Why Consider Building Your Own Homemade Benchrest Shooting Rest?
Cost Savings and Customization
Hitting the bullseye consistently in benchrest shooting demands precision, a steady hand, and the right equipment. While commercially available benchrest rests offer impressive stability and adjustability, they can often come with a hefty price tag. But what if you could unlock the potential for incredible accuracy without emptying your wallet? The answer lies in crafting your own homemade benchrest shooting rest. This article serves as your comprehensive guide, equipping you with the knowledge and insights needed to build a custom rest that perfectly complements your shooting style, all while saving you money and providing the satisfaction of a DIY project.
Skill and Satisfaction
The appeal of a homemade benchrest shooting rest goes far beyond mere cost savings. While the initial investment in materials will be significantly less than the price of a commercial rest, the advantages extend much further. The ability to tailor the rest to your specific rifles, shooting preferences, and the nuances of your shooting environment is a major benefit. Commercial rests offer a one-size-fits-all approach, but a DIY project allows for complete customization.
Durability and Pride of Ownership
Another significant benefit is the satisfaction of creating something with your own hands. The process of building a homemade benchrest shooting rest is a rewarding experience, allowing you to learn new skills and take pride in the fact that you constructed a tool that enhances your shooting performance. Moreover, you gain a deep understanding of how the equipment works and how to optimize it for your specific needs. Finally, a well-designed and properly built homemade benchrest shooting rest can be incredibly durable. Constructed with quality materials and built with careful attention to detail, it can last for years, serving as a steadfast companion at the range. This longevity, coupled with the ability to make repairs and upgrades easily, makes a homemade rest a practical and valuable investment. This all leads to the unique pride of ownership, knowing that you are using a tool you personally designed, built, and perfected.
Planning and Design Essentials
Research and Inspiration
The foundation of a successful homemade benchrest shooting rest lies in meticulous planning. Before you even pick up a tool, devote time to research, sketching, and refining your design.
Start by exploring different benchrest rest designs. Online forums, shooting communities, and YouTube channels are treasure troves of inspiration. Examine various styles, from simple, fixed-height rests to those with extensive adjustability features. Consider the mechanisms used for elevation adjustment, windage fine-tuning, and the overall footprint of the rest.
Defining Needs and Goals
Next, carefully assess your specific needs and goals. Ask yourself some crucial questions. What types of rifles will you be using with the rest? Will you be shooting rimfire rifles, centerfire rifles, or both? What level of adjustability is essential for your shooting style and the different distances you’ll be shooting at? Do you prioritize portability, or will the rest primarily stay in one location?
Sketching and Design Choices
With your needs defined, begin sketching a basic design. Consider these key components: the base, the cradle or top section, the adjustment mechanisms (if any), and the feet. A basic design might consist of two wooden blocks, the base and the top rest, connected with a pivot for elevation adjustments. More complex designs may include a fully adjustable system incorporating windage and elevation adjustments, or even specialized cradles designed for different types of rifles.
Gathering Materials
Once you have finalized your design, it’s time to gather your materials. Create a comprehensive list, detailing each item. The choice of materials plays a critical role in both the performance and the lifespan of your homemade benchrest shooting rest.
Constructing Your Benchrest – A Step-by-Step Guide
Safety First
Before diving into construction, prioritize safety. Always wear eye protection when working with tools and ensure your workspace is well-lit and clear of clutter. Follow all manufacturer’s safety instructions when using power tools.
Tool Selection
Begin with the essential tools. You’ll need a saw (circular saw, band saw, or even a hand saw), a drill, a sander (orbital sander recommended), a measuring tape, a level, a pencil, and various clamps. A drill press can be highly beneficial for drilling accurate holes, particularly for adjustment mechanisms.
Base Construction
With your tools and materials ready, follow these steps:
1. **Base Construction:** Cut the wood for the base to your desired dimensions. The base needs to be sufficiently wide and long to provide a stable foundation for the rest. Ensure the wood is flat and free from warps. Sand the edges and surfaces of the base.
Cradle/Top Section and Joining
2. **Cradle/Top Section:** Design the cradle to securely support your rifle. This might involve creating a V-shaped cradle or using a flat platform. If using a V-shaped cradle, carefully measure the distance between the rifle’s forend and the rest’s support point. Cut and shape the wood for the cradle, paying attention to how the stock will rest. Sand the cradle surfaces.
3. **Joining the Base and Cradle:** This can be done in several ways, depending on your design. You might use a hinge to connect them and enable elevation adjustments, or you may use a threaded rod system. Ensure this connection allows for smooth and stable adjustment.
Adjustment, Padding, and Finishing
4. **Adjustment Mechanisms:** Consider adding adjustable features to your homemade benchrest shooting rest. A simple elevation adjustment can be achieved using a threaded rod and a nut, allowing you to raise and lower the cradle. For windage adjustments, a sliding mechanism is useful.
5. **Padding and Protection:** The surfaces that contact the rifle should be padded to protect the stock and ensure a secure grip. Leather, felt, or high-density foam rubber are common choices. Attach the padding with glue, staples, or screws.
6. **Feet and Leveling:** Equip your rest with stable feet. You can use rubber feet or adjustable leveling feet to ensure the rest sits perfectly level on any surface.
7. **Finishing Touches:** Once the rest is assembled, sand any rough edges or imperfections. Apply a finish to protect the wood from the elements and enhance the aesthetics. Paint, stain, and varnish are popular choices.
Pay close attention to detail during each step. Use clamps to hold the pieces firmly together when gluing or screwing. Double-check all measurements before cutting or drilling.
Materials and Cost Considerations for Your DIY Rest
Wood and Material Choices
Your choice of materials significantly influences the performance, durability, and cost of your homemade benchrest shooting rest. For the base and cradle, consider different types of wood. Plywood is a budget-friendly option, offering good stability. Hardwood, such as oak or maple, is more expensive but provides superior durability and resistance to wear.
For the adjustment mechanisms, you’ll need threaded rods, nuts, bolts, and washers. Steel components are strong and reliable, but they can be susceptible to rust if not properly protected. Aluminum components are lighter and rust-resistant, but they may cost more. The choice will depend on the intended application of the rest.
The choice of padding material also matters. Leather provides a classic look and excellent durability. Felt is a softer and more gentle option that may minimize the chances of scratching your rifles. High-density foam rubber offers good grip and shock absorption.
Budgeting and Cost Control
Consider the overall cost. The total cost of materials can range significantly depending on your material choices and the complexity of your design. If you are on a budget, consider using repurposed materials. Old pieces of wood, metal scraps, and salvaged hardware can significantly reduce your expenses.
Customization and Enhancements for Superior Performance
Adding Adjustability
The beauty of a homemade benchrest shooting rest lies in its adaptability. Consider adding these enhancements for improved shooting performance.
**Adjustability features** are critical. Integrate a precise elevation adjustment mechanism using a threaded rod and a handwheel. You can refine your shooting position by including windage adjustments as well.
Enhancing Stability and Special Features
The overall stability of your rest is essential. This can be enhanced by adding a heavier base, or by increasing the footprint. Consider adding leveling feet for greater stability on uneven surfaces.
Consider special features like a rifle cradle, which securely cradles the rifle during use. Another helpful feature is a scope mount, which allows you to attach the scope and adjust accordingly.
Aesthetics and Personalization
Lastly, personalize your rest by adding finish choices like paint or stain.
Using Your Homemade Benchrest Shooting Rest Effectively
Setting Up and Positioning
Before you shoot, ensure your homemade benchrest shooting rest is correctly set up at the shooting range. Position the rest on a stable, level surface.
Carefully position your rifle on the rest, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. Avoid placing excessive pressure on the rifle. If the rest has any adjustment mechanisms, adjust them until your rifle is level and pointed at your target.
Technique and Focus
When shooting, remember to focus on maintaining consistent form and technique. The rest should provide a stable platform, allowing you to concentrate on breathing, trigger squeeze, and follow-through.
Maintenance and Care for Longevity
Cleaning and Protection
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure your homemade benchrest shooting rest remains in top condition for years to come. After each shooting session, wipe down the rest to remove any dirt, debris, or residue from cleaning solvents or lubricants.
Protect the rest from the elements when storing it. Store your rest in a dry, covered area to prevent moisture damage. Use a cover to protect the rest from dust and scratches.
Long-term Maintenance
Inspect the rest periodically for signs of wear and tear. Tighten any loose screws or bolts. If the padding wears down, replace it promptly. Applying a fresh coat of finish can also help protect the wood.
Conclusion: Embrace the DIY Advantage
Building a homemade benchrest shooting rest is more than just a cost-effective alternative to commercial products. It’s an investment in your shooting accuracy, a testament to your craftsmanship, and a source of immense satisfaction. From the initial planning stages to the final shot at the range, the entire process is enriching and educational.
Now, it’s your turn! Gather your materials, embrace the challenge, and begin building your ultimate homemade benchrest shooting rest. Start by exploring online resources, researching different designs, and gathering inspiration from experienced shooters. The possibilities are limitless, and the rewards are well worth the effort. Create something that reflects your own unique needs.
Are you ready to take your shooting accuracy to the next level? Get building, and experience the power of precision. Share your creations with fellow enthusiasts in online forums and shooting communities.
