How Jim Stanis, the Airgun Guy, Celebrates Labor Day

Happy Labor Day my fellow airgun enthusiasts! We've been having a great weekend here with a family BBQ. Most importantly, we had plenty of time to play with some outdoor toys. Wishing you and your family a fun-filled Labor Day.
 Hope you get some time to shoot a bit too. 

Enjoying the day with my wife, son, and daughter.

Got to fuel up with good food if I'm going to win our family bench rest competition.

My son and his girlfriend taking a rest from the shooting range.

Our cousins, Dominic and Lorenzo having a blast with his new Daystate Regal in .177cal

My niece felt like she was on an
amusement park ride when I took her for a ride in the
Polaris through our country trails.

Took my cousin from the city for a spin in my Fiat around some back country roads. 

One Happy Shooter - Daystate Red Wolf Rosso Limited Edition

 Roger Ososki is smiling today.  He came by the shop to pick up his Daystate Red Wolf Rosso in .25cal.  It is always a great day when you can take a scope off of one of your guns, in Roger case, an earlier generation Daystate Air Wolf, clamp the scope on a new rifle and have it almost dead on at 50 feet - first shot.

 We always appreciate your business Roger.  Have fun with your new wolf.

S.M.G.C. Visits Precision Airguns on 2/17/18

Precision Airguns had the pleasure of having some of the members of SMGC (Southern Michigan Gun Club) come by the shop on Saturday February 17, 2018.

Tradition for the SMGC is mandatory ice cream at every meeting

Saturday's event was no different

Cheers

The New Diana Outlaw was a big hit with the guys.

                                                    $499.99 side lever regulated

                                         Aside from Dave bringing his tasty Kahlua Cake,
                     he provided on site security with his trusty John Wayne Pellet Pistol

                                                      Dave and John talking airguns

Always a good time when the SWGC makes it

over to this side of the state.

“BB Mania knows no loyalty” otherwise know as why I own 3 Thomas Air Rifles

“BB Mania knows no loyalty.” Ralphie, from the movie Christmas Story, never spoke truer words. I assume most have seen this movie classic. If you haven’t, it is not to be missed. And, if you were already into air guns from your youth as I was, then this movie is an absolute must!

I was 14 years old and it was Christmas morning. I had unwrapped many of the typical gifts, a set of walkie-talkies, socks, a model airplane, etc. Then Mom and Dad pointed out there was one more box behind the tree for me. I kid you not it really happened that way! Inside the box was the 5mm/.20cal multi stroke pneumatic Blue Streak with Rocker Safety. Again, just like in the movie, I threw on my robe and house slippers, stepped out into the December Michigan weather, grabbed a ¾” pine board from my Dad’s shop, pumped up the gun to full power and proceeded to blow a hole clean through the board! I was the happiest kid on earth to have this type of power and precision. I knew my Dad’s single pump Daisy I'd been using would soon be permanently retired. 

 

The early stuff:  Blue Streak and Daisy have been retired. Jump forward 40+ years, the names have changed. The original Sheridan, as we knew it, is gone. Current names like Daystate, FX, RAW and Thomas (to name a few) are some of the new top dogs. Today, I'll be focusing on the Thomas Rifle and as Ralphie would have said, it is an awesome “shooting iron”. This is the reason (excuse) I give to my wife why I own three Thomas Air Guns and why they each have their own personal names. The first one is Red (hence the name Red Rider). This isn’t your average BB Gun. Black Bart is set up for bench rest only and Old Blue is my field target version. Old Blue and I made a good enough team to tie for first place with Mike Nitsch (manufacture of Thomas Air) at the 2016 AAFTA Nationals. Mike did win the shoot off, as well as a couple of other trophies that weekend.

A little background on Thomas Air.  Mike hand builds, assembles and test fires every rifle. In case you haven’t heard, Mike has hand delivered rifles to customers at shooting events, they scoped the rifle and proceeded to win the event. That is the definition of out of the box, competition ready accuracy. Most rifles include jets for two power settings. LV (light varmint) which is 12fpe and HV (heavy varmint/open class for FT with a 20fpe setting). Colors, bottle lengths, and barrel lengths can vary. The new mid-length, as shown in pictures, is popular as is the standard full length for bench rest competition. 

 

The latest shipment of Thomas Guns arrived and all Pre-Orders have been filled.  We have a few left for sale. 

Having new Thomas guns not spoken for in the shop is a rarity. I thought I would take this opportunity to test fire one of Mike's newest production runs. Pictures of the 5 shot groups @ 50 yards off of bags shot with the Green FT and JSB Monsters are shown below. All dime size groups, with four being aspirin size, show the built-in accuracy potential these rifles have.

