its high ballistic coefficient and consistent performance, this ammo delivered tight groups and minimal wind drift. The ELD-M's advanced design ensured that each round flew true, maintaining velocity and stability over long distances. The precision and reliability of Hornady's 108 gr. ELD-M ammo were instrumental in hitting targets consistently, well, somewhat consistently. I’ve enjoyed the ELD-M line from Hornady over the past couple years. Recently, I’ve began stockpiling the 108 gr. ELD-M for the newest 6 GT in my safe.
An ever-popular choice for precision shooters is Leupold. Leupold has experienced wide popularity amongst the long-range crowd for their Mark 5 optics and the launch of the Mark 4HD elevated their growth even more.
The Leupold Mark 4 HD scope was a game-changer, providing unparalleled clarity and precision. Its high-definition glass and superior light transmission offered a clear view of the target. I’ll be honest, with the lighting on some of the stages at the NRL Hunter matches and where they placed the targets having good glass was everything. At times, the targets would be located in the shadows of a tree or boulder. That’s a tough find if you don’t have optics that forge through with superior optical quality.
For the event, we used the 4.5-18 model with the PR2-MIL FFP. The scope's reticle allowed for precise holdovers and windage adjustments, while the robust construction ensured it could withstand the rigors of competition. The Leupold Mark 4 HD's exceptional optical performance and reliable tracking were essential in making accurate shots at long distances.
Proper support is crucial for achieving a steady shot, and the Armageddon Gear Schmedium bag provided just that. I’ve had this bag for years and don’t know what I’d do without it. I’ve taken it hunting, shooting and I’ll even use it as a rest for my elbow in my truck on long drives.
This versatile shooting bag offered excellent stability and adaptability for various shooting positions. There are three different fill options for the Schmedium bag. I choose the heavy fill option for precision shooting. I just enjoy how the bag conforms to my rifle, providing a stable platform that absorbed recoil and minimized movement. Its durable construction and practical design made it an indispensable accessory, enhancing my shooting accuracy and consistency.
Accurate rangefinding and target identification are vital in long-range shooting, and the Leupold BX-4 Range HD Binos excelled in both areas. These binoculars featured integrated rangefinding capabilities, allowing me to quickly and accurately determine the distance to the target. The high-definition optics provided a clear and bright image, making it easy to identify targets and assess environmental conditions. The compact and ergonomic design made the BX-4 Range HD Binos a convenient and reliable tool, essential for effective target acquisition and engagement.
In long-range shooting competitions, every piece of gear plays a crucial role in achieving success. The combination of the Two Vets Tripod, Hornady 108 gr. ELD-M ammo, Leupold Mark 4 HD scope, Armageddon Gear Schmedium Game Changer bag, and Leupold BX-4 Range HD Binos provided a comprehensive setup that enhanced stability, precision, and overall performance. Each component worked in harmony, contributing to my ability to shoot accurately and consistently throughout the match. Investing in high-quality gear is not just an option; it's a necessity for any serious long-range competitor aiming for success. ~ KJ
KJ
Kevin Jarnagin (KJ) hails from Oklahoma but quickly established Louisiana roots after joining the Gun Talk team. KJ grew up as a big game hunter and often finds himself in a different venture often. His early career had him working with one of the finest PR agencies in the outdoor industry – Blue Heron Communications. Before that, KJ molded the minds of business school students at the University of Oklahoma. Quickly learning he had to grow up sometime, KJ dedicated himself to the outdoors no matter what it took.
Sporting his flat-brimmed cap, KJ traverses the country in pursuit of the greatest game and best adventures. Whether it’s making his way to British Columbia for elk or training with pistols, KJ always seems to find a gun in his hands and adventure on his mind. KJ is a skilled communicator and connector in an industry that he has loved since a child.
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