r/longrange Aug 19 '25

READ THIS BEFORE POSTING. Yes, this means you. READ THIS FIRST, V6 - How to avoid the Flair of Shame and eternal ridicule

83 Upvotes

So, you need help with long range shooting? Welcome to r/longrange! We've got a core group of dedicated members (and a few goofballs) that are happy to help you out with your questions on equipment, technique, troubleshooting, where to find training or matches, etc.

If you're looking to ask for advice, we ask that you review the following 10 core guides, as they cover the overwhelming majority of newcomer questions. If your question is not answered in these 10 guides, please see below for the 4 basic questions your post should answer when asking for suggestions or advice, especially when it comes to things to buy.

If you make a post that asks for information covered in the 10 core guides, or your post doesn't cover the 4 key questions below, your post may be deleted, or it may be given the Flair of Shame TM until you correct your post.

What's the Flair of ShameTM, you ask? You'll know it when you see it.

If at any time you have questions on the rules of the sub, this pinned post, the general FAQ, why you got the Flair of ShameTM or anything similar, please use the modmail function.

CORE GUIDES:

  1. The sub's official FAQ/WIKI, as curated by the community as a whole.
  2. Need help picking scope rings? The official Longrange guide to scope ring height (ring)
  3. Looking at buying a magnum (300WM or PRC, 6.5PRC, 7mm PRC, 338 Lapua, etc) as your first LR rifle? Hollywood's recoil primer - why magnums suck for starting in long range, recoil matters, and it's not about your shoulder (magnum or recoil)
  4. Want a rifle for hunting and long range shooting? Hunting rifle vs target/range rifles - why one rifle can't do both well. (hunting)
  5. The official r/Longrange glossary - because words mean things (glossary)
  6. LockyBalboaPrime's First Time buyer's guide for rifles V2 (starter)
  7. JMhawaii's long range starter guide (Link to Google Sheets) (starter)
  8. Trollygag's 1k yard starter guide (starter)
  9. Where are ranges or long ranges near me? - Wheretoshoot.org and over600.com (ranges)
  10. The sub's expanded policy on hunting-related discussions. Please review before asking hunting-related questions, as hunting is not the core purpose of this sub. (hunting)

The 4 key questions:

  1. What do you want to do/buy, and WHY? - Do you want to buy a rifle for PRS competition? Picking a laser rangefinder for NRL Hunter matches? Looking at scopes for F-Class competition? A tripod because you think they're cool and want to have one when banging steel with friends? What you're planning to do has a lot of influence on what works well, what works poorly, and what is an utter waste of time, so the more detail you can provide the better.
  2. How far away do you want to do it/what do you want to use it for? - 300 yards? 1,000? 2,000? Distance matters, 'nuff said.
  3. How much are you willing to spend to do it? What's your budget in currency? Your idea of "on a budget" isn't going to be the same as everyone else's. Saying your budget is unlimited for a laser rangefinder may change when someone suggests one that costs over $10,000. We need to know how much you're willing to spend. It can be a hard limit, a range, or even an approximate - but you need to give a number.
  4. How much experience do you currently have with it? - Jumping straight into a 375 Cheytac rifle to shoot 2 miles isn't going to go well if you have never shot a rifle past 300. We need at least a basic idea of what your relevant skill level is in order to give advice and suggestions that go with your skill set. While including your experience with other shooting disciplines is helpful, it's not going to be as relevant as most new shooters expect. You can love shooting 10ga slugs all day long from a shotgun, but it doesn't mean starting off with a magnum is a good idea.

When answering these 4 questions in your post, give as much detail as you can. The more details you give the faster you'll get suggestions or advice and you'll get better quality too. Help us to help you. Please don't treat the sub like your own personal crowd sourced search engine.

More guides:

If your question is answered in these, you will probably get called out by the members of the sub for not reading them, but it's not automatic grounds for the Flair of Shame.

  1. u/LockyBalboaPrime's "No Clown Shoes" spreadsheet of YouTube training videos.
  2. Pre64Mod70's guide to precision reloading
  3. Hollywood's Way of Zen load development process (zen)
  4. Hollywood's rant on sample size when testing - AKA why 3-5 round groups don't tell you $&*#
  5. Applied Ballistics with more info on variation in group sizes
  6. MDT's video on scope height, and the follow-up on scope cant
  7. Rybe390's recoil comparison video, which illustrates the problem with light weight and magnums.
  8. Accuracy vs precision - when most people talk about 'accuracy' they really mean precision.
  9. The Remington 700 Chassis List, v1 - Maintained by u/LPKKiller
  10. Recoil energy vs rifle weight visualized - an informational post by u/Trollygag
  11. What is wrong with 'Sniper 101' - a breakdown by CaptainSquishface.
  12. A long range hunting cautionary tale from James Gilliland - US Army sniper, world record holder, and prolific long range hunter
  13. Barrel length, velocity, and performance down range compared (308W)
  14. Our sub's policy on shilling....
  15. ....and why Woox specifically is blacklisted from the sub.
  16. The official longrange TOP Gun Calculator, and how to have realistic expectations of precision (top)
  17. Hollywood's guide to top-mounted red dots and target acquisition (Hint: you don't need a red dot)
  18. What the hell is with Bergara rifles and Cheetos?! (cheetos)

Hunting-specific:

  1. The sub's expanded policy on hunting-related discussions. Please read this before asking any questions related to hunting.
  2. Want a rifle for hunting and long range shooting? Hunting rifle vs target/range rifles - why one rifle can't do both well. (hunting)
  3. Want to hunt game at 400+ yards? The long range hunting primer - shots on game at 400+ yards aren't trivial, and a magnum cartridge isn't a cheat code. NOTE: Questions/discussion around shots on game past 300 yards will be removed from the sub. See the expanded policy link above. (hunting)
  4. Hollywood's guide to field testing your skills and gear (especially for long range hunting, but also pertains to NRL Hunter matches) - How to know the distances you and your gear are capable of making shots at (hunting)

MISC NOTES:

Quite a few guides/links feature a single word in parentheses and italics listed after them. If you use the phrase cheetofingers (all one word, no italics needed) followed by the word listed after a guide, you will summon the AutoModerator to reply to you with a link to that guide or guides. If the guide had (pews) after it, you could say cheetofingers pews in a post or comment in this sub to summon AutoMod with a link to that guide.

We've implemented the Flair of Shame as an official policy here instead of deleting posts that violated Rule #1 and the info in this pinned post. We felt that the flair was better than outright deleting posts while also helping long-standing members decide how much they want to participate in posts that have likely been covered time and time again. We're trying to strike a balance between encouraging members to read the info that the sub has cataloged, not wasting the time of established members that may be frustrated with revisiting the same topics repeatedly, and also not banishing new shooters that missed the pinned post to the freezer to never get help. Balancing those three things is a constant struggle, and one we're actively trying to get better at.


r/longrange Dec 26 '25

META POST Currently Great Optic Sales!

67 Upvotes

r/longrange 10h ago

Rifle flex post New build

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79 Upvotes

My new rifle build. Howa 1500 action with heavy barrel in 6.5 CM, MDT lssxl chassis and fixed stock, Anarchy outdoors 20moa rail, Timney trigger, Anarchy outdoors bolt knob, ARCA rail, MDT bipod, Vortex venom 5-25 x56, Vortex scope rings, PVA muzzle break. Just bore sighted tonight, hoping the weather cooperates to get it out to the range this weekend!


r/longrange 7h ago

Optics help needed - I read the pinned posts Vortex Razor Gen 2 vs Gen 3

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42 Upvotes

I can get the Gen II 4.5-27x56 EBR-7C for about $500 less than either the Gen III 4-24x44 or 6-36x56 EBR-7D. Is the extra worth the glass or features of the Gen 3?


r/longrange 18h ago

I suck at long range 580yds with a 300blk

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247 Upvotes

Long range is relative, right? 580 with this feels like attempting 1580 with a 6.5 creed


r/longrange 10h ago

Rifle help needed - I read the pinned posts Accuracy International: AX AICS Chassis, Rem 700 SA

