Shooting Rests

Newysan

Beginner
Jan 4, 2009
82
0
Shopping for a rifle rest to zero in various rifles. Reading about what is currently available shows no real contenders for my hard earned cash. Most seem to be lacking in one area or another and requiring fix's or modifications. A lot of on- line merchandisers have feedback areas for purchasers to comment on the specific units. None are very positive. I would like to find out what folks on this forum have come across and what might be a possible way to go. I admit that the 300 Wby is not my favorite to sight in correctly and it's behavior is affecting the way I shoot the other rifles. Maybe there is an out of production unit that would satisfy my needs. Something well constructed and user friendly. Thanks for the time. Newysan
 
Are you loking for a benchrest type setup, or a cradle type setup like a Lead Sled?
 
I started out with a benchmark cradle rest and have since gone to a caldwell "rock" front rest and protector leather rear bag for shooting on the bench.
 
Check out the new Caldwell Full Length Fire Control Shooting Rest. They are just starting to be available now. I know that Midway has them in.

Bob

683866.jpg


Perfect for fingertip control over crosshair placement and unmatched accuracy. The Fire Control Rest gives the shooter precision and repeatability when sighting-in, developing loads or in competition. Features glass smooth internal mechanisms that allow the front bag to be moved up, down, left or right to adjust to wind shifts or shot placement, stainless steel leveling feet, 5' of downrange adjustment, locking cradle to secure the firearm and a bubble level are some additional features.


Technical Information

Notes:

Machined gears and racks for smooth, precise movements

Windage and elevation adjustments

Stainless steel feet for anchoring and leveling

Includes Caldwell Medium Varmint and 3" 3-Lobe Front Bags - please note that these bags are slightly smaller than other Caldwell bags. Caldwell universal bags will not fit on this rest.

Weight: 15 Pounds

Warranty:
1-year warranty against manufacturing defects
 
If I am reading your post right, sounds like your 300 is beating you up. I suggest you look very close at a PAST recoil sheild and wear it. It will definitley increase your enjoyment at the bench..

Had one for a long time..
 
Thanks for all the replies. The past recoil shield @$ 36 is the avenue that appeals the most. Simple, easily moved, no extras to lug about. Thanks again. Newysan
 
Newysan":3cdl52bq said:
Thanks for all the replies. The past recoil shield @$ 36 is the avenue that appeals the most. Simple, easily moved, no extras to lug about. Thanks again. Newysan

If you are developing a flinch with your 300 try loading some light bullets and light loads for a while along with the new recoil pad.
I developed a flinch with my 300 win while sighting in with 180gr bullets.
My rifle had a stock recoil pad and a rough trigger.
I put a limbsaver on and tuned the trigger to a crisp 2.5lbs. After shooting 100gr hornadys for a couple of range trips I lost my flinch and was able to go back to the heavier bullets without any problems.
Man, those 100gr sp's really blow up milk jugs :grin:

On another note the lead sled type of rests are very hard on stocks. The stock has to absorb almost all of the recoil. It's not that much different than placing the butt of your gun against a tree if you realy think about it.
 
And from what I hear, POI will be different using a lead sled vs sand bags.

JD338
 
Can't remember the mfg of what I have, but I'll generally use a tri-pod type front rest with a stock grooved sand bag in the rear. I also have the sand bag for the front, but the tri-pod adjustability works great for the front. I think the only thing I'd change is attempt to get the very heaviest front rest you can.

I also have a V-shaped back somewhat like the Caldwells but it's aprox 16 to 18 inches long. I'll use that one at times with my .300RUM as it'll take quite a bit of the recoil.
 
This is great, many varied ideas and experiences, all good. The pounding the stock would take in a mostly rigid apparatus makes sense. Loading down to 100gr bullets with a lighter charge makes a lot of sense also and will be the very first thing I try as I have those components. As a side benefit I may even get more firings out of those pricey pieces of brass. Once again thanks to all. I just knew this forum would be a good thing! Newysan
 
Back
Top