Excellent shooting, considering the breezy conditions. We are so lucky to have a company like Thomas Air to produce such fine shooting rifles.  If you are need of a new high end "shooting iron" you may want to consider the Thomas.

Jim Stanis of Precision Airguns Celebrates His Birthday With A Smile

Thank you to everyone for all the Birthday Wishes yesterday.
It rounded out the awesome weekend I had
at the AAFTA Nationals in Kalamazoo, MI

 I came home with 2nd Place in the Open Rifle P.C.P. Class. 

At the end of the event, I was tied with Master Shooter
and AirGun Manufacturer, Mike (Thomas) Nitsch.
Three rounds later, Mike took home
the much deserved 1st Place Plaque.
Not only does Mike produce the Thomas Airgun
he is a great shooter and has an uncanny understanding of how to
accurately shoot in various wind and weather conditions.
He spent a day at our shop before the Nationals, and was more than
willing to share his knowledge with other shooters
as well as myself.
Thanks Mike and Congratulations 

Special Thanks to Chris Martin, his Team and SMGC
for Hosting the AAFTA Nationals
A huge undertaking with 100+ Shooters
A good time was had by all.

Bench Rest Benches (Or How I Spent My Memorial Weekend)

Time to give Precision Airguns a face lift on the Range.  I went through a variety of benches through the years.  Based on what I've seen and had, I decided I could build some better myself.  In my opinion, the key to what makes these benches different than any others that I have tried are the laminated tops.   After much thought, and remembering that a hollow core door can be light weight, yet rigid from corner to corner, I decided to adapt this principle to a shooting bench top and I came up with the laminated top idea.                                                                                                                      

Several years ago, I built the first top out of 3/8" exterior plywood with 1 1/2" wide filler material.  A few hours before having one of our first informal bench rest shoots, I threw some wood legs on it.  These were suppose to be temporary, just to test out the concept of the laminated top, but actually ended up using this bench for about 3 years.  It was very stable and strong. It actually performed better in my water test than the new steel leg versions I built over the holiday weekend.  More about the water test and the steel legs in bit. The wood legs are simply better at absorbing resonance than the hollow steel legs. Old woody has been relinquished to sit behind the shooting shed, it appears the squirrels and woodchucks have been working it over.

How far we've come- Early Bench Rest Set Up
Old Woody and my Theoben Rapid MKII
Back in the day - 245 3X was an average card

After purchasing a fairly expensive ($600.00 range) bench, I was extremely disappointed with the benches stability.  Oh it looked the part, had a beautiful 3/4" ply top, with beefy 1 1/2" to 2" angle iron frame underneath the top.  The bench had three legs which is common. As you know a three legged bench/stool/table can not wobble on an uneven service.  Excited to test out the bench.  Set it up, and fired my first shot using a 12fpe Steyr air rifle. After firing my first shot, I was amazed to see the cross hairs of the scope dance around.  It seemed like forever, in reality it was probably just a couple of seconds.  A heavy bench with a heavy rest and rifle, shooting at only 12fpe produces this much movement, hmmm what gives?   I was drinking a bottle of water at the time, and noticed after pulling the trigger, you could watch the bottle of water wobble and gyrate for sometime after the shot cycle.  I realized the reason it moved so much, was that the top was springy, it would easily flex from corner to corner and the screw in legs, even though beefy, they would continue to dance around with the flexing top.  This was now my go to test for testing the stability of my benches, what I like to call the harmonics water test, which is placing a cup of water or a water bottle on the bench while then thumping down or bumping in different directions on the bench to measure resonance, vibration, movement ect.  

The steel units are easy to break down for transportation should that be necessary.  Wing nuts could replace the nuts used on the cross bracing, and helicores could be installed in the bottom of the laminated tops where I used wood screws as I do not plan on transporting them often.  Two legs close together in the rear was much more rigid and supportive than three, yes in some cases it may be necessary to shim one of the legs, but not a big deal.  Again, many ways to customize this bench idea for your needs such as ambi, left hand, more mass or better yet a shelf to accept slide in weights when needed.  If not being transported, the structure could be even more rigid if the horizontal cross brace was made of the same 1 1/2" .075 steel tubing and welded in place.  The main jest of the story is how happy I was with the laminated bench top idea.  The final out come is a bench that is fairly light weight and portable, but still provides good stability, and passes my harmonic water test. 

 Tweeks or Mod's are only limited to one imagination. adding various, fillers, foams, weight, damping material are just a few ideas.  After shooting MANY cards on Old Woody, my personal best has been  250 24X.  So far my best card on the new metal legged benches with the Thomas gun is a 250-23X. Hoping more bench time will reward me with the ever elusive 250 25X.