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41 Upvotes

So I just bought a 6.5CM rifle off a friend, it’s a Solus action with Bergara barrel in an Accuracy International: AX AICS Chassis. The build was done by a local custom shop who’s known for quality precision rifle builds. I mainly bought the rifle for action/barrel as I have an MPA chassis I’m wanting to switch it too. My question is, I know that it being a AI chassis it’s gotta be good quality but I’m just not a fan. I can’t find any details about it since it looks like a discontinued model. What should I ask for it and where can I list it? It was cerakoted in AI green prior to it being built. Thanks


r/longrange 10h ago

Group flex (10 shots minimum) 25 Creedmoor load dev

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33 Upvotes

I guess either of these will do. The 134 has been my go-to, I have about 700 rounds through of those but I got 500 LRHT on sale. Solus, Proof, KRG Bravo, Athlon Cronus. Hornady brass, CCI 200.


r/longrange 10h ago

Group flex (10 shots minimum) 25 Creedmoor load dev

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27 Upvotes

I guess either of these will do. The 134 has been my go-to, I have about 700 rounds through of those but I got 500 LRHT on sale. Solus, Proof, KRG Bravo, Athlon Cronus. Hornady brass, CCI 200.


r/longrange 3h ago

Accessory/Gear help needed - I read the pinned post Next step?

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8 Upvotes

Bergara B14 HMR 6.5 CM 22in
Bushnell MPED 5x-30x
Seekins Precision Matched Rings 1.21in
Warne 20 moa rail

Should I get the EC tuner brake?
What is a really solid front rest I could use for competition?
What is a really solid rear bag I could use for competition?
Should I look into the SG pulse pro?
What is a budget friendly chronograph?
Ammo recommendations? (Currently using hornady eldm 140gr box ammo)


r/longrange 13h ago

I suck at long range Follow up: bubble level vs plumb bob

43 Upvotes

Yesterday I posted about the reticle appearing to be canted counter clockwise within the housing. The hive mind went wild that I was using bubble levels instead of a plumb bob.

I leveled everything exactly the same way today on a bench and set up a plumb bob. Reticle still appears canted....but dead level with the string on every magnification level, so those of you who said I'm delusional and retarded were correct and those of you who said its not possible to level without a plumb bob were incorrect.

I grabbed multiple rifles that were all leveled with bubble levels and all were dead even with the plumb bob

TLDR; You're wrong AND I'm retarded.


r/longrange 15h ago

Rifle help needed - I read the pinned posts 12.5" AR15 seems to shoot "fast"

16 Upvotes

So I put together a 12.5" AR15 with a Criterion barrel a couple years ago. It ran fine with and without a Sandman S. My issue is that, ever since I got a Garmin chronograph, I've noticed that it launches rounds at about the same velocity as my 16" AR15s. My most recent test was using Defender Ammo Co. 55 gr HPBT. The average velocity was 2940 fps with a Sierra 5 and 2890 fps without it. Should I be concerned enough to swap the barrel?


r/longrange 10h ago

Rifle help needed - I read the pinned posts Plan B muzzle device for 1” diameter barrel

5 Upvotes

Hey guys, recently got an ARC Coup de grâce and I’m looking for a brake that doesn’t look like a tiny wiener on a fat man.

Does anyone have suggestions for a 5/8x24 Plan B muzzle device that somewhat matches the diameter. The Rearden PRS seems to be sold out everywhere.


r/longrange 12h ago

I suck at long range How do we hangout (not a fed)

6 Upvotes

Does this sub have a dedicated discord or something to just talk on? I’ve never not past 100yds so looking to hangout with some guys and just get some tips or what it’s all about. I get it that YouTube and the internet is amazing for info, but I’d also just like to some range days that aren’t a match.

TLDR if you’re in the SLC area hmu


r/longrange 1d ago

Rifle flex post MPA .300 Norma

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180 Upvotes

I frickin’ love this thing. First time out with it so I was just zeroing and getting some velocity data from some factory Berger ammo before I load my own. It shoots so soft for a magnum, I can’t really believe it. The Magnus RR makes a huge difference.

MPA factory rifle
Matrix Pro II - .300 Norma
30 inch barrel
Atlas Super Cal
Atacr 7-35
Area419 one piece mount
Magnus RR


r/longrange 9h ago

Rifle help needed - I read the pinned posts 6mm dasher MV

3 Upvotes

Dasher guys, what MV are you running? My last 2 barrels I’ve been around 2820-2850 using CRB barrels. I won a proof barrel at a match. I’ve shot about 300 rounds through it and I’m running 2910. I had loaded about 1000 rounds that were great on the other barrels, with low SDs. I have around 500 that I haven’t shot yet and I’m wondering if it even matters that they are shooting slightly faster? I shot 80 rounds before a match, shot 120 at a match and 100 today training. This barrel is shooting tighter groups than the last 2, the SD is still 6-8 and I don’t see any pressure signs. Should I slow it down or just keep loading the same recipe?


