Building your own shooting bench rest offers a rewarding DIY project and a significant cost saving compared to buying a commercially produced one. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the design, materials, and construction of a sturdy and accurate homemade shooting bench rest, perfect for improving your shooting accuracy and comfort at the range. We'll cover various designs to suit different skill levels and budgets.
Why Build Your Own Shooting Bench Rest?
There are numerous compelling reasons to build your own shooting bench rest:
- Cost Savings: Commercial bench rests can be expensive. Building your own significantly reduces the overall cost.
- Customization: You can tailor the design to perfectly fit your needs, preferences, and shooting style. This includes adjusting height, width, and features like bag riders or front rests.
- Satisfaction: The pride of building something functional and useful with your own hands is unparalleled.
- Improved Accuracy: A stable and well-built bench rest drastically improves shooting accuracy by eliminating external variables.
Choosing the Right Design: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced
The complexity of your homemade shooting bench rest largely depends on your DIY skills and the materials at your disposal. Here are three options catering to different levels:
Beginner: The Simple Sandbag Rest
This is the easiest option for beginners. It requires minimal tools and materials.
Materials:
- Two sturdy wooden planks (e.g., 2x4s or 2x6s), approximately 2-3 feet long.
- Sandbags (filled with clean sand).
Construction:
- Lay the planks parallel to each other, leaving a space of about 1-2 feet between them.
- Place the sandbags on top of the planks to provide a stable shooting platform.
- Adjust the sandbag placement to find the most comfortable and stable shooting position.
Pros: Simple, inexpensive, easy to transport.
Cons: Less stable than more complex designs; can be less comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
Intermediate: The Framed Bench Rest
This design offers improved stability and adjustability compared to the simple sandbag rest.
Materials:
- Four sturdy legs (e.g., 4x4 posts or heavy-duty metal legs).
- Two long support beams (e.g., 2x6s or 2x8s).
- A top surface (e.g., plywood, thick MDF)
- Screws, bolts, and possibly angle brackets for reinforcement.
Construction:
- Attach the legs securely to the support beams, ensuring a square and stable base.
- Attach the top surface to the support beams, ensuring a level and sturdy shooting platform.
- Consider adding a front rest or bag rider to further improve stability and support.
Pros: More stable than the simple sandbag rest, offers greater adjustability.
Cons: Requires more tools and skills than the simple sandbag rest.
Advanced: The Adjustable Height Bench Rest with Integrated Features
This is the most complex design, offering maximum stability, adjustability, and features.
Materials:
- Metal tubing or heavy-duty lumber for the frame.
- Adjustable height mechanisms (e.g., threaded rods and wing nuts).
- A robust top surface (e.g., reinforced plywood, metal plate).
- Bag riders, front rests, and other accessories.
Construction:
This design requires detailed planning and potentially welding or advanced woodworking skills. Consider consulting detailed online plans or videos for guidance. The key is building a rigid frame and incorporating adjustable features.
Pros: Highly stable, extremely adjustable, can incorporate advanced features.
Cons: Requires advanced tools and skills, more time-consuming to build.
Essential Considerations for All Designs
Regardless of the design you choose, consider these essential aspects:
- Stability: Prioritize stability above all else. A wobbly bench rest will compromise your accuracy.
- Height: Adjust the height to ensure a comfortable shooting position.
- Comfort: A comfortable bench rest allows for longer, more enjoyable shooting sessions.
- Weather Resistance: If you plan on using your bench rest outdoors, consider using weather-resistant materials and finishes.
Conclusion
Building your own shooting bench rest is a satisfying project that can significantly improve your shooting experience. By carefully considering your skill level, budget, and specific needs, you can craft a customized bench rest that enhances your accuracy and enjoyment at the range. Remember to always prioritize safety and proper construction techniques.