Note: Cards were shot indoors, building is 25 yards long,
 actual shooting distance is approximately 24 yards

Target #1 "OH SO CLOSE"

Brocock Compatto In Stock

We are proud to offer you the Brocock Compatto

The new Brocock Compatto semi-bullpup air rifle incorporates engineering and manufacturing expertise from one of the finest Italian shotgun makers and air rifle technologies from Daystate, makers of the finest English made air rifles. The Compatto is not just a new model to come out of the English factory it is the first all new gun to be 100 % designed and produced by the new Diana group with their considerable resources and attention to quality. Striving to attain airgun perfection the Brocock team is proud to offer this new semi-bullpup performer.

Michigan Suppressor Hunting Now Legal in Michigan

Great News for Michigan Hunters

Michigan Suppressor Hunting Now Legal
Written by ASA on February 12, 2016
http://americansuppressorassociation.com/michigan-suppressor-hunting-now-legal/

On February 11th, Michigan became the 38th state to allow for the use of firearm suppressors while hunting when the Natural Resources Commission (NRC) voted 4 – 1 to approve an amended version of Wildlife Conservation Order Amendment No. 1 of 2016. The measure became effective immediately.

The initial proposal included two arbitrary restrictions which would have limited the decibel reduction of suppressors allowed in the field to 30 dB, and would have also prohibited the use of subsonic ammunition by anyone using a suppressor while hunting. Prior to the final vote, Commissioner Louise Klarr offered an amendment to remove these two provisions from the proposed rule. Her measure passed also 4 – 1.

“We are incredibly excited that hunters in the great state of Michigan can now use suppressors to help protect their hearing while they’re in the field,” said Knox Williams, President of the American Suppressor Association. “It was a pleasure working to educate the NRC Commissioners and members of the DNR on the realities of suppressor use. We applaud their decision to remove the prohibition on suppressor hunting without the two restrictive provisions. In doing so, they have done their part to ensure that the next generation of hunters does not have to sacrifice their hearing.”

The American Suppressor Association was one part of the team working to legalize suppressor hunting in Michigan. The ASA would like to thank the National Rifle Association, the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF), Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC), and Safari Club International (SCI) for working together on this initiative to make Michigan a safer place to hunt.

The American Suppressor Association is also grateful for the support of our members, as well as everyone who took the time to support this initiative. We are very excited about bringing suppressor hunting to The Great Lakes State. We will continue to work towards our goal of legalizing suppressor ownership and hunting in all 50 states through our No State Left Behind campaign. Special thanks to Michigan for taking us one step closer!

Since 2011, 16 states have legalized suppressor hunting for all game animals. Despite common misconceptions, suppressors are not silent. They are simply mufflers for firearms. There are many benefits to using a suppressor, including:

1. HEARING PROTECTION: Noise induced hearing loss and tinnitus are two of the most common afflictions for recreational shooters and hunters. Everyone knows that gunfire is loud, but very few people understand the repercussions that shooting can have on their hearing until it’s too late. Suppressors reduce the noise of a gunshot by an average of 20 – 35 dB, which is roughly the same as earplugs or earmuffs. By decreasing the overall sound signature, suppressors help to preserve the hearing of recreational shooters, hunters, and hunting dogs around the world.
2. SAFER HUNTING: Most hunters do not wear not wear hearing protection in the field because they want to hear their surroundings. The trouble is, exposure to even a single unsuppressed gunshot can, and often does, lead to permanent hearing damage. Suppressors allow hunters to maintain full situational awareness, while still protecting their hearing. The result is a safer hunting experience for the hunter, and for those nearby.
3. NOISE COMPLAINTS: As urban developments advance into rural areas, shooting ranges and hunting preserves across the country are being closed due to noise complaints. Although it can still be heard, suppressed gunfire helps mitigate noise complaints from those who live near shooting ranges and hunting land.
4. ACCURACY: Suppressors reduce recoil, and help decrease muzzle flinch. These benefits lead to improved accuracy, better shot placement, and more humane hunts.

This entry was posted in American Suppressor Association, Hunting, Hunting, NRA and tagged Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation, CSF, DNR, Michigan, Natural Resources Commission, No State Left Behind, NRC. Bookmark the permalink. Post a comment or leave a trackback: Trackback URL.

FYI: Precision Airguns and Supplies is a NFA Federal Firearms Dealer that is able to help you purchase a suppressor.

FX Wildcat - Quiet Fun

Had many FX Wildcats go through the shop.
They never fail to put a smile on my face. 6lbs 10oz of quiet fun.

Check out the Wildcats 

Jim Attends/Survives 2015 Extreme Bench Rest in Arizona

This year I had the pleasure of attending my first Extreme Bench Rest Competition.  The ERB was hosted by Airguns of Arizona and held at at the Rio Salado Sportsman Club in Mesa, AZ on October 1st - 4th, 2015.

The first day brought temperatures of 105*+ and gusting winds.  Throw in the fact that the FT Event was set up in the desert with many plants and critters that can poke, bite or sting.  All these variables gave real definition to the word "extreme" to this Michigan born and bred guy.  At the morning Shooters Meeting, the educated locals drilled into us Hydrate - Hydrate - Hydrate, and they were right!  Bottled Water was readily available and it appeared everyone took their advice. 

Lucky me - our first FT lane was an off hand lane.  I was happy with knocking down three out of the four targets. Clearing the next couple of lanes, I felt like I was getting into the groove, but as blustery winds increased along with the rising temps, the course became a real challenge for me.  Shooting my Steyr LG110 and getting 30 out of 40 normally would not put a smile on my face, however, I was quite happy to find that this score put me in 3rd Place.

Jim Stanis 

Jim Stanis

The 25 Yard Meter event  was a very fast paced event.  All three cards were posted at the onset, with approx. 20 minutes per card and 3 minutes in between to clean your barrel, air up ect.  The  RAW BM500 .22 along with JSB 18G pellets were a good choice for me.  In my forty man squad, my score of 733 put me in 2nd place.  After the remaining two squads shot and the scores were all tallied, 

I placed 5th.

The 10 Meter Pistol Event was a nice change of pace.  Shot indoors, no wind and air conditioning on a 10 Meter Range. I had fun shooting my Hammerli AP40 and ended up in 6th Place. 

It is also worth mentioning that the Rio Salado Sportsman Club has a brand new airgun specific building.  The building is 25 meters in length and large enough to have eighteen lanes.  I suspect the building will be fully functional in the near future.  Kudos's to Rio Salado for making such a great addition and commitment to the Airgun Sport.

                                                                                                                                                                            

Day One - Card One for the 75 yard event: Temperatures dropped into the 90*'s as long as we were in the shade, it was actually quite comfortable. The high winds did persist.  Using a .30cal FX Boss, and JSB 44G pellets, it was common for me to hold 3" - 6" out from the center of the target. As I was shooting my first card, the wind shifted completely 180. Instead of holding 3" - 6" out from the left edge, 15 minutes later, it was necessary to hold 3" - 6" out from the right edge Wow! I shot a 226-4x on my first card, second highest in my forty man squad.  Only two shots behind long range master Ted Bier.   Shooting our second 75 yard card on the next day, winds were similar and even did the same 180* shift as I worked my way up my card. I managed another 226-6x.  Shooting in the Pro Class, the competitors needed to score in the Top 20 in order to proceed to the Final Event/Day of the Extreme Bench Rest Shoot.  My scores met these requirements.  On the final day, to make things even more extreme, the targets were moved out to 107 yards.  Wind was so extreme on the final day that it was actually blowing over the metal silhouettes that had been used for the Silhouette Speed Shoot.  

                         

Range accommodated 40 shooter per heat
Three Heats - Total of 120 Shooter/Competitors

I not sure about the other competitors, but I did not have numbers for 107 yards, so I had to site in during the competition.  This was trickier than it sounds, as one had to be careful not to send a sighter up into the score area.  Considering wind was throwing projectiles 10" or more, it could have been easy to do.  I guess I'm a fast learner, lucky or a little of both, as I was able to keep all my shots except one inside of the score area or five ring in this case.  When one of my pellets went out side of the five ring, I assumed it would be a minus 10, but not wanting to loose the actual score of the target, I shot another pellet at the actual score area.  The way the rules apply, this was the incorrect approach.  I would have been better leaving the one out and not firing a 26th shot.  So  I received a minus 10.  Ouch that hurts.  Even with the minus 10, I still made the top ten shooters, ninth place to be exact.  Considering how green I was to this type of shooting, I was totally happy with my results.  My hat really goes off to the guys that consistently shoot at these yardages and conditions and can actually hit what they are aiming at.

107 Yards - Yes, it was a LONG WAY -
If you notice one missing, it's probably because it was blown away.
It did actually happen on one of the targets  

             Another perk while attending the ERB was the chance to handle the new FX Impact.  Fredrik Axelsson the owner of FX, gave us a demo of the quick and easy barrel change option.  Just one of the many feature the Impact offers.

 

         Jim Stanis checking out the FX Impact

Mark Maher - My Travel Buddy
Excited to be able to check out the Impact

Fredrik Axelsson, owner of FX Airguns

 I am so thankful that I was able to attend this years event.  Special Thanks to the entire Staff of Airguns of Arizona.  They worked diligently to keep us all hydrated, fed, entertained and organized.  Anyone who has ever organized similar events knows this is not an easy task.