Hope everyone has made their preparations for the winter weather that’s coming in this weekend. Please stay safe and don’t be out and about driving if you don’t need to.
After our staff breakfast meeting Thursday morning we went to the range to zero a client’s rifle and get some reps in shooting from probably one of the least stable positions with the aid of a shooting tripod.
The “best” shooting position is the one that allows you to press the shot with minimal to no external influences that will effect accuracy. The Prone (lying down) is generally the most stable and accurate. The sitting position is a practical, steady compromise for hunting, and the Standing (Off-hand) position is the least steady but most versatile for quick shots, often improved with a support like a tree, monopod or tripod. Kneeling is also a shooting position but it is only marginally better than standing. Key to all is a natural point of aim and using available rests to minimize movement.
Common Shooting Positions & Uses
Prone (Lying Down) > Pros: Most stable and accurate, ideal for longer distances, provides maximum body support. Cons: Can limit visibility in tall grass and takes longer to get into.
Sitting > Pros: Second most stable, practical for uneven terrain where prone isn’t possible, good balance of stability and height.
Standing (Off-hand) > Pros: Quick to assume, good for fast-moving targets or when cover is scarce. Cons: Least steady, requires excellent skill.
Compromised or “non-conforming” > This is a shooting position where you have to “make it work” with whatever is available.
Enhancing Stability
Use Rests: Always look for supports like rocks, logs, backpacks, or bipods to rest your rifle’s forearm on (never the barrel).
Supportive Standing: Use a tree, shooting sticks or tripod for support when standing.
Natural Point of Aim (body alignment): Before you press your shot. Once your sights / cross hair is lined up, close your eyes, inhale, exhale and open your eyes. If your sights / cross hair is now to the left or right of your target you’re ‘muscling’ the rifle onto the target which means your body alignment is off.
We hope you enjoyed this ‘rant’ and maybe learned something new for consideration. No doubt you may have more questions and if so please reach out. Be safe out there and see you at the store and at the range.
DARREN A. BRITTO
TRAINING DIVISION MANAGER
SILVERBACK TRAINING SYSTEMS
