Shooting rest for load testing?

[CK_32]

Today I saw a cheapy $80 rifle rest at big 5 today (Caldwell Lead Solo).

Being at big 5 I "need" everything in that store every time I go in and got to justifying getting one for my load testing and possibly eliminate my human error when testing loads for my rifles.

I looked up that rest and read nothing but good about it and for $80 it's hard to say no.

So what do you guys think? A rest a bad or good investment for load testing. I probably won't break this puppy out for anything but testing but again I feel it will get better results and eliminate flinch flyers and waste of ammo while testing and probably get better results on the load performance it self.

Do any of you guys use them for testing?


So should I go or no go one a rest for load testing? What do you guys think.

 

[Rob01]

I like to test my loads in the way they are shot, bipod and rear bag.

 

[CK_32]

I like to test my loads in the way they are shot, bipod and rear bag.

I see a lot of guys go by this but wouldn't human error be more of an effect than shooting from a rest then taking it to a match in prone?

I know the POI will change a bit but performance of the load shouldn't change much. I just don't want to waste and throw away a load because I pulled a shot a little or some other factor mixes the result on paper and I trash a good load.

Allow the rifle and loads them selves tell the story and shine and not mix results with me in the equation.

 

[ArmyJerry]

I went the rest route years ago, I now use the rest to clean / maintain my guns. I found the rear bag and front pillow , like the ones from Triad work best by far.

https://www.triadtactical.com/Bean-Bags-Shooting-Rests/

 

[2ac]

I had a Solo, with the same thing in mind. I still shot better with a bipod and bag. You can make the sled work, bit it's still going to move around after each shot. It's not exactly a machine rest after all, so I sold it.

 

[Rob01]

I see a lot of guys go by this but wouldn't human error be more of an effect than shooting from a rest then taking it to a match in prone?

I know the POI will change a bit but performance of the load shouldn't change much. I just don't want to waste and throw away a load because I pulled a shot a little or some other factor mixes the result on paper and I trash a good load.

Allow the rifle and loads them selves tell the story and shine and not mix results with me in the equation.

Then spend the money and get it. You asked a question. I answered it. You obviously want it and think it will help so get it.

 

[CK_32]

Yea that's true I was thinking it would be solid and take the brunt. Did you use it with a weight bag to settle it down? Or does it still go all over?

I have a tab rear bag I'm using for comps I just figured this would be a more secure solid mount option and eliminate all variables.

Then spend the money and get it. You asked a question. I answered it. You obviously want it and think it will help so get it.

Why do you guys get so butt hurt? Yea I asked a question but I'm going to be sure of your answer and where your coming from to see your view. Just because you say you don't like something doesn't mean ok that's what it is and I'm living by your code. I'm asking for a valued opinion to WEIGH your options. Again I don't understand why some guys get so upset when you want them to clarify or give their points on why they feel that way.

But thanks for the responses.

 

[ArmyJerry]

My experience with the rest is its less stable and has more variables than the bags.

 

[Rob01]

Not butt hurt. Not spending my money. You want to buy it. You all but said it and are looking for people to tell you to buy it. I have seen this hundreds of times here. So buy it. You want it and you think you need it. Doesn't effect me so no reason to be butt hurt. Just gave my experience and opinion.

I shoot like I do because that's the way the rifle will be shot. With practice I know I can shoot well enough that way and don't need anything to help me shoot groups. I know when a shot is thrown or if it broke good and is out of the group.

 

[Name Enough]

Had one and hated it. Took it back and got my money back. I would only buy this is you need to wring out a large caliber rifle in a light stock. I tried it with a 300 WSM hunting rifle with a light stock and thought I was better off just using my bags and sock.

 

[oldfatguy]

Have read more then a few posts about lead sleds. Nearly all report disappointing results. Personally I shoot best with a Sinclair bipod and rear rabbit ear bag off a good bench.

The strap-on shoulder pads can really help with recoil.

OFG

 

[CK_32]

Recoil management isn't my issue I just figured this would dial in the shots and let the loads do why they will.

But I think I'm over thinking how solid and bolted this set up is.

Ill save my cash and just stick with my bag. Now I'm really glad I didn't impulse pick this one up hah

Thanks for the replies guys.