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Various Rifle Rests and When to Use Each Knowing your rifle rests and how to use each will help you shoot more quickly and accurately at the range and in the field.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice shooter, proper rifle rests are essential for taking the most accurate shot. There are a variety of rifle rests on the market, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. In this blog post, we’ll look at the different types and when to use them.
On the Range
Accuracy is less forgiving at long range than in any other shooting application. In most cases, shooters are performing a precision task when shooting off a bench. Sighting in a scope, testing various hand load tunings, or examining a rifle’s innate accuracy are common bench shooting activities. Because of the intense precision required, the most stable rests are often used.
One of the most popular and effective types of rifle rests to use at the range is a bag of some sort. Bags are heavy and allow you to anchor the rifle and easily make adjustments for elevation and windage. They are excellent choices for long-range shooting and provide a very stable platform.
In a Deer Stand
Shots you’d take in a deer stand are for the most part, especially in the eastern hardwoods, quicker and closer than shots off a bench. A rifle should already be properly sighted in beforehand, and the target area of a deer’s vitals is much larger than the paper bullseye that is used when sighting in. In this case, sacrifice bulk and weight for a nimbler rest.
Shooting sticks are a common type of rifle rest used in this scenario. These are one, two, or three telescoping poles that can be quickly deployed and adjusted to support the weight of the rifle. They are relatively light and easy to carry and can be quickly set up or taken down as needed. Rests with more legs are more stable. But if you anticipate needing to turn to make a shot, or find yourself in a stand where you may need to shoot 360 degrees, a monopod may be a better option because of its quick deployment and small size.
Ground Blind
Hunting from a ground blind has some advantages and disadvantages compared to hunting from a stand. On the plus side, you are not as visible to animals. And you can often set up closer to where they are feeding or traveling. On the downside, you are confined to a smaller space, and it can be more challenging to get a clear shot since you are lacking elevation.
In a ground blind, shots are generally taken in a predetermined kill zone. Because of that, stability can be prioritized over mobility. A good choice for a ground blind rifle rest is a tripod with a locking or clamp-style head. This will give you a very stable platform to shoot from and allow easy adjustments to elevation and windage. This is one of the best field-style rifle rests to be used in long-range shooting situations.
Still Hunting
This style of hunting is not for everyone. It requires more patience and a very different skill set than hunting from a stand. Still hunting often results in less forgiving shots with tighter windows through trees and brush. When moving through the woods, weight and size are of the utmost importance, as you will be carrying your rifle and all of your gear with you.
A standing bipod is one of the best rifle rests for still hunting and is relatively small and light while still providing a stable platform. As such, it is quickly deployed when needed. For even more mobility, some shooters opt for a shooting sling which can be used to steady the rifle when necessary but does not add any weight or bulk. In many cases, however, the shooter will spot game and find the closest tree to provide the needed rest.
Spot and Stalk
Spot and stalk hunting is a tactic used to ambush game feeding or traveling. The hunter finds a position of concealment and waits for the animal to move into an open area where they can take a shot. This type of hunting often results in long-range shots, so a stable platform is essential.
A bipod on your rifle is a good choice for a spot-and-stalk hunting rest. The unit attaches to the bottom of the rifle’s forend and provides a stable platform to shoot from while being relatively light and easy to carry. Additionally, many bipods have legs that are quickly extended or retracted. When hunting in taller grass, consider a taller bipod that allows you to shoot from a sitting position. A shorter one may be a better option if hunting in more open prairie or desert lands.
Rifle Rests for Kids
Most children are not ready to hunt with a rifle until around 10 years old. When they are ready, there are a few things to consider when choosing a rest.
First, the weight and size of the rest should be appropriate for the child. A heavy or bulky rest will make it difficult for them to handle the rifle and could lead to fatigue. Second, the rest should be adjustable to accommodate the child’s height. Finally, consider the level of difficulty in using the rest. A more simplistic design may be easier for a child to use, while a more sophisticated design may provide more features that a child can grow into.
There are many different types of hunting, and each one requires a different style of rifle rest. The most important thing is choosing a rest that is appropriate for the type of hunting you will be doing. Consider the weight and size of the rest, the level of adjustability, and the stability it offers. With so many options on the market, there is sure to be a rifle rest that is perfect for your needs.
