Horizontal sway

[Pickle Rick]

I’m using a Caldwell The Rock front rest and a rear bag. My vertical stability is great, but I can constantly see the reticle swaying horizontally about 1 moa. I’ve tried different grip pressure, adjusting my rear bag, getting lined up, etc. Still can’t get to where I’d like to be. Parallax is set, most good groups are horizontal. I also notice this when using a bipod.

I know the answer is to just try different things and see what works. But has anyone dealt with this deficiency? What helped for you? All tips appreciated.

 

[Gunfighter14e2]

Could be your heartbeat but I don't think so.
Your rear bag can be the biggest issue if its filled wrong, twist it between 30* & 50* to the stock and she should lock in.

 

[Pickle Rick]

Could be your heartbeat but I don't think so.
Your rear bag can be the biggest issue if its filled wrong, twist it between 30* & 50* to the stock and she should lock in.

How should it be filled? I think I might have rice in it.

 

[wpeach1912]

How should it be filled? I think I might have rice in it.

Don’t stuff it all the way full. If it’s too full, every slight movement goes right to it. It should have some “squeezability” to it. Also highly recommend shooting prone if you can

 

[Gunfighter14e2]

How should it be filled? I think I might have rice in it.

Like 1912 said you need to be able to squeeze it to raise & lower vertically somewhat. Plus depending bag material it could easily slip on a bench, or the stock on the bag. Wood router mat material between the bag & bench as well as the bag & stock will stop this if used.

 

[mark5pt56]

Check your body alignment, sounds as if you are constantly trying to muscle the gun into and hold position causing it to wander. Shoulder placement as well. When you shoot, the gun will track differently, that recoil is like water-it will look for and find a hole.

 

[ShtrRdy]

I hate to say it, but it's you. I can relate from personal experience. What seemed to help me is to first set up the gun on the bags pointing at the target. Then insert your RELAXED self behind the rifle. My grip is just a little pressure straight back with whatever part of my fingers are contacting the front of the grip.