Gun Handling Tips

Different shooting positions for shooting off a bench or prone:

Free Recoil : Only your trigger finger and possibly your thumb from your firing hand touch the rifle. The rifle recoils in the bags until it contacts your shoulder after an inch or so of recoil. If firing with thumb contact also apply light, consistent pressure with your firing hand thumb usually on the back of the trigger guard.

One Handed Firm Hold: Full, firm but consistent contact with the firing hand and shoulder. The non firing hand can be used to support the butt by making a fist and placing it beneath the butt or if using a rear bag It allows you to reach around and adjust the rear bag.

Two Handed Firm Hold:  Same as for the one handed method only this time the non firing hand supports the forend.


How you hold your rifle also depends, to a great extent, on the following:

1. Stability: If the position isn’t stable, then you aren't going to shoot well. Because of the amount of body contact with the ground and the low center of gravity prone is the most stable position.

2. Durability: If you change your position even slightly between one shot and the next it will affect your accuracy therefore, the position has to be durable. A properly fitting stock will help maintain position. Ideally, your cheek should never leave the comb during the string and your position must be as close to naturally looking strait forward as possible.

3. Comfort: You shouldn't feel any pain or discomfort whilst trying to mintain your postion. If you are not comfy it will affect the stability and durability of your shooting position.

Shooting Tips:

1. Concentrate on your trigger contol. The trigger must be squeezed gently straight back; any twisting, pushing or moving side to side will ruin accuracy. Practice by dry firing with snap caps. Practicing in the dark may help you concentrate more on your actual trigger technique.
2. Slow your breathing and heart rate as much as possible. There is a natural pause in your breathing after you have exhaled. I always time my shot to coincide with this pause and try not to think about it too much, just do it.
3. Maintain and memorise your cheek weld, it must be consistent. Your head shouldn't be leaning over to one side, as above the alignment must be as close to naturally looking strait forward as possible.
4. Don't fire too many shots in one go. Once fatigue starts to set in accuracy will deteriorate. This will also allow your barrel to cool.
5. When shooting with a bipod push forward slightly on the rifle to improve stability.
6. Use a sling. Even a simple carry sling wrapped around your non firing hand will improve stability in most positions.
7. Practice! There is no substitute for trigger time. Competition and advice from others is the quickest way to learn. Get out there and try different shooting styles and positions and you'll soon lear what works for you.