Today we’re diving into an essential topic that can significantly enhance your precision rifle shooting experience. In previous videos, we’ve explored the critical components of your precision rifle, like the action, barrel, and stock. Now, we’re going to shift our focus to the often-overlooked support gear that can make a world of difference when you’re out on the shooting range or participating in PRS matches.
Support Gear: The Unseen Heroes of Precision Shooting
When you’re building a custom rifle or even just looking to improve your performance, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of selecting the perfect components. However, the support gear you choose can be just as crucial. In this segment, we’ll discuss the various pieces of support gear that can help you achieve more accurate and enjoyable shooting experiences.
- The Support Bag: Armageddon Gear – Game Changer. Let’s start with one of the most critical support items: your support bag. There’s a wide range of manufacturers and models to choose from, but many shooters, including myself, prefer the Armageddon Gear Game Changer. The “schmedium” size, filled with wax canvas and heavy fill, offers excellent stability and versatility. It conforms to your rifle and shooting props effectively, helping you achieve steady shots in challenging conditions. While lighter bags exist, using a heavier bag can improve your performance, especially in PRS competitions.
- Ballistic Solver: Kestrel or Geo Ballistics. Next up is a piece of technology that can significantly impact your shooting accuracy: the ballistic solver. You have two primary options here – the Kestrel Ballistics app with the Applied Ballistics engine or the Geo Ballistics cell phone app. Both are powerful tools, but the Kestrel, with its extensive mill-based data and ability to adjust for environmental conditions, is often the preferred choice among precision shooters. It integrates seamlessly with other devices like your rangefinder and Garmin Tactics Delta, making it indispensable for precision shooting and hunting.
- Magazines: Keep Them Well-Maintained. Magazines are often seen as consumable items, but for bolt-action rifles, they are more critical than you might think. Ensure you use specific magazines for your rifle system, as different cartridges may require different magazines. Keep them well-maintained, cleaning them regularly, and tuning magazine springs and feed lips as needed. Magazine issues can cost you a match, so stay on top of maintenance to avoid disappointment.
- Tripod: Really Right Stuff for the Win. Investing in a high-quality tripod is essential, especially if you want to maximize its utility for observation, hunting, and shooting. A robust tripod like the Really Right Stuff model, paired with an Amble 30 ball head, offers stability and versatility. It can handle various rifles and optics, making it a worthwhile investment for long-term use. Don’t compromise on your tripod; quality matters.
- Optics: Leupold Scopes and Mounting Systems. Your choice of optics is critical to your shooting success. Look for scopes with mill-based hold-off reticles, first focal plane options, and excellent glass quality. Brands like Leupold offer US-made scopes with fantastic warranties, making them a top choice for precision shooters. When it comes to mounting systems, Hawkins Precision and Badger Ordnance provide reliable options with integral levels for added precision.
In the world of precision rifle shooting, your support gear can be the difference between hitting your target and missing the mark. Whether you’re competing in PRS matches or honing your skills for hunting, investing in high-quality support gear pays off in the long run. So, remember to choose the right support bag, invest in a reliable ballistic solver, maintain your magazines, opt for a top-notch tripod, and select optics and mounting systems that match your needs.
By making informed choices in your support gear, you’ll elevate your shooting game and enjoy more successful outings on the range or in the field. Happy shooting!
