Building your own benchrest shooting rest can be a rewarding project, offering a customized solution tailored to your specific needs and budget. This guide will walk you through the design considerations, materials selection, construction process, and crucial considerations for accuracy. Whether you're a seasoned benchrest shooter or just starting out, creating a high-quality rest at home is achievable with careful planning and execution.
Design Considerations: Choosing the Right Style
Before diving into construction, decide on the type of benchrest you need. Several designs cater to different shooting styles and preferences:
1. Simple, Fixed-Position Rest:
This is the most basic design, ideal for beginners or those on a tight budget. It's essentially a stable platform with adjustable height. Simplicity translates to ease of construction but sacrifices some adjustability.
2. Adjustable Height and Cant:
This design improves upon the basic model by incorporating mechanisms to adjust both the height and the cant (angle) of the rifle. This allows for precise alignment with the target, crucial for optimal accuracy.
3. Advanced, Multi-Axis Adjustment:
These rests offer the most control, enabling adjustments along multiple axes – height, cant, windage, and even elevation. This advanced design is more complex to construct but provides superior precision.
Materials Selection: Prioritizing Stability and Durability
The materials you choose significantly impact your rest's stability, durability, and longevity. Consider these options:
- Base: A sturdy base is critical. Consider using:
- Solid wood: Hardwoods like oak or maple provide excellent stability and are relatively easy to work with.
- Metal: Steel or aluminum offer superior rigidity but require more advanced tools and fabrication skills.
- Support Arms/Legs: Similar materials to the base are suitable, ensuring stability and minimizing vibrations.
- Adjustment Mechanisms: For adjustable rests:
- Threaded rods: Offer precise adjustments.
- Bolts and nuts: Simpler but may lack the precision of threaded rods.
- Clamps: Can be incorporated for securing the rifle in place.
- Padding/Bagging: Essential for protecting your rifle's stock and enhancing stability. Consider using:
- Sandbags: Provide a stable and compliant surface.
- Foam padding: Offers cushioning and protects the stock.
Construction Process: A Step-by-Step Guide (Example: Simple Fixed-Position Rest)
This example outlines building a simple fixed-position rest. Remember to always prioritize safety when working with tools.
- Cut the Base: Cut a piece of hardwood (e.g., oak, 12" x 12" x 2") to your desired dimensions for the base.
- Attach Support Arms: Attach two sturdy supports (e.g., 2" x 4" pieces, cut to appropriate length) to the base at a slight upward angle for rifle support. Securely fasten using screws and wood glue.
- Sand and Finish: Sand the entire structure to a smooth finish. Apply a protective finish (e.g., varnish, polyurethane) to protect against the elements.
- Add Padding: Add sandbags or foam padding to the support arms to provide a stable and protective surface for your rifle's stock.
Advanced Features and Enhancements
For more advanced rests, consider these enhancements:
- Integrated Level: Incorporate a level into the design for precise leveling.
- Adjustable Feet: Add adjustable feet to compensate for uneven surfaces.
- Windage Adjustment: Implement a mechanism for precise windage adjustments.
Conclusion: Precision and Patience are Key
Building a homemade benchrest shooting rest requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a commitment to precision. By selecting the right materials, following a well-defined construction plan, and incorporating thoughtful design features, you can create a custom rest that enhances your shooting accuracy and enjoyment. Remember, patience and meticulous work will result in a superior, personalized shooting solution.
