Save Money and Customize: DIY Cheap Rear Shooting Bag
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- The Need for a Rear Bag Shooting Rest
- The Expensive Alternative
- DIY Solution: Using Socks and Rice
- Step-by-step Guide to Making a Rear Bag Shooting Rest
- Adjustability and Precision with the Homemade Rest
- Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Store-bought
- Alternative Materials: Sand, Beans, etc.
- Personalization and Customization
- Conclusion
DIY Rear Bag Shooting Rest: A Cost-effective Solution
Introduction
Shooting with precision and accuracy is crucial in long-range shooting. To achieve this, one needs a sturdy and adjustable rear bag shooting rest. However, store-bought options tend to be exorbitantly priced. In this article, we will explore a cost-effective and efficient alternative - creating your own rear bag shooting rest using basic household items. With some socks and rice, you can have a high-quality shooting rest without breaking the bank.
The Need for a Rear Bag Shooting Rest
When engaging in precision shooting, a stable shooting platform is essential. While the bipod provides support at the front end of the rifle, a rear bag shooting rest plays a crucial role in achieving precise up and down adjustments. By applying pressure to the bag, the rear of the rifle can be lifted slightly, aligning the crosshairs with the target. This ensures accurate aiming and better shot placement.
The Expensive Alternative
Unfortunately, store-bought rear bag shooting rests often come with a hefty price tag. These commercially available options are essentially a combination of sand or similar fillings inside a nylon bag. While the manufacturing cost is minimal, the price charged for these rests can range from $50 to $100. This significant markup leaves shooters looking for more affordable alternatives.
DIY Solution: Using Socks and Rice
One incredibly cost-effective and efficient solution is to make your own rear bag shooting rest using everyday items found in your home. In this DIY guide, we will demonstrate how to create a reliable shooting rest using socks and rice. Not only will this save you a considerable amount of money, but it also allows for customization according to your preferences.
Step-by-step Guide to Making a Rear Bag Shooting Rest
- Gather the materials: You will need a pair of socks and rice. Ensure that the socks have no holes to prevent rice from falling out. The amount of rice will depend on the weight and adjustability you desire.
- Cut open one of the socks: Begin by cutting open one of the socks to create an opening for pouring the rice.
- Pour rice into the sock: Open a bag of rice and pour it into the sock. Start with a moderate amount and adjust according to your preference. Use the second sock if you need more space.
- Pat down the rice: Ensure that the rice is evenly distributed and compacted within the sock. This will provide stability and adjustability when the shooting rest is in use.
- Close the sock: Twist the open end of the sock to secure the rice inside. Optionally, you can use a sewing needle to secure it further by stitching it closed.
- Protect the rest: To prevent any rice from spilling out during use, put the rest inside another sock and stretch it over the opening. This will add an extra layer of protection.
- Testing the shooting rest: Place the rear end of your rifle on the DIY shooting rest and grip it firmly. By squeezing the rest, you can observe how the up and down adjustments are made.
- Personalize your shooting rest: Feel free to explore alternative materials such as sand or beans for the filling. Different materials provide different levels of adjustability, so experiment with what suits your shooting style best.
- Enjoy the cost savings: With just a few dollars' worth of rice and some spare socks, you have created a functional and affordable rear bag shooting rest that rivals expensive store-bought options.
Adjustability and Precision with the Homemade Rest
The homemade rear bag shooting rest offers excellent adjustability, allowing for precise up and down movements. Squeezing the bag allows for adjustments of up to an inch, providing optimal aiming accuracy for long-range shooting. The stability and support provided by the rice-filled sock ensure a consistent and dependable shooting platform.
Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Store-bought
The cost comparison between a DIY shooting rest and commercially available options is staggering. While store-bought rests can cost anywhere from $50 to $100, the homemade version can be assembled for just a few dollars. By opting for the DIY route, shooters can save a substantial amount of money without compromising on performance.
Alternative Materials: Sand, Beans, etc.
While rice is an excellent filler material for the shooting rest, there are alternative options that can be used as well. Sand, beans, or even plastic pellets can be viable alternatives, each offering its own unique characteristics. Experimenting with different fillings can help find the perfect balance between adjustability, stability, and price.
Personalization and Customization
One of the significant advantages of creating your own rear bag shooting rest is the ability to personalize and customize it. From choosing the size and weight to selecting the materials, shooters can tailor the shooting rest to their specific needs and preferences. This level of customization ensures a shooting rest that is perfectly suited to your shooting style.
Conclusion
Creating a DIY rear bag shooting rest using simple household items is a practical and cost-effective solution for shooters. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can save a significant amount of money while still achieving optimal precision and accuracy in your long-range shooting. Don't let the high price tags deter you from pursuing your passion - get creative and make your own shooting rest today.
Highlights:
- Save money on a rear bag shooting rest with a DIY solution using socks and rice.
- Achieve optimal precision and accuracy with the homemade shooting rest.
- Customize and personalize the shooting rest according to your preferences.
- Compare the cost of DIY versus store-bought shooting rests.
- Explore alternative materials for filling the shooting rest.
FAQ:
Q: Is it necessary to use rice as filling for the shooting rest?
A: No, rice is just one option. You can also use sand, beans, or even plastic pellets as fillers, depending on your desired level of adjustability and stability.
Q: Can I personalize the shooting rest further?
A: Absolutely! The DIY shooting rest allows for customization in terms of size, weight, and even the materials used. Feel free to experiment and find what works best for you.
Q: How much money can I save with a DIY shooting rest?
A: The cost savings can be significant. While store-bought shooting rests can cost between $50 and $100, creating a DIY version will cost just a few dollars.
Q: Will the homemade shooting rest provide the same level of stability as store-bought options?
A: Yes, when properly assembled, the homemade shooting rest using socks and rice or alternative fillers can provide a stable and reliable shooting platform.
Q: Can the shooting rest be easily adjusted?
A: Yes, the DIY shooting rest allows for easy adjustments by simply squeezing the bag. This provides precise up and down movements for optimal aiming accuracy.
