Paired-up With Shotguns

posted on August 1, 2013
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
rackley2015_fs.jpg

With only eight shooters left in the house, Top Shot producers finally introduced a firearm that didn’t only fire a single projectile. For this episode, the even number of shooters was paired up in a Season Three favorite with a Benelli Vinci and Benelli M4.

Each pair had to hit a moving 8-inch steel plate with the M4, which released two clays that had to be dusted with the Vinci. In addition to accuracy, loading was a crucial aspect of this challenge, proven by Joe and Brian, who had issues keeping the shotguns charged, particularly the M4. Because of their low score, the pair was joined by Phil and Chris at the Proving Ground, where a new pistol was introduced for that challenge-the Walther P99.

The shot was taken at 50 feet, and once again Brian and Chris were spared the Elimination Challenge by placing holes that measured exactly the same distance from the bullseye. It was interesting to watch Chris pretty much resign himself to going home and then match one of the premier handgun shooters in the country.

It seems that now the field has shrunk, the producers are adding footage from the house to fulfill the show’s time requirement. It wasn’t too bad though, because the segments were more about the competitors eating and having a good time and was short on the drama that dominated previous seasons.

In the Elimination Challenge, Phil and Joe had to hit six targets on a spinner with the Bowtech StrykeZone 380, and, once again, loading played an important factor. Joe just couldn’t figure out how to the crossbow smoothly, and even though Phil had some early accuracy problems, he obtained a nice lead and ended Joe’s time in the competition.

Next week’s episode should be really good, as they are bringing back the roundabout and the zip line to challenge the shooters’ skills. I am fascinated that the Elimination Challenges seem to be much more interesting, and am wondering how many shooters are a little jealous of their fellows battling it out in challenges I would love to try.

Latest

Japanese Type 38 Arisaka Ihtog 1
Japanese Type 38 Arisaka Ihtog 1

I Have This Old Gun: Japanese Type 38 "Arisaka"

Along with the Type 99, the Japanese Type 38 "Arisaka" was one of the main bolt-action battle rifles used by Japanese imperial forces during World War II.

New For 2025: Stoeger M3000 & P3000 Tactical

Stoeger Industries optimized its inertia-driven M3000 and pump-action P3000 shotgun designs for defensive and tactical use.

Tips & Techniques: Applying A Linseed Oil Finish (Without Turning Your Stock Into A Sticky Mess)

Linseed oil may be the oldest wood finish known to man, with evidence of linseed oil finishes being applied to wood as far back as ancient Egypt.

Rifleman Report: Proficiency Is Key

As the end of the calendar year approaches, and new firearms and related products continue to become available, we’re reminded that, while gear is important, training safely with it while developing familiarity is just as vital.

I Have This Old Gun: British Garate Revolver

World War I, as it would come to be known, rather took most powers by surprise. In 1914, Great Britain, which had not entered into a formal alliance with France and Russia, was expected by some to sit on the sidelines while the others went at it.

Beretta Commemorates 50th Anniversary Of 90 Series Pistol Family

Beretta's popular 90 Series handguns, including the iconic Beretta 92, celebrates 50 years of production in 2025, and to honor the milestone, the company has released a limited-edition variant.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.