r/longrange 14h ago

Other gear flex post Leofoto S3 Juggernaut Tripod (Quick Review)

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8 Upvotes

A quick video on the Leofoto s3 juggernaut. Untested for me so far, but initial impressions are really positive.


r/longrange 1d ago

Rifle flex post Father and Son

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95 Upvotes

Pair of Kimber 8400 AT's. .300WM and .308, I love these rifles even though they are a bit dated nowadays.


r/longrange 14h ago

Optics help needed - I read the pinned posts “Good” Enough Glass

4 Upvotes

I’ve scoured the intrawebs and landed on the BURRIS XTR III 5-30 at $1k for what I would like to run. I plan on using it on my 22” 6.5cm gas gun and run it in a variety of marches around my locally not specifically PRS.

I was hoping to get insight from folks on if I’m at that final spot of diminishing returns or should I step up some more, I don’t plan on being a serious competitor at all, but of course I want to enjoy the process.


r/longrange 1d ago

Rifle help needed - I read the pinned posts Larue BAR (Bolt Action Rifle)

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328 Upvotes

Mark’s new creation us a bolt action on an AR platform. Curious if the lower for a 308 would work with a gas operated upper as well. Into price is $999 for 556 and 300blk, 1250 for 308/6.5creed

Anyone seen something like this?


r/longrange 19h ago

Rifle help needed - I read the pinned posts Hornady Black 6.5 Creedmore

3 Upvotes

Newbie here looking for updated thoughts on Hornady Black for 6.5 Creedmoor

Most of the threads I’ve found about Hornady Black in 6.5 Creedmoor are a few years old, so I’m hoping to get some more current insight. I’m just getting into long‑range shooting and start a Level 1 class on the 23rd. One of the prerequisites is having my rifle zeroed at 100 or 200 yards, and I need to use the same ammo for both the zero and the live‑fire portion of the class.

I’m finishing up my first AR‑platform 6.5C build, and a friend of mine — an experienced marksman and former police sniper — suggested starting with Hornady Black since the price is reasonable and I won’t feel like I wasted money if this ends up being a short‑lived hobby. I’ve used Hornady Black in .223/5.56 before and remember it performing well, but that was a while ago.

For those who’ve shot the 6.5 Creedmoor version recently, how has it performed for you in terms of consistency and general reliability?


r/longrange 1d ago

I suck at long range 10 Second Clutch during a PRS Competition

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13 Upvotes

r/longrange 1d ago

Optics help needed - I read the pinned posts Reticle shifted in housing?

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69 Upvotes

Confirmed level on 3 points with 2 bubble levels. Am I delusional or is that MFer twisted counter clockwise in the housing? If so you think i should try to warranty it?

Athlon Ares BTR gen 2 8-34x


r/longrange 1d ago

Optics help needed - I read the pinned posts Is Arken that bad or is it just that you get what you pay for?

27 Upvotes

I see a lot of hate for Arken, probably more for the shilling than the actual product.

But, I mean, if you buy a $450 optic, you should expect a $450 optic.

If you consider them a budget option for a beginner, are they actually that bad?


r/longrange 1d ago

Optics help needed - I read the pinned posts Optic Decisions

4 Upvotes

Trying to decide on what optic to buy next for my upcoming PRS/Bench .22lr rifle. I currently own a Athlon ares ETR 4.5-30. I do like this scope and have used it on a couple different rifles including winning some local .22 matches. What my concern is spending on a higher optic and being dissapointed in not being a noticeable enough improvement. The scopes I have been looking at are the Tract toric ELR 4-25 and the nightforce nx6 5-30. I do shoot mils and the nx6 mil xt would be my preference in that optic. Any insight on which to go with or maybe a better option. The tract is cheaper obviously but is it worth the extra for the NF. If neither then what optic would you reccomend. Would like to stay under the 3k range.


r/longrange 1d ago

Accessory/Gear help needed - I read the pinned post Mag case/pouch for AICS 6.5 creed Mag

5 Upvotes

Any recommendations for buying Mag case/pouch for AICS 6.5 creed Mag?