Welcome, everyone! John Faulkner here with Firearms Depot, and today I’m joined by Adam Pini to discuss an essential piece of gear for hunters and competitive shooters alike—support bags. With so many options available in terms of size, shape, and material, it can be overwhelming to decide which support bag is right for you. In this comprehensive guide, we aim to shed light on the importance of these bags, their diverse applications, and how to choose the ideal one to meet your specific needs.
Support Bags: A Brief Overview: Support bags have come a long way from the days of using tube socks filled with sand. They have become crucial tools in precision shooting, allowing shooters to achieve greater stability, especially in challenging shooting positions. Whether you’re participating in competitions like Precision Rifle Series (PRS) or engaging in hunting activities, support bags offer the flexibility and support necessary to enhance your shooting performance.
Types of Support Bags: There is an extensive range of support bags available on the market, each designed with specific applications in mind. Let’s explore a few common types:
- Game Changer Bags: Game Changer bags, such as the ones from Armageddon Gear, come in various sizes, offering versatility and stability. They can be positioned in different ways, adapting to a wide range of shooting positions, from barricades to tree branches. These bags often have a soft fill and are highly durable.
- Squishy Bags: Squishy bags, like the Precision Underground Wear Bag or Armageddon Squishy Bag, are rear support bags primarily used for precision shooting. They provide a pliable yet supportive surface to stabilize the rear of the rifle, aiding in recoil management and shot follow-up.
- Fortune Cookie Bags: Fortune cookie bags, such as the Mini Fortune Cookie from We Bad, are compact, versatile bags that offer stability in various shooting scenarios. They can be used as rear bags or front support bags, depending on your shooting needs.
- Unique Bags: Some support bags defy traditional shapes and offer unique features. For example, the Sykes Bag provides exceptional flexibility and conforms to different positions, making it suitable for hunting and unconventional shooting situations. Gray Ops Front Rail Changer and Alien Contraption bags are specialized bags designed for specific shooting setups, such as tripod shooting or attaching to rails.
Materials and Fills: Support bags come in various materials and fillings, each offering its advantages. Here are a few common options:
- Wax Canvas: Wax canvas bags, like those from Armageddon Gear, are sticky and offer good traction on different surfaces. They are highly durable and weather-resistant when properly maintained.
- Nylon: Nylon bags, made from materials like 500D or 1000D, are commonly used and provide excellent durability. They are low-maintenance and don’t sweat out fill material. Nylon bags can be filled with various materials, including play sand, Airsoft beads, or even dirt.
- Stretchy Nylon: Bags made from stretchy nylon material offer flexibility and contouring capabilities. These bags can be squeezed or manipulated to adjust the rifle’s stock position.
Choosing the Right Support Bag: When selecting a support bag, consider the following factors:
- Intended Use: Determine the primary purpose of the bag. Will you be using it for precision shooting, hunting, or both? Different bags excel in specific applications, so choose one that aligns with your shooting needs.
- Size and Shape: Consider the bag’s dimensions and shape. Game Changer bags, fortune cookie bags, or squishy bags are popular choices due to their versatility. Smaller bags are suitable for portability, while larger bags offer increased stability.
- Material and Fill: Decide on the material and fill that best suits your preferences. Factors such as weight, rigidity, stickiness, and water resistance should be considered.
- Durability and Maintenance: Look for bags that are built to last and require minimal maintenance. Quality construction and materials will ensure longevity and reliability in the field.
Conclusion: Support bags are invaluable tools for both competitive shooters and hunters. They provide stability, enhance accuracy, and allow shooters to excel in various shooting positions. With a multitude of options available, it’s important to choose the right support bag based on your specific needs. Consider the bag’s intended use, size, shape, material, fill, and durability when making your selection. By investing in a high-quality support bag, you’ll significantly enhance your shooting experience and improve your overall performance.
Remember to check out reputable companies like Armageddon Gear and We Bad for excellent support bag options. We hope this guide has provided valuable insights and helped you make an informed decision. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to reach out. Happy shooting